- What is Distance Education?
- List of Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India 2024
- 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 …
- Distance Education Universities in India Approved by UGC in 2024
- Which is the First Open University in India?
- What is Open and Distance Learning (ODL)?
- 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 have greatly benefited students who can't go to regular colleges for their education. In keeping with the growing demand for online courses and certifications, many universities and institutions are stepping up with innovative educational offerings to meet students' needs and provide them with a job-ready education. The best Indian universities offering distance learning courses have been compiled here so that you can continue your education while working. Let's begin by discussing the distance learning courses in India.
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.
Distance education has become increasingly popular in recent years as technology has made it easier to access and complete coursework from anywhere in the world. Benefits of distance education include:
- Students have the freedom to learn at their own pace
- Access course materials from anywhere with an internet connection
- Promotes self-discipline, time management, and digital literacy skills
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 2024
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 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
Andhra University, Visakhapatnam | |
---|---|
Dravidian University, Kuppam | |
National Sanskrit University Tirupati | Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur |
Telangana Distance Education Universities
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad | |
---|---|
Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad | |
Osmania University, Hyderabad | Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad |
Arunachal Pradesh Distance Education Universities
Venkateshwara Open University, Itanagar |
---|
Assam Distance Education Universities
Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh | |
Bihar Distance Education Universities
Babasaheb BhimRao Ambedkar Bihar University, Muzaffarpur | |
---|---|
Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Darbhanga | Magadh University, Bodh Gaya |
Nalanda Open University, Patna |
Chhattisgarh Distance Education Universities
Pandit Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University, Bilaspur | Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur |
Delhi Distance Education Universities
Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi |
Haryana Distance Education Universities
Chaudhary Devilal University, Sirsa | |
---|---|
Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak | |
Gujarat Distance Education Universities
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad | Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad |
---|---|
Himachal Pradesh Distance Education Universities
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 |
Kerala Distance Education Universities
Sree Narayanaguru Open University, Kollam | Kannur University, Kannur |
---|---|
Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam |
Madhya Pradesh Distance Education Universities
Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University, Bhopal | |
---|---|
Awadhes Pratap Singh University, Rewa | Rani Durgawati University, Jabalpur |
M.G. Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot |
Maharashtra Distance Education Universities
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 |
Meghalaya Distance Education Universities
Directorate of Distance Education, Mahatma Gandhi University | Centre for Distance Education NEHU Shillong |
---|
Mizoram Distance Education Universities
ICFAI, Aizawl |
---|
Nagaland Distance Education Universities
Global Open University |
---|
Sikkim Distance Education Universities
Odisha Distance Education Universities
Asian School of Business Management Distance Learning | |
---|---|
Sambalpur University, Sambalpur | |
North Orissa University, Mayurbhanj |
Puducherry Distance Education Universities
Punjab Distance Education Universities
Lovely Professional University, Phagwara | |
---|---|
Rajasthan Distance Education Universities
Tamil Nadu Distance Education Universities
St. Peter's University, Chennai | |
Directorate of Distance Education, Mother Teresa Women’s University | |
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai | |
Alagappa University, Karaikudi |
Tripura Distance Education Universities
Uttarakhand Distance Education Universities
Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar | |
---|---|
Uttar Pradesh Distance Education Universities
IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute, Ghaziabad | |
Integral University, Lucknow |
West Bengal Distance Education Universities
Netaji Subhas Open University, Kolkata | Jadavpur University, Kolkata |
---|---|
University of Burdwan, Burdwan | |
University of Kalyani, Kalyani | |
- |
Also Read: Best Distance Education Diploma/Certificate Courses After UG
Distance Education Universities in India Approved by UGC in 2024
Students can find a list of UGC-approved distance education universities in India for the academic year 2024-25, which begins in July-August 2024.Full Name of University | UGC Approved Courses Offered |
---|---|
Acharya Nagarjuna University | BA, BCom, BBA, BLISc, MA, MSW, MCom, MLISc |
Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam | MA |
Yogi Vemana University Distance Education | MA, MCom |
Rajiv Gandhi University Distance Education | BA, MA |
Vignan’s Foundation for Science Technology and Research Distance Education | BBA |
Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University | BA, BBA, BCom, BCA, MA, MCom, MSW, MSc (IT), MBA |
Tezpur University Distance Education | MA |
Dibrugarh University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BCA, MA, MCom |
Jamia Hamdard University Distance Education | BCA, BCom, BBA |
Gauhati University Distance Education | MA, MSc (IT) |
Pt Sundarlal Sharma Open University Distance Education | BCom, BBA, MCom, MBA, PGD labour law welfare |
Delhi University School of Open Learning | BA, BCom, BMS, BLISc, BBA, MA, MCom, MLISc, MBA |
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University | BCom, BA, BEd, BLIS, MLIS, MBA, MCA, MA |
Jamia Millia Islamia University Distance Education | MA, MCom, MBA, BEd, BA, BCom, BBA |
Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology Distance Education | BA, BCom, MA, MCom, MBA, MSc, MCA |
Maharshi Dayanand University Distance Education | MCom, MSc, MA, BA, BCom, MLISc |
Himachal Pradesh University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BEd, MA, MCom, MBA |
Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Distance Education | MBA, MA, BBA, BCom, BA |
Kashmir University Distance Education | MA, MCom, MSc |
Jain University Distance Education | MA, MSW, BCom, BBA, BA, BSc, BMS |
Karnataka State Open University | MCom, MSW, MLISc, MCA MBA, MA, MSc, BCom, BBA, BSW, BLISc, BA, BCA, BSc |
Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana Distance Education | BSc, MSc, Post Graduate Diploma in Yoga |
Calicut University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BBA, MA, MSc, MCom |
Kerala University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BBA, BSc, BLISc, MA, MCom, MSc, MLISc, |
Sree Narayana Guru Open University | BA, BBA, BCom, MA, MCom |
Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya Distance Education | MBA, MCA |
Jiwaji University Distance Education | BA, BCom, MLISc, MCom, MA |
Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya Distance Education | BA, BCom, BSW, MA, MCom, MSW |
Mahatma Gandhi Antar Rashtriya Hindi Vishwa Vidyalaya distance education | BA, BEd, BJ, MA, MSW, MJ, MBA |
Smt Nathibai Damodar Thackeray Women’s University Distance Education | BA, BCom, MA, MCom |
Shivaji University Distance Education | BA, BCom, MA, MCom, MSc |
Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University | BBA, BCom, BA, BLISc, BCA, BEd, BSc, MA, MSc, MCom, MLISc, MBA |
University of Mumbai Distance Education | BA, BSc, BCom, MA, MSc, MCom, MCA, MMS |
Kavikulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University Distance Education | BA, MA |
Pondicherry University Distance Education | BA, BBA, BCom, MA, MCom, MBA |
Chandigarh University Distance Education | MA, MBA, MCom, BCA, BA, BCom, BBA |
Jagat Guru Nanak Dev Punjab State Open University | BA, BCom, BSc, MA, M Com, MSc |
Lovely Professional University Distance Education | MCA, MSc, MA, MLISc, MCom, MBA, BA, BCA, BCom, BLISc, BSc, BBA |
Suresh Gyan Vihar University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BBA, MCom, MA |
Jain Vishva Bharati Institute Distance Education | BA, BCom, MA |
Jagannath University Distance Education | BA, BBA, BCom, MA |
Annamalai University Distance Education | BFA, MA, MSW, MFA, MCom, MBA, MSc |
Anna University Distance Education | MBA, MCA, MSc |
Bharathidasan University Distance Education | MA, MCom, MSc, MLISc, MBA, MCA, BA, BCom, BLISc, BSc, BBA, BCA |
BS Abdur Rahaman Institute of Science & Technology Distance Education | MBA, MCA |
Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Higher Education | MSW, MA, MBA, MSc, BA, BBA, BCom, BCA |
Manonmaniam Sundaranar University Distance education | BA, BBA, BSc, BCom, BLISc, MA, MCom, MSc, MLISc |
Tamil Nadu Open University Distance Education | BBA, BEd, BSc, MSW, MSc |
University of Madras Distance Education | MA, MSc, MCom, MBA, MCA, MFA, BA, BSc, BFA, BCA, BEd, BCom, BBA |
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology Distance Education | MSc, MA, BCom, BBA |
Mother Teresa Women’s University Distance Education | BA, BBA, BCom, MA, MCom |
Vel’s institute of science technology & advanced studies | BBA, BCom, MBA |
Maulana Azad National Urdu University Distance Education | BA, BSc, BCom, BEd, MA |
ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education DDE | BBA, MBA |
Dr. BR Ambedkar Open University Telangana | BEd, MA |
Kakatiya University Distance education | BBA, BCom, BLISc, BSc, MA, MSW, MSc, MCom |
Amity University Distance Education | BSc, MSc |
Swami Vivekanand Subharti University Distance Education | BA, BBA, BCom, BLISc, MA, MCom, MBA, MLISc |
U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University | BA, BEd, BCom, BLISc, BSc, BBA, MA, MSc, MCom, MLISc, MSW, MJ MBA, MCA |
Mangalayatan University Distance Education | MA, MCom, MSc, MBA, BBA, BA, BCom |
Graphic Era University Distance Education | BCA, BBA, BCom |
Uttarakhand Open University Distance Education | MA, MBA, MCA, MCom, MSc, MPA, MSW, BA, BBA, BSc, BTTM, BCom, BCA, BLISc, BEd |
Netaji Subhas Open University | BA, BSc, BCom, BLISc, BEd, MA, MEd, MBA, MSc, MCom, MSW, MLISc |
Rabindra Bharati University Distance Education | MA, MSW |
University of Kalyani Distance Education | MA, MSc |
University of North Bengal Distance Education | BCom, MA |
University of Burdwan Distance Education | MA |
Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management Distance Education | BA, BCom, MA |
Kurukshetra University Distance Education | MA, MBA, MCA, MSc, MCom, MLISc, BCA, BCom, BA, BLISc, BEd |
JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research Distance Education | MSc |
Bharati Vidyapeeth Distance Education | MA, MCom, MSW, MCA, MBA, BCA, BBA, BA, BCom |
Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Science Distance Education | BA |
Savitribai Phule Pune University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BBA, MCom, MA |
Guru Nanak Dev University Distance Education | MCA, MBA, MA, MCom, BA, BCom, BCA, BBA, BLISc |
SRM Institute of Science & Technology Distance Education | MA, MBA, MCom, MCA, BA, BCom, BBA, BCA |
Madurai Kamraj University Distance Education | MCA, MBA, MCom, MA, MSc, MLISc, BCA, BSc, BCom, BBA, BA, BLISc |
Osmania University Distance Education | BA, BCom, BBA, MSc, MCom, MBA, MA, MCA |
Aligarh Muslim University Distance Education | MCom, MA, BCom, BA |
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.What is Open and Distance Learning (ODL)?
Open and distance learning (ODL) is a combination of the terms "open learning" and "distance education". It's a mode of education that offers flexible learning opportunities. ODL can take many forms, including:
- Online courses
- MOOCs (massive open online courses)
- Correspondence courses
- Self-study programs
Also Read: Top 10 Distance Education Courses & Colleges with the Best Placements
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!
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