Distance Learning Universities

Location Map of Top Distance Education Universities in India

Open or Distance Learning (ODL) system is an education system wherein teachers and learners do not need to be necessarily present either at the same place or at the same time. It is flexible in terms of modalities and timing of teaching and learning. The admission criteria are also liberal without compromising necessary quality considerations. In India, the ODL system comprises of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), State Open Universities (SOUs) and the institutions and universities that also include the Correspondence Course Institutes (CCIs) in the conventional dual mode. The powers on the ODL are currently vested with the University Grants Commission (UGC).

About Distance Learning Education

There has been a significant rise in the number of students who enroll in distance learning institutions. This enrollment is, in fact, considered important to improve the gross enrollment ratio in higher education in the country. These universities run under the regulations of the UGC and follow certain guidelines and standards set by the education body. There are many such universities in the country that are established in different states. Most of these universities have their regional or study centres in different states. IGNOU is the largest university that solely offers courses in distance learning education.

Courses Offered

The universities provide undergraduate, post-graduate and other higher education courses. These universities offer certifications, diplomas and degrees. The courses offered belong to different disciplines such as arts, commerce and management and there are some vocational and technical courses.

Duration

The duration of the courses vary from six months to two or three years. However, different universities have separate norms and they sometimes expand the duration of the course up to five or six years.

Admission

Every university has its own admission criteria. On one hand, some universities give direct admissions to students, whereas on the other hand, some universities need to take an entrance test to give admissions.

Fees

The course fee varies with the type of course and the university offering it.

Advantages of Distance Learning Universities:

• These universities give an ample opportunity to the drop-out students to continue their education.
• One can work and study simultaneously though distance learning mode.
• These universities save the classroom time.
• Most of these universities provide study materials that are not only useful for the students but also act as a self guide for them.

To know more about some of the prestigious distance learning universities, you can refer to the following table:

List of Distance Learning Universities in India