Pursuing two degrees simultaneously may become a reality in near future. The University Grants Commission (UGC) is mulling introducing a system under which students enrolled in a regular degree course can pursue an additional degree simultaneously under open or distance education mode or part-time mode from the same or different university.
To look upon the pros and cons, UGC had constituted an expert committee under Prof Furqan Qamar, vice-chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh to look into the feasibility of such a course. The committee however has recommended that 'a student enrolled in a degree programme under regular mode may be allowed to pursue a maximum of one additional degree programme simultaneously under open, distance mode from the same or a different university'. However, two degree programmes under regular mode may not be allowed simultaneously as it may create logistic, administrative and academic problems. The panel has also suggested that similar rule should apply if a student doing a regular course wanted to do a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or PG diploma programme as an additional course simultaneously either in regular or open and distance mode in the same university or from other institutions. The committee however suggested that the views of the vice-chancellors of all universities in the country should be taken before taking a final decision on implementation of dual degree in the country. Talking to TOI, former vice-chancellor of Lucknow University and member of the expert committee (on pursuing more than one degree simultaneously), Prof Manoj Kumar Mishra said, "The dual degree programmes is the need of the hour. It is very common in western countries and in India, IITs already offer such dual degree programmes. To implement it, universities will have to make statutory provisions. Therefore, we have sought opinions of the V-Cs across the country."
When asked whether the dual degree programme will be offered at undergraduate or PG level, Prof Mishra said, "It can be anything. It can be UG with a PG like integrated BSc with MSc or two PGs or two UGs together, though there are complexities in its implementation." But allowing two degrees in regular mode will not be possible due to academic and administrative problems.
Experts maintain that students at present are pursuing two degrees, one through regular mode and another through distance learning mode in a clandestine manner. "Rather than keeping the matter in the dark, dual degree programme will be allowed legally," said a member of the committee.The panel also discussed the issue of awarding a joint degree by universities within India and decided that nothing prohibit universities to permit their students to take and complete a part of their programme of studies from any other recognised universities.
"The joint degree programmes are not only permissible by the UGC, but also needs to be encouraged. Interested universities may make necessary enabling ordinances specifying details and procedures in this regard and sign Memorandum of Understanding to execute the awarding of joint degrees," the panel recommended.
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