The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a warning to the public regarding illegitimate online programs that employ abbreviations similar to those used for established degree nomenclatures. The commission has specifically highlighted a “10-day MBA” course as a prime example of such misleading practices.
According to UGC Secretary Manish Joshi, the naming of degrees, including their abbreviations, durations, and entry qualifications, is solely determined by the UGC with prior approval from the central government through official notifications. He emphasized that only universities established under central or state acts or institutions deemed as universities or specifically authorized by an act of Parliament have the legal authority to confer degrees.
Furthermore, higher education institutions seeking to offer online degree programs must obtain approval from the UGC as per the UGC regulations. A comprehensive list of recognized higher education institutions (HEIs) offering online programs and approved online programs can be found on the UGC website (deb.ugc.ac.in).
The UGC advises all stakeholders to thoroughly verify the legitimacy of online programs before applying or enrolling in any such program. This cautionary measure aims to protect individuals from falling prey to fraudulent educational practices that may undermine their academic pursuits and career prospects.
