Today educational opportunities are being defined by the engine of the digital landscape, digital and distance education is changing the way people learn, access knowledge, and continue to develop skills. With Delhi, the educational capital of India, housing some of the most prestigious and government recognized universities in the country offering distance and online education, the opportunity for every type of student is achievable, whether you are currently employed and a professional, historically a homemaker, or simply looking to pursue higher learning without leaving your home, online distance universities in Delhi are a great option.
The main aim of the article is to provide a clear insight into the top universities, outlining their courses, eligibility and fees structure, admission process, placements, as well and why Delhi made the mark.
Overview
Over the last decade the demand for online education and distance education in India has significantly increased, particularly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Online and distance education provides an opportunity to be flexible, affordable, and can be easily accessed by students to help students feel secure about their learning whilst they maintain employment, family responsibilities, and geographical limitations.
Currently, Delhi offers numerous institutions with a variety of options to obtain UG, PG, diploma, and certifications which are delivered via online and distance learning. Each of these distance programs have been approved by UGC-DEB (University Grants Commission - Distance Education Bureau) and each institution will provide the student with educational and scholarly outcomes through completion of the program.
Below is a list of the top online distance universities in Delhi:
1. University of Delhi - School of Open Learning
2. Indira Gandhi National Open University
3. Jamia Millia Islamia - Centre for Distance and Online Education
4. Amity University Online
5. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University - Distance Learning
Reasons to Study at Delhi University - School of Open Learning (DU SOL)?
Delhi University (DU) is recognized as a quality education institute. Consequently, in 1962, the School of Open Learning (SOL), which comes under the DU, began the campus for one of the oldest, and most reputable institutions of distance education in India.
Why Choose Delhi University:
Recognition: For distance learning institutions, DU SOL is recognized by the UGC-DEB. DU also has the highest possible NAAC accreditation of A++.
Affordable Fees: Unless part-time, universities, DU SOL is one of the cheapest university education options in India.
Program of Study: The UG & PG programs are available and offered mainly in arts, commerce and management, many options.
Alumni: DU has some of India’s most lazy successful personalities.
Material: Study material is provided anytime anywhere, including printed and digital shared content to assist with aspects of independent learning.
Exams: There is access to on-going support and study sessions (regular contact classes).
Reputation: Being part of DU will certainly give you an edge as you confirm the job - market demand.
The SOL institution, and also its programs, meet the needs of distance learners. Ideal for students who cannot physically attend a college or regular university, but still want to confirm an accepted degree.
Course Synopsis
Universities in Delhi offering online and distance learning offer many different courses in all major streams including Humanities, Commerce, Science, Management, Education, IT, etc.
The following undergraduate courses are popular:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A. Program & Honours)
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc in many subjects)
The following postgraduate courses are popular:
Master of Arts (M.A. English, Hindi, Pol. Sci, History, etc.)
Master of Commerce (M.Com)
Master of Business Administration (MBA-Online)
Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
Most programs will have a semester system and recorded lectures, e-learning portals, assignments, and discussion forums to keep students engaged.
Many universities also specialize in certain programs like Data Science, Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity etc. like Amity Online. These programs are more job-oriented, and do fit the bill of being in demand.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria varying by course and University, below is a general guideline for entry into distance/online programs in Delhi:
Undergraduate Programs:
10+2 passed or equivalent from a recognized board.
Minimum marks range is generally 40% to 50% depending upon the program.
Postgraduate Programs:
A recognized bachelor’s degree.
For instance, in the case of management programs like MBA, the following may be required by some Universities:
Entrance test (CAT/MAT/IGNOU OPENMAT)
Work experience(only in case of Executive programs)
Certificate/Diploma Programs:
10th or 12th is the minimum requirement depending upon the course.
Universities like IGNOU also provide a bridge course or foundation program to students who may not be entitled to eligibility for regular course but they still want to study.
Fees Structure
The fee structure for online and distance education is considerably lesser as compared to regular full-time programs. It makes distance/online mode of education a very viable option for people from economically weaker sections or working professionals.
Approximate Annual Fee (in INR):
University Undergraduate Programs Postgraduate Programs
DU SOL 4,000 – 8,000 5,000 – 10,000
IGNOU 6,000 – 12,000 7,000 – 18,000
Jamia CODE 8,000 – 20,000 10,000 – 25,000
Amity Online 30,000 – 1,00,000 50,000 – 1,50,000
Note Note: Fees may vary depending on the course and course duration. Some of the programs may include additional fees for the study material, examination, or lab.
Admissions
Most distance and online programs have a very simple, digital, and student-friendly admission process.
General steps to admission:
Enter the website link of the university you want to attend.
You have to register online after putting in your basic information.
You need to submit documents such as:
Passport size photograph
Scanned marksheets
Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
You can pay the registration/admission fee by net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.
You will get a confirmation email/SMS along with your enrollment number.
You would need to complete the required download of study materials or access to LMS (Learning Management System) to start classes.
Most admissions happen twice a year, January and July sessions. Usually, entrance exams are not necessary except for general programs, but other programs like MBA, MCA, and law course may have different requirements.
Placement Support
Distance and online study do not come with campus placements as such, but many reputed universities in their respective capacity and experience in Delhi provide career support and placement assistance.
Campus Support
The DU SOL and IGNOU, hold job fairs and have been linked with many private organisations.
They also provide career counselling along with resume workshops.
Amity Online and others provide excellent placement support and relationships with many leading companies:
HCL
TCS
Deloitte
Accenture
Infosys
Employers looking for Distance Education graduates:
IT and Software
Banking and Finance
Marketing and and Sales
Teaching and Training
Public Sector and Government Jobs
Conclusion
Online and distance education are surging in popularity as the preferred mode of learning for millions across India. As Delhi leads the way in education with many universities representing educational excellence, students have flexible and affordable options with future-oriented programs to choose from.
No matter if the University of Delhi - SOL is chosen for cost and heritage as it is, IGNOU is chosen for its national university reach, or a private university selected for a closer alignment with the industry. Completing a distance degree in Delhi can assist you in starting down the road to your future.