Indira Gandhi national Open University (IGNOU) has contributed a lot to the development of education in India by the introduction open and long distance learning methodologies. Programs are offered by the University at the following levels: doctorate; masters and bachelors degree programs, post-graduate and under-graduate diplomas; and certificates. The course on Master of Arts in public administration (MPA) is one of the many courses provided by the School of Social Science (SOSS) which strives to provide a comprehensive knowledge to its learners about the relationship between the state society and administration.

About the Paper

One of all the subjects in the MPA program is a paper on administrative theory. This paper provides knowledge about the concepts and theories in public administration. It analyses the different approach to public administration such as the classical, bureaucratic, human relations etc. at length. There are a total of twenty two units to be studied under this paper. Questions are asked from every modules of the syllabus. Hence selective study would not be of any help. However knowing the paper pattern might help one to prepare smartly for the exam.

How many sections can you expect in this paper?

There are two sections with five questions in each section.

Paper Pattern and number of questions asked

The paper has a total of ten questions. Candidates are required to answer a total of five questions in about five hundred words each, selecting at least two questions from each section.  The questions do not have any subparts. All the questions are long answer questions which tests the candidate’s insight into the topic. Hence thorough study of the subject is essential to fair well in the exam.

Division of Marks

The entire paper is of one hundred marks with each question having twenty marks.

Duration of the Paper

The maximum duration of the paper is three hours.