Delhi University 4th Year UG Program 2025-26 | NEP 2020 Guidelines & Research Focus

 

Delhi University 4th Year Undergraduate Program 2025-26: NEP 2020 Guidelines & Research Focus

Delhi University (DU) has launched the 4th Year Undergraduate Program starting the academic session 2025-26 as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 reforms. This major academic reform introduces a research-oriented advanced year beyond the traditional three-year UG degree, enabling students to deepen specialization and pursue research opportunities with greater flexibility.

Table of Contents

• Background & NEP Mandate
• Program Structure & Curriculum
• Key Features & Benefits
• Eligibility & Exit Options
• Faculty Supervision & Research Support
• Infrastructure & Resources
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Background & NEP Mandate

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 advocates an overhaul of India's higher education system, introducing a flexible 4-year undergraduate framework with multiple exit points. Delhi University adopted this model to enhance research culture, promote multidisciplinary learning, and align with global educational standards.

This reform ensures students can earn a certificate after one year, a diploma after two years, a traditional bachelor's degree after three years, or opt for the fourth year focused on research and advanced specialization.

Program Structure & Curriculum

The 4th Year Undergraduate Program adds two semesters (7th and 8th) that emphasize:

• In-depth research projects or dissertations supervised by faculty
• Advanced coursework related to the student's major area
• Skill-based workshops, entrepreneurship training, or lab specialization
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration

The curriculum is designed to provide 22 credits per semester, balancing core subjects, discipline-specific electives (DSE), generic electives (GE), and practical learning components.

Key Features & Benefits

• Flexibility: Students can choose to exit after 3 years with a bachelor's degree or continue for an honours degree with research specialization.
• Research Exposure: The fourth-year program nurtures critical thinking and prepares students for postgraduate study or direct research careers.
• Multidisciplinary Learning: The curriculum includes cross-disciplinary courses increasing employability and knowledge breadth.
• Industry & Startup Engagement: Students engage with entrepreneurship, startups mentoring, and internships for practical exposure.

Eligibility & Exit Options

Students completing their third year bachelor’s degree with a minimum academic threshold (generally 75% or above) are eligible to opt for the 4th year. There are multiple exit points:

• After one year: Certificate
• After two years: Diploma
• After three years: Bachelor's Degree
• After four years: Bachelor's Degree with Research Specialization

This flexibility allows students to tailor their academic journey based on career goals and preparedness for research.

Faculty Supervision & Research Support

Faculty supervision is a cornerstone of the 4th year, with students assigned mentors for research projects. Delhi University has implemented a structured three-tier supervision framework including Research Committees to monitor student progress.

Training workshops on research methodology, ethics, and citation are mandatory, while colleges are developing research repositories and anti-plagiarism systems.

Infrastructure & Resources

DU is investing in infrastructure improvements to support the 4th year, including enhanced digital libraries with extensive e-books and journals, expanded lab facilities, and better Wi-Fi connectivity across campuses.

Funding for student research may be sourced from college budgets, alumni contributions, CSR initiatives, and industry partnerships, ensuring robust support for innovative projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can students opt out after the third year?

Yes, students receive a standard bachelor's degree after completing three years and may choose not to continue to the fourth year.

2. What is the focus of the 4th year program?

The 4th year emphasizes research projects, advanced coursework, skill development, and interdisciplinary learning.

3. Will all colleges under DU offer the 4th year?

Most affiliated colleges and DU campuses are adopting the 4th year, but implementation timelines may vary across departments and institutions.

4. Are there additional fees for the 4th year?

Fee structures may vary by college; students should check with their institutions for specific details.

5. How does the 4th year facilitate postgraduate studies?

The honours degree with research specialization provides a strong foundation for master's or direct Ph.D. admissions.

Stay updated with Delhi University’s official announcements and plan your academic path with the new 4-year undergraduate program under NEP 2020.