Ultimate Guide to Pursuing Dual Degrees in India (UGC Approved)
On April 12, 2022, the University Grants Commission announced that students can now pursue two university courses simultaneously and graduate with two regular or online degrees.
Earlier, the UGC only allowed students to pursue one full-time regular course and one Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or online course simultaneously.
But now, students can pursue two regular courses at the same time. However, some guidelines must be followed if they plan to pursue two university courses simultaneously.
Want to know the UGC rules and which degree combinations are allowed? Wondering how to manage two courses together? Keep reading our detailed guide to get all the answers in one place.
What is the UGC?
The University Grants Commission (UGC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Education that regulates universities and higher educational institutions. It was established in 1956, and the UGC is responsible for maintaining education standards across universities. It ensures that each university follows proper guidelines.
Earlier UGC Guidelines for Pursuing Two Degrees Simultaneously (Before April 2022)
Before 2022, students were not allowed to enroll in two regular courses at the same time. This included combinations such as:
- Two regular undergraduate degrees
- A regular UG and PG program simultaneously
Although strict rules were implemented for pursuing regular courses, there were some exceptions to those guidelines.
One Regular + One Certificate/Diploma (Part-Time or Distance)
- Students could pursue a part-time or distance mode certificate/diploma along with a regular program.
- The additional course should not overlap with the regular course.
Evening Programs Allowed with Regular Degree
- Some universities permitted it (with prior approval) if the second course is conducted in the evening or during non-overlapping hours.
Approval from Universities Was Mandatory
- Even in the above cases, universities had to approve and manage such enrollments individually.
Reasons for Restriction
- Concerns about academic overload and the potential negative impact on the quality of learning.
- Lack of infrastructure and monitoring systems for dual-degree enrollment.
In 2012, the UGC explored the idea of pilot programs to allow students to pursue dual courses, but these programs were never executed. The rule continued from 2013 to 2019, and the UGC didn’t make any changes to its dual degree guidelines.
But things started to change in 2020. The UGC began to focus more on flexibility and interdisciplinary learning. So, in April 2022, the UGC updated its guidelines for dual degrees. Now, students can pursue dual regular degrees at the same time under specific conditions.
Latest UGC Guidelines for Pursuing Two Degrees Simultaneously (After April 2022)
The University Grants Commission (UGC) issued updated guidelines, effective April 2022. The updated guidelines align with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
- As per the new guidelines, students can now pursue two full-time academic courses in regular mode. However, the class timings for one programme do not overlap with those of another.
- Students can pursue two academic programmes at the same time, with one in full-time regular mode and another in open and distance learning/ online mode, or up to two online and distance/Online programmes at the same time.
- Students pursuing a degree or diploma programme under online and distance learning /Online mode must be pursued only from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) recognised by UGC/Statutory Council/Government of India for offering such programmes.
- These UGC guidelines will officially take effect on April 13, 2022. However, students who had already pursued two academic programmes simultaneously before these guidelines were notified cannot claim retrospective benefits.
- These guidelines only apply to undergraduate and postgraduate degree and diploma courses. So if you plan to pursue a PhD or M.Phil, you cannot pursue dual degree courses.
Some Universities are Not Following the Dual Degree Program Guidelines
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has requested that Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) implement the guidelines so that students can benefit from pursuing dual degree courses simultaneously.
In a letter dated November 20, 2024, UGC secretary Prof Manish R. Joshi clearly stated that many students are still facing difficulties in enrolling in dual degree programs simultaneously because HEIs insist on submission of migration or transfer certificates during admissions.
“This requirement limits the students’ ability to secure admission to dual degree programs and undermines the purpose of the guidelines,” said Prof Joshi.
The official letter highlighted that more than two years had passed since the guidelines were issued. Despite several reminders from the UGC, some universities still have not facilitated their implementation.
Eligibility Criteria for Two Degrees at a Time
Students who are eligible for dual degree programs in India may vary based on the university and the specific program they choose. However, there are a few standard requirements as follows:
- Academic criteria: Students must fulfil the minimum criteria, such as a minimum percentage or GPA, for both degrees.
- Exams for Admission: Certain programs may require students to pass particular tests for admission, like the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) or the Common Admission Test (CAT).
- Institutional Policies: Every university has its own set of rules and regulations for its dual degree programs. Students should carefully read these policies before applying for admission.
As a student, it is important that you check your eligibility for dual degree programs in India to ensure that you meet all the requirements and do not face any challenges when pursuing dual degree courses.
Challenges in Pursuing Dual Degree Programs in India
Pursuing two degree courses side by side can be hectic and challenging. Here are some of the major challenges faced by students when pursuing two degree courses:
Time Management
One of the big challenges for students is managing time to attend lectures and study for different courses. Think about it: As a student, you are covering a two-year syllabus in one. You have to add more study hours and cover more study materials.
More Workload
When students completing their two degree programs it can result in an excessive amount of work. Students may have to complete multiple assignments and projects.
Paying Two Times
Earning two degrees can be expensive, and it can lighten your wallet. So you should carefully consider return on investment (ROI) and whether it still makes sense to pursue a dual degree course, then look into loan and scholarship opportunities.
Affect on Mental Health
Managing different academic responsibilities can be stressful, and it can negatively impact your mental health. If you study for long hours, you will notice regular burnout and headaches. So, it’s good to take care of yourself first before considering your future goals.
Benefits of Pursuing Two Degrees Simultaneously
Let’s talk about the good side of pursuing dual degrees. If you are doing twice the amount of hard work, you eventually get twice the amount of reward. Here are some of the benefits:
- Add More Weightage on Resume: Having dual degrees makes you a unique candidate in front of an employer. They give more preference to you rather than other candidates, since it shows you are a flexible and committed learner.
- Greater Knowledge and Skill Set: Having two degrees gives you greater knowledge and the freedom to switch careers to adjust to the changing employment market.
- Greater Earning Potential: Students who graduate with two degrees generally have a higher chance of advancement in their respective careers than those who have just graduated with one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Pursue Two Degrees at the Same Time in India?
Yes, you can pursue dual degree programs at the same time in India, as per the University Grants Commission(UGC) guidelines. However, only undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses come under these guidelines.
What is The New Rule for 2 Degrees in UGC?
The updated UGC guidelines in April 2022 stated that students can pursue dual degree programs in regular or online/distance mode. However, the course class schedules don’t overlap. The dual degree program is not applied to PhD or M.Phil.
Can I Take 2 Degrees at the Same Time with the Open University?
Yes, you can gain two degrees at the same time with the Open University. However, it should be recognised by the UGC/Statutory Council/Government of India for offering such programmes.
Can I Gain 2 Degrees at the Same Time in IIT?
No, IITs don’t allow pursuing two full-time degrees simultaneously due to rigorous academic schedules and attendance requirements. However, you can pursue a full-time IIT degree with an online/distance program from another university if workload permits. Some IITs offer dual degree programs like BS+MTech, but not two separate bachelor’s degrees.
Can I Do 3 Degrees at the Same Time in India?
No. The UGC’s guidelines strictly prohibit more than two degree programs simultaneously. The only exception is for certificate/diploma courses that don’t count as full degrees.
Can I do BSc and BTech at the Same Time?
Yes, you can pursue both degrees simultaneously under specific conditions. According to UGC guidelines, one program must be a regular full-time course (e.g., BTech) while the other must be through online/distance mode (e.g., BSc from SWAYAM or IGNOU). It’s crucial to ensure there is no timetable overlap between classes or exams.
Can I do BBA and BTech Together?
Yes, combining BBA and BTech is possible if you follow UGC regulations. You would pursue BTech as a regular full-time program while completing your BBA through UGC-recognised online platforms like Amity Online, upGrad, or distance education. Some private universities have introduced integrated “dual degree” programs that allow students to earn both degrees in a structured 5-year curriculum.
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