Top 10 Indian Universities Offering Distance Education Courses

Edited By Vivek Kumar | Updated on Jan 23, 2025 09:39 AM IST | #Education

Distance education has become more popular among professionals and students looking for flexibility in their academic journeys. Several top Indian universities offer distance education courses in diverse subject areas. Students can pursue these distance courses from any location while balancing their jobs and other commitments.

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Top 10 Indian Universities Offering Distance Education Courses

Students with financial and geographical constraints that prevent them from attending regular classes can enrol in distance degree courses. Universities offer these programmes through digital platforms, providing students with convenience and easy access. Whether you want to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, or diploma programmes, these universities fulfil your educational needs.

Also Read: Top 10 Indian Universities Offering Online Degrees

Top Indian Universities Offering Distance Education Courses

Given the growing significance of distance education, there has been a significant surge in the demand for online courses and certifications, reflecting a shift towards accessible educational options. Many top distance education universities in India provide unique education offerings to fulfil students’ needs and prepare them for the modern industry.

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Here, we have compiled the top 10 Indian universities offering distance education courses that will help continue your studies while working.

1. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

IGNOU is one of the top Indian universities offering distance education courses at an affordable cost. The university provides distance learning courses in India at undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma levels in various fields.

Admissions to online distance degrees at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) are conducted based on merit. IGNOU distance courses provide strengthen students' understanding in their chosen subjects, making it one of the best open universities in India.

2. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) is another one of the top Indian universities offering distance education courses. It offers correspondence courses, along with online diploma courses and postgraduate diplomas in a variety of areas, including finance, marketing, and management. The fees for distance courses at Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 80,000.

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning also offers placement assistance, with recruiting companies include HDFC Bank Ltd. and Reliance Retail. This distance education university provides corporate programmes in collaboration with leading organisations such as IBM and Cipla.

Also Read: Top 17 Distance Education Courses Offered By Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning

3. Chandigarh University

Among the top universities offering distance education programmes is Chandigarh University. The university offers distance courses in various disciplines such as management, arts, commerce, and computer applications. Chandigarh University distance courses enable students to learn and study at their own pace and convenience.

The distance education courses at Chandigarh University include MBA, BBA, B.Com, M.Com, and BA, among others. Students are provided with an industry-oriented curriculum designed by experienced faculty members. The fee for Chandigarh University distance courses range from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000.

4. IMT Centre For Distance Learning

IMT Ghaziabad offers distance courses under IMT Centre For Distance Learning (CDL). Distance degree courses at IMT CDL include a two-year postgraduate Diploma in Management, 15-month Postgraduate Diploma in Management - Executive, 13 months Postgraduate Certificate in Management with specialisation in Marketing, Finance, Human Resources and Business Analytics.

5. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University

MP Bhoj University is one of the best universities offering distance learning in India. The university provides quality higher education at UG, PG and diploma levels. Some of the distance courses at Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University include BA, BSc, B.Lib.Sc., B.Com, B.Ed., MA, MBA, and M.Com. The Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University distance education course fees range from Rs 2,400 to Rs 36,000.

6. Dr. BR Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU)

Dr B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad is amongst the top Indian universities offering distance education courses. The university offers distance courses at postgraduate, and doctoral levels. Distance courses at Dr BR Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) include MA Journalism and Mass Communication, M.Phil Mathematics, M.Phil Environmental Science, Ph.D Economics, and Ph.D Commerce.

7. Netaji Subhas Open University

As a government-owned State university, Netaji Subhas Open University, Kolkata is among the top Indian universities offering distance education courses. The university is known for its quality education and convenient as well as flexible programmes. The distance courses offered by Netaji Subhas Open University include BA, BSc, B.Lib.Sc., B.Com, MA, M.Sc., MSW, and PhD, among others.

8. Centre for Distance and Open Learning, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

Jamia Millia Islamia is another one of the top universities offering distance education courses in India. The university offers distance education courses in arts, humanities and social sciences, commerce, management, and education. Distance programmes at the Centre for Distance and Open Learning, Jamia Millia Islamia include BA, B.Com, B.Ed., BBA, MA, MBA, and M.Com.

Also Read: Online Learning Vs Distance Learning: Check Differences, Pros & Cons

9. Delhi University School Of Open Learning

Among the top Indian universities offering distance education courses, Delhi University School Of Open Learning (DU SOL) provide distance courses at the UG and PG levels. The programmes are offered in various streams, including arts, humanities, social sciences, management, and commerce. The distance course fees at Delhi University School Of Open Learning range from Rs 9,000 to Rs 1,00,000.

10. Directorate of Distance Education, Lovely Professional University

Another top Indian university that offers distance education courses is Directorate of Distance Education, Lovely Professional University (LPU). The University offers distance courses at the UG, PG, and diploma levels in management, commerce, computer applications, IT, and arts and humanities. LPU distance education courses include BA, BSc, BCA, BBA, B.COm, MBA, M.Com, MA, M.Sc, and M.Lib.I.Sc.

Also Read: 150+ UGC Approved Online Degree Courses by Top Universities

Why Choose Distance Education?

Distance learning is a contemporary method of education that enables students to study in their own space and time without physically attending a university or college. As distance education plays an essential role in the modern education system, the number of distance degree courses has been increasing gradually.

There are various advantages of distance education:

No need to Compromise Your Job

The main advantage of distance learning courses is that these allow students to balance their jobs and responsibilities while pursuing their studies. Students can study on weekends or in their own time, outside of their working hours, which is not possible in on-campus programmes.

Cost Savings

No matter what programme one opts for, the fee for a distance course is more affordable compared to that of any regular on-campus programmes. This makes a distance course accessible to students who come from a financially weak background. By enrolling in distance courses, students can save money on commuting and campus facilities.

Self-paced Learning

In distance education, the choice depends on students as the whole study material is offered beforehand. This accessibility allows students to complete their courses at their own pace within the stipulated time.

Conclusion

Distance education courses provide a convenient and flexible approach to education. Students enrolling for distance courses can study at their schedules. Several universities offer correspondence courses in diverse streams at various levels. Thus, if you are looking for a degree programme with flexible learning, distance courses are for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is distance education?

Distance education is the education model wherein students do not need to be physically present on the campus or classroom. In this learning model, education is imparted through study materials that students can study from the comfort of their homes.

2. What is the difference between regular and distance education?

In regular education, students have to maintain their attendance by going to college and attending on-campus classes regularly. Conversely, in distance education, students go through the provided study materials, study at their own pace, and ask queries from teachers online, however, face-to-face interactions are less frequent.

3. What are the pros and cons of distance education?

Distance learning saves you time and allows you to balance your personal responsibilities and job. Distance learning courses in India are more affordable, self-paced, and give more flexibility as compared to regular education. However, distance learning is highly dependent on technical elements and lacks social interaction.

4. Can I pursue a government job with a distance education degree?

Pursuing a distance course from a recognised university allows you to apply for government jobs. For example, online distance learning degrees offered by IGNOU are considered valid while applying for government jobs.

5. How much does it const to pursue a distance course?

The fees of distance education courses differ from one university to another. Distance course fees are often less than the regular education courses.

6. How does distance education work with a job?

Distance education mode is designed in a way that a person can easily manage both the job as well as studies and earn a degree or certificate. With good time management, one can study after working hours or at weekends and go through the study material anytime anywhere.

7. Is a distance education degree valid in India?

Distance education degrees are offered by the best open university in India and are valid as well as recognised across the country. With distance education courses, one can apply for both government as well as private jobs in different fields.

8. Can one get placements with distance education degrees?

One can score great placement opportunities with distance education degrees. Most of the universities that offer distance education have dedicated placement cells that seek placement drives from reputed organisations for their distance education students.

9. Is a distance degree for PhD valid?

No, UGC does not recognise Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes through distance education.

10. What are the eligibility criteria to get into the top Indian universities offering distance education courses?

The eligibility criteria for open degree courses or distance education courses may vary from course to course. It also varies depending on the universities offering distance education in India.

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DPEd at Malwa College of Physical Education Bathinda fess

Hello Sahil,

The Diploma in Physical Education (D.P.Ed) at Malwa College of Physical Education, Bathinda is a two-year full-time program approved by the National Council for Technical Education (NCTE) and affiliated with Punjabi University, Patiala. The course has an intake capacity of 50 seats. To be eligible, candidates must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board.

While specific fee details for the D.P.Ed program are not provided in the available sources, it's noted that the college offers a 50% fee concession for female students.

For precise and up-to-date fee information, it's recommended to contact the college administration directly or visit their official website.

I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.

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kumardurgesh1802 24 January,2025

hello. if i complete my 12th board through board of open schooling and skill education (BOSSE) will i be eligible to apply for universities abroad?? im planning to apply for a scholarship called GKS (global korea scholarship)

Hello there,

Yes, completing your 12th board through the Board of Open Schooling and Skill Education (BOSSE) makes you eligible to apply for universities abroad, including scholarships like the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) , provided you meet their specific requirements. Here's what to keep in mind:

1. International Recognition of BOSSE :

BOSSE is a recognized open schooling board in India, and its certificates are valid for higher education in India and abroad.
Ensure that the board is accredited by relevant authorities (like the NIOS equivalent) and recognized internationally.

2. Eligibility for GKS :
GKS primarily focuses on academic performance (your 12th grade scores) and other criteria like a personal statement, recommendation letters, and English or Korean language proficiency (TOPIK, IELTS/TOEFL).
As long as BOSSE is recognized, your application should be considered valid.

3. Documents Verification :
Ensure you have all necessary documents authenticated (e.g., mark sheets, certificates).
Apostille your certificates if required by the scholarship or university.

4. Contact Authorities :
Check directly with GKS or the universities you’re applying to for any specific restrictions regarding open school certificates.

If BOSSE is accredited and your scores meet the eligibility, you should have no issues applying for GKS or other international scholarships.

I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.

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kumardurgesh1802 21 January,2025

My son is OCI card holder but has completed all his education from pre primary to 12th grade in Karnataka. Is he eligible to give KCET 2025 and under which category as there is no separate oci category in the form ? Thanks

Being an OCI cardholder, if your son has finished all his education from pre-primary school to 12th grade in Karnataka, then he is eligible to take KCET 2025 according to the Karnataka government. The Karnataka government has stated that all the OCI cardholders should be treated as citizens of India for the purpose of professional courses in Karnataka. Your son should apply under "GENERAL MERIT."

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Anuska Bakuly 17 January,2025

I am smrutirekha parida the students of Vijaya Bharati college of education, Throvagunta In the year of 2018-20.I don't receive my certificate for the some issues...so please help me sir...

Hello Smrutirekha,

If you have not received your certificate from Vijaya Bharati College of Education , you can follow these steps to resolve the issue:

Contact the College Administration:
- Visit or contact the college office where you studied (or email them if available).
- Inquire about the status of your certificate and explain the situation (why it was not issued earlier).
Check for Pending Requirements:
- Verify if any documents or fees were pending that may have delayed the issuance of your certificate.
Request Official Support:
- If you are unable to visit the college personally, try sending an official email or letter requesting the certificate and mentioning the duration of your course (2018-2020).
Submit a Written Application:
- If necessary, submit a formal application to the college requesting the release of your certificate, citing the reason for the delay.
Contact the University (if applicable):
- If the college is affiliated with a university, you can also contact the university office to check whether there were any issues from their side regarding your certificate.