As a first, the University of Madras is offering a BSc (Blended) multi-major undergraduate program, with Physics, Chemistry, and Maths as main subjects, in collaboration with Melbourne University.
Madras University, which offers only Ph.D. and Postgraduate programs, launched the first batch of BSc (Blended) comprising 18 students. These students will learn the curriculum and resources created by Melbourne University.
In the first two years of the BSc (Blended), students will study papers from all science streams — Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. In the final year, they can pick a major from Maths, Physics, and Chemistry. Students will have to pass exams conducted by Melbourne University to complete the degree program.
Launching the BSc (Blended) program in the university’s Guindy campus, the Vice-chancellor of Madras University S. Gowri said, the undergraduate degree is research-oriented, and students may be asked to publish papers as part of their thesis work. The program will bring various departments together and provide students access to science laboratories and other facilities.
Further elaborating on the program, VC S Gowri said, “The course has been designed to provide highly qualified education and good facilities at an affordable cost (The cost of the program is Rs.49,735). Melbourne University faculty members will take online classes for the students. The degree will be recognized worldwide as students will study in a curriculum prepared by Melbourne University.”
Throwing more light on the program, the Coordinator for the BSc (Blended) program and Head of the department of theoretical physics, Ritu John said, “Since the degree is certified by a top-rank university, the standard will be eligible to join the research program like MS of Ph.D. in foreign universities.
For the first batch of the BSc (Blended) program, 18 students were selected from 284 applicants through a written exam. Faculty members expect more demand for the program in the coming years.
Image: University of Madras portal