UGC Regulations on Studying Multiple Courses - The UGC has issued guidelines governing the simultaneous pursuit of multiple academic programmes, including degree, diploma, and certificate courses, which came into effect upon notification. These regulations aim to standardize and regulate such pursuits, emphasizing adherence to prescribed norms and recognition by relevant authorities. Sources: Sunkishela Dheeraj VS State of Telengana - Telangana, ["KAVITA SHARMA vs THE STATE OF HP AND OTHERS - Himachal Pradesh"], ["RAMA VERMA Vs STATE OF HARYANA AND OTHERS - Punjab and Haryana"]
Prohibition of Simultaneous Full-Time Degree Courses - As per UGC regulations, students are generally prohibited from enrolling in two full-time regular degree courses simultaneously, whether through physical or distance modes, to maintain academic integrity and standards. This is explicitly stated in the regulations notified on 05.05.2022. Sources: KAVITA SHARMA vs THE STATE OF HP AND OTHERS - Himachal Pradesh
Permissibility of Studying Multiple Courses in Specific Contexts - The regulations do not explicitly prohibit pursuing a degree through different modes (e.g., regular and distance) simultaneously, especially when one is a full-time course and the other a part-time or distance course, provided they are recognized and compliant with UGC norms. Recognition and compliance are crucial, and any violation of specific conditions may lead to disqualification. Sources: State Of Gujarat VS Harshitkumar Bharatbhai Jani - Gujarat, ["Sunkishela Dheeraj VS State of Telengana - Telangana"]
Recognition and Compliance - For distance learning or open university programmes, recognition by the UGC and adherence to its regulations are mandatory. Unauthorized or unrecognized courses, especially professional or technical programmes, are not permissible under UGC guidelines. Sources: Sunkishela Dheeraj VS State of Telengana - Telangana, ["State Of Gujarat VS Harshitkumar Bharatbhai Jani - Gujarat"]
Legal and Judicial Interpretations - Courts have recognized that the regulation of pursuing multiple courses depends on the specific circumstances and the university's adherence to UGC norms. While simultaneous study of two degree courses is generally discouraged, exceptions may exist if courses are recognized, and the regulations are followed. The ultimate authority to permit or disallow such pursuits lies with the universities, within the framework of UGC regulations. Sources: Ram Chandra Bera VS State Of West Bengal - 2024 0 Supreme(Cal) 907, ["Suganya Jeba Sarojini VS Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University Represented by its Registrar - Madras"]
Conclusion - As per UGC regulations, studying more than one full-time regular degree course simultaneously is generally not permissible. However, studying different types of courses (e.g., a degree and a diploma or certificate course) simultaneously may be allowed if recognized by the UGC and compliant with its guidelines. The key considerations are recognition, mode of study, and adherence to prescribed norms. Universities have the authority to regulate and permit such pursuits within this regulatory framework.
Summary:UGC regulations primarily prohibit students from pursuing two full-time regular degree courses simultaneously. However, studying multiple courses of different types (such as a degree and a diploma/certificate) or through different modes (regular and distance) may be permissible if compliant with UGC norms and recognized by the authorities. Ultimately, the decision rests with the universities, guided by UGC regulations and recognition standards.
