Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India

Debanjalee SenUpdated On: November 05, 2023 12:12 pm IST

We've compiled a list of the best distance education universities in India, that offer distance education courses and allow you to continue your education while working. The following are the top 10 distance education universities in India.

Table of Contents

What is Distance Education?
List of Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India 2023
1. IGNOU
2. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning
3. Gitam Deemed to be University (Centre for Distance Learning)
4. IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute
5. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University
6. Dr BR Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU)
7. Netaji Subhas Open University
8. Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU)
9. Karnataka State Open University
10. Acharya Nagarjuna University (CDE)
State-Wise List of Top Open University in India / State-Wise …
Best Open University in India 2023
Which is the First Open University in India?
Distance Education University Learning / Online University in India Learning
Distance Education University Learning Benefits
Distance Education University Learning Disadvantages
Faqs

Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India

Many universities and institutions are stepping up with innovative educational offerings to meet the needs of students and provide them with an education that is ready for the workforce in response to the growing demand for online courses and certifications. The best Indian universities that provide distance learning courses have been compiled here to enable you to continue your education while working. Let's begin by discussing the Indian distance learning courses.

What is Distance Education?

Distance Education, which is also referred to as distance learning, is a field of study that focuses on instructional system design, technology, and pedagogy and andragogy to provide education to students who are not physically "on site." Students can receive their education through distance learning, also known as distance education, which eliminates the need for them to physically attend classes or campuses. With this learning model, students receive their education online and are provided with study materials ahead of time, allowing them to learn in the convenience of their own homes.

We have compiled a list of the 10 distance education universities in India that provide distance education courses that allow you to continue your education while working. So, let us begin with the distance learning courses.

Also Read:Delhi University Distance Education: Distance and Correspondence Courses in DU

List of Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India 2023

Here is a list of the top 10 distance education universities or best correspondence university in India that provide students with quality distance education:

1. IGNOU

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), popularly referred to as the People’s University is one of the most reputed distance education universities in India and is regarded by many as the best open university in India. The university has a professionally qualified and experienced team of faculty which is dedicatedly devoted to developing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and value through dynamic and interactive methods of learning and grooming the students. IGNOU provides undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate and diploma courses to students in arts, science, commerce and management fields and is counted among the best distance education university in India.

Important features of IGNOU:

Tele-counseling for student groups
Training Study Centre Counselors /Coordinators
Administrative interaction with Regional Centre functionaries
Extended Contact Programme (ECP) with students
Teaching-end studios located at IGNOU Campus, New Delhi and about 850 receivers ‘nodes' located in IGNOU Regional Centers and Study Centers

Also Read: Last Minute Preparation Tips for IGNOU B.Ed Entrance Exam 2022

2. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning holds the second position on our list of distance education university and is among the best open university in India/best correspondence university in India. SCDL offers Post Graduate Diploma, Diploma and Certificate programs across a variety of management courses with the system of open universities in India

Important features of SCDL:

Introduction of a "Blended Learning" methodology for all the programs offered at SCDL
Interactive e-Learning content as a supplementary learning methodology to improve the understanding of concepts
Virtual Classroom facility with the faculty has removed the distance barrier between the teacher and the taught via distance education in India.
Online Faculty Chat Sessions allow students to interact with faculty.

3. Gitam Deemed to be University (Centre for Distance Learning)

Gitam University

Gitam University through the Centre for Distance Learning has contributed to the education revolution in its own way and is recognized as one of the finest distance education university//best correspondence university in India for offering quality education to scholars from across India.

Important features of Gitam University -

The institute is among the top leading institutes in India
The objective of the Gitam University is to support, promote and undertake the advancement of academics.\
The University offers multiple learning options for a rewarding career ahead.

Also Read: Top Universities in India Offering Distance B.Com: Eligibility, Location, Fee

4. IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute

IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute is number 4 on our list. The Centre has taken the lead in preparing managers of tomorrow armed with a distinct vision, blended with technology and skills. The centre strives to create all-rounder leaders in management and entrepreneurship by helping its students acquire the necessary skills.

Courses Offered at IMT CDL include:

Some popular courses offered by IMT - CDL are as follows:

Two Year Post-Graduate Diploma in Management
One Year Post-Graduate Diplomas in Business Administration
One Year Post-Graduate Diploma in Management (Executive) with specialization in -
Financial Management
Operations Management
Human Resource Management
Marketing Management
Information Systems

5. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University

This distance education university aims to spread and promote higher education among the underprivileged and has set up study centres in remote rural areas. It has collaborations with institutes like the Rehabilitation Council of India, the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management and the Indian Institute of Material Management, etc.

This open university in India aims to provide an easily accessible system of teaching and learning through education inputs like practical classes, distance teaching, satellite communication teaching, etc. Bhoj University gives special emphasis to target groups of learners coming from rural areas and especially those with a disability.

6. Dr BR Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU)

Dr B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) has a wide network of 206 study centres spread throughout the state of Andhra Pradesh. The University follows the motto "Education at Your Doorstep" is considered one of the /best correspondence university in India.

This distance education university caters especially to women, working people and those who want to improve their academic qualifications and professional skills. The University lays special focus on socially disadvantaged and geographically isolated people who never had access to higher education earlier.

7. Netaji Subhas Open University

Netaji Subhas Open University is the premier State Open University in India. The university has set up 31 study centres to provide the students with distance education in Bachelor Degree Programme (BDP) in Arts & Commerce, and 5 study centres for Arts & Commerce Courses under the BDP.

Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Science subjects, Post Graduate Degree Programme in Science subject (Mathematics) and Arts Subjects (History and Social Work) have also been made available to the students.

Also Read: What is Better: MBA Distance Learning or Online MBA or Regular MBA?

8. Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU)

Maharishi Dayanand University provides a wide variety of courses through means of distance education university mode of learning. Maharshi Dayanand University has Students Support Services Centres (SSSC) in open and distance learning system that are not only confined to interactive counseling or solving the learner's problems but also includes personality development, soft skills, career counseling, community education, promoting open and distance learning as per the National Education Policy i.e. Education for All.

Further, the SSSCs also facilitate learning, counselling and solve the problems of the distance learners faced during self-study with respect to the study material supplied to them by the Directorate and considered one of the best correspondence university in India. Through SSSCs, these learners get an opportunity to interact with the counsellors as well as with the peer group.

9. Karnataka State Open University

Karnataka State Open University is located in Manasagangotri, Mysore. It is recognized as one of the best open universities in India imparting distance education.

The University System is a respected higher-learning organization known for its distinctive strengths in providing superior and relevant distance learning programs to its learners. In pursuing this vision, the University System:

Creates interactive, effective learning environments for all constituents
Serves its constituents’ diverse personal and professional development needs
Expands access to affordable programs for underserved learners

10. Acharya Nagarjuna University (CDE)

Acharya Nagarjuna University's Centre for Distance Education (CDE) was established in the year 1976.

The university has the following features:

Enrolment either through the Centre for Distance Education or through the Study Centre of Student's choice
Admissions are done twice a year i.e., Academic Year Batch (July to June), Calendar Year Batch (January to December)
Weekend Classes / Practicals through Study Centres.
The University offers more than 75 courses.
A wide network of Examination Centres for the convenience of the students.
Offers quality education at an affordable cost

Also Read: Acharya Nagarjuna University - Centre for Distance Education Courses

State-Wise List of Top Open University in India / State-Wise List of Top Distance Education University

Here is a list of the top Distance Education University in India. We have prepared a state-wise list of the best open university in India which offer the finest distance education in India.

Andhra Pradesh Distance Education Universities

Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur	Andhra University, Visakhapatnam
Dravidian University, Kuppam	Gitam University, Visakhapatnam
National Sanskrit University Tirupati	Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur
Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati	Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati

Telangana Distance Education Universities

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad	Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad
Kakatiya University, Warangal	Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad
NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad	National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad
Osmania University, Hyderabad	Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad

Arunachal Pradesh Distance Education Universities

Rajiv Gandhi University, Itanagar	Venkateshwara Open University, Itanagar

Assam Distance Education Universities

Assam Down Town University, Guwahati	Assam University, Silchar
Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh	Guwahati University
Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University, Guwahati	Tezpur University, Tezpur

Bihar Distance Education Universities

Babasaheb BhimRao Ambedkar Bihar University, Muzaffarpur	Jai Prakash University, Chhapra
Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Darbhanga	Magadh University, Bodh Gaya
Nalanda Open University, Patna	Patna University, Patna

Chhattisgarh Distance Education Universities

Dr. CV Raman University, Bilaspur	MATS University, Raipur
Pandit Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University, Bilaspur	Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur

Delhi Distance Education Universities

Delhi University, Delhi	Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi
Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi	Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi

Haryana Distance Education Universities

Chaudhary Devilal University, Sirsa	Guru Jambheshwar University, Hisar
Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra	Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak
Manav Rachna International University

Gujarat Distance Education Universities

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad	Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad
Sumandeep Vidyapeeth University, Vadodara

Himachal Pradesh Distance Education Universities

Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla

Jammu and Kashmir Distance Education Universities

University of Jammu, Jammu	University of Kashmir, Srinagar

Karnataka Distance Education Universities

Gulbarga University, Gulbarga	Karnataka State Open University, Mysore
Karnataka University, Dharwad	Mangalore University, Mangalore
National Law School of India University, Bangalore	Kuvempu University, Shimoga

Kerala Distance Education Universities

Sree Narayanaguru Open University, Kollam	Kannur University, Kannur
Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam	University of Calicut, Kozhikode

Madhya Pradesh Distance Education Universities

Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University, Bhopal	Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore
Awadhes Pratap Singh University, Rewa	Rani Durgawati University, Jabalpur
Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal	M.G. Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot

Maharashtra Distance Education Universities

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, Pune	University of Mumbai Institute of Distance & Open Learning (IDOL)
Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University, Nashik	Indira International Distance Education Academy, IGI, Pune
Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University School of Distance Education (SDE)	D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Pune Deemed to be University Centre for Online Learning
International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai	NMIMS University, Mumbai

Meghalaya Distance Education Universities

Directorate of Distance Education, Mahatma Gandhi University	Centre for Distance Education NEHU Shillong

Mizoram Distance Education Universities

Mizoram University	ICFAI, Aizawl

Nagaland Distance Education Universities

Global Open University

Sikkim Distance Education Universities

ICFAI University, Gangtok

Odisha Distance Education Universities

Asian School of Business Management Distance Learning	Berhampur University, Berhampur
Utkal University, Bhubaneswar	Sambalpur University, Sambalpur
Fakir Mohan University, Balasore	North Orissa University, Mayurbhanj

Puducherry Distance Education Universities

Pondicherry University, Pondicherry

Punjab Distance Education Universities

Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar	Lovely Professional University, Phagwara
Panjab University, Chandigarh	Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar
Punjabi University, Patiala	Thapar Instt. of Engineering & Technology, Patiala
Chandigarh University

Rajasthan Distance Education Universities

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, Kota	NIMS University, Jaipur
Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women's University, Jaipur	Jaipur National University, Jaipur
Jain Vishva Bharati Institute, Ladnun	Jagan Nath University, Jaipur
Bhagwant University, Ajmer	Amity University, Jaipur

Tamil Nadu Distance Education Universities

Tamil Nadu Open University, Chennai	University of Madras, Chennai
Vinayaka Missions University, Salem	Tamil University, Thanjavur
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore	St. Peter's University, Chennai
SRM University, SRM Institute of Science and Education	SASTRA University, Thanjavur
Directorate of Distance Education, Mother Teresa Women’s University	Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai	Dr. MGR University, Chennai
Annamalai University, Annamalainagar	Alagappa University, Karaikudi

Tripura Distance Education Universities

ICFAI University, Agartala	Tripura University, Agartala

Uttarakhand Distance Education Universities

Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar	ICFAI University, Dehradun
University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun	Uttarakhand Open University, Haldwani

Uttar Pradesh Distance Education Universities

Aligarh Muslim University Distance Education-AMUDE	Amity Directorate of Distance & Online Education (ADDOE)
Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture	Dayalbagh Education Institute, Agra
IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute, Ghaziabad	Shobhit University
Swami Vivekananda Subharti University, Meerut	U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University, Allahabad
University of Allahabad, Allahabad	Integral University, Lucknow

West Bengal Distance Education Universities

Netaji Subhas Open University, Kolkata	Jadavpur University, Kolkata
Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata	University of Burdwan, Burdwan
University of Kalyani, Kalyani	University of North Bengal, Darjeeling
Vidyasagar University, Midnapore	-

Also Read: Best Distance Education Diploma/Certificate Courses After UG

Best Open University in India 2023

Here is the list of best open universities in India2023 mentioned below:

Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
The Open University, Milton Keynes
University of Madras, Chennai
Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad
University of Calicut, Malappuram
School of Open Learning, University of Delhi
Andhra University, Visakhapatnam
Karnataka State Open University, Mysuru
Osmania university, Hyderabad
Madhya Pradesh Bhoj University, Bhopal
Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur
Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad
Netaji Subhas Open University, Kolkata
Lovely Professional University, Phagwara
Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur
University of Kashmir, Srinagar
Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla
University of Jammu, Jammu
University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram
Sikkim Manipal University, Gangtok
Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, Kota
Alagappa University, Karaikudi
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai
Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar
Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Dwarka
Kuvempu University, Shivamogga
Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak
Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut
Nalanda Open University, Patna
Uttarakhand Open University (State University), Haldwani
Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli
Tamil Nadu Open University, Chennai
Pondicherry University, Puducherry
University Of Mumbai, Mumbai
Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar
Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa
Kannur University, Kannur
Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam
NMIMS Deemed-to-be-University, Mumbai
Kakatiya University, Warangal
Athabasca University, Athabasca
Open Learning Institute of British Columbia
Punjabi University, Patiala
Sree Narayanaguru Open University
Tamil University, Thanjavur
Mangaluru University, Konaje Proper
Shivaji University, Kolhapur
Uttar Pradesh Rajarshi Tandon Open University, Prayagraj
University Of Mysore (UoM), Mysuru
Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata

Also Read: BA Correspondence/Distance Education

Which is the First Open University in India?

Bhim Rao Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad, which was founded in 1982, became the country's first state-sponsored open university. Open universities are academic institutions that award degrees without many or any entrance criteria. They are the most appropriate for people who want to continue their education but received failing grades from their previous coursework.

Distance Education University Learning / Online University in India Learning

There are numerous distance education universities in India that provide a variety of courses. However, authorisation from the UGC-DEB, or University Grants Commission Remote Education Board, is required for best open university in India, Indian institutions and private colleges because it is the statutory authority that regulates distance education in India and maintains and creates distance education norms in India.

Distance education in India offers a variety of courses in a variety of specializations, which allows students to study the subject of their choice and eligibility. Most undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma and certificate programs are available online through online university in India.

So, if you are a working professional or a student looking for a distance program, a correspondence course through best open university in India is an excellent solution.

Distance Education University Learning Benefits

Here is a list of the advantages of going for distance education university studies:

Flexible education system through best distance education university in India.
Easy Curriculum.
No Regular classes due to the system of open university in India.
Earn along with learning due to the flexibility of getting a degree through an online university in India and continuing work at the same time.
Less course fee.

Distance Education University Learning Disadvantages

Have a look at some disadvantages of distance education university learning or education via open university in India.

Lack of classroom education as it is mainly through open university in India.
No social interaction with fellows.
No exposure to regular campus life.

We can say that the Open University system is flexible in terms of learning, admission process etc. Thus, it offers an alternative channel to those who missed the opportunities for higher education.

Also Read: Best Distance Education Diploma and Certificate Courses after 12th

CollegeDekho hopes this list helped you and may you make the right choice!

All the best.

Stay tuned to CollegeDekho for more such best distance education university in India updates!

FAQs

What exactly is distance education?

Distance education, also known as distance learning, is a type of education in which students do not need to be physically present on campus or in the classroom. Education is delivered online, with study materials made available to students ahead of time so that they can study from the comfort of their own homes and seek clarification from faculty members via communication or infrequent face-to-face interactions.

What differentiates regular education from distance learning?

For regular education, in order to maintain their attendance in regular education, students must regularly attend college and on-campus classes. On the other hand, face-to-face interactions are less common in distance education, where students complete the provided readings on their own, study at their own pace, and communicate with teachers online.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of distance education?

Online distance learning saves time, allows you to focus on your responsibilities and job, is more affordable, self-paced, and provides more flexibility than traditional education. On the other hand, distance learning is highly dependent on technical elements, credibility must be ensured that the course one pursues is from a reputable university, and it significantly reduces social interaction.

Can I get a government job with a distance education degree?

You can apply for central government jobs if you have a distance learning degree that has been recognised by the DEC or distance education council. For example, online distance learning degrees awarded by IGNOU (the Indira Gandhi National Open University) are considered valid while applying for government jobs.

What is the course fee of distance education?

The course fee of distance education courses vary between universities and institutions. Distance education courses, on the other hand, are always less expensive than regular education courses.

How does distance education work when combined with a job?

The distance education mode is designed so that a person can easily balance work and studies while earning a degree or certificate. With good time management, one can study after work or on weekends, and go over the study material whenever and wherever they want.

Is a distance education diploma recognised in India?

Yes, distance education degrees are recognised and valued in India. Technical programmes, with the exception of MCA and MBA, are not permitted to be pursued via distance education, and no institution offers them. BE and B Tech programmes, for example, are not recognised by the joint committee of UGC, DEC, and AICTE for being pursued via distance mode.

Can we get jobs with distance education degrees in hand?

Yes, distance education degrees can lead to excellent job opportunities, and most universities that offer distance education have dedicated placement cells that seek out placement drives from reputable organisations for their distance education students.

Is a distance degree for PhD valid?

No, the UGC does not recognise Doctor of Philosophy programmes obtained through distance learning.

What are the eligibility requirements for enrolling in top distance education universities that offer distance education courses in India?

Many top Indian universities offer distance education courses in various fields of study, with various eligibility requirements. But basic eligibility criteria is that students who have completed their 12th grade from a recognised institution are eligible to apply. The education must be obtained from any recognised educational board with a minimum grade point average of 45%. Students with qualifying merit scores are admitted to the BSc Distance Courses.

What are the benefits of distance education university learning?

Flexible study methods, comparatively easy syllabus, and no mandatory requirement of attending regular daily classes are some of the benefits of distance education university learning.

What are the disadvantages of distance education university?

Lack of classroom learning facilities, less availability of college and university resources, and slow development of communication skills are some of the disadvantages of distance education university.

Is IGNOU a good option as a distance education university?

Yes, IGNOU is one of the best options as a distance education university.

How many study centres are there at the Netaji Subhas Open University?

There are more than 31 study centres at the Netaji Subhas Open University.

Can students pursue distance law education from the NALSAR University?

Students can pursue distance law education programmes like MA Aviation Law, MA Security Law, MA International Taxation, etc., via the Directorate of Distance Education, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad.

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When will admission open for getting admission into it

-binti sharmaUpdated on November 25, 2023 12:51 PM

2 Answers

mayank Uniyal, Student / Alumni

Dear Binti,

The admission authorities of Lal Bahadur Shastri College of Education Kathua are yet to announce the admission dates on the official website. As per the previous year's admission dates, the authorities are likely to begin the admission process for the current session soon. You are suggested to check the eligibility criteria for your desired course before filling out the application form.

Hope this helps!

Feel free to contact us for any further clarification or any other queries.

last date addmission in be.d class

-PoojaUpdated on November 21, 2023 11:17 AM

2 Answers

Ankita Sarkar, Student / Alumni

Hello Pooja,

The B.Ed programme at Smt. Santra Devi College of Education has an intake of 200 students. Admission is based on merit and is done through University Counseling. You must have a Graduation/Master's degree with at least 50% marks to secure admission. The last date for admission to the B.Ed course has not yet been published by the college authorities. It is advised that you keep visiting the website for updates, or you can clarify by contacting through phone (098131-21885, 094163-57260, 090505-21885) or email (sdc.samaspur@gmail.com).

Hope this was helpful. Feel free to ask for any more queries.

When is the deadline for filling up B.Ed forms

-Swapna DasUpdated on November 15, 2023 09:48 AM

3 Answers

Ashish Aditya, Student / Alumni

Dear student, The Krishna Bora B. ED. College admission dates for B.Ed have been released. The admission process for 2023 is currently active. However, the college still needs to provide an end date for B.Ed admission. You should know that the first-year fees for B.Ed at Krishna Bora B. ED. College is Rs 66,500.