The University of Mumbai is set to launch innovative international degree programs beginning in the academic year 2025-2026. These include twinning, dual degree, and joint degree programs, which aim to broaden educational opportunities for students through collaborations with global and national institutions.
This new initiative will allow affiliated colleges to partner with the university and international universities, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and providing students with diverse academic experiences. The dual degree programs will be available through distance learning and online platforms, offering greater flexibility.
Under the new guidelines approved by the university’s academic council, colleges must form partnerships with institutions that meet specific criteria. International partners must be ranked within the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings, while domestic partners should be in the top 100 of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF).
The introduction of these programs aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages dual degree options in both physical and online modes. The university previously offered dual degree programs between 2012 and 2014 but discontinued them after issues with University Grants Commission (UGC) approval.
“Colleges must seek approval from the university before entering into any agreements with other institutions to offer dual degree programs,” said a university official.
To offer physical dual degree programs, institutions must be within a 5-20 km radius of each other, and must hold a NAAC grade A rating. Additionally, the university’s academic departments are allowed to collaborate on such programs.
The university has also approved the UGC scheme that will enable professors-in-practice to teach at both university departments and affiliated colleges, further enriching the academic environment. This move marks a significant step towards enhancing the quality and scope of higher education in Mumbai.