The Manipal University Online MA programmes provide postgraduate study options for graduates who want to advance their knowledge in subjects such as English, Economics, Sociology, Political Science and Journalism & Mass Communication. These programmes are offered through Online Manipal by Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) and Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), depending on the specialisation.
Online MA courses can be useful for graduates interested in education, research, media, communication, public policy, social sciences and related career paths. The online learning format can also help learners balance their studies with work and personal responsibilities.
For 2026, the listed programmes generally have a duration of two years, or 24 months. Fees depend on the university and specialisation. This guide explains the programme options, fee structure, eligibility criteria, admission process and factors to consider before applying.
Manipal University Online MA Courses 2026: Overview
Fees, discounts and admission dates may change. The prices below distinguish the listed programme fee from promotional discounts displayed on the university's website. Confirm the current payable amount before applying.
List of Manipal Online MA Specialisations
Online Manipal lists five MA options across MUJ and SMU. The right choice depends on your academic interests and the career direction you want to pursue after graduation.
MA in English
University: Sikkim Manipal University
Suitable for learners interested in literature, language, writing, teaching-related pathways and further academic study.
Listed fee: ₹75,000
MA in Sociology
University: Sikkim Manipal University
Relevant to learners interested in social institutions, communities, social change and social research.
Listed fee: ₹75,000
MA in Political Science
University: Sikkim Manipal University
Useful for learners interested in political systems, governance, public affairs and policy-related study.
Listed fee: ₹75,000
MA in Economics
University: Manipal University Jaipur
Designed for learners interested in economic theory, policy, markets and analytical approaches to economic issues.
Listed fee: ₹80,000
MA in Journalism & Mass Communication
University: Manipal University Jaipur
Suitable for learners interested in journalism, media, communication, content and related fields.
Listed fee: ₹80,000
1. Online MA in English
The Online MA in English from Sikkim Manipal University is a postgraduate programme for graduates who want to study English literature, language and related academic subjects in greater depth.
The programme may suit students who want to develop their critical reading, writing, interpretation and communication skills. Depending on their experience and additional qualifications, graduates may explore opportunities in education, content development, editing, publishing, communications and research.
MA English: Key Details
Students considering English for teaching should also check the eligibility rules for the specific teaching position or examination they plan to pursue. An MA degree alone does not automatically satisfy every recruitment or professional requirement.
2. Online MA in Sociology
The Online MA in Sociology from Sikkim Manipal University is intended for graduates who want to understand society, institutions, social relationships and patterns of social change.
Sociology can be relevant to learners interested in social research, community programmes, development organisations, public services, policy support and academic study. Job requirements vary, so students should assess the skills and experience needed for their intended roles alongside the degree.
MA Sociology: Key Details
This specialisation may appeal to students who want to examine social issues through theoretical and research-based approaches. Review the latest syllabus to understand the exact subjects, assessments and research components included in the programme.
3. Online MA in Political Science
The Online MA in Political Science from Sikkim Manipal University is an option for graduates interested in political institutions, governance, political ideas, public affairs and related subjects.
The qualification may be relevant to learners considering further academic study, research support, public affairs, policy-related work or preparation for examinations where a postgraduate degree is useful. Eligibility for government examinations and specific posts depends on the rules of the relevant recruiting authority.
MA Political Science: Key Details
Before enrolling, compare the course structure with your academic or career goals. If you intend to pursue research or a further degree, review the admission requirements of the institution where you plan to study next.
4. Online MA in Economics
The Online MA in Economics from Manipal University Jaipur is a postgraduate option for graduates interested in economic concepts, markets, policy and the analysis of economic issues.
Economics can support further study and career exploration in areas such as research assistance, economic analysis, policy support, financial services and business research. Roles involving advanced quantitative analysis may require additional training in statistics, econometrics or data tools.
MA Economics: Key Details
Students should review the current syllabus to assess the balance between economic theory, applied subjects and quantitative methods. If your goal is a technical economics or analytics role, check whether the programme covers the methods expected by employers in that field.
5. Online MA in Journalism & Mass Communication
The Online MA in Journalism & Mass Communication from Manipal University Jaipur is designed for graduates interested in journalism, media, communication and related professional fields.
The programme may be relevant to learners exploring media organisations, content production, communications, digital publishing, public relations and related work. Practical experience, a portfolio and relevant digital skills can also matter when applying for media roles.
MA Journalism & Mass Communication: Key Details
Applicants should look beyond the programme title and review the detailed syllabus, assessment pattern and any practical components. Students planning to work in digital media may also benefit from developing writing, editing, research and multimedia production skills.
Manipal University Online MA Fees 2026
The listed fees differ by university. SMU's English, Sociology and Political Science programmes are listed at ₹75,000 for the full programme, while MUJ's Economics and Journalism & Mass Communication programmes are listed at ₹80,000.
Discounts and Payment Options
The Online Manipal fee page has displayed discounts for full-programme and annual payments. These offers are subject to the current admission campaign and may not remain available throughout the year.
The discounted amounts above were displayed on the programme page during research and are not a guarantee that the same offer remains available on the day you apply. The page also lists semester payments of ₹18,750 for SMU and ₹20,000 for MUJ, plus a ₹500 non-refundable application fee. Verify the current offer and total payable amount with the university.
Is EMI Available for Online MA?
Online Manipal lists financing options for eligible applicants. The displayed EMI starting amounts were ₹3,125 per month for SMU MA programmes and ₹3,333 per month for MUJ MA programmes. Tenures and approval depend on the programme, financing partner and applicant eligibility.
- Ask whether the EMI applies to the entire programme fee or only a portion of it.
- Confirm the repayment tenure, any interest, processing charges and other loan terms.
- Check whether choosing financing makes you ineligible for a full-payment or annual-payment discount.
- Request a written repayment schedule before accepting a financing offer.
Eligibility for Manipal Online MA Admission 2026
The general eligibility listed for the five programmes is a bachelor's degree from a recognised university or an equivalent qualification recognised by the Association of Indian Universities.
Applicants should confirm the requirements for their chosen specialisation before paying the application fee. Meeting the general eligibility criteria does not guarantee admission until the university has reviewed the submitted documents.
Documents Required for Admission
Prepare the required documents before starting your application. The online application page lists identity and address proof, academic records and supporting documents where applicable.
- Government-issued identity proof, such as Aadhaar for Indian applicants
- Address proof, if required
- Class 10 and Class 12 marksheets, where requested
- Graduation marksheets or transcript
- Graduation degree certificate, where requested
- Recent photograph and any additional application documents requested by the university
- Equivalence certificate for qualifying international academic credentials, where applicable
- Scholarship or category documents, if applying for an eligible benefit
Ensure that the details in your application match your academic records and identity documents. Submit clear, readable scans in the file format and size accepted by the application portal.
Manipal Online MA Admission Process 2026
The admission process generally involves online registration, payment of the application fee, submission of academic information and documents, and university verification.
- Select your specialisation: Choose English, Sociology, Political Science, Economics or Journalism & Mass Communication.
- Complete the online application: Enter your personal, contact and academic details.
- Pay the application fee: The programme page lists ₹500; confirm the current fee before submitting.
- Pay the applicable programme fee: Choose an available semester, annual or full-payment option and review the terms.
- Upload the required documents: Submit academic records, identity proof and other requested information.
- Wait for verification: The university reviews the application and may request clarification or additional documents.
- Check your admission status: Follow the official communication regarding approval and access to the learning platform.
Admission date reminder: The official programme page displayed an admission closing date of 12 October 2026 during research. That date has passed, so check the latest intake status directly with Online Manipal before planning your application.
How to Choose the Right Online MA Specialisation
Choose English If
You enjoy literature, language, reading, writing and critical interpretation, or want to explore related academic and communication pathways.
Choose Sociology If
You are interested in society, social institutions, community issues, social change and research into human behaviour in social settings.
Choose Political Science If
You want to study political systems, governance, public affairs, political ideas and policy-related topics.
Choose Economics If
You are interested in markets, economic policy, resource allocation and analytical approaches to economic questions.
Choose Journalism & Mass Communication If
You want to develop your knowledge of media, journalism, communication and content-related fields.
Before choosing, compare the actual curriculum, assessment methods, available learner support, fee and your intended career path. The most suitable programme is not necessarily the one with the lowest fee; it is the one that meets your academic needs and future plans.
Career Opportunities After an Online MA
Career options depend on the specialisation, previous education, work experience and additional skills you develop. An MA can strengthen subject knowledge, but it does not guarantee a particular job or salary.
Some careers require additional qualifications, professional training, examinations or relevant experience. Review job descriptions and any formal eligibility criteria for your target role before selecting a programme.
Important Things to Check Before Applying
- Confirm the awarding university: Check whether the programme is offered by MUJ or SMU.
- Verify the current fee: Confirm the total programme cost, payment schedule and any additional charges.
- Check discounts carefully: Promotional offers can change and may have eligibility conditions.
- Review the syllabus: Compare the subjects with your intended academic or professional path.
- Understand the refund policy: Read the applicable terms before making a payment.
- Confirm admission availability: Intake dates can change, and the published October 2026 deadline may no longer be current.
- Check the degree's relevance: If you need the qualification for a specific job, examination or further programme, confirm that it meets the relevant requirements.
Conclusion
Manipal University Online MA programmes offer five options across English, Sociology, Political Science, Economics and Journalism & Mass Communication. The English, Sociology and Political Science programmes are listed through Sikkim Manipal University, while Economics and Journalism & Mass Communication are listed through Manipal University Jaipur.
The standard listed fee is ₹75,000 for the SMU programmes and ₹80,000 for the MUJ programmes, before any applicable discount. All five options are listed with a duration of 24 months and require a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification, subject to programme-specific admission rules.
Before enrolling, compare the syllabus, eligibility, total fee and current intake status. Confirm all payment and discount details directly through the official application process so you can make an informed decision about your postgraduate education.