The undergraduate (UG) courses in the state have the option to extend to four years instead of three, while postgraduate (PG) courses will be shortened to one year from the previous two.
The Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat (KCG) through a circular said that the decision is in line with the guidelines outlined in the New Education Policy (NEP).
Although the new academic structure does not alter the total duration of UG and PG courses combined, it benefits students seeking admission to PG courses in abroad. Previously, such students had to complete a one-year honors course after their graduation. Under the new format, UG courses like BA, BCom, BSc, BBA, and BCA will now follow a pattern where students receive a certificate after one year, a diploma after the second year, a degree in the third year, and honors in the fourth year.
This revised structure is also advantageous for students who take breaks during their course, as they will receive a certificate for each year completed.
The new academic structure will introduce credit banks, allowing for credit recognition, accumulation, transfer, and redemption. It is important to note that the four-year degree courses starting from 2023-24 are not mandatory. The implementation of four-year degrees with honors and research honors degrees will commence from 2026-27, as stated in the KCG statement.