Online, ODL degrees equivalent to those obtained by conventional mode: UGC

NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced that degrees obtained through online and distance learning (ODL) from recognised institutions will be treated on a par with degrees offered through conventional mode.

"Degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level in conformity with UGC notification on Specification of Degrees, 2014 and, post graduate diplomas awarded through Open and Distance learning or Online mode by Higher Educational Institutions, shall be treated as equivalent to the corresponding degrees and post graduate diploma offered through conventional mode," UGC Secretary Rajnish Jain said in an official notification. The decision has been taken as per Regulation 22 of the UGC (Open and Distance learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Regulations.

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Recently, the Commission amended the UGC Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes Regulations, 2020, to attract more foreign students to enroll in UGC-recognised online courses. The amendment was made after the ministry of external affairs observed that many applications from foreign students were being rejected due to either submission of expired passports or non-submission of passports.

In April, the UGC approved guidelines on joint-degree, dual-degree and twinning programmes. This will also facilitate academic collaboration between a foreign and an Indian higher education institution through which three types of programmes can be offered.

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“These regulations may be called the University Grants Commission (Open and Distance Learning Programmes and Online Programmes) Second Amendment Regulations, 2022,” the UGC said.

Earlier in March, UGC made amendments to regulations of open distance learning (ODL) and online programmes for promoting ODL and online education. According to the amendments, now the National Assessment Accreditation Council (NAAC) and National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking requirements will be valid for the next three academic years. Earlier it was valid only for 2020-21 only.

(with inputs from PTI)