Editor
New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC), in line with global norms and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, is set to introduce new college degree names, including a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree for disciplines like arts, humanities, management, and commerce.
Currently, universities offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree for arts, humanities, and social sciences, while the Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree is typically for science subjects. However, with the restructuring of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees proposed by the NEP 2020, a committee appointed by the UGC has recommended that the new four-year undergraduate honors degree program, regardless of the discipline, can also be offered as a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.
The committee's recommendations will soon be made public for feedback, following which the UGC will notify the new set of degree names. This move aligns with practices followed in many foreign universities, where BA and BS degrees are offered in various subjects. The distinction lies in the curriculum, with the BS degree providing more specialized education in the subject compared to the broader choice of courses offered by a BA degree.
The introduction of new degree nomenclatures will be an ongoing process, allowing universities to propose relevant degree names that cater to contemporary and emerging societal needs. Once approved, the UGC will notify the new degree nomenclature.
The formation of this committee was a direct response to the NEP 2020, which proposed a four-year undergraduate degree program with flexible entry and exit options, along with a one-year master's degree. The committee has recommended using the term "Hons" in brackets for the four-year undergraduate honors degree program, indicating the inclusion of research components.
It's important to note that the new degree names will only apply to future programs, while the old degree names will continue to be used alongside the new terminologies. This ensures continuity and recognition for existing degrees.
The move to introduce a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree for humanities, commerce, and other disciplines aims to provide students with more options and flexibility in their educational pursuits, aligning with the evolving needs of the job market and academia.