Top Distance Learning Universities for Science Courses in India: Eligibility Criteria, Fee Structure, Application Process

With new reforms in the education system of India, distance learning is gaining popularity with every passing day. Thanks to the scope of distance learning programmes in India, this mode of education is now attracting a number of students to pursue higher education from any part of the country while being engaged in other activities like a job. With the help of the top distance learning universities in India and advancement in the technology, distance learning in India has evolved a lot. It now involves online learning and e-learning where students can get all the study material online, making it easily accessible for the students.

The interesting thing about distance learning in India is that one can pursue two degrees simultaneously (which is not possible in regular mode) by pursuing one programme via distance mode and the other one via regular mode. But before choosing a distance learning programme, candidates must keep in mind that all the programme must be approved by the DEB (Distance Education Bureau) of the UGC (University Grants Commission). A list of Online and Distant Learning Institutes (ODLs) can be accessed by the candidates from the official portal of DEB.

The open universities in India are run by the directives of the UGC. Along with a number of courses, these universities are famous for their Science programmes. In the past few years, the demand for these programmes has increased as a result of which the enrollment in distance learning universities and colleges has increased remarkably. Currently, there is one National Open University i.e., IGNOU, 13 State Open Universities (including Uttaranchal Open University and Karnataka State Open University) and about 194 Directorates of Distance Education (DDEs)/ Distance Education Institutes in India.

Science Courses Offered by Distance Learning Universities in India

The distance learning universities in India offer many courses in various disciplines. Here is a list of some of the popular Science programmes that the open universities in India offer. Candidates can check the list to shortlist programmes:

• Bachelor of Science

• Bachelor of Science in Botany

• Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Hotel Administration

• Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

• Bachelor of Science in Geography

• Bachelor of Science in Geology

• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

• Bachelor of Science in Zoology

• Bachelor of Science in Physics

• Master of Science in Mathematics

• Master of Science in Counselling and Family Therapy

• Master of Science

• Master of Science Degree in Dietetics and Food Service Management

• Master of Science (Hospitality Administration)

• Diploma in Nursing Administration

• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

• Master of Science in Information Technology

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Post Basic)

• Certificate in Information Technology

Top 10 Distance Learning Universities for Science Courses in India

Here is the list of top 10 distance learning universities affiliated by the Distance Education Bureau (DEB) of the University Grant Commission (UGC).

Eligibility Criteria to Pursue Distance Learning Science Courses

In order to get admission in the top distance learning universities for B.Sc. or M.Sc. in India, candidates must meet the following entry criteria. Candidates must read the following pointers and keep in mind that the eligibility criteria for Science courses from distance learning universities may vary. The common eligibility criteria have been mentioned below:

• Candidate should have attained the minimum age of 18 years.

• There is no maximum age limit in distance learning universities for Science courses in India.

• For bachelor courses, candidates should have scored the minimum marks required by the universities in their higher secondary examination.

• Fro master’s courses, it is important that candidates hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50%.

• It may or may not be required by the university for the bachelor's degree to have relevance to the master's degree.

• The qualifications should have been pursued from a well-recognised board or university.

How to Apply for Distance Learning Science Courses?

In order to apply for science courses in distance learning universities, follow the steps given below:

• The application or admission process in the distance learning universities for Science courses in India varies from university to university.

• Some universities or institutions conduct entrance examinations for certain courses. IGNOU is an example of such universities.

• There are some institutions that provide direct admissions to the students on the basis of their educational qualifications.

• Aspirants are required to fill the application form for the distance learning university and submit them.

• Whether the application or registration process will be online or offline, it depends upon the university.

• Candidates can check the complete admission process of the top distance learning universities for Science courses in India by clicking on their names in the table above.

NOTE: Before finalising a distance programme or university, candidates must confirm that the course or institution is recognised by the Distance Education Council (DEC) of UGC (University Grant Commission).

There is a common misconception amongst students that the viability of a distance learning degree has fewer chances in the highly competitive job market of our country. But, the reality is completely different. Not only do these degrees have high value in India but also in abroad. The courses offered by the distance learning universities in India are recognised by many major companies. Just like a regular mode university, many of these open universities also organise placement drive for their graduates. The opportunities for students pursuing Science programmes from distance learning universities are immense. All one needs to worry about is studying hard and being updated with the universities’ schedules. So, stay tuned to CollegeDekho to get all the latest updates about the top distance learning universities for Science courses in India.

Good Luck!