HP University: A Good Support System
About the institution: In India, the HP University was the first to start MA programmes in different disciplines along with MEd and MCom. Over the years, its Directorate of Correspondence Courses gradually absorbed the emerging philosophy of distance education and adopted a multi-media approach to imparting instruction. In view of this, the Directorate of Correspondence Course has been rechristened the International Centre for Distance Educational and Open Learning (ICDEOL).
Programmes on offer: BA pass, BCom (pass), bachelor in computer applications
Fees range: Undergraduate: Rs 2000 per semester; postgraduate - Rs 2400 per semester
Support systems/ facilities for students: ICDEOL runs a helpline for 
students. Open and distance learning students visiting Shimla for contact programmes (depending on the course) are generally provided accommodation (subject to availability) in the university faculty house at rates fixed by authorities. Local transport facilities like buses (private/state government), trains and university buses are available at short intervals from Summer Hill to the main town.
Total no. and list of study centres: ICDEOL has an information-cum-guidance office in Noida. Besides, they have programme-specific centres in Shimla, Dharamshala, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Ludhiana etc. (Please check the university website for a detailed list of programmes which are offered at these centres)
Enrollment: Admissions for various programmes begin between June and July.
Approval from DEC: Yes
Any other affiliation/ accreditation: NA
Student speak: "This is an excellent place to study in. The course content is very good and lets you choose from a variety of subjects according to your liking. The PCPs are very helpful and resource people here are extremely supportive and knowledgeable. The communication is timely and the course material is very comprehensive. After I am done with my undergraduate studies, I will take up MA in English. This place has helped me explore and appreciate my desire to study further," says Kiran Aggarwal, a BA maths student in Delhi.
Author: Garima Upadhyay (HT Horizons)
Date: 6th June, 2011
