UGC To Allow Students To Shorten Or Extend UG Programmes
Under the new initiative of the University Grant Commission (UGC), undergraduate students in India will be able to shorten or extend their degree durations. The Accelerated Degree Programme (ADP) and Extended Degree Programme (EDP) will allow students to tailor their course durations.
Reportedly, UGC has approved the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for these programs and will release the draft norms for public feedback soon.
The UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar said, “Students can use this option to shorten or extend their study durations based on their learning abilities.” “UG degrees completed earlier or later to be treated at par with standard duration degrees”, he said.
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Jagdesh Kumar said that the ADP will allow students to complete three-year or four-year degree programmes to complete in less time by earning additional credits per semester. Also, in the EDP the timeline of the course will be increased enabling students to take fewer credits each semester. The total credits, nevertheless remain the same.
UGC approves norms for HEIs to offer Accelerated Degree Programme, Extended Degree Programme to UG students: Jagadesh Kumar
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 28, 2024
Students will be able to select ADP or EDP at the end of first or second semester, depending on their pace. Institutions will form committees to select eligible students for these programmes. 10% of the student intake will be considered for ADP and EDP.
Read also: UGC Directs Institutions For Supporting Students To Pursue Two Degrees Simultaneously
The initiative is a part of the broader effort to make higher education more flexible and student friendly amid the changing learning needs and speeds.
