Delhi University Introduces Russian Language UG Program and Dual Degree Provision

New Delhi: Delhi University (DU) conducted its 1,018th Academic Council meeting on Friday, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Yogesh Singh, at the university's council hall. Key announcements included the introduction of a Russian language program at the undergraduate (UG) level and the approval of dual degree provisions.

Introduction of Russian Language UG Program

For the first time, DU will offer a Russian language program at the undergraduate level, starting from the academic session 2024-2025. This new program, under the Faculty of Arts’ Slavonic and Finno-Ugrian Studies Department, received approval based on UGCF 2022 guidelines. Previously, Russian was only available at the postgraduate (PG) level.

"During the AC meeting, the course curriculum was passed by accepting the recommendations made by the Faculty of Arts in this regard with minor modifications. This program will be implemented from the academic session 2024-2025," the university stated.

Provision for Dual Degrees

The council approved a provision for students to pursue two degrees simultaneously, one in regular mode and the other in distance mode. One degree can be pursued in regular mode at university colleges or departments, while the second degree can be pursued through open and distance learning mode via the School of Open Learning or Campus of Open Learning.

“Under this, one degree can be done in regular mode in colleges/departments of the university and the other degree can be done in open and distance learning mode in the School of Open Learning, Campus of Open Learning of Delhi University… The modalities for pursuing two programmes simultaneously will include various terms and conditions that are necessary to make this decision effective,” the university said.

Equivalence of Degrees from Sanskrit Universities

The Academic Council also discussed and approved the equivalence of degrees awarded by central Sanskrit universities with DU degrees for research and employment purposes. The proposal by the Sanskrit Department received the council’s endorsement.

"The Acharya degree awarded by Sanskrit universities in these research papers will be considered equivalent to the Master's program in Sanskrit of the University of Delhi. Similarly, the Acharya degree awarded by Sanskrit universities in Jyotish Shastra and Vastu Shastra will be considered equivalent to MA in Jyotish Shastra of the University," the statement added.

Approved Equivalencies

• Shastri: BA
• Honoured Shastri: BA (Honours)
• Acharya: MA
• Shiksha Shastri: BEd
• Shiksha Acharya: MEd
• Vidya Varidhi: PhD
• Vachaspati: DLitt