Top 7 Distance Learning Universities in India

Top 7 Distance Learning Universities in India

When choosing a university for distance education, it’s essential to understand the offerings of each institute. This article outlines some of the most popular Distance Learning Universities in India and the programs they offer. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) 

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), founded in 1985, is a premier Distance Learning University in India and one of the top ten world`s largest universities. IGNOU comes under the Government of India and offers several courses in and out of India. The educational brilliance of IGNOU is reflected in its ‘1st’ rank position among Open Universities by NIRF 2024 and it has been honoured with “A++” accreditation by NAAC. The university aims to provide accessible, flexible, and affordable education, and it achieves this through 21 schools, 56 regional centres, and partnerships with 29 overseas institutions.

There are 2 admission cycles in a year (Nov for the January session & May — June for the July Session).

Programs Offered

At IGNOU, over 200 programmes- from graduation to PhD are being offered. BSc, BCom, BA, MBA, MA, MCA and the list goes on. Programs are offered under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Open Learning (OL) modes for the students to attain education in a flexible manner.

Prominent Colleges of IGNOU:  School of Social Sciences, the School of Management Studies, and The College Of Engineering & Technology to name a few.

2. Chandigarh University- Institute of Open and Distance Learning (IODL)

Starting in 2015, Chandigarh University has been offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses under part-time education or open & distance learning at its Institute of Open and Distance Learning (IODL), located outside the main campus in Mohali, Punjab. The university is recognised by UGC and known for its high-quality teaching delivered at an affordable price, as well students have the opportunity to manage studies in areas of Business, Media/Communication & Arts Entertainment Area and IT/Business/Digital Science.

Programs Offered

Chandigarh University offers disciplines for courses like BA, BCom, BBA, B.C.A, MBA and MCA. All these programs are AICTE-approved programs and have a curriculum designed according to industry requirements under Outcome-Based Education (OBE). This convenience alongside the affordable costs of Chandigarh University makes it a great place for students.

3. Amity University Online

Amity University Online (Distance Learning University in India) was established by the Amity Education Group and began functioning in 2005. It is known as the first Distance Education Board(DEB) and UGC-approved online program in India, which is accredited by NAAC with an ‘A’ grade.

Through globally recognized programs, Amity University Online offers a diverse set of courses to students and professionals who are looking for upskilling. The university has also entered into partnerships with global institutions like Harvard Business School Online and Wharton University to give its students an experience of international education.

Programs Offered

Amity provides undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma courses in business management, information technology commerce etc. Popular programs include BCom, MBA MCA etc. The university offers career placement assistance to students with a vast range of industry affiliations.

4. Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL)

Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL) was established in 2001 and is located in Pune, Maharashtra. It is one of the renowned Distance Education Universities in India with courses like distance MBA in India being offered through correspondence and are AICTE approved. Although the institute specializes in management studies, it imparts various programs related to IT, law, education and many more.

Programs Offered

The most popular programmes offered at the Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning are MBA/PGDM, BBA, B.Sc., BCA, Certificate, M.A., M.Sc., PG Diploma and UG Diploma programmes. Further, the institute offers a wide range of programmes in the streams of Business & Management Studies, IT & Software, Humanities & Social Sciences, Teaching & Education, Banking, Finance & Insurance, Mass Communication & Media, Accounting & Commerce, Law, Architecture & Planning, Medicine & Health Sciences, Hospitality & Travel, Beauty & Fitness, Nursing, Science and Design.

5. Institute of Management Technology (IMT) – Centre for Distance Learning

IMT Centre for Distance Learning, Ghaziabad was established in 1982 and has since been one of the leading Distance Education Universities in India to pursue business and management studies. The institute is based in Ghaziabad, UP & Nagpur, Maharashtra and offers a part-time campus as well as distance education modes to cater to the needs of working professionals. 

Programs Offered

MT offers PG and Certificate courses, including MBA/PGDM, Certificate, Executive MBA/PGDM and PG Diploma which are taught by highly educated faculty members. The institute offers courses to students across 2 major streams; Business & Management Studies and IT & Software. Institute of Management Technology- Center for Distance Learning (IMT CDL) offers various courses at affordable fees to students. IMT is arguably amongst the finest Distance Education Universities in India if you want to make your career in the business domain.

6. Sikkim Manipal University – Distance Education (SMU-DE)

Established in 2001, Sikkim Manipal University Distance Education (SMU-DE) offers excellent distance education that offers its students a better future and a great opportunity. SMU-DE has its own internet-based learning system of education better known as EduNxt, which is available 24/7 for students to learn and browse course materials. It is recognized by UGC and is a public-private university.

Programs Offered

SMU-DE courses include UG/PG programs such as BCA, BBA, BSc, and MBA. The university’s EduNxt platform ensures that students have access to world-class learning resources and faculty support throughout their studies.

7. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University

The Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University, set up by a state government act in 1991, is mandated to offer higher education using only the open and distance learning formats. It is a pioneer University Based in Bhopal that Offers UG and PG Courses Recognized by UGC and AIU.

Programs Offered

It provides 39 programs in 9 streams where undergraduate and postgraduate programs include BSc, BA, BCom., B.Ed., MSc. and MBA etc. These programmes are for students from remote areas to access education easily.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q. What is distance education?

Distance education is a mode of learning that allows students to study remotely without being physically present at a traditional university. Courses are offered through online platforms, correspondence, or blended formats, which combine online and in-person instruction.

Q. Are degrees from distance education institutes recognized?

Yes, degrees from recognized distance education institutes are valid. In India, institutions offering distance education must be approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) for their degrees to be recognized.

Q. What are the advantages of distance learning?

  • Flexibility: Study at your own pace and schedule.
  • Accessibility: Available to students from remote areas.
  • Affordability: Often less expensive than traditional programs.
  • Work and Study Balance: Ideal for working professionals looking to upskill.

Q. What courses are available in distance education?

Distance education offers a wide range of courses, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs. Popular courses include BBA, MBA, BCom, MCA, and more in fields such as management, IT, commerce, and social sciences.

Q. What is the eligibility for enrolling in distance education?

Eligibility criteria vary by course and institution. Generally, for undergraduate programs, you need to have completed your 10+2, while for postgraduate programs, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.

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