TISS Hyderabad M.A Good Governance and Public Policy: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. Policy Area Concentrations are specialized tracks that students choose in Semester III of the MA programme. There are three PACs available: Regulation and Institutions, Data Science and Public Policy, and Social Conflict and Public Policy. Each PAC consists of three specialized courses (2 credits each) totaling 6 credits. Students choose only one PAC based on their research interests and career goals. The PAC allows students to develop deep expertise in a specific policy domain while maintaining the breadth of the overall MA programme. The choice of PAC influences the capstone project topic in Semester IV, allowing students to conduct specialized research in their chosen area.

Ans. The MA programme includes two major experiential learning components. In Semester I, students undertake Rural Experiential Learning (REL) where they visit rural settings to understand policy implementation at the grassroots level and connect classroom teachings to field realities. This provides 4 credits of experiential learning. In Semester II, students participate in the Public Policy and Good Governance Lab (PPGL) where they work with governmental agencies, private corporations, and NGOs to gain hands-on experience in policy-making processes and institutional dynamics. This also provides 4 credits. Additionally, in Semester III, students undertake another 6 credits of PPGL work. These experiential components are crucial for developing practical skills in policy analysis and institutional engagement.

Ans. Graduates of the MA in Public Policy and Governance have diverse career opportunities across government, international organizations, NGOs, research institutions, and private sector. Many pursue roles as policy analysts, governance specialists, development professionals, and policy advisors in government departments dealing with policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. International organizations like UNDP, World Bank, and bilateral development agencies actively recruit graduates for policy and programme roles. NGOs working on governance, development, and social justice also employ programme graduates. Some graduates pursue further academic studies or research positions in universities. The practical orientation of the programme and emphasis on policy analysis make graduates highly attractive to employers seeking professionals who can bridge academic knowledge and practical policy implementation.

Ans. The capstone project is a 18-credit research dissertation undertaken in Semester IV of the MA programme. This is the culminating component where students conduct independent policy research on a topic related to their chosen Policy Area Concentration. The capstone project allows students to apply all the theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, and analytical skills acquired during the first three semesters to a real-world policy problem. Students work closely with faculty advisors to design, conduct, and complete their research. The capstone project can take the form of a policy research dissertation, policy analysis, or policy intervention design. This component is crucial for developing research and analytical capabilities required for advanced policy roles.

Ans. Yes, SC/ST students are eligible for Government of India Post-Matric Scholarship (GoI-PMS) which provides fee concessions. Under this scheme, SC/ST students pay only specific fee components marked with asterisks and a reduced Caution Deposit of Rs. 2,750, with remaining fees paid as scholarship amounts are received. No fee concession is available for other categories. Candidates are advised to check the official TISS admissions portal and contact TISS CARE at 022-25525252 for detailed information on all available scholarships and financial aid options.

Ans. The MA Public Policy and Governance programme at TISS Hyderabad is unique in several ways. It combines theoretical policy knowledge with practical field experience through rural exposure and institutional labs. The programme offers specialized Policy Area Concentrations allowing students to develop deep expertise in specific policy domains. The capstone project in Semester IV enables students to conduct independent policy research. The curriculum emphasizes equity, justice, and sustainability in policy recommendations. The programme is delivered by the School of Public Policy and Governance which has strong connections with policy institutions at global and local levels. The two-year duration allows for comprehensive coverage of policy concepts, methodologies, and practical applications. The programme prepares students not just to understand policies but to design, implement, and evaluate them effectively.