Yes, Degrees obtained through Online or Distance mode are valid provided approval is given by the UGC-DEB to the University/Deemed to be University to offer the said programme. Details of the Universities/ Deemed to be Universities empowered to offer courses under Online/distance mode are available at UGC website https://deb.ugc.ac.in/. 

Yes, UGC via its notification dated 02-09-2023 has clearly mentioned that any degree received via Online or Distance mode is equivalent to the degrees offered through regular mode. The link for the same is https://deb.ugc.ac.in/Uploads/Notices_Upload/UGC_20220906101709_1.pdf. Accordingly, we can be sure that MA done via Online or Distance mode is as good as a regular MA. 

 The Accreditations or Approvals required by Indian Universities to start Online and distance learning programs are: -

• University Grants Commission (UGC) Approval: Indian universities, whether traditional or open, need to obtain approval from the UGC to offer online courses. The UGC had issued specific regulations for open and distance learning, which also apply to online education. These regulations specified the norms and standards that institutions had to adhere to while offering online programs.

• Compliance with Distance Education Regulations: In addition to UGC regulations, universities offering online programs also had to comply with the Distance Education Bureau (DEB) regulations, which governed open and distance learning programs.

• Approval from AICTE: The AICTE primarily focuses on technical education, including engineering, management, pharmacy or applied sciences and Indian Universities specifically do not require AICTE approval to start online courses. Its role is to regulate and promote technical education in India. These regulations are mainly applied to traditional universities and institutions that offer online or distance education programs.

• Quality Assurance: Indian universities are required to maintain the quality and standards of education in online programs. This often involves regular assessment and accreditation by bodies like the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) or the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
  
• Rankings: The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) is a ranking system for higher education institutions in India. It was launched by the Ministry of Education in 2015 to assess and rank Indian universities and colleges based on various parameters. NIRF rankings aim to provide prospective students and other stakeholders with valuable information about the quality and performance of educational institutions

An Online MA in Public Policy and Governance is ideal for individuals interested in shaping public policy, influencing governance structures, and working towards social change. It is suitable for professionals in government, NGOs, think tanks, or international organizations who seek to advance their careers, as well as those aspiring to leadership roles in the public sector. The program is also beneficial for individuals who wish to balance their education with work commitments and those passionate about addressing complex societal challenges through policy and governance solutions.

After completing an Online MA in Public Policy and Governance, you can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in the public and private sectors. This includes roles such as policy analyst, government administrator, public affairs consultant, or program manager in government agencies, NGOs, international organizations, or think tanks. You can also continue your academic journey with further studies, such as a Ph.D. in Public Policy, or take on leadership positions in advocacy, policy research, and governance. Additionally, the degree opens doors to opportunities in areas like international relations, public health, and environmental policy.

An Online MA in Public Policy and Governance is a great career option for individuals passionate about shaping public policies and influencing governance. It provides a flexible and cost-effective way to gain advanced knowledge in areas like policy analysis, public administration, and governance. Graduates can pursue impactful careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, and think tanks, where they can contribute to societal development and drive positive change. With growing demand for skilled professionals in the public sector, this degree offers excellent career prospects and opportunities for leadership roles.

After completing an Online MA in Public Policy and Governance, graduates can pursue various career opportunities in both public and private sectors. Common roles include policy analysts, who assess and recommend policy changes; public affairs consultants, who advise on regulatory and communication strategies; and government administrators, who manage public services and programs. Other options include program managers for public sector initiatives, researchers in policy or governance, public relations specialists, and leadership roles in NGOs or international organizations. Graduates can also work as political consultants, influencing campaigns and policymaking. These roles allow individuals to shape and improve public policy, governance, and societal outcomes.

The program's standard duration is 2 years, with students having the flexibility to complete it within a maximum timeframe of 4 years.

The cost of an online MA typically falls within a more affordable range compared to traditional MA programs, with fees ranging from approximately INR 12,000 to 40,000 Per Semester. The specific fee you encounter will depend on your choice of university or institute for completing the course.

Online education can include live lectures through video conferencing or webinars, but it depends on the specific course or program. Some online courses offer live, interactive sessions with instructors, while others are entirely self-paced with pre-recorded content. The format can vary, so it's important to check the course details to determine whether live lectures are part of the online education experience.