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 M.Sc done via Online or Distance mode is as good as a regular M.Sc .

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 M.Sc in Economics is ideal for graduates, working professionals, or aspiring economists who want to deepen their understanding of economic theories, data analysis, and policy, while gaining flexibility to balance work and study commitments. It suits those aiming for roles in finance, public policy, research, and economic analysis.

After completing an Online M.Sc in Economics, you can pursue careers in economic analysis, financial services, public policy, data science, investment banking, research, or academia. You may also consider pursuing further education such as a Ph.D. in Economics or specialize in fields like econometrics or international trade.

Yes, an Online M.Sc in Economics is a great career option, offering flexibility, global recognition, and diverse opportunities in fields like finance, public policy, data analysis, and economic research. It prepares graduates for leadership roles while allowing them to balance work and study.

After completing an Online M.Sc in Economics, job opportunities include roles such as Economic Analyst, Financial Analyst, Public Policy Analyst, Data Scientist, Investment Banker, Economic Consultant, Market Research Analyst, Risk Manager, and Academician/Researcher.

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 M.Sc typically falls within a more affordable range compared to traditional M.Sc programs, with fees ranging from approximately INR 20,000 to 62,000 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.