Indore: A majority of one-year postgraduate diploma programmes introduced recently at colleges affiliated to Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) are facing an uncertain future after witnessing negligible student interest.
Of the 50 courses launched under the new academic structure, 49 recorded zero admissions in the 2025-26 session, placing them on the verge of closure. The programmes were introduced for the first time in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), offering flexible pathways at the postgraduate level.
Alongside the conventional two-year postgraduation degrees, the university had rolled out one-year postgraduation degree courses for students completing a four-year undergraduate programme, and one-year postgraduate diploma courses for those graduating from three-year UG courses.
However, the diploma programmes failed to attract candidates. The only exception was MA in Yoga, which managed to enrol 15 students. The remaining courses saw no takers across affiliated colleges, reflecting a clear preference among students for full-fledged degree programmes over short-term diplomas.
Admissions for the upcoming session will begin from May 15, with all three formats continuing for now. The university offers 28 specialisations in MA, 22 in MSc, and MCom courses under the two-year structure, which continue to draw steady interest.
DAVV examination controller Ashesh Tiwari said, "The diploma courses were introduced to offer flexibility and skill-based options, but students are still inclined towards traditional degree programmes. We will review their continuation if enrolment does not improve this year."
Academic observers point to limited awareness and uncertain career outcomes as key reasons behind the poor response. Even certificate and diploma courses at teaching departments have seen declining enrolment in recent years.
