University of Melbourne & UGC Partner to Develop Dual Degree Programs

The University of Melbourne has partnered with India's University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Australian High Commission in Delhi to conduct an Internationalisation Workshop at its Melbourne Global Centre in Delhi.

During the workshop, Indian universities identified a pathway to create dual and joint degree programs that focus on international credit systems, regulatory structures, and methods for cross-border academic collaborations.

Numerous leaders from Indian universities participated in the workshop that was in accordance with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It emphasized adaptable learning frameworks and global outreach.

“Through the implementation of transnational education (TNE) via dual degrees and blended programs, students in India can connect with premier global universities while still being linked to local prospects.” “This method guarantees affordability, adaptability, and significance in India’s varied educational environment,” states the university announcement.

"Our dual degree program, introduced in 2023, provides options for students to pursue their studies in Melbourne." These initiatives are part of a ten-year endeavor, backed by PhD scholarships and research partnerships via the Melbourne India Postgraduate Academy (MIPA),” Professor Ashok Kumar stated.

"The university has collaborated with Indian organizations since 2008 to create scalable models." In 2016, it introduced the Bachelor of Science (Blended) program, which is currently available at five Indian universities such as Savitribai Phule Pune University and the University of Madras.

In 2023, it launched the Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) degree, enabling students to pursue studies in both Australia and India.

George Thiveos, the Australian Minister-Counsellor for Education & Research, stated, “Education is an excellent means to link our societies, yet it must not be a one-sided approach.” For this reason, we wholeheartedly endorse initiatives like this that illustrate our collective dedication to establishing avenues for Indian students to reach global opportunities, while also nurturing enduring strategic partnerships between Australian and Indian universities.