Mumbai University Introduces BSc (Tech Engineering) Degree for Three-Year Exit Under NEP 2020
In a significant move aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Mumbai University has announced that engineering students from affiliated colleges can now graduate with a BSc (Tech Engineering) degree if they choose to exit their programmes after three years. This initiative aims to provide a formal academic credential to students who previously would have been labelled as dropouts for not completing the traditional four-year BE or BTech courses.
NEP Framework Enables Multiple Entry and Exit Options
The NEP 2020 framework, which promotes flexibility in higher education, allows students to exit with a recognised degree after each year of study. Under this policy, students completing two years are eligible for a diploma, while those finishing three years can now receive a full undergraduate degree. Mumbai University's academic bodies have recently finalised the nomenclature for this degree, specifically for students in autonomous colleges who are set to complete their third year in April-May.
Unique Degree Title to Distinguish University's Offering
A senior university official explained that while the NEP framework permits the award of a degree after three years, the institution sought to create a distinct title. After deliberation, we have decided to award the students a BSc (Tech Engineering) degree, the official stated. This decision sets Mumbai University apart from other institutions, such as the IITs, which have opted to award a BS (Engineering) degree under similar circumstances.
Implementation and Impact on Students
Since autonomous colleges under Mumbai University implemented the four-year engineering programme under NEP in the 2023-24 academic year, the first batch eligible for this new three-year degree will graduate in 2024. This change is expected to benefit students who may struggle with the demands of a full four-year programme, offering them a viable alternative without the stigma of dropping out.
Industry Perceptions and Student Awareness
Hari Vasudevan, principal of Dwarkadas J Sanghvi College of Engineering, noted that many students remain unaware of the comprehensive benefits provided by NEP. He emphasised that as students become more informed about skill-based and apprenticeship-embedded programmes, they might consider the three-year exit option. However, Vasudevan also highlighted that traditional degrees like BA, BCom, and BSc are transitioning to four-year formats, which could encourage engineering students to complete the full duration to maintain competitive value in the job market, where BTech and BE degrees are often perceived as more prestigious.
This policy shift by Mumbai University represents a progressive step towards inclusive education, ensuring that all students have access to recognised qualifications that align with their academic journeys and career aspirations.
