NOU's Review and Verdict by CollegeDekho

Campus at a Glimpse

NOU is an open and distance learning university established in March 1987 in Patna, Bihar. This open university has been a lifeline for students unable to attend traditional institutions, providing them with an opportunity to enhance their qualifications.
Nalanda Open University, the fourth-oldest open university in India, offers innovative and job-oriented courses. The university is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Distance Education Bureau (DEB), the Ministry of Education (MoE) of the Government of India.
The NOU campus is spread over 1.38 acres in Patna and primarily focuses on providing the essential facilities required for distance education. While the number of physical classrooms is limited, they are effectively utilised for counselling sessions and examinations. In addition to this, the university has more than 200 study centers across Patna for students' convenience, ensuring easy access to academic resources and support. Nalanda Open University offers a well-equipped library and laboratories, catering to the academic needs of the students.

NOU Ranking

Our take

While Nalanda Open University has achieved commendable rankings in the past, it's worth noting that in recent years, the university has not been featured in any rankings. The most recent ranking was in 2020 by the Outlook-ICARE India University Rankings, where it secured the 63rd position. At the same time, we need to keep in mind that there is no particular framework currenty for ranking the open universities in the country. 

NOU Academia & Batch Size 

NOU offers a total of 105 courses across various fields like computer application and IT, commerce, arts, humanities and social sciences, media, mass communication and journalism, and sciences. When you enrol, the university gives you Self Learning Material (SLM), which is basically your guide to the course. Whether you register at the university's main campus or through its study centres, you will be provided with your SLM, identity card, and examination admit card. 
What's really great about Nalanda Open University is that they also conduct counselling sessions and show educational videos at their centres and main campus. Plus, the course fee won't burn a hole in your pocket as the total fees range from Rs 7,000 to 8,000, making it accessible to students from all economic backgrounds. There are over 26,000 students currently enrolled at NOU. That's a lot of people choosing NOU for their distance learning journey!

Our Take
NOU is doing a commendable job by offering a wide variety of 105 courses across multiple disciplines. The provision of self-learning materials, counselling sessions, and educational videos is a thoughtful approach to supporting students' learning journeys. The affordable fee structure, ranging from Rs 7,000 to 8,000, makes quality education accessible to many. The fact that over 26,000 students have chosen Nalanda Open University for their education speaks volumes about its popularity and credibility.

NOU Infrastructure

Library:

The NOU library has an impressive collection of around 55,000 titles. It's not just a place to find books. Its a modern learning space equipped with the latest technology. The library features a large plasma TV screen and DVD player for displaying educational audio-visual content and computerised projection of teaching materials. 

Study Centres:

Nalanda Open University has 265 counselling and study centres across Patna that are well-equipped with reference books, audio-visual aids, and other resources for each programme. Additionally, five copies of the Self Learning Material (SLM) for each programme are available at these centres for students' reference.

Our Take
NOU's infrastructure is impressive. Their library, with around 55,000 titles and modern technology, is a great resource. The 265 study centres across Patna, equipped with various learning aids and study materials, show NOU's commitment to providing a comprehensive learning environment for students.

NOU Placements

As NOU is for distance learning, it doesn't offer placement services. As an open university, its focus is on providing flexible learning opportunities to its students. However, this doesn't mean that Nalanda Open University leaves its students without career support. The students say that the university offers a variety of resources and support to help them navigate their career paths and achieve their professional goals. So, while there may not be an official placement cell, NOU is still there to help you on your career path.

NOU Faculty

The faculty at the Nalanda Open University study centres are a blend of knowledge and support. They are well-versed in their respective fields and are always ready to assist students. While some students find the faculty excellent, others consider them average. This difference in views is because the teachers are from different study centres, each with their own teaching styles and methods.

NOU Location

NOU is currently located at Biscomaun Bhawan, Gandhi Maidan Road, in Patna, Bihar. The university is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The closest railway station, Patna Junction Railway Station, is just 2.7 km away, making it a quick 11-minute journey. For those travelling by air, Jayprakash Narayan Airport is a mere 6.8 km away. The Bankipur Bus Depot is just a kilometre away from Nalanda Open University Patna. Students can easily reach the university by taking a cab or a bus. Moreover, NOU is expanding with a new spacious campus currently under construction at Nalanda.

NOU: Expectation vs Reality CollegeDekho Verdict

With over 26,000 students, a total of 105 courses, and a supportive faculty, Nalanda Open University is one of the best universities for open learning and distance education. It's recognised by all the important bodies like the UGC, DEB, Ministry of Education (MoE), and the Government of India. So, there is no doubt regarding the authenticity of the university. Despite not offering placement services, Nalanda Open University provides ample career support and resources. The university's campus in Patna is well-equipped, and a new campus is also being built at Nalanda. With affordable fees and flexible learning, NOU is a great option for those seeking to enhance their qualifications through distance learning.

Final Verdict!