UGC Unveils New Curriculum and Credit Framework for Postgraduate Programs to Enhance Research and Flexibility

The updated framework is designed to prepare students for advanced research and professional roles, thereby supporting India's goal of becoming a leading knowledge economy.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a new curriculum and credit framework for postgraduate programs. This initiative, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aims to foster multidisciplinary learning, enhance research capabilities, and provide greater flexibility for students.

The updated framework is designed to prepare students for advanced research and professional roles, thereby supporting India's goal of becoming a leading knowledge economy.

As per the UGC Framework, India is rapidly emerging as one of the fastest-growing economies globally, and its path to becoming a leading knowledge society hinges on expanding its research capabilities across various disciplines. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to revolutionize higher education with a strong focus on research and multidisciplinary learning, crucial for sustaining economic growth and creating a robust ecosystem of knowledge.

Expansion of Higher Education

As India transitions towards a knowledge economy, the higher education sector is expected to witness substantial growth. The NEP 2020 introduces several initiatives, including multiple entry and exit options in education, research opportunities at the undergraduate level, and a learning outcomes-based curriculum approach. These measures are designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and specialized skills, fostering their journey from knowledge acquirers to knowledge creators.

Re-structured Postgraduate Programs

The NEP 2020 emphasizes flexibility in postgraduate (PG) programs, aligning with the restructured undergraduate programs. Key recommendations for PG education include:

A 2-year PG program with a research-intensive second year for those completing a 3-year Bachelor's program.

A 1-year PG program for students with a 4-year Bachelor's degree with Honours/Honours with Research.

Integrated 5-year Bachelor's/Master's programs.

Universities offering PG programs in core areas like Machine Learning, multidisciplinary fields such as AI, and professional areas including healthcare, agriculture, and law.

Introduction of the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework (NHEQF) to standardize learning outcomes and credit frameworks.

Key Features of the New PG Curriculum Framework

The new PG curriculum framework introduces several innovative features:

Flexibility for students to switch disciplines and choose courses of interest.

Options for different modes of learning (offline, ODL, online, and hybrid).

Mobility and flexibility as per the UGC regulations on the Academic Bank of Credits and guidelines for multiple entry and exit points in academic programs.

Credit Requirements and Eligibility

The credit requirements and eligibility criteria for PG programs are as follows:

A 1-year PG program after a 4-year UG degree with a minimum of 160 credits at level 6.5 on the NHEQF.

A 2-year PG program after a 3-year UG degree with a minimum of 120 credits at level 6.5 on the NHEQF.

A 2-year PG program for a 4-year UG degree (e.g., B.E., B.Tech.) with a minimum of 160 credits at level 7 of the NHEQF.

Eligibility for PG programs is based on the student's performance in the UG program or entrance exams, with the option to pursue any discipline if the entrance exam is cleared.

Graduate Attributes and Learning Outcomes

Under the NHEQF, learning outcomes are classified from level 4.5 (first year of UG) to level 8 (doctoral level). PG programs aim to develop advanced knowledge and skills, problem-solving abilities in multidisciplinary contexts, and the capacity to communicate effectively. Graduates should demonstrate knowledge application, ethical responsibilities, and the ability to engage in self-directed learning.

Program Designs and Flexibility

PG programs offer various designs:

1-year PG with options for coursework, research, or a combination.

2-year PG with flexibility in choosing coursework or research components.

5-year integrated UG+PG programs with curricular components similar to 2-year PG programs.

Assessment and Plagiarism Check

The new framework states that the NEP 2020 emphasizes continuous and formative assessment aligned with learning outcomes. Higher education institutions must adopt robust plagiarism detection mechanisms to ensure research integrity.

Grades and Credit Calculation

In the new framework, the grading system includes letter grades and grade points, with the Semester Grade Point Average (SGPA) and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) calculated to measure student performance. The system ensures transparency and standardization across educational institutions.

The new Curriculum and Credit Framework for Postgraduate Programs, as outlined in NEP 2020, represents a significant stride towards making India a global knowledge powerhouse. By fostering flexibility, interdisciplinary learning, and research, the framework aims to produce graduates equipped to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in various fields.