How Does DU SOL's Online BA in Political Science compare to IGNOU's Program?
This article compares both BA Political Science programs based on fees, syllabus, online vs offline learning, and suitability for UPSC and working professionals. Discover which fits your academic and career goals best.
Deciding on the right university for pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) course in Political Science through online mode or distance learning can be a big decision for someone who also wants to ensure that the quality of education does not drop. In India, Delhi University’s School of Open Learning (DU SOL) and the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) are considered two of the most preferred institutions by many students in the country. Both universities provide quality education and give admission to many aspiring students every year, especially those who are seeking affordable and accessible higher education.
DU SOL Online BA Political Science
DU SOL’s Online BA in Political Science course is designed for students who want to pursue their degree with flexibility while being part of Delhi University’s academic framework and structure. Some of the highlights of the course include:
- Curriculum : The syllabus includes Indian Political Thought, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, Public Administration, International Relations, and Global Politics, which is very similar to DU’s regular program.
- Mode of Learning : The course is mostly offered in a blended format, which includes recorded lectures, e-learning resources, digital libraries, and occasional offline interactions or examinations.
- Assessment : Students are assessed through assignments, projects, and semester-end exams, similar to regular DU students.
- Duration & Eligibility : Minimum of 3 years, maximum of 6 years. The minimum criteria is that students must have completed 10+2 with at least 40% marks.
- Fee Structure : The fees for DU SOL programs are relatively low compared to many private universities, making it accessible for students from all backgrounds.
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IGNOU BA Political Science Distance
IGNOU's BA Political Science is a specialization that you can pursue with a flexible duration of 3–6 years and no age restriction. IGNOU saw 352,000 undergraduate admissions in 2023-24 in BA with Political Science as a major. The key highlights of IGNOU’s program include:
- Curriculum : Similar to DU SOL, it covers core areas which include Political Theories, Indian Government & Politics, Comparative Politics, Political Thought, and International Relations. IGNOU also offers elective flexibility, allowing students to combine Political Science with other subjects.
- Mode of Learning : IGNOU primarily uses printed self-learning material (SLMs) , which contains a lot of detailed learning material and is also student-friendly. In addition, students get access to eGyankosh , online lectures, and counseling sessions at regional centers.
- Assessment : Evaluation is based on assignments (30%) and term-end exams (70%) . Assignments are mandatory and carry a very significant weightage.
- Duration & Eligibility : Minimum of 3 years, extendable to 6 years. The minimum eligibility is 10+2 from any recognized board.
- Fee Structure : IGNOU is known for its very affordable fees , making it the top choice for cost-conscious students.
IGNOU’s strong network of study centers provides localized support, making it a good fit for students from small towns and rural areas who may not have reliable internet access.
DU SOL Online BA Political Science
DU SOL’s Online BA in Political Science course is designed for students who want to pursue their degree with the most amount of flexibility while still being part of Delhi University’s academic framework and structure. Some of the highlights of the course include:
- Curriculum : The syllabus includes Indian Political Thought, Political Theory, Comparative Politics, Public Administration, International Relations, and Global Politics, which is very similar to DU’s regular program.
- Mode of Learning : The course is mostly offered in a blended format, which includes recorded lectures, e-learning resources, digital libraries, and occasional offline interactions or examinations.
- Assessment : Students are assessed through assignments, projects, and semester-end exams, similar to regular DU students.
- Duration & Eligibility : Minimum of 3 years, maximum of 6 years. The minimum criteria is that students must have completed 10+2 with at least 40% marks.
- Fee Structure : The fees for DU SOL programs are relatively low compared to many private universities, making it accessible for students from all backgrounds.
The biggest advantage is that a degree from DU SOL carries the Delhi University brand name , which can be valuable in both higher studies and job markets.
DU SOL vs IGNOU BA Political Science
Comparison Parameters | DU SOL BA Political Science | IGNOU BA Political Science |
|---|---|---|
University Reputation | Part of Delhi University (high brand value) | Among the world’s largest open universities (global recognition) |
Mode | Online + Distance (transitioning digital) | Distance with strong self-learning + regional support |
Learning Material | Digital lectures, e-resources, and exam-focused study packs | Printed books, eGyankosh resources, and counseling sessions |
Assessment | Assignments + exams | Assignments (30%) + exams (70%) |
Flexibility | Online access, limited physical centers | Pan-India reach with study centers |
Fees | Affordable | Very affordable (slightly cheaper than DU SOL) |
Best For | Students who want a DU degree prefer digital learning | Students needing regional support, low-cost education |
DU SOL vs IGNOU: Eligibility Criteria
Below is the eligibility criteria for both DU SOL and IGNOU BA Political Science Course
- Both require a 10+2 qualification from a recognized board.
- No entrance exam is conducted for either.
- There is no upper age limit.
- DU SOL mostly gives preference to Delhi region students.
- IGNOU is open to national and international applicants.
DU SOL vs IGNOU: Curriculum & Syllabus Comparison
- IGNOU: Flexible, with foundational papers like Indian Government and Politics, Political Theories, Comparative Politics, and optional electives (e.g., Gandhi Studies).
- DU SOL: NEP-aligned, CBCS system with semester-based learning. Includes modern subjects like Indian Political Thought, International Relations, and Public Policy.
- IGNOU allows greater flexibility in paper selection; DU SOL is more structured.
- Both are relevant for UPSC/SSC aspirants, but IGNOU may benefit long-term learners due to the flexible timeline.
CollegeDekho Expert Analysis
Choose DU SOL if you want to be a part of Delhi University and you plan to pursue higher education (like MA or UPSC preparation), and you prefer an online learning system with digital resources.
Choose IGNOU if you need maximum flexibility, and you are looking for the cheapest option, you would also like to access physical study centers across India, with e-learning materials for better support.
Both programs are UGC-DEB-approved and are also valid for government jobs, competitive exams, or higher education in India and abroad. While both institutions offer a BA in Political Science course, their mode of education, i.e, online classes, flexibility, study material, and student support systems differ. DU SOL is shifting towards more online and digital methods, while IGNOU has a well-established distance education structure with regional study centers across the country.