The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a new curriculum and credit framework for postgraduate (PG) programs, marking a significant shift towards flexibility and mobility in higher education.
This framework, unveiled by UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar, eliminates the need for specific disciplinary prerequisites, setting out the credit and academic structure for one-year and two-year PG courses. Notably, it offers a pathway for students enrolled in the two-year program to exit after the first year, underscoring its adaptability.
Emphasizing empowerment and choice for students, the framework aims to cater to diverse learning needs and aspirations. It delineates PG programs' credit requirements and course contents, facilitating a seamless transition from undergraduate to advanced research-oriented studies. This initiative is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, advocating for flexible educational pathways and restructured degree programs.
In line with NEP 2020 guidelines, universities are encouraged to innovate in their PG offerings, catering to various academic backgrounds and preferences. The framework promotes interdisciplinary learning and provides options for undergraduates with majors and minors to select their course of study based on their competencies and interests, as mentioned in a report by NDTV.
Moreover, the UGC's initiative introduces flexibility in learning modes, including offline, online, and hybrid formats, accommodating the evolving educational landscape. It also establishes mechanisms for credit transfer through an Academic Bank of Credits, facilitating mobility between institutions and allowing multiple entry and exit points in academic programs.
The eligibility criteria for PG programs include completion of relevant undergraduate majors or minors, with admission assessments based on performance in undergraduate courses or national/university-level entrance examinations. This holistic approach aims to enhance the quality of higher education by fostering a conducive environment for academic exploration and research endeavours.
The UGC's new curriculum and credit framework herald a transformative phase in PG education, offering students unprecedented flexibility and choice while ensuring robust academic standards and research preparedness.