The University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled a preliminary curriculum and credit framework for postgraduate programs, proposing the implementation of a one-year duration for these advanced studies. This draft outlines a comprehensive plan for the structure and content of postgraduate programs, reflecting the UGC's commitment to shaping a more streamlined and efficient educational experience at the postgraduate level. 

The proposed one-year format is intended to optimize the learning process and ensure that students receive a well-rounded and focused education in their chosen field of study. This initiative by the UGC aims to enhance the quality and relevance of postgraduate education in alignment with contemporary educational needs. 

According to the proposed regulations outlined in the draft, individuals who successfully complete a four-year bachelor's program with honors or honors with research may have the option of enrolling in a one-year master's program. Alternatively, there is the possibility of pursuing an integrated five-year program that combines both bachelor's and master's studies.

“The National Education Policy 2020 recommends different designs of master’s programmes with entry & exit facility and greater emphasis on research. In accordance with the policy, UGC has prepared draft Guidelines on Curriculum and Credit Framework for Postgraduate programmes,” the official UGC letter stated.

The UGC has proposed a flexible approach that allows students to transition between different fields of study. Furthermore, for undergraduates who complete a double major, the UGC suggests the freedom to choose either of the two subjects they have specialized in. Similarly, for those who graduate with a major and minor(s), the UGC advocates granting flexibility in selecting either the major or minor(s) subject for their master's program. 

Moreover, students will be granted autonomy to select courses aligned with their interests. They will also enjoy the flexibility to transition between various modes of learning, including offline, Open and Distance Learning (ODL), online learning, and hybrid learning models. This approach empowers students to customize their educational experience according to their preferences and adapt to diverse learning environments.

The recommended credit requirements and eligibility criteria for the master's program are as follows

• For admission to a 1-year/2-semester master's program at level 6.5 on the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF), a bachelor's degree with Honours or Honours with Research is required, encompassing a minimum of 160 credits.
• For enrollment in a 2-year/4-semester Master's program at level 6.5 on the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF), completion of a 3-year/6-semester bachelor's degree with a minimum of 120 credits is necessary.
• To qualify for a 2-year/4-semester Master's program (e.g., M.E., M. Tech., etc.) at level 7 of the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF), a 4-year Bachelor's degree (e.g., B.E., B.Tech., etc.) with a minimum of 160 credits is required.

According to the proposed curriculum, a PG Diploma at level 6 will consist of 40 credits and 240 credit points. A 1-Year PG program following a 4-year UG at level 6.5 will entail 40 credits and 260 credit points. Similarly, the 2-Year PG program after a 3-year UG at level 6.5 will involve 40+40 credits and 260 credit points. For the 2-Year PG program following a 4-year UG like B.E., B. Tech., etc., at level 7, it will encompass 40+40 credits and 280 credit points.

Level 4.5 on the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF) corresponds to learning outcomes suitable for the initial year (first two semesters) of the undergraduate program, whereas level 8 signifies learning outcomes suitable for the doctoral-level program of study.

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