Great Lakes PGPM & PGDM 2025
Admissions Open | Globally Recognized by AACSB (US) & AMBA (UK) | 17.3 LPA Avg. CTC for PGPM 2024 | Application Deadline: 10th Feb 2025
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.
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.
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.
Articles
Jan 23, 2025
Apr 08, 2024
Mar 23, 2024
Mar 08, 2024
Upcoming Exams
Application Date:11 November,2024 - 08 April,2025
Questions related to Education
Have a question related to Education ?
Hello
For NEET AIQ counseling , the OBC certificate must be from the state where the caste is recognized as OBC.
Since JAT is OBC in Rajasthan and at the central level but not in Maharashtra, you should get a Central OBC-NCL certificate from Rajasthan authorities.
However, having a Maharashtra domicile might create complications. Confirm with NEET/NTA authorities if this setup is valid for central quota counseling.
Hope this gives you the clarity you need.
Mitali Sharma 20 February,2025
For NEET counselling, you can use a central OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) certificate to claim OBC benefits under the All India Quota (AIQ) seats; for state quota seats, you would need a state-issued OBC certificate depending on the specific state regulations.
To convert a Maharashtra state OBC certificate to a central OBC certificate, you need to apply to the designated authority in your district with your existing state OBC certificate, along with necessary supporting documents, and request a "Central OBC Certificate" specifying that you belong to a centrally listed OBC category i.e JAT this process usually involves submitting an application form and undergoing verification by the relevant government official.
sadafreen356 20 February,2025
Hello Rahul,
Since you have Maharashtra domicile , the Maharashtra authorities will not issue a Central OBC certificate because Jat is not recognized as OBC in Maharashtra.
However, you
can get a Central OBC certificate from Rajasthan
, where Jats are under the OBC category.
This certificate will be valid for Central Government quota admissions
, including
All India Quota (AIQ) counselling in NEET
.
Key Points:
-
State OBC and Central OBC are different:
Since Jats are not OBC in Maharashtra, you cannot get a Maharashtra OBC certificate.
-
Central OBC certificate from Rajasthan is valid for AIQ:
As long as the caste is listed under the Central OBC list, you can use it for NEET AIQ counselling.
- For Maharashtra State Quota, you will be treated as General: Since Maharashtra does not recognize Jats as OBC, you cannot claim OBC benefits in state quota seats.
You should apply for a
Central OBC-NCL (Non-Creamy Layer) certificate from Rajasthan
and use it for
NEET AIQ counselling
.
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.
kumardurgesh1802 20 February,2025
Hello
To be eligible for AIIMS Delhi under the OBC category if they score 720/720 in NEET.
Eligibility Criteria for AIIMS Delhi through NEET:
1. Minimum PCB Aggregate : AIIMS requires a minimum of 50% (OBC) aggregate in Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB) combined in board exams.
2. NEET Score : A perfect 720/720 is an excellent score, ensuring high chances of admission.
3. Physics Score Concern : The candidate has 51/100 in Physics , which might be a concern if the overall PCB percentage falls below the required threshold.
Hope this gives you the clarity you need.
Mitali Sharma 20 February,2025
When it comes to choosing between Amrita and VIT for B.Tech, both universities have their strengths. Here's a comparison of the two:
Placements
VIT has a slight edge in terms of placements, with 904 recruiters participating in the 2023 placement drive and making 14,345 job offers. The highest package offered was INR 1.02 crore per annum, while the average package was INR 9.23 LPA. Amrita, on the other hand, saw 200+ recruiters participating in the placement drive, with the highest package offered being INR 56.95 LPA.
Fees
The fee structure for both universities varies depending on the program and campus. However, Amrita's fees tend to be slightly higher, with the first-year fees for B.Tech ranging from INR 3 lakhs to INR 3.5 lakhs. VIT's fees for B.Tech range from INR 1.83 lakhs to INR 3 lakhs.
Quality of Education
Both universities have a strong reputation for quality education, but Amrita has a slight edge in terms of NIRF rankings. Amrita was ranked 5th in the NIRF University Rankings 2022, while VIT was ranked 9th. However, VIT has been recognized as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) by the Government of India, which gives it more autonomy to innovate and improve its programs.
Courses
Both universities offer a wide range of B.Tech programs, including Computer Science, Electronics, Mechanical, and more. However, Amrita has a stronger focus on research and innovation, with many programs incorporating hands-on research projects and collaborations with industry partners.
Salary
The average salary packages for B.Tech graduates from both universities are comparable, with VIT's average package being INR 9.23 LPA and Amrita's average package being INR 5.8 LPA.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Both universities have state-of-the-art infrastructure, including modern classrooms, labs, libraries, and sports facilities. However, VIT has a slight edge in terms of the number of labs and research centers, with over 50 labs and research centers on campus.
Food and Accommodation
Both universities offer decent food and accommodation options, with Amrita having a reputation for its clean and hygienic hostel facilities. VIT also has a range of accommodation options, including hostels and apartments.
Ultimately, the choice between Amrita and VIT depends on your individual priorities and preferences. If you're looking for a university with a strong focus on research and innovation, Amrita might be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a university with a slightly lower fee structure and a wider range of labs and research centers, VIT might be the better option.
sadafreen356 13 February,2025
Top Education Providers
University of Central Florida, Orlando 59 courses offered
University of North Carolina, Greensboro 46 courses offered
University of Mississippi, Oxford 37 courses offered
Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi 33 courses offered
University of Colorado, Denver 33 courses offered
The University of Oklahoma, Norman 32 courses offered
Applications for Admissions are open.
Chandigarh University Admissions 2025
ApplyRanked #1 Among all Private Indian Universities in QS Asia Rankings 2025 | Scholarships worth 210 CR
MAHE Manipal B.Sc Nursing 2025
ApplyAccorded Institution of Eminence by MoE, Govt. of India | NAAC A++ Grade | Ranked #4 India by NIRF 2024
MAHE Manipal Allied Health Sciences 2025
ApplyAccorded Institution of Eminence by MoE, Govt. of India | NAAC A++ Grade | Ranked #4 India by NIRF 2024
Amity University B.Pharma Admissions 2025
ApplyRanked amongst top 3% universities globally (QS Rankings)
Amity University, Noida B.Com Admissions 2025
ApplyRanked as India’s #1 Not for profit pvt. University by India Today
Amity University, Noida BBA Admissions 2025
ApplyRanked amongst top 3% universities globally (QS Rankings)
News and Notifications
Back to top