The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India has recently proposed a significant change in the higher education system. This change, known as the credit-centric approach, is set to revolutionize the way students pursue their academic journeys. This article delves into the details of this approach and its implications for students and the higher education ecosystem as a whole.
What is the Credit-Centric Approach?
The credit-centric approach is a flexible academic system that allows students to earn certificates, diplomas, and degrees based on the number of credits they have earned, rather than the duration of the program. This approach is designed to provide students with the flexibility to shape their academic trajectory according to their interests and career aspirations.
Under this system, students can earn a certificate, diploma, three-year degree, and four-year degree once they accumulate 40, 80, 120, and 160 credits respectively. This approach is in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to overhaul the Indian education system to meet the demands of the 21st century.
The Impact on Students
The credit-centric approach provides students with unprecedented flexibility in their academic journey. It allows them to choose their academic path based on their interests and career goals, rather than being bound by a rigid curriculum. This approach also facilitates the system of multiple entry and exit options, allowing students to leave or join a program at different stages based on their circumstances.
The credits earned by students will be transferred to their Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) account, which can be used to track their academic progress. This system is similar to those followed in many North American and European countries, bringing the Indian higher education system on par with global educational practices.
Revision of Degree Specifications
In addition to the credit-centric approach, the UGC has also decided to revise the degree specifications to introduce varied degree nomenclatures. This means that universities will now be required to award certificates to students who exit a program after one year. This change is expected to provide students with tangible proof of their academic achievements, even if they choose to leave a program early.
The UGC's credit-centric approach is a significant step towards making the Indian higher education system more flexible and student-centric. It aligns with global educational practices and provides students with the freedom to shape their academic journey according to their interests and career goals. As this approach is implemented across the country, it is expected to bring about a paradigm shift in the way higher education is perceived and pursued in India.
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