Distance learning or correspondence courses have become quite infamous in India. With the establishment of a number of recognized and good institutes offering such programs, and providing certificates that are accepted widely, distance learning has become a viable option for students and working people who want to pursue studies, but due to some reason are not willing to devote full time to it. It has helped in furthering education in all parts of the country, especially rural and underdeveloped regions, where proper learning is not found.
You can opt for all levels of study through such programs, like bachelor’s, master’s degree, diploma and certificate courses, M Phil and Ph.D.
Some of the reputed distance learning institutes in India are – Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Annamalai University, Osmania University, Sikkim Manipal University, Nalanda Open University, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Karnataka State Open University, Netaji Subhash Open University, Kota Open University, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University, Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University, Tamil Nadu Open University, Yashwant Rao Chavan Open University, Pt. Sunderlal Sharma Open University, Uttaranchal Open University, K. K. Handique State University, Symbiosis Center for Distance Learning, University of Madras Institute of Distance Education, Mahatma Gandhi University, ICFAI University.
Some of the most sought after courses are –
Management Studies
You can either opt for a degree in management studies or a diploma. Such programs are available at bachelor’s and master’s levels.
IGNOU, Symbiosis, ICFAI, Annamalai, etc offer such courses.
Education
You can do a B. Ed or an M. Ed or both via correspondence. Most people opt for a correspondence course in education rather than a regular one. It is one of the first and most popular programs.
IGNOU, Nalanda Open University, Kota Open University, and others grant such degree programs.
Engineering
This is still at its developing stage. Though not many universities offer it as a distance program, its demand and popularity are increasing.
Design
Design – be it fashion, interior, jewelry, footwear, graphic, etc, all are provided by the medium of distance education. It is a branch of study that has a vocational feature attached to it and is more of a professional course. Thus there is high demand for such courses.
Social Sciences
All levels of studies and all subjects included within the group of social sciences are available as a distance learning course.
Language Courses
The teaching of languages, like Sanskrit, German, French, Russian, Spanish, etc are offered through correspondence. Most students opt for such courses out of interest and not all for academic or job concerns. Thus it is a highly viable and convenient mode for such education.
Hotel Management
This also being a professional course, is readily acquired through this medium.
Law
Law has become a much-coveted field of study, with opportunities being created and vast scope. Thus even professionals are opting for distance learning in law.
Other Popular Courses
Library Sciences, computers, animation and graphics, development studies, agriculture, tourism studies, Nutrition, Child Care, women’s issues, etc.
