IGNOU Dual Degree: Advantages, Courses, and How to Apply
What is a Dual Degree?
A dual degree allows a student to pursue two academic degrees at the same time. These degrees can be both undergraduate (UG) or both postgraduate (PG) degrees, or one of each. The IGNOU Dual Degree program, however, is slightly different from the Integrated Dual Degree program.
In a dual degree, the two courses pursued are distinct, unlike in Integrated Dual Degrees, where two degrees are aligned, such as a BA and MA in the same subject (e.g., BA English and MA English).
For example, a student can study BBA and B.Com at the same time, or BCA and MCA together. Both degrees are given separately, which means the student has to finish all the subjects and exams for each course. After completing both, they get two valid degrees. This flexible option helps students learn more and get better career chances without spending extra years doing one course after another.
Official Guidelines on IGNOU Dual Degree
Starting from the 2022 academic year, IGNOU began offering Dual Degree programs as per UGC rules. This means students can study two different degrees at the same time. Both degrees will be valid and officially recognized. To join this Dual Degree Program, students must meet the eligibility rules and follow the admission process properly.
Essential Rules for Dual Degree Admission
Here are the key guidelines for applying to the IGNOU Dual Degree program:
- Combination of Courses: Students can pursue one degree through another institution (online or regular mode) while also enrolling for a second degree at IGNOU (either in ODL (Open Distance Learning) or online mode).
- Admission in Separate Cycles: To pursue two degrees at once, students must take admission in separate admission cycles. For example, one degree can be taken in the January session, while the second degree should be enrolled in the July session of the same year.
- Degree Levels: Students can pursue dual degrees at both the undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) levels. This means you can take one B.A. degree and one M.A., or two undergraduate degrees, or two postgraduate degrees.
- No Credit Overlap: According to UGC Dual Degree guidelines, the credit for each degree must be earned separately. This means that credits from one degree cannot be counted towards the second degree, and students must complete all the required coursework and examinations for both degrees.
- Program Restrictions: Some professional or regulatory body-approved programs are excluded from the dual degree scheme. These include courses like B.Com (AFS), BHM, and others.
- Collaboration Restrictions: Dual degree admissions are not available for degrees offered in collaboration with other institutions (e.g., joint programs) under this scheme.
- Eligibility Requirements: Students must meet the eligibility criteria for each degree program independently.
No Retroactive Benefit: Students who completed dual degrees before the 2022 guidelines cannot apply them retroactively.
UGC Guidelines for Dual Degrees
- A student can study two full-time courses at the same time in regular mode, as long as the class timings are different and do not clash.
- A student can pursue one degree in regular mode and the other in distance or online mode.
- A student can pursue two programs in distance or online mode simultaneously.
- The student must ensure that the university offering the degrees is UGC-approved or a statutory recognized institution.
- These rules do not apply to Ph.D. programs.
Eligibility for IGNOU Dual Degree
- Students must have passed 10+2 (higher secondary school) from a recognized board.
- If a student already has a bachelor’s degree, they can also apply for postgraduate courses.
- Students must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- If someone wants to do both UG and PG together, they must complete their UG degree before starting the PG course.
- Some PG courses need at least 50% marks in the previous degree.
- Some programs need specific qualifications. For example, to apply for a PG degree in Psychology, the student must have a UG degree in Psychology.
Popular Courses for IGNOU Dual Degree
| Courses | Fees | What It Offers |
|---|---|---|
| BA + B.Com | ₹7,200 – ₹9,600 per course | Good for students who want to study both arts and commerce together. |
| BCA + M.Com | ₹45,000 (BCA), ₹9,000 (M.Com) | Mixes computer knowledge with business and commerce. |
| B.Sc. + BA | ₹12,600 – ₹15,000 per course | Combines science subjects with arts for wider learning. |
| MA + M.Com | ₹9,000 – ₹12,600 per course | Gives deep knowledge in social studies and business. |
| MBA + PG Diploma | ₹66,000 (MBA), ₹10,800 (PG Diploma) | Best for working people who want to grow in management. |
| B.Ed. + MA Education | ₹55,000 (B.Ed.), ₹12,600 (MA) | For future teachers who want both practical and theory knowledge in teaching. |
How to Apply for IGNOU Dual Degree in 2025
- Visit the IGNOU Admission Website: Go to the IGNOU admission portal.
- Choose Your Program: Pick either the ODL (Open and Distance Learning) or Online Program, based on what you want to study.
- Register Yourself: Make your profile by entering your name, contact number, email, etc.
- Fill the Application Form: Complete the form with your personal and educational details for both courses.
- Upload Your Documents: Add your photo, marksheets, ID proof, and other needed documents.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the application fee online.
Conclusion
The IGNOU Dual Degree program is a great choice for students who want to study two courses at the same time with a flexible schedule. It is approved by UGC, so the degrees are fully valid and recognized. This program helps students learn more, get two qualifications, and improve their career opportunities.
The admission process is easy, and the program is a smart option for those who want to save time and build a better future. If you want to learn more skills and grow in your career, the IGNOU Dual Degree program is a perfect option.