Uttarakhand Open University (UOU), being one of the reputed state-open universities, was developed by the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly in 2005. Haldwani Uttarakhand is the establishment site of UOU; the university is accredited both by the University Grants Commission and Distance Education Bureau and affiliated to the Association of Indian Universities. Today, it offers more than 80 programs across various courses and disciplines, from an undergraduate level to postgraduate and diploma, through a flexible open learning model. The university operates through 90 study centers spread across the state, with 13 established schools, with the aim of providing high-quality education to a wide range of students.
The university aims at catering to the educational needs of diverse groups, particularly women, tribals, and people in remote areas. UOU offers both Winter and Summer cycles. The admissions are strictly based on merit and entrance exam scores. For example, in the case of MBA, students can apply for admission depending on CAT/MAT or the entrance test conducted by the university. In some cases, such as in B.Ed, an entrance exam is also conducted.
UOU utilizes modern education tools, such as communication technologies and contact sessions, to improve the distance learning experience. The academic approach of the university focuses on developing a skilled and knowledgeable human resource base for the development of Uttarakhand. UOU aims to provide employment-oriented courses and maintain high academic standards for the personal and professional success of its students. In addition, the university has Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various research institutions, companies, and professional bodies for providing students with enriched learning opportunities.
Uttarakhand Open University Highlights
| Particulars | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Name of the University | Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) |
| Established | Institute Type | 2005 | Government University |
| Admission Criteria | Merit-based | Entrance Test |
| Official Website | www.uou.ac.in |
| Recognized by | UGC | DEB | AIU |
| Mode of education | Distance Learning |
| Schools | Courses | 13 | 80+ |
Uttarakhand Open University Rankings
Uttarakhand Open University (UOU) has been ranked 11th in the Science category by The Week in 2024, out of 88 colleges in India. Additionally, UOU holds the top position in the Science stream in Uttarakhand, demonstrating its prominence and strong academic reputation within the state. This recognition highlights the university's commitment to providing quality education in the field of science.
| Stream/Category | Ranking in India | Ranking in Uttarakhand |
|---|---|---|
| Science | 11 out of 88 | 1st in Uttarakhand |
Uttarakhand Open University Courses
| Courses | Details | Fees (per semester) |
|---|---|---|
| B.A. | Eligibility Criteria: 10+2 or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 3,550 |
| B. Sc. | Eligibility Criteria: 10+2 or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | – |
| BBA | Eligibility Criteria:10+2 or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 10,150 |
| BCA | Eligibility Criteria: 10+2 with Mathematics or Computer ScienceSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 15,550 |
| B.Com. | Eligibility Criteria: 10+2 or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 3,550 |
| B.Lib.Sc. | Eligibility Criteria: Any graduation with 50% marksSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 21,150 |
| B.Ed. | Eligibility Criteria: Graduation with 50% marks and two years of teaching experienceSelection Criteria: Entrance test | INR 22,150 |
| M.A. | Eligibility Criteria: Graduation in relevant subjectSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 5,150 |
| M.Sc. | Eligibility Criteria: Relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | – |
| MCA | Eligibility Criteria: BCA or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 22,150 |
| M.Com | Eligibility Criteria: BCom or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 4,650 |
| MBA | Eligibility Criteria: Graduation with 50% marksSelection Criteria: CAT/MAT/ UOU Entrance Test scores followed by GD/PI | INR 17,900 |
| MTTM | Eligibility Criteria: Graduation in any disciplineSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 7,150 |
| LLM | Eligibility Criteria: LLB with 50% marksSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 9,000 |
| Diploma | Eligibility Criteria: 10+2 or equivalentSelection Criteria: Merit-Based | INR 4500 |
Uttarakhand Open University Admissions
Admission to UOU is strictly based on merit in the university qualifying examination or entrance test. The admission process at Uttarakhand Open University is both online and offline for the two admission intakes; Summer and Winter. The open university shortlisted students on a first-cum-first-serve basis. It conducts an entrance test for B.Ed. and accepts CAT/ MAT scores for MBA program admissions. As soon as the candidate has completed registration and applies online, UOU posts the merit list on its website. Further proceedings involve shortlisted candidates by way of document verification and paying course fee. Step-wise applicants' process to seek admission in UOU are discussed as under:
How to Apply in Uttarakhand Open University?
- Log into the official website of Uttarakhand Open University @uou.ac.in Select Admission option on that site.
- Choose the course you want to enroll in and check the entry requirements, fee, and the duration of the program.
- Sign up with the email address and contact number.
- Access the application using the registration details. An applicant has to upload copies of your documents on the web admissions platform
- Pay the application fee through a debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI. Submit and print the confirmation page for future reference.
- Wait for the allotment of your enrollment number and confirmation from the university regarding your admission.
Uttarakhand Open University Scholarships
Scholarships are available for the students who are studying in Uttarakhand Open University. These scholarships are provided by the government and UGC. The scholarships will be given to the applicants on merit and need basis of the student. An applicant can apply for the scholarship on the National Scholarship Portal and the UGC website. Some of the scholarships are as follows:
| Scholarships | Details | Scholarship Reward |
|---|---|---|
| PG Merit Scholarship for University Rank Holders by UGC | The scholarship will be given to undergraduate First and Second Rank winners who have been accepted into any Postgraduate CourseStudents who have enrolled in a conventional, full-time Master's degree program at a recognized university, acknowledged university, private university, autonomous college, or post-graduate college are eligible for the programApplication process: The National Scholarship Portal of the Government of India will only accept applications once a year.Additionally, a brief notice will be posted on the UGC website | Amount of fellowship: INR 3100 per month for two years only i.e. full duration of a PG courseNo other additional grant will be payable in place of hostel charges and medical charges, etcThe student who is awarded Postgraduate Scholarship for University Rank Holders will not be debarred from accepting any other scholarships |
| Merit-Cum-Mean scholarships | Students must have at least: 55% marks for general category and 50% for S.T/S.C students No income bar Should be enrolled in UG/ PG, program | Scholarship reward up to INR 130 per month for day scholars and up to INR 160 for Hostelers |
| Defence CRPF Scholarship | A 5% scholarship on net tuition fees to the son/daughter of defense CRPF personnel for the entire program duration. |
Uttarakhand Open University infrastructures
Some of the major facilities at Uttarakhand Open University are as follows:
- Headquarters: The headquarters of the university is located in Haldwani. It houses the central administrative and academic functions.
- Dehradun Campus: This campus is one of the regional centers of the university. Academic and administrative facilities are provided.
- Regional Centers/Study Centers: UOU has various regional centers and study centers based in cities like Ranikhet and Pithoragarh that provide different services for various regions' students.
- Data Center: Haldwani, a city that holds its headquarters for the university data center for its website, intranet, internet, firewalls, and antivirus system.
- Information Technology Facilities: UOU updates its facilities so the students and staff members of this university would have the opportunity to benefit from the current technology and equipment.
- Learner Support Center: The centers support students in their respective academic pursuits and help them over any hurdles they may face in the process.
- Faculty: UOU has highly qualified and very well-qualified staff which works wholeheartedly to teach students the best values and knowledge in the world.
Uttarakhand Open University Placements
Uttarakhand Open University conducts annual placement drives for enrolled students. UOU has not yet issued the placement data for the academic year 2023. the following can be concluded:
UOU MBA gets a splendid placement record for the students. Students who are qualified will get INR 5.75 LPA as CTC.
Along with jobs, the always active UOU placement cell offers internship opportunities with top companies for students.
Students get prepared for interviews by different similar activities and seminars.
Top Recruiter
The table below showcases the list of a few top companies that were a part of the Uttarakhand Open University placements in recent years:
| Uttarakhand Open University Placements: Top Recruiters | ||
|---|---|---|
| The Marriott Group | The Hyatt | The Leela Group of Hotels |
| Radisson Blu Plaza | JW Marriott, Aerocity | Le Meridien Resort & Spa, Jaipur |
| Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa | Hyatt Regency, Gurugram | The ITC Group |
Uttarakhand Open University Notable Alumni
| Name | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Ram Kumar Gupta | Notable alumni of Uttarakhand Open University. |
| Dr. Ashutosh Kumar Bhatt | Researcher at Uttarakhand Open University. Worked on projects like the Wireless Smart Agriculture Monitoring System and the Analysis towards IOT based smart chemical content assessment system. Published patents and a copyright. |
| Dr. Sumit Prasad | Assistant Professor specializing in training and development, compensation management, and human resource management. Published books and research papers. Awarded memberships in several international associations. |
| Prof. Om Prakash Singh Negi | Member of the NAAC Peer Team Visit in Bangalore. Over 35 years of research guidance experience. Supervised the work of 12 research scholars awarded Ph.D. degrees in Physics. |
Conclusion
Uttarakhand Open University offers flexible and accessible education systems, with a wide range of programs in various disciplines. Distance learning has been given the focus in the university along with the strong infrastructure that supports the students coming from various backgrounds. With excellent faculty, good placement records, and ties with industry leaders, UOU offers a very promising opportunity for both academic and professional growth.
FAQs
What is the admission process at Uttarakhand Open University?
Admissions at UOU are merit-based for most programs. However, for courses like MBA and B.Ed., an entrance test is required (UOU's own test, CAT, or MAT). The process includes online registration, submission of documents, and payment of fees. A merit list is published, followed by document verification for the shortlisted candidates.
How do I apply for scholarships at Uttarakhand Open University?
UOU offers merit and financial need-based scholarships. Students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal or UGC website. Scholarships include PG Merit Scholarships, Merit-Cum-Means Scholarships, and a Defence CRPF Scholarship, which provide much-needed financial support to deserving students.
What are the key courses offered at Uttarakhand Open University?
UOU offers a number of undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses. The university is best known for its BA, B.Sc., MBA, M.Com, MCA, M.Sc., B.Ed., and many more certificate courses. Programs can be offered in humanities, science, commerce, management, and law, making it versatile for diverse educational interests.
What is the fee structure of Uttarakhand Open University?
UOU charges differently for different programs. For instance, the fee for undergraduate courses such as B.A. and B.Com is approximately INR 3,550 per semester. The fee for professional courses like MBA is INR 17,900 per semester. The fees for postgraduate courses such as M.Com and M.A are INR 4,650 and INR 5,150 per semester respectively.
