Exciting news for students aiming to upskill and attain academic excellence! The dual degree ugc programs offers a unique opportunity to broaden your knowledge base and enhance your qualifications simultaneously. This innovative initiative by the University Grants Commission allows students to enroll in two academic programs concurrently, paving the way for a comprehensive educational experience and heightened career prospects.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced an important update in April 2022 that states students can now pursue two degrees at the same time. This announcement aligns with the goals outlined in the ‘National Education Policy’ of 2020
Further in the notification, UGC also issued certain guidelines on how this can be practicable. The details are as follows.
Different Modes of Pursuing Two Degrees Simultaneously
The UGC has outlined three modes for students to pursue two degrees simultaneously:
- Both degrees in traditional offline settings.
- Both degrees via Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or online platforms.
- One degree through ODL or online mode and the other degree in a conventional offline setting.
Each mode has its own set of benefits and challenges. The student can choose their preferred mode based on their personal circumstances and career goals.
Before making a decision, they must carefully assess the difference between these three modes of education.
Difference Between Offline, ODL and Online Mode of Education
| Aspect | Offline | ODL (Open and Distance Learning) | Online |
| Location of Learning | Physical campus, in-person learning | Anywhere with internet & travel to regional test centers | Anywhere with internet |
| Interaction | Face-to-face | Limited face-to-face, mainly online | Online |
| Schedule Flexibility | Fixed daytime weekdays | Self-paced study + scheduled video lectures | Flexible, virtual classes on LMS platforms |
| Access to Learning Resources | On-site library & labs | Online resources: PDFs, notes, videos | Physical textbooks + digital libraries & online forums |
| Student Engagement | Classroom discussions | Online forums & discussions | Virtual interactions |
| Exams/Assessment | In-person exams | Online & potentially some in-person exams | Online assessments |
| Learning Pace | Fixed | Variable | Variable |
| Technological Dependency | Limited | Moderate | High |
Dual Degree UGC Guidelines
- Students have the option to enroll in two different degree courses at the same time, provided there is no schedule conflict between the classes of both courses.
- The University Grants Commission (UGC) has stated that while the admission criteria for on-campus undergraduate programs vary by university, for distance education programs, students must have completed their 12th standard.
- Individuals may choose to undertake their degree programs either at the same institution or across two distinct universities.
- The decision to permit enrollment in two degree programs concurrently rests with the individual universities.
- Students have the liberty to select whether they wish to pursue their courses in a traditional classroom setting or through distance learning.
- Instead of being a dual degree program, this arrangement allows students to acquire two independent degrees simultaneously.
- The opportunity to enroll in two programs concurrently extends only to undergraduate and postgraduate degree and diploma programs, excluding PhD or M.Phil. studies from this provision.
Pursuing Dual Degrees UGC at the Same Time
Whenever enrolling in two degrees at the same time, students must check the eligibility criteria and admission process for both the degrees they want to pursue. Some types of universities may have restrictions on dual-degree programs or require special permissions. So, below are some of the UGC entitled universities.
- Amity University
- Chandigarh University
- Dr. DY Patil Deemed-To-Be University
- Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research
- Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth
- Graphic Era
- Lovely Professional University (LPU)
- Manipal University
- University of Petroleum and Energy Studies
Students must choose the degrees & universities carefully based on their interests, aptitude, career goals, and future prospects.
Both Degrees Offline
While pursuing two degrees offline, students must ensure the following:
- Plan their academic schedule carefully to avoid clashes between the classes, exams, assignments and projects of both the degrees. Students may have to compromise on some electives or optional courses to accommodate both the degrees.
- Prepare for the financial implications of pursuing dual degrees simultaneously. These implications include having to pay higher fees, buy more books and materials, and spend more on travel and accommodation.
Both Dual Degrees UGC Through ODL or Online Mode
UGC has clarified that a degree obtained through online mode is considered equivalent to a regular degree. This means that a student can derive the same benefits of both the degree programs.
While pursuing both degrees through ODL or online mode, students should be aware of its benefits and challenges.
- Benefits include flexibility, convenience, affordability, accessibility, diversity and skill enhancement
- Challenges include time management, self-discipline, motivation, communication, technical issues and quality assurance
Read More : Unlock personalized learning: Discover how online courses adapt to your unique goals
One Degree Through ODL or Online Mode and Another Degree Offline
There are many examples where students do not get to pursue a program of their choice due to various reasons. Now they can do so by searching for the same in the online mode and registering for it while simultaneously pursuing the degree they have enrolled in through the regular mode.
For example, while a student is pursuing a online B.Com post their 12th in a regular college, they can enroll simultaneously for a online B.B.A through the online mode. This will greatly increase their chances of getting good internships and jobs.
Pros and Cons of Dual Degree UGC Program
Pursuing two degrees simultaneously can open up a wide range of career opportunities. However, it also requires a significant investment of time and effort. Students must carefully consider their ability to manage the workload before deciding to pursue two degrees at the same time.
| Pros | Cons |
| Broadens horizons by exposing students to diverse studies and skills. | Balancing act required for two degrees’ workload and deadlines. |
| Boosts employability with more qualifications. | Impacts social life, reducing time for leisure and family. |
| Saves time compared to sequential degrees. | Risk of burnout from excessive pressure and expectations. |
| Enhances career flexibility and future options. | Limits depth in a specific field due to divided focus. |
Conclusion
The UGC’s new guidelines for pursuing two degrees simultaneously present exciting opportunities for students. This facility can benefit students by broadening their qualifications by making them qualified in two disciplines of study. Consequently, this will increase their employability and also the choices of jobs.
However, students must not solely focus on the number of degrees, but the knowledge acquired and its practical application in the chosen field.
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