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Two months ago, the UGC declared psychology degrees offered through distance education invalid, and the decision has since triggered a flood of complaints.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has stopped universities from offering psychology degrees through online and distance-learning (ODL) mode. This decision, made around two months ago, has affected the education and career plans of nearly 1.3 lakh students across India. Many of them were already studying psychology through distance mode, while others were preparing to take admission this year.
As per DEB data, the number of universities offering bachelor’s and master’s programs in psychology has steadily increased. In the 2024–25 academic year, 57 universities offered these courses. Of these, 30 were undergraduate and 27 postgraduate programs.
Key Summary
- Implementation Date: July–August 2025
- Programs Affected: BA, BSc, MA, MSc in Psychology
- Number of Students Impacted: Approximately 1.3 lakh
- Number of Universities Affected: 57 universities offering these programs via distance education
Students Seek Answers from UGC
According to officials, UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) is getting complaints and queries from students almost every day. Most of them are worried about what will happen to their degrees and whether they will be accepted for jobs or further studies.
Until now, universities across the country have been offering distance-learning programmes in psychology, such as BA, BSc, MA, and MSc, with UGC’s approval. However, during its 592nd meeting, the UGC decided to discontinue all ODL and online courses related to psychology and other allied health sciences. This includes subjects like microbiology, biotechnology, food and nutrition science, and clinical nutrition.
Why the Ban Was Imposed
The reason behind this decision is that these subjects are now under the control of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP). The NCAHP was formed under the NCAHP Act, 2021 and is responsible for regulating education and professional standards in allied and healthcare fields.
Because of this change, no new admissions have been allowed in psychology courses through distance mode this year. This has left thousands of current and former students in confusion. Many say their education has come to a standstill, and their career opportunities have been affected. Students who were planning to go abroad or apply for higher education are now unsure about the recognition of their degrees.
Sources say that the UGC has now raised the issue with the Ministry of Education, asking for permission to let universities offer BSc Psychology (Hons) through distance mode again. Discussions are still going on, and no final decision has been made.
Meanwhile, students continue to wait for clarity. They are hoping that UGC or the ministry will find a solution soon so that they can continue their studies without losing time or opportunities. Many have also urged the commission to allow current students to complete their courses without interruption.
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