Unlock the power of microfinance and explore how it fosters economic empowerment and financial inclusion for marginalized communities worldwide. This comprehensive MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) delves into the principles, practices, and impact of microfinance within the global landscape. Throughout this course, you will embark on a journey through the history and evolution of microfinance, understanding its role in alleviating poverty, promoting entrepreneurship, and empowering individuals to build sustainable livelihoods. We will explore the diverse range of financial services offered by microfinance institutions, including microcredit, microsavings, and microinsurance, and examine their significance in fostering economic development. Engage with case studies, real-world examples, and expert insights to analyze the challenges and opportunities facing the microfinance sector, including regulatory frameworks, risk management, and sustainability. Gain technical skills in assessing the impact of microfinance interventions and designing effective strategies to address the financial needs of underserved populations. By the end of this course, you will emerge equipped with a deep understanding of microfinance's transformative potential and be prepared to contribute to inclusive financial systems that promote social justice and economic stability on a global scale. Join us in harnessing the power of microfinance to create a more equitable and prosperous world for all.
At the end of the course learners will be able to:
• Explain the fundamental concepts, historical background, and evolution of microfinance, emphasizing its role in poverty alleviation and economic development.
• Differentiate between various microfinance models, products, and services, evaluating their effectiveness in diverse contexts.
• Critically analyze the formation, organization, and operational mechanisms of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) through case studies, and assess their linkage programs with formal financial institutions.
• Explore the symbiotic relationship between microfinance and entrepreneurship, assessing its impact on entrepreneurial development and economic growth.
• Evaluate innovative delivery methodologies in microfinance, including the integration of technology, and predict emerging trends and future directions in the field.
| Course Status : | Ongoing |
| Course Type : | Core |
| Language for course content : | English |
| Duration : | 12 weeks |
| Category : |
|
| Credit Points : | 3 |
| Level : | Postgraduate |
| Start Date : | 20 Jan 2025 |
| End Date : | 30 Apr 2025 |
| Enrollment Ends : | 28 Feb 2025 |
| Exam Date : | 18 May 2025 IST |
| Translation Languages : | English |
| NCrF Level : | 6.5 |
| Industry Details : | Finance and Investment |
| Exam Shift : | 1 |
Note: This exam date is subject to change based on seat availability. You can check final exam date on your hall ticket.
Week 1: Introduction to Microfinance
Week 2: Microfinance Models
Week 3: Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Week 4: Microfinance Products and Services
Week 5: Micro Finance Institutions
Week 6: Microfinance Regulations and Policies
Week 7: Micro Finance Delivery Methodologies
Week 8: Microfinance and Entrepreneurship
Week 9: Microfinance and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Week 10: Innovation in Microfinance
Week 11: Ethical Issues in Microfinance
Week 12: Future Trends in Microfinance
Exam Schedule
1. Kaushik, S. K., & Rangarajan, V. (Eds.). (2010). Microfinance and women’s empowerment. New Delhi: Serials Publications.
2. Christabell, P. J. (2009). Women empowerment through capacity building: The role of microfinance. New Delhi: Concept Publishing Company Pvt. Ltd.
3. Somanth, V. S. (2009). Microfinance: Redefining the future (1st ed.). New Delhi: Excel Books Private Limited.
4. Gupta, P. (2011). Studies in economics of microfinance (1st ed.). New Delhi: Cyber Tech Publications.
5. Ledgerwood, J., & White, V. (2006). Transforming microfinance institutions. Washington, DC: World Bank.
6. Indian Institute of Banking & Finance. (2009). Microfinance perspective and operations: For diploma examination for microfinance professionals (MFP). New York & New Delhi: Oxford University Press.
7. Ratnakumar, V. F., & Edwinraj, D. J. (2009). Cooperatives and micro finance. New Delhi: Serials Publications.
8. Ledgerwood, J. (1990). Microfinance handbook. Washington, DC: World Bank.
9. Kamdar, S. (Ed.). (2007). Microfinance, self-employment and poverty alleviation (1st ed.). Mumbai: Himalaya Publishing House.
10. Srinivasan, N. (2009). Microfinance India. New Delhi: Sage.
11. Dichter, T. (Ed.). (2007). What’s wrong with microfinance? UK: Practical Action Publishing.
12. Ghate, P. (2007). Indian microfinance. New Delhi: Sage.
13. Ghate, P. (2006). Microfinance in India. New Delhi: Sage Publications.
14. Balkenhol, B. (Ed.). (2007). Microfinance and public policy. New York: Palgrave.
15. Karmakar, K. G. (Ed.). (2003). Microfinance in India. New Delhi: Sage Publications.
16. Vijayakumar, A. (Ed.). (2009). Banking, micro finance and self-help groups (SHGs) in India. New Delhi: New Century Publications.
Dr. Renu Rathi ( Ph.D., UGC NET, M.Com)
Dr. Renu Rathi is a Professor at the Postgraduate Department of Commerce, School of Commerce, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Bengaluru, with over 20 years of teaching experience. A gold medalist in B.Com. from Devi Ahilya University, Indore, she holds a Ph.D. from Vikram University, Ujjain, and is UGC-NET qualified. Her areas of specialization include accounting and taxation, with research interests spanning accounting, finance, and human resource management.
Dr. Rathi has authored six books and published over 80 research papers in reputed national and international journals, including UGC-listed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ABDC journals. She has contributed as a lead editor for Recent Multidisciplinary Research, a book recognized by the India Book of Records and Asia Book of Records. Additionally, she has been an associate editor for A Handbook on Research Methodology for Social Science and Emerging Trends and Practices in Business, Commerce & Management.
Enrolling and learning from the course is free. However, if you wish to obtain a certificate, you must register and take the proctored exam in person at one of the designated exam centre’s. The registration URL will be announced when the registration form is open. To obtain the certification, you need to fill out the online registration form and pay the exam fee. More details will be provided when the exam registration form is published, including any potential changes. For further information on the exam locations and the conditions associated with filling out the form, please refer to the form.
Assessment Type | Weightage |
Weekend Assessment | 25% |
Final Exam | 75% |
Score | Type of Certificate |
>=90 | Gold |
75 - 89 | Silver |
70 - 74 | Bronze |
40 - 70 | Successfully Completed |
<40 | No Certificate |
Sample Certificate:
Disclaimer: In order to be eligible for the certificate, you must register for enrolment and exams using the same email ID. If different email IDs are used, you will not be considered eligible for the certificate.
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