IGNOU MSc Environmental Science Project – Step-by-Step Guide
This guide explains everything you need to know to prepare your MSc Environmental Science project and synopsis for IGNOU.
1️⃣ Finding a Project Guide
In most cases, the IGNOU study centre coordinator does NOT become your guide. Only rarely will the coordinator act as your guide.
Usually, you must find your guide yourself.
Guide eligibility:
- PhD in Environmental Science / Chemistry / Life Science OR Master’s degree in related field Minimum 5 years of teaching or research experience
- Guide must be from an environment-related field
2️⃣ Documents Required for Guide Approval
- Guide’s Bio-Data (CV) – Qualification, Experience, Institution details
- Guide’s Signature – on synopsis and declaration
3️⃣ Preparing the Project Synopsis
Important: The synopsis must be prepared before starting the final project.
Order: Synopsis → Approval → Final Project
4️⃣ Structure of the Project Synopsis
Title Page
- Project Title
- Student Name
- Enrollment Number
- Programme: MSc Environmental Science
- Supervisor Name
- IGNOU, New Delhi Address
Introduction
Background, importance, and relevance of the topic.
Objectives of the Study
- Study causes of environmental problems
- Analyze impacts
- Suggest solutions
Study Area (If applicable)
Location, climate, geography, maps/diagrams.
Research Methodology
Primary/secondary data, surveys, observation, government reports.
Expected Outcomes
Practical solutions, awareness, environmental benefits.
References
- Books
- Research papers
- Government reports
5️⃣ Index / Table of Contents
- Title of the Project
- Introduction
- Objectives of the Study
- Study Area
- Research Methodology
- Expected Outcomes
- References
6️⃣ Signature & Verification
1. Get your supervisor’s signature on the synopsis.
2. Go to the IGNOU study centre coordinator for verification.
3. Coordinator verifies guide eligibility and signs synopsis.
7️⃣ Submission Process
Submit the signed synopsis at your study centre. They send it to IGNOU for approval.
8️⃣ Approval Time
It takes ~15 days. You will receive either:
- Approval ✅
- Disapproval ❌ (with reason)
Do NOT start the final project before approval.
9️⃣ Tips & Common Doubts
- Most students have to find their own guide.
- Synopsis is mandatory before the project.
- All signatures are compulsory.
- Title page should be prepared first.
🔟 After Synopsis Approval – Project Report Process
Once your synopsis is approved by IGNOU, it usually takes 15 to 25 days for confirmation. After receiving approval, you can start preparing your final project report.
1️⃣ Word Limit & Length of Project Report
- The project report should be completed in 6000 to 7000 words.
- You may write more than 7000 words if required.
- Total pages can range between 40 to 80 pages.
Note: Focus on quality, originality, and proper structure.
2️⃣ Front Page / Title Page of Project Report
The first page of your project report should be a well-designed title page.
- Project Title (Clear & Specific)
- Student Name
- Enrollment Number
- Programme: MSc Environmental Science
- Supervisor Name
- Study Centre Code
- IGNOU, New Delhi
A professional and clean front page creates a strong first impression.
3️⃣ Index / Table of Contents
After the title page, the Index (Table of Contents) should be included.
- Chapter 1: Introduction
- Chapter 2: Review of Literature
- Chapter 3: Objectives
- Chapter 4: Study Area
- Chapter 5: Research Methodology
- Chapter 6: Results & Discussion
- Chapter 7: Conclusion & Suggestions
- References
4️⃣ Declaration / Certificate Page
After the index, include the Declaration / Certificate page.
This certificate confirms that:
- The project is original work
- It is approved by the study centre
- It follows IGNOU guidelines
Important: Without this approved document, the project will not be accepted.
5️⃣ Writing the Final Project Report
After completing the above formal pages, you must write the full project report.
- Write chapter-wise content clearly
- Maintain word limit (6000–7000 words)
- Use tables, figures, and graphs where required
- Avoid plagiarism
6️⃣ Important Final Tips
- Do not start project work before synopsis approval
- Follow IGNOU format strictly
- Keep language simple and academic
- Ensure supervisor guidance throughout
