In a move aligned with global norms and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the higher education regulator in India, the University Grants Commission (UGC), is set to introduce a fresh range of college degree names. These changes aim to enhance the flexibility and alignment of degree programs with contemporary educational requirements.
Section 22 of the UGC Act
Section 22 of the UGC Act has the provisions to empower the Universities Grants Commission to notify new degree nomenclatures. It is in line with this provision that the UGC is planning to introduce new names that align with the aspirations of the NEP 2020.
Introducing New Degree Names
Traditionally, Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees have been associated with science subjects in India, while Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees have encompassed arts, humanities, and social sciences. However, considering the restructuring proposed by the NEP 2020, a committee appointed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) has recommended the introduction of Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees for all four-year undergraduate honours programs, regardless of the discipline. This change emphasizes a more comprehensive understanding of the evolving academic landscape.
Flexibility Across Disciplines
The committee’s recommendations extend beyond undergraduate programs. They suggest that universities can adopt the Master of Science (MS) nomenclature for postgraduate programs, even in non-science disciplines like arts, humanities, management, and commerce. This move acknowledges the evolving nature of knowledge domains and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in today’s world.
Harvard’s Example and Differentiating Degrees
Harvard University, known for its academic excellence, offers both BA and BS degrees in engineering sciences. The differentiation lies in the curriculum and requirements. A BA engineering student earns fewer credits and has more flexibility to explore other fields of interest, while a BS engineering student receives a more specialized and technically rigorous education. This approach recognizes the diverse aspirations and preferences of students, allowing them to tailor their education accordingly.
Four-Year Honours Degrees and Research
The committee’s recommendations also include the introduction of the ‘Hons’ designation for four-year undergraduate honours programs. For instance, degrees like BA (Hons), BCom (Hons), or BS (Hons) will signify the additional depth and research components incorporated into these programs. This step acknowledges the importance of research-oriented education and promotes a spirit of inquiry among students.
Scrapping the ‘MPhil’ Degree
Aligned with the NEP 2020’s directive, the committee recommends discontinuing the ‘MPhil’ degree. This move aims to streamline the educational landscape and reduce redundancies in academic programs, aligning them with global practices.
Flexibility in Program Completion
Acknowledging the varying pace of learning, the committee suggests that if a student has earned all the required credits for a program before its official duration, they should be eligible for the award of the respective qualification. This recognizes individual progress and encourages lifelong learning.
