IGNOU Defies UGC Ban on Healthcare Courses, Risking Degrees

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) faces a critical dilemma, continuing admissions for several healthcare-related disciplines despite explicit directives from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to halt enrollments in distance learning modes. The university has accepted approximately 17,000 fresh applications for its MA Psychology program this year, creating uncertainty for thousands of postgraduate aspirants. These courses, including psychology, nutrition, and microbiology, require mandatory clinical and practical training, a requirement emphasized by the NCAHP Act, 2021.

The UGC's directive, issued from the July-August 2025 academic cycle onwards, warned that degrees obtained in violation of these norms would be rendered invalid. Students like Renuka, a teacher from Ujjain, enrolled unaware of the ban, having paid ₹9,000 in fees and commenced online classes since September, even receiving an exam schedule. Regional officials claimed ignorance of the restriction, and university responses have been lacking.

IGNOU's Registrar, V P Rupam, stated the decision to continue was approved by the Academic Council. He argued that many students pursue these courses for academic interest rather than professional practice, suggesting the NCAHP regulations might not fully apply. The university has included a disclaimer in its prospectus advising applicants to make an informed decision. However, the current situation creates "undesirable" constraints, potentially barring students from the National Eligibility Test (NET) and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).

Despite these challenges, IGNOU assures that degrees will be offered to students enrolled in the previous year, and no existing admissions will be canceled. The ongoing admission cycle also involves restricted areas such as medicine, agriculture, and horticulture. The UGC Secretary has not yet responded to queries regarding the matter.