
Aditi
20 January, 2026
Education is the cornerstone of progress. Still access to quality learning experience remains a challenge for many candidates. Financial burdens, geographic constraints, and personal commitments often act as barriers between you and your academic aspirations. This is where you will start seeing the benefits of online and distance education. One such institution which stands tall as a beacon of educational revolution in India is the Nalanda Open University. So, if you have ever imagined pursuing your bachelor’s degree with a full-time job or an MCA without setting your foot in physical classroom. This is no more a vision of the future, its the reality of today’s education system.
The Nalanda Open University courses are offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Popular Nalanda open university courses at UG and PG levels are BA, BCA, BCom and MA, MCA, MCom respectively. Generally, the cost of courses at Nalanda Open University ranges between INR 5000 to iNR 25000. The courses are designed with self-paced study materials, affordable fee structure that won’t break your bank, and a wide network of study centres bringing quality education within your reach. If you are seeking admission in a reputed university for distance education, NOU is a good choice. In this blog, we have covered everything about the university, courses offered, fees, eligibility and others.
Let’s begin with an overview of the university.
Established in 1987, Nalanda Open University holds the distinction of being the only government university in Bihar to offer distance learning courses. The university’s primary objective is to expand the scope of education to the learners' doorsteps. It has a well-equipped and completely automated office which houses an examination centre for about 1000 students.
The university offers a wide range of courses at UG and PG levels in various disciplines, including arts, science and commerce areas. At Nalanda Open Universit,y you get flexibility, affordability, inclusivity, and a student-centric approach. Ever wondered what makes Nalanda Open University’s degree credible and valid? The university holds necessary recognitions and accreditations, given below:
Nalanda Open University offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. One of the most significant benefits of Nalanda Open University is its affordable fee structure. A comprehensive list of courses offered by Nalanda Open University is mentioned in the table below.
Undergraduate courses are generally of three years' duration, except for some honours courses or others. For BA and BSc programmes, you can choose a major of your choice from the specialisation basket. Here are the UG courses offered:
Unlike the general BA course, the honours programme is of four year duration. There are multiple specialisations you can choose from. Its curriculum provides an in-depth understanding of the specialisation you choose. Let’s get an overview of the BA Honours:
To become a subject matter expert, a BSc course is the best option. At Nalanda Open University, you can choose the specialisation of your choice. This honours course has a detailed syllabus covering vast subjects and allows you to work on a research project.
For those who are seeking lucrative career opportunities in the IT sector, BCA is what you have to choose. The programme is a 3-year UG course which focuses on building your IT skills and computer science knowledge. It will cover core areas and emerging trends of the industry. Here are the important details of the BCA course:
Becoming a teacher is not possible without pursuing a BEd degree. This is a two-year professional course providing your extensive training. To apply for this course, you must have completed bachelor’s degree atleast or have a certain years of work experience.
It is a one-year undergraduate course, emphasising on library management, information organisation, and digital resources among others. You need a bachelor’s degree to apply for this course.
If you are a class 10th passout, pursuing an intermediate course is what you need. These courses are of two years and you can choose either the arts or commerce stream. Here are the details of the intermediate courses:
Looking for a short-duration course? Certificate courses in your field of interest are the best way to diversify your skills. Here’s a quick overview of the Nalanda Open University certificate courses:
The postgraduate programmes are of two years and require a relevant bachelor’s degree with a certain minimum marks for admission. The university offers PG courses such as MA, MSc, MCom, MJMC, MCA and MLIS. Here are the courses offered by Nalanda Open University:
It is a two-year postgraduate course which can be pursued in a specialisation of your choice. There is a wide range of majors you can choose like economics, environmental science, geography, etc. Let’s get an overview of the MA course:
Following the same format for the MA course, this programme is for science students. You can opt for different subject choices as per your interests and career aspirations. Here are some particulars of the MSc programme:
This programme offers advanced knowledge in accounting, business management, finance, auditing and taxation, among other topics. This 2-year MCom course is one of the most popularly chosen programmes at Nalanda Open University
This programme focuses on providing you with in-depth knowledge and expertise in the computer science field. It is of 3-year duration and consists of four semesters.
The MLIS course is for training professionals to handle modern information roles, covering traditional library management practices and current upgradations. Let’s see the particulars of this course:
The Nalanda Open University offers PG diploma courses in various streams for those who do not want to spend much time in pursuing full-time degrees. These diploma courses are of 1 year duration and are excellent for those intending to switch careers or working professionals looking to enhance their skills. Here is the list of PG diploma courses:
The university has a very straightforward and simple eligibility criteria. So, before you start the application process, make sure that you are fully aware of the admission criteria of the university.
The admission process for Nalanda Open University is simple and completely online. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to apply at any course the Nalanda Open University.
*If your desired course has the criteria of entrance exam like BEd, then there will be an additional step before the verification of your candidature.
Nalanda Open University stands as a testament to the quality education which is breaking all the traditional barriers. The university presents you with a wide range of courses including UG, PG, diploma and certificates in arts, commerce and science streams. It has am affordable fee structure which makes it economically viable option for a larger section of the society. Choosing Nalanda Open University can be a good investment for your future. However, do a thorough research of the course you are aiming for, study its syllabus and then take the final call.
Nalanda Open University is recognised by UGC, therefore, its degrees are valid and credible in the market.
Commonly, IGNOU is considered a better choice because it is nationally and internationally recognised. However, NOU is also a good option.
The application process of Nalanda Open University is completely online. You have to fill the application form provided on the university website.
As long as your degree is valid and recognised by UGC, it will be accepted by employers across the country.
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