A Complete Guide to
Distance Learning in Bihar: Nalanda Open University
Introduction
Nalanda Open University
(NOU) is a premier institution for distance education in Bihar, India.
Established in 1987, it is the only open university in the state, offering
flexible learning opportunities to students across various disciplines. Named
after the ancient Nalanda University, a renowned center of learning in ancient
India, NOU continues this legacy by providing accessible and quality education
to diverse learners, including working professionals, rural students, and
homemakers 713.
The university is recognized
by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Distance Education Council
(DEC), and the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), ensuring its
credibility and academic standards 7. With a strong emphasis on
inclusivity, NOU removes barriers to education by offering affordable courses
through distance and online modes.
History and Establishment
Nalanda Open University
was founded through an ordinance in 1987 and later formalized under the Nalanda
Open University Act of 1995 7. The institution draws inspiration from
the historic Nalanda Mahavihara, an ancient seat of learning that flourished
between the 5th and 13th centuries 14.
Unlike the newly
established Nalanda University (revived in 2010), which focuses on
postgraduate and research programs, NOU specializes in distance and
open learning, catering to undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and
certificate courses 213.
Academic Programs and
Schools
NOU offers a wide range of programs through its 10
specialized schools:
- Information
Technology and Computer Education SchoolS
- School
of Economics, Commerce, and Management
- School
of Indian and Foreign Languages
- School
of Health and Environmental Science
- School
of Indology
- School
of Journalism and Mass Communication
- School
of Pure and Agricultural Sciences
- School
of Social Sciences
- School
of Teacher Education (B.Ed program)
- School
of Vocational Studies 713.
Popular Courses at Nalanda Open University
- Bachelor
of Education (B.Ed) – A two-year program for
in-service teachers.
- Master
of Science (MSc) program
offers specializations in chemistry, botany, environmental science, and
other fields.
- Master
of Arts (MA) programs in
subjects like economics, political science, and history.
- Postgraduate
Diplomas & Certificates – Including
Journalism, Computer Applications, and Yoga 13.
Admission Process and
Eligibility
Admission at Nalanda Open University is
primarily merit-based, except for the B.Ed program, which requires
qualifying for the Bihar B.Ed CET 13. The application process
is conducted online, with a nominal fee of INR 450 13.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit
the official website (www.nou.ac.in).
- Register online and fill out the admission form
with your details.
- Upload
necessary documents (Class 10/12 certificates, ID proof).
- Pay
the application fee online.
- Submit
and save the confirmation receipt 13.
Fee Structure and
Affordability
One of the key advantages of NOU is its affordable
fee structure, making education accessible to economically disadvantaged students.
For instance:
- MSc
program: Approximately INR 11,200
per semester.
- B.Ed
program: Around INR 50,000 for
the full course 13.
Examination and
Evaluation
NOU follows a semester-based examination
system:
- Odd
semester exams: December–January.
- Even
semester exams: June–July.
- Evaluation:
80% written exam + 20% assignments/projects 13.
Students can check results online via the official
website by entering their roll number or name 13.
Placements and Career
Opportunities
While NOU primarily serves distance learners, it
provides career support through:
- Professionally-aligned
coursework designed
for today's employment landscape.
- Placement
support for
industries such as IT, business, and education.
- Alumni
network working in top firms like Infosys,
HCL, and Amazon 13.
Infrastructure and Study
Centers
NOU's
headquarters are located in Patna, Bihar, and feature:
- A state
library with over 50,000 titles.
- A computer
lab with 300+ systems.
- 200+
regional study centers across Bihar for student
support 713.
Conclusion
NOU emerges as Bihar's
pioneering institution for
economically inclusive, accessible academia. By leveraging distance
learning, it empowers students from diverse backgrounds to achieve academic
and professional success. With a rich legacy inspired by ancient Nalanda, NOU
continues to evolve, bridging the gap between education and employment in
modern India.
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