Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India

Updated On: July 19, 2024 05:01 PM

The top 10 distance education universities in India provide students with high-quality education comparable to the on-campus courses. Scroll down to explore a list of the best open university in India, including IGNOU, SCDL, Gitam University, IMT CDL, and more!

Table of Contents

List of the Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India
1. IGNOU
2. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning
3. Gitam Deemed to be University (Centre for Distance Learning)
4. IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute
5. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University
6. Dr BR Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU)
7. Netaji Subhas Open University
8. Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU)
9. Karnataka State Open University
10. Acharya Nagarjuna University (CDE)
Reasons to Choose the Best Distance Education University in India
List of Best Open University in India (State-Wise)
Faqs

Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India

Best open university in India: In our contemporary and rapidly expanding global community, distance learning has become more prevalent in the nation's educational system. Since it enables students to complete their master's or graduation simultaneously from distant locations, distance education has grown in popularity among today's youth. The list of the top 10 distance education universities in India includes Gitam University, IGNOU, SCDL, IMT CDL, BRAOU, MDU, etc .

Individuals who are unable to attend traditional colleges have profited immensely from studying at the best distance education university in India. Affordably priced, distance learning enables graduates to advance their educational qualifications. With this learning paradigm, candidates can take classes in the comfort of their own homes because they receive their instruction online and are provided with study materials in advance. In this article, the top 10 distance education universities in India are listed, and they offer courses that let you earn your degree while working. Now let us quickly get started with the distance learning programmes in India . Meanwhile, you can also explore more about the best open university in India by clicking on the links below.

Also Read:

Delhi University Distance Education	Distance Universities Offering Correspondence/Distance BA

List of the Top 10 Distance Education Universities in India

As the demand for online certificates and courses advances, numerous prestigious distance learning institutions in India have stepped up with innovative curricula to meet the demands of their students and prepare them for the job market. The following is a discussion about the best distance education university in India.

1. IGNOU

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), popularly referred to as the People’s University is one of the top 10 distance education universities in India and is regarded by many as the best open university in India. The university has a professionally qualified and experienced team of faculty which is dedicatedly devoted to developing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values through dynamic and interactive methods of learning and grooming the students. IGNOU provides undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate and diploma courses to students in arts, science, commerce and management fields and is counted among the best distance education universities in India.

Important features of IGNOU:

Tele-counseling for student groups
Training Study Centre Counselors /Coordinators
Administrative interaction with Regional Centre functionaries
Extended Contact Programme (ECP) with students
Teaching-end studios located at IGNOU Campus, New Delhi and about 850 receivers ‘nodes' located in IGNOU Regional Centers and Study Centers

2. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning

The Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning holds the second position on our list of the top 10 distance education universities in India and is among the best open universities in India/ best correspondence universities in India. SCDL offers postgraduate diploma and certificate programs across a variety of management courses with a system of open universities in India.

Important features of SCDL:

Introduction of a "Blended Learning" methodology for all the programs offered at SCDL
Interactive e-learning content as a supplementary learning methodology to improve the understanding of concepts
Virtual Classroom facilities with the faculty have removed the distance barrier between the teacher and the teacher via distance education in India.
Online Faculty Chat Sessions allow students to interact with faculty.

3. Gitam Deemed to be University (Centre for Distance Learning)

Gitam University through the Centre for Distance Learning has contributed to the education revolution in its own way and is recognised as one of the best open universities in India/ top correspondence universities for offering quality education to scholars from across India.

Gitam University

Important features of Gitam University:

The institute is among the top 10 distance education universities in India
The objective of the Gitam University is to support, promote and undertake the advancement of academics
The University offers multiple learning options for a rewarding career ahead

Also Read: Top Universities in India Offering Distance B.Com

4. IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute

IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute is number #4 on our list of the top 10 distance education universities in India. The Centre has taken the lead in preparing managers of tomorrow armed with a distinct vision, blended with technology and skills. The centre strives to create all-rounder leaders in management and entrepreneurship by helping its students acquire the necessary skills.

Some popular courses offered by IMT-CDL are as follows:

Two-Year Post-Graduate Diploma in Management
One Year Post-Graduate Diplomas in Business Administration
One Year Post-Graduate Diploma in Management (Executive) with specialization in -
Financial Management
Operations Management
Human Resource Management
Marketing Management
Information Systems

5. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University

One of the top 10 distance education universities in India, this college aims to spread and promote higher education among the underprivileged and has set up study centres in remote rural areas. It has collaborations with institutes like the Rehabilitation Council of India, the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management and the Indian Institute of Materials Management , etc.

This best open university in India aims to provide an easily accessible system of teaching and learning through education inputs like practical classes, distance teaching, satellite communication teaching, etc. Bhoj University emphasises targeting groups of learners coming from rural areas, especially those with a disability.

6. Dr BR Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU)

Dr B R Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) has a wide network of 206 study centres spread throughout the state of Andhra Pradesh. The University follows the motto "Education at Your Doorstep" and is considered one of the best correspondence universities or the top 10 distance education universities in India.

This best open university in India caters especially to women, working people and those who want to improve their academic qualifications and professional skills. The University places special focus on socially disadvantaged and geographically isolated people who never had access to higher education earlier.

7. Netaji Subhas Open University

The Netaji Subhas Open University is the premier State Open University, considered to be one of the top 10 distance education universities in India. The university has set up 31 study centres to provide students with distance education in the Bachelor Degree Programme (BDP) in Arts & Commerce, and five study centres for Arts & Commerce Courses under the BDP.

Bachelor’s degree programs in Science subjects, Post Graduate Degree programs in Science subjects (Mathematics), and Arts Subjects (History and Social Work) have also been made available to the students.

Also Read: MBA Distance Learning or Online MBA or Regular MBA

8. Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU)

The MDU Rohtak provides a wide variety of courses through means of distance education university mode of learning. Maharshi Dayanand University has Students Support Services Centres (SSSC) in open and distance learning systems that are not only confined to interactive counselling or solving the learner's problems but also include personality development, soft skills, career counselling, community education, promoting open and distance learning as per the National Education Policy i.e., Education for All. As a result, MDU is considered one of the top 10 distance education universities in India.

Further, the SSSCs also facilitate learning, and counselling and solve the problems the distance learners face during self-study concerning the study material supplied to them by the Directorate considered one of the best open university in India. Through SSSCs, these learners get an opportunity to interact with the counsellors as well as with the peer group.

9. Karnataka State Open University

Karnataka State Open University is located in Manasagangotri, Mysore. It is recognised as one of the top 10 distance education universities in India.

The University System is a respected higher-learning organisation known for its distinctive strengths in providing superior and relevant distance-learning programs to its learners. In pursuing this vision, the University System:

Creates interactive, effective learning environments for all constituents
Serves its constituents’ diverse personal and professional development needs
Expand access to affordable programs for underserved learners

10. Acharya Nagarjuna University (CDE)

Acharya Nagarjuna University's Centre for Distance Education (CDE) was established in the year 1976 and it is on our list of the top 10 distance education universities in India.

The university has the following features:

Enrolment either through the Centre for Distance Education or through the Study Centre of Student's choice
Admissions are done twice a year i.e., Academic Year Batch (July to June), Calendar Year Batch (January to December)
Weekend Classes / Practicals through Study Centres.
The University offers more than 75 courses.
A wide network of Examination Centres for the convenience of the students.
Offers quality education at an affordable cost

Reasons to Choose the Best Distance Education University in India

With the use of modern educational technologies, students can now study at their own pace and place without having to travel to a classroom, college, or institution. Since remote learning is so important to the contemporary educational system, more distance learning degree programs are offered every year. The following is a discussion of key reasons to choose the best distance education university in India.

Cost Efficient

All distance learning programs, whether online or off, are significantly less expensive than their on-campus equivalents, regardless of the program that is chosen. As a result, graduates from low-income families might pursue remote learning to pay less for their degrees. It is therefore a financially sensible choice for them to save money or opt for educational loans. Candidates can reduce their expenses and experience less financial hardship when they attend the best open university in India.

Personalised Education

Students have the last say in distance education since all course materials and assignments are provided in advance and must be finished at their own pace within the allotted time. Indian students are receiving support and guidance from the best open university in India to fulfil their degree requirements.

No Job Sacrifice

The ability to continue with work and other obligations while pursuing their education is the largest benefit that distance learning programs offer to students. It is nearly hard for students to study in campus programs throughout the middle of the night while they are studying on the weekends or in their free time after work. Furthermore, with distance education, the study materials can be accessed at any time and from any location.

Time-Consuming

Travelling to and from campus and waiting for the college bus to return home at a set time consumes many hours. One can save an enormous time that can be used more effectively by preferably enrolling in the top 10 distance education universities in India. Given their work or other obligations, people with little free time can choose to enrol in online classes or pursue distance education, which allows them to complete their degree from home.

Courses offered at the best open university in India will allow you to acquire knowledge constantly, go over the same material repeatedly, and study at your own speed. Hence, remote learning can benefit students in this situation by offering them flexibility and a wide range of options.

Also Read: Best Distance Education Diploma and Certificate Courses after 12th

List of Best Open University in India (State-Wise)

Here is a list of the state-wise best distance education universities in India. As many prospective students prefer to study in their states for various reasons, they can refer to the subsequent section to make an informed decision. Thus, we have prepared a state-wise list of the best open universities in India which offer the finest distance education.

Best Distance Education University in India- Andhra Pradesh

Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur	Andhra University, Visakhapatnam
Dravidian University, Kuppam	Gitam University, Visakhapatnam
National Sanskrit University Tirupati	Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur
Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati	Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati

Best Distance Education University in India- Telangana

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University, Hyderabad	Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad
Kakatiya University, Warangal	Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Hyderabad
NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad	National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad
Osmania University, Hyderabad	Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University, Hyderabad

Best Distance Education University in India- Arunachal Pradesh

Rajiv Gandhi University, Itanagar	Venkateshwara Open University, Itanagar

Best Distance Education University in India- Assam

Assam Down Town University, Guwahati	Assam University, Silchar
Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh	Guwahati University
Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University, Guwahati	Tezpur University, Tezpur

Best Distance Education University in India- Bihar

Babasaheb BhimRao Ambedkar Bihar University, Muzaffarpur	Jai Prakash University, Chhapra
Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Darbhanga	Magadh University, Bodh Gaya
Nalanda Open University, Patna	Patna University, Patna

Best Distance Education University in India- Chhattisgarh

Dr. CV Raman University, Bilaspur	MATS University, Raipur
Pandit Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University, Bilaspur	Pt. Ravi Shankar Shukla University, Raipur

Best Distance Education University in India- Delhi

Delhi University, Delhi	Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi
Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi	Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi

Best Distance Education University in India- Haryana

Chaudhary Devilal University, Sirsa	Guru Jambheshwar University, Hisar
Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra	Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak
Manav Rachna International University

Best Distance Education University in India- Gujarat

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad	Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad
Sumandeep Vidyapeeth University, Vadodara

Best Distance Education University in India- Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla

Best Distance Education University in India- Jammu and Kashmir

University of Jammu, Jammu	University of Kashmir, Srinagar

Best Distance Education University in India- Karnataka

Gulbarga University, Gulbarga	Karnataka State Open University, Mysore
Karnataka University, Dharwad	Mangalore University, Mangalore
National Law School of India University, Bangalore	Kuvempu University, Shimoga

Best Distance Education University in India- Kerala

Sree Narayana guru Open University, Kollam	Kannur University, Kannur
Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam	University of Calicut, Kozhikode

Best Distance Education University in India- Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University, Bhopal	Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore
Awadhes Pratap Singh University, Rewa	Rani Durgawati University, Jabalpur
Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal	M.G. Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot

Best Distance Education University in India- Maharashtra

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning, Pune	University of Mumbai Institute of Distance & Open Learning (IDOL)
Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University, Nashik	Indira International Distance Education Academy, IGI, Pune
Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University School of Distance Education (SDE)	D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Pune Deemed to be University Centre for Online Learning
International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai	NMIMS University, Mumbai

Best Distance Education University in India- Meghalaya

Directorate of Distance Education, Mahatma Gandhi University	Centre for Distance Education NEHU Shillong

Best Distance Education University in India- Mizoram

Mizoram University	ICFAI, Aizawl

Best Distance Education University in India- Nagaland

Global Open University

Best Distance Education University in India- Sikkim

ICFAI University, Gangtok

Best Distance Education University in India- Odisha

Asian School of Business Management Distance Learning	Berhampur University, Berhampur
Utkal University, Bhubaneswar	Sambalpur University, Sambalpur
Fakir Mohan University, Balasore	North Orissa University, Mayurbhanj

Best Distance Education University in India- Puducherry

Pondicherry University, Pondicherry

Best Distance Education University in India- Punjab

Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar	Lovely Professional University , Phagwara
Panjab University, Chandigarh	Punjab Technical University, Jalandhar
Punjabi University, Patiala	Thapar Instt. of Engineering & Technology, Patiala
Chandigarh University

Best Distance Education University in India- Rajasthan

Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, Kota	NIMS University, Jaipur
Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women's University, Jaipur	Jaipur National University, Jaipur
Jain Vishva Bharati Institute, Ladnun	Jagan Nath University, Jaipur
Bhagwant University, Ajmer	Amity University, Jaipur

Best Distance Education University in India- Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu Open University, Chennai	University of Madras, Chennai
Vinayaka Missions University, Salem	Tamil University, Thanjavur
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore	St. Peter's University, Chennai
SRM University, SRM Institute of Science and Education	SASTRA University, Thanjavur
Directorate of Distance Education, Mother Teresa Women’s University	Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai	Dr. MGR University, Chennai
Annamalai University, Annamalainagar	Alagappa University, Karaikudi

Best Distance Education University in India- Tripura

ICFAI University, Agartala	Tripura University, Agartala

Best Distance Education University in India- Uttarakhand

Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar	ICFAI University, Dehradun
University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun	Uttarakhand Open University, Haldwani

Best Distance Education University in India- Uttar Pradesh

Aligarh Muslim University Distance Education -AMUDE	Amity Directorate of Distance & Online Education (ADDOE)
Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture	Dayalbagh Education Institute, Agra
IMT Distance and Open Learning Institute, Ghaziabad	Shobhit University
Swami Vivekananda Subharti University, Meerut	U.P. Rajarshi Tandon Open University, Allahabad
University of Allahabad, Allahabad	Integral University, Lucknow

Best Distance Education University in India- West Bengal

Netaji Subhas Open University, Kolkata	Jadavpur University, Kolkata
Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata	University of Burdwan, Burdwan
University of Kalyani, Kalyani	University of North Bengal, Darjeeling
Vidyasagar University, Midnapore	-

Also Read: Best Distance Education Diploma/Certificate Courses After UG

We can say that the Open University system is flexible in terms of learning, admission process etc. Thus, it offers an alternative channel to those who missed the opportunities for higher education. To accomplish your academic targets while continuing the job, keep an eye out for the above-discussed top 10 distance education universities in India.

CollegeDekho hopes this list helped you and may you make the right choice! All the best. Stay tuned for more such best open university in India updates!

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FAQs

What are the eligibility requirements for enrolling in top distance education universities that offer distance education courses in India?

Many top Indian universities offer distance education courses in various fields of study, with various eligibility requirements. But basic eligibility criteria is that students who have completed their 12th grade from a recognised institution are eligible to apply. The education must be obtained from any recognised educational board with a minimum grade point average of 45%. Students with qualifying merit scores are admitted to the BSc Distance Courses.

Is a distance degree for PhD valid in India?

No, a distance degree for PhD is not valid in India. According to UGC criteria, distance PhDs are not recognised, and as a result, neither their offering nor their pursuit by Indian students is approved. You may, however, pursue one from an accredited international university and add the title "Dr" to your name.

Can we get jobs with distance education degrees in hand?

Yes, distance education degrees can lead to excellent job opportunities, and most universities that offer distance education have dedicated placement cells that seek out placement drives from reputable organisations for their distance education students.

Is a distance education diploma recognised in India?

Yes, distance education degrees are recognised and valued in India. Technical programmes, with the exception of MCA and MBA, are not permitted to be pursued via distance education, and no institution offers them. BE and B Tech programmes, for example, are not recognised by the joint committee of UGC, DEC, and AICTE for being pursued via distance mode.

How does distance education work when combined with a job?

The distance education mode is designed so that a person can easily balance work and studies while earning a degree or certificate. With good time management, one can study after work or on weekends, and go over the study material whenever and wherever they want.

What is the course fee of distance education?

The course fee of distance education courses vary between universities and institutions. Distance education courses, on the other hand, are always less expensive than regular education courses.

Can I get a government job with a distance education degree?

You can apply for central government jobs if you have a distance learning degree that has been recognised by the DEC or distance education council. For example, online distance learning degrees awarded by IGNOU (the Indira Gandhi National Open University) are considered valid while applying for government jobs.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of distance education?

Online distance learning saves time, allows you to focus on your responsibilities and job, is more affordable, self-paced, and provides more flexibility than traditional education. On the other hand, distance learning is highly dependent on technical elements, credibility must be ensured that the course one pursues is from a reputable university, and it significantly reduces social interaction.

What differentiates regular education from distance learning?

For regular education, in order to maintain their attendance in regular education, students must regularly attend college and on-campus classes. On the other hand, face-to-face interactions are less common in distance education, where students complete the provided readings on their own, study at their own pace, and communicate with teachers online.

What are the 10 top distance education universities in India for BBA?

The list of the 10 top distance education universities in India includes Amity University, BRAOU, Delhi University School of Open Learning, Himachal Pradesh University, ICFAI, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Lovely Professional University, Madras University, Madurai Kamraj University, and Subharati University.

Can students pursue distance law education from the NALSAR University?

Students can pursue distance law education programmes like MA Aviation Law, MA Security Law, MA International Taxation, etc., via the Directorate of Distance Education, NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad.

What are the top 10 distance education universities in India for an MBA?

The list of the top 10 distance education universities in India for an MBA includes #1 NMIMS, NGA-SCE, #2 IMT CDL, #3 Symbiosis Center for Distance Learning, #4 IGNOU, #5 Prin LN Welingkar Institute of Management, #6 Amity University, #7 Annamalai University, #8 MIT School of Distance Education, #9 Suresh Gyan Vihar University, and #10 LPU Distance Education.

Is IGNOU a good option as a distance education university?

Yes, IGNOU is a good option as a distance education university. IGNOU degrees are valid in India and recognised by the UGC. Even though IGNOU degrees are flexible and awarded through remote learning, if the right programme is selected, they can lead to respectable employment prospects.

What are the disadvantages of distance education university?

Lack of classroom learning facilities, less availability of college and university resources, and slow development of communication skills are some of the disadvantages of distance education university.

What are the benefits of distance education university learning?

Flexible study methods, comparatively easy syllabus, and no mandatory requirement of attending regular daily classes are some of the benefits of distance education university learning.

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I am from OBC category, will I need caste certificate while filling NET form?

-AnonymousUpdated on December 03, 2024 12:19 PM

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Himani Daryani, Content Team

Yes, students from the OBC category are required to provide an attested copy of their category certificate along with the online printout of their UGC NET application form.

CHSE Odisha Class 12 questions paper 2024-25

-dinesh kumar swainUpdated on December 02, 2024 03:36 PM

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Nikkil Visha, Content Team

Dear Student,

You can download Odisha CHSE Previous Year Question Papers and Odisha CHSE Sample Paper 2024-25 here. These question papers will help you to understand the format of paper along with the marking scheme. You can start solving these papers once you complete the syllabus.