UGC recommends 1-Year PG course, offers subject selection freedom

A draft curriculum and credit framework for PG programmes has been released by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The draft suggests a one year long postgraduate programme.

The official UGC letter stated that the National Education Policy 2020 recommends different designs of master’s programmes with entry and exit facility and greater emphasis on research. “In accordance with the policy, UGC has prepared draft Guidelines on Curriculum and Credit Framework for Postgraduate programmes,” the official UGC letter further stated.

As outlined in the preliminary regulations, students who finish a four-year bachelor’s program with honors or honors including research have the option for either a one-year master’s program or an integrated five-year bachelor’s/master’s program.

The UGC has proposed flexibility for students to transition between different fields of study. Additionally, it suggests that students who graduate with a double major can choose either of their two majors for further studies. Similarly, students with a major and minor(s) at the undergraduate level can select either the major or minor(s) subject for their master’s program.

Moreover, students will have the liberty to select courses according to their interests.

They will also possess the flexibility to switch between different modes of learning, including offline, ODL (Open and Distance Learning), online learning, and hybrid learning modes.

The eligibility and credit requirement suggested for masters programme is:

A bachelor’s degree with Honours/Honours with Research, totaling a minimum of 160 credits, qualifies for a 1-year/2-semester master’s program at level 6.5 on the NHEQF.

A 3-year/6-semester bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 120 credits is required for a 2-year/4-semester Master’s program at level 6.5 on the NHEQF.

A 4-year Bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.E., B.Tech., etc.) with a minimum of 160 credits permits entry into a 2-year/4-semester Master’s program (e.g., M.E., M. Tech., etc.) at level 7 of NHEQF.

Regarding the draft curriculum, a PG Diploma (level 6) comprises 40 credits and 240 credit points. A 1-Year PG following a 4-year UG (level 6.5) involves 40 credits and 260 credit points. The 2-Year PG after a 3-year UG (level 6.5) comprises 40+40 credits and 260 credit points. Meanwhile, the 2-Year PG post a 4-year UG, such as B.E., B.Tech., etc. (level 7), encompasses 40+40 credits and 280 credit points.

NHEQF level 4.5 signifies learning outcomes suitable for the initial year (first two semesters) of the UG program, while level 8 signifies learning outcomes suitable for the doctoral-level program.