Archive · 4 Aug 2026
UGC Approves One-Year Online PG Courses Amid Quality Concerns
The University Grants Commission, which oversees higher education in India, has decided that students can now study for a one-year master’s degree online or through distance learning.
This rule follows a national education plan that says a one-year master’s is okay for people who already have a four‑year bachelor’s degree.
Delhi University will start accepting students for this new program in the 2026‑27 academic year.
Some teachers worry that studying online might make the courses less thorough and lower the quality of learning.
Others think the new programs will help students who finish a four‑year degree move on to higher studies and better jobs.
UGC permits one-year postgraduate programs in online and distance modes starting this academic session.
The change aligns with NEP, which sets one-year PG for students with four-year bachelor’s degrees.
Delhi University’s School of Open Learning will admit students to the new one-year MA program from 2026-27.
Critics argue the shift may compromise academic rigor and quality, especially in online delivery.
Supporters contend the programs provide career progression pathways for honours graduates.
- Who
- University Grants Commission, education ministers, and university professors
- What
- Approval of one-year postgraduate programs in online and distance modes
- When
- Starting the current academic session, with Delhi University beginning in 2026-27
- Where
- India, across multiple universities
- Why
- To provide flexible learning options in line with the National Education Policy
- UGC decision
- Allows one-year PG courses in online and distance modes
- Program duration
- One year for students with a four-year bachelor’s degree
- Policy basis
- National Education Policy (NEP)
- Affected universities
- Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Guru Jambheshwar University, Odisha State Open University
- Critics' concerns
- Potential decline in academic rigor and quality