Flexibility to move from one disciplinary area to another within course duration and multiple entry-exit options with certificate, diploma or degree depending on number of credits secured are among the features of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme, according to draft guidelines prepared by University Grants Commission. The draft, titled "Curricular Framework and Credit System for Four-year Undergraduate Programme", proposes common introductory courses in natural sciences, humanities and social sciences for the first three semesters, regardless of what the students choose to specialise in. It also includes common courses on regional languages, English, Yoga, Artificial Intelligence and data analytics, among others.
According to the draft, a transferable credit-based system has been proposed for the FYUP with 160 credits; with one credit for 15 hours of classroom teaching. In the third year, students will have to choose a subject they want to study in-depth. Students can choose from a wide range of subjects ranging from political science to astronomy.
In the last two semesters, the student enrolled in FYUP will also undertake research based on their major subject. "Flexibility to move from one disciplinary area of study to another within the duration of study by securing required credits, opportunity for learners to choose the subject of interest, facilitating multiple entry and exit options with certificate, diploma or degree depending upon the number of credits secured, flexibility for learners to move from one institution to another to enable them to have a multi or interdisciplinary learning.”
"...Facilitating switching to alternative modes of learning (face-to-face, ODL and Online learning, and hybrid modes of learning) will be among the features of the credit system. Regulations for Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) and multiple entry and exit are already in place to facilitate implementation of the credit system. The focus of the credit system will be on introducing flexibility in choosing courses and programmes of study," the guidelines stated.
The UGC has recommended that a semester consists of 90 working days and an academic year is divided into two semesters. “Global Citizenship Education and education for sustainable development to form an integral part of the curriculum to empower learners to become aware of and understand global and sustainable development issues and to become active promoters of more peaceful, tolerant, inclusive, secure, and sustainable societies," it said.
"Preparing professionals in cutting-edge areas that are fast gaining prominence, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), 3-D machining, big data analysis, and machine learning, in addition to genomic studies, biotechnology, nanotechnology, neuroscience, with important applications to health, environment, and sustainable living that will be woven into undergraduate education for enhancing the employability of the youth," it said.