VIT-AP introduces dual degree in public services

The programme is designed to help students prepare for UPSC examinations during the period of graduation and postgraduation along with a degree in the subject.  

Vellore Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh (VIT-AP) has introduced a dual programme in humanities, BA-MA in public services. The programme aims to give learners the opportunity to decide at what stage they can take the UPSC exam. The programme, which includes courses on sociology, anthropology, geography, psychology, international relations, history and economics, is designed for students who are interested in social sciences. The announcement was made by the institute during a joint two-day conference with Cambridge University Press. 

VIT-AP University, in collaboration with Cambridge University Press as a knowledge partner, had organised Athena — An Annual International Conference of VIT-AP School of Social Sciences and Humanities (VISH) virtually. The two-day conference began on December 11. 

Lajwanti Naidu, Assistant Director (Strategy), Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority, inaugurated the conference in the presence of VIT Chancellor G Viswanathan. Lajwanti praised the institute for introducing the dual programme in humanities. She said, “Teaching courses like will make the students better human beings.” 

Eligibility criteria 

A minimum of 60 per cent in Class XII from any recognised boards of examination, with relaxations 
as applicable. Students from Jammu and Kashmir and North Eastern states of India, SC/ST community students should have an aggregate of 50 per cent in Class XII exams.  

Features of the programme 

The dual degree of BA and MA in public services is a five-year programme (three plus two with exit option after successful completion of BA).

• Students can choose the qualifying degree and duration for  the course. 
• On completion of three years, they can exit with the BA  degree in public services 
• Students have the option to decide when to appear for the  public services examinations based on their eligibility and  readiness. 
• They can choose their major area of specialisation according  to their area of interest. 
• They can opt for minor electives of their choice in any  department of the university. 
• They can also participate in co-curricular activities such  as clubs and chapters. 
• Integrated Training for UPSC offered by Expert IAS Trainers  (Partnership with reputed IAS Training Centre). 

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