Four-Year Undergraduate Program – Comprehensive Academic Guidelines and Regulations
IMPORTANT NOTICE All rules and regulations mentioned in this document are as per the University of North Bengal guidelines. In case of any discrepancy or if the information is not updated on the college website, students are advised to refer to and follow the official University of North Bengal guidelines and notifications. The University reserves the right to modify these regulations from time to time, and students should regularly check the official university website for the most current information.
1. CURRICULUM STRUCTURE AND ACADEMIC FRAMEWORK
The University of North Bengal has designed a comprehensive four-year undergraduate program that offers students flexibility in choosing their academic path while ensuring quality education. All courses offered under this program are carefully designed and regularly updated by the respective Undergraduate Board of Studies for each subject. This ensures that students receive current, relevant, and industry-aligned education that prepares them for future challenges.
The curriculum is structured to provide both depth and breadth of knowledge, allowing students to specialise in their chosen field while gaining exposure to interdisciplinary subjects. The University periodically reviews and revises the syllabus to incorporate new developments in various fields and maintain academic excellence.
A. Single Major Single Minor Program – Detailed Structure
This program is designed for students who want to develop expertise in one primary subject while gaining substantial knowledge in a secondary subject. This approach provides students with specialised skills while maintaining academic versatility.
Core Requirements and Selection Process:
• Major Course Selection: Students must choose one subject as their primary area of study (Major Course). This subject will constitute the largest portion of their academic coursework and will be the focus of their specialisation. The major subject will be studied intensively across all four years, with advanced topics covered in later semesters.
• Minor Course Selection: Students must select a different subject as their Minor Course. This secondary subject provides complementary knowledge and skills that enhance the student’s overall academic profile. The minor subject cannot be the same as the major subject, ensuring students gain diverse knowledge. The minor course is studied for a shorter duration but still provides a substantial understanding of the subject.
• Inter-Disciplinary Course Groups: Students must select one group comprising three Inter-Disciplinary Courses from the available pool. These courses are designed to bridge different academic disciplines and provide students with a broader perspective on various fields of study. Each group has specific eligibility conditions that students must meet based on their academic background and chosen major/minor subjects.
• Skill Enhancement Courses: Students are required to choose three Skill Enhancement Courses to be studied in the first three semesters (Semesters I, II, and III). These courses are practical and focus on developing specific skills that are valuable in the job market. The courses cover areas such as communication skills, computer applications, entrepreneurship, and other professional competencies.
Mandatory Course Requirements:
• Value Added Courses – Building Character and Awareness:
- Environmental Education (1st Semester): This course creates awareness about environmental issues, sustainability, and ecological conservation. Students learn about climate change, pollution control, biodiversity, and their role as responsible citizens in environmental protection.
- Understanding India (4th Semester): This comprehensive course helps students understand India’s rich cultural heritage, social diversity, economic development, political system, and contemporary challenges. It fosters national consciousness and cultural appreciation.
• Ability Enhancement Courses – Communication and Language Skills:
- Compulsory English (2nd Semester): This course strengthens students’ English language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension. It focuses on academic writing, business communication, and effective presentation skills essential for professional success.
- Modern Indian Language (MIL) – 3rd Semester: Students choose from Bengali, Nepali, Hindi, Urdu, Sanskrit, or Alternative English. This course preserves linguistic diversity and helps students connect with their cultural roots while developing multilingual capabilities.
B. Three Discipline-Specific Multidisciplinary Program – Comprehensive Approach
This innovative program is designed for students who wish to gain substantial knowledge in three different but related disciplines. This approach prepares students for careers that require interdisciplinary knowledge and skills.
Core Requirements and Academic Structure:
• Three Subject Selection: Students must choose three subjects designated as DSC 1 (Discipline Specific Course 1), DSC 2 (Discipline Specific Course 2), and Minor. Each subject is selected from carefully designed subject baskets provided by the University. These baskets ensure that chosen subjects complement each other and provide a coherent academic experience.
• Inter-Disciplinary Integration: Students select one group comprising three Inter-Disciplinary Courses from the available pool. These courses are specifically designed to show connections between different fields of study and help students understand how various disciplines interact in real-world applications.
• Skill Development Focus: Three Skill Enhancement Courses are studied in Semesters I, II, and III. These courses are tailored to develop practical skills that are relevant to the student’s chosen combination of subjects and future career prospects.
Mandatory Course Requirements:
• Value Added Courses – Different Sequence:
- Understanding India (1st Semester): Introduced early to provide foundational knowledge about Indian society, culture, and systems.
- Environmental Education (4th Semester): Studied later to build upon the understanding gained in other subjects and apply environmental concepts more effectively.
• Ability Enhancement Courses – Modified Sequence:
- Modern Indian Language (2nd Semester): An Earlier introduction to strengthen linguistic skills.
- Compulsory English (3rd Semester): Studied later to build upon an improved communication foundation.
2. HONOURS WITH RESEARCH PROGRAM – Advanced Academic Opportunity
This prestigious program is designed for academically exceptional students who wish to engage in research activities at the undergraduate level. It provides an excellent foundation for students planning to pursue higher studies or research careers.
Eligibility Criteria and Academic Excellence:
• Minimum CGPA Requirement: Students must maintain a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 7.5 or above in their first six semesters. This high standard ensures that only academically strong students who can handle the rigour of research work are admitted to this program.
• Demonstrated Research Interest: Students must show genuine interest in research activities and have the motivation to pursue independent academic work under faculty guidance.
Research Requirements and Academic Outcomes:
• Research Project/Dissertation: Students must complete a substantial research project or dissertation in their major discipline during the seventh and eighth semesters. This project should demonstrate original thinking, proper research methodology, and a significant contribution to the field of study.
• Faculty Supervision: All research work must be conducted under the guidance of a qualified faculty member from the University or an affiliated college. The supervisor provides academic guidance, monitors progress, and ensures research quality.
• Publication and Dissemination Opportunities: Students are encouraged to publish their research findings in peer-reviewed journals, present their work at academic conferences and seminars, or file for patents if their research has practical applications. This exposure helps students build their academic credentials and professional network.
Institutional Requirements for Quality Assurance:
• Library and Information Resources: Institutions must provide adequate library facilities with access to academic journals, research databases, and reference materials necessary for quality research work.
• Technology Infrastructure: Well-equipped computer labs with necessary software, internet access, and data analysis tools are essential for modern research activities.
• Laboratory Facilities: For experimental research, institutions must provide appropriate laboratory facilities with necessary equipment, chemicals, and safety measures.
• Faculty Qualifications: Institutions must have at least two permanent faculty members with Ph.D degrees in relevant fields to ensure proper research supervision and academic guidance.
3. ATTENDANCE POLICY – Academic Discipline and Engagement
The University maintains strict attendance requirements to ensure students receive a comprehensive education and develop disciplinary habits essential for professional success.
Mandatory Attendance Requirements:
• Minimum 75% Attendance: Students must attend at least 75% of all classes held in each course. This includes regular lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, field work, and other curricular activities. Attendance is calculated separately for each course, and students must meet the requirement in every subject.
• No Exceptions Policy: Students who fail to meet the 75% attendance requirement in any course will not be permitted to appear for the semester-end written examination in that particular course. This policy is strictly enforced without exceptions, regardless of the student’s academic performance in other areas.
• Monitoring and Documentation: Colleges maintain detailed attendance records for each student in every course. Regular monitoring helps identify students at risk of falling below the attendance requirement, allowing for timely intervention and guidance.
4. ADMISSION ELIGIBILITY – Entry Requirements and Standards
The University has established clear eligibility criteria to ensure that admitted students have the necessary academic foundation to succeed in the undergraduate program.
Basic Requirements for All Programs
• Higher Secondary Education: Students must have completed their Higher Secondary (10+2) examination from the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education or any other examination recognised as equivalent by the University. This ensures all students have a standardised level of pre-university education.
• English Language Proficiency: English must have been studied as a compulsory subject in the Higher Secondary examination. This requirement ensures that all students have the necessary language skills to handle university-level coursework conducted in English.
• Minimum Subject Requirement: Students must have passed in at least four subjects in their Higher Secondary examination. This demonstrates academic capability across multiple disciplines and ensures students have a broad educational foundation.
Single Major Single Minor Program – Detailed Eligibility
This program has specific academic performance requirements designed to ensure students can handle the intensive study required in major and minor subjects.
Academic Performance Standards:
• Standard Eligibility – 55% Aggregate: Students who have obtained 55% or more marks in their Higher Secondary examination aggregate are eligible to apply for any subject as a major, provided they meet subject-specific requirements.
• Alternative Eligibility – 50% with Subject Excellence: Students with 50% aggregate marks but who have scored 60% or more in their chosen major subject or a related subject are also eligible. This provision recognises students who may have strong aptitude in specific areas despite lower overall performance.
• Merit-Based Selection: Final admission is based on merit ranking and availability of seats in the chosen subject combination. Higher-scoring students receive preference in seat allocation.
Reserved Category Provisions:
• Government Policy Compliance: SC/ST/OBC-A/OBC-B/PWD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates receive admission benefits as per State Government rules. This ensures educational opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Disability Requirements: For PWD candidates, a minimum disability of 40% is required for availing of reservation benefits. Proper medical certification is necessary to establish disability status.
• Rounding Policy for Fairness: The University follows a rounding policy where 54.5% and above is considered equal to 55%, 49.5% and above equals 50%, and 59.5% and above equals 60%. This prevents students from being disadvantaged by small decimal differences.
Three Discipline Specific Multidisciplinary Program – Flexible Entry
This program offers more flexible entry requirements while maintaining academic standards.
Standard Requirements:
• Four Subject Requirement: Students must have passed in at least four subjects, with English as compulsory in their Higher Secondary examination. This ensures adequate academic breadth for multidisciplinary study.
• Vocational Stream Accommodation: Students from vocational streams are welcome to apply and can pursue the multidisciplinary program. However, they have the option to complete their studies up to the 6th semester, providing flexibility for students with different educational backgrounds.
5. SUBJECT SELECTION GUIDELINES – Choosing Your Academic Path
The University provides detailed guidelines for subject selection to help students make informed decisions about their academic career. These guidelines ensure that students choose subjects that align with their interests, capabilities, and career goals.
Economics Major – Versatile Career Preparation
Economics is a popular subject that can be pursued under both B.A. and B.Sc. programs, depending on the student’s minor subject choice and career aspirations.
Program Options:
• B.Sc. Economics: Students choosing Mathematics or Statistics as their minor subject can pursue Economics as a B.Sc. major. This combination provides strong quantitative skills and prepares students for careers in data analysis, economic research, banking, and financial services.
• B.A. Economics: Students selecting their minor from Arts, Humanities, or Social Science streams can pursue Economics as a B.A. major. This combination offers a broader liberal arts education and prepares students for careers in public administration, policy analysis, journalism, and social work.
Geography Major – Understanding Our World
Geography offers students the opportunity to understand the relationship between human activities and the natural environment, with career applications in both scientific and social fields.
Program Options:
• B.Sc. Geography: Students choosing their minor from the Science stream can pursue Geography as a B.Sc. major. This combination emphasises the scientific aspects of geography, including physical geography, climatology, and environmental science, preparing students for careers in environmental consulting, meteorology, and geographical research.
• B.A. Geography: Students selecting their minor from Arts, Humanities, or Social Science streams can pursue Geography as a B.A. major. This combination focuses on human geography, urban planning, and socio-economic aspects, preparing students for careers in urban planning, tourism, and social research.
Multidisciplinary Program Subject Combinations
The multidisciplinary program allows students to combine subjects from different streams, creating unique academic profiles.
Economics in Multidisciplinary Programs:
• B.Sc. Multidisciplinary with Economics: Students can choose Economics as one of their three subjects (DSC) and combine it with Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science. This creates a strong quantitative foundation suitable for careers in data science, economic modelling, and financial analysis.
• B.A. Multidisciplinary with Economics: Students can combine Economics with other subjects from the Arts, Humanities, or Social Science streams. This creates a broad liberal arts education suitable for careers in public policy, social research, and administration.
Geography in Multidisciplinary Programs:
• B.Sc. Multidisciplinary with Geography: Students can combine Geography with other Science stream subjects, creating opportunities for careers in environmental science, geological survey, and scientific research.
• B.A. Multidisciplinary with Geography: Students can combine Geography with Arts or Social Science subjects, preparing for careers in urban planning, regional development, and social geography.
Subject-Specific Prerequisites – Ensuring Academic Success
The University has established specific prerequisites for various subjects to ensure students have the necessary background knowledge for success.
Science Subjects – Building on Strong Foundations:
• Physics Major: Students must have studied Mathematics, Chemistry, and Physics in their Higher Secondary examination. This combination ensures students have the mathematical and scientific foundation necessary for advanced physics coursework.
• Chemistry Major/Minor: For Chemistry as a major subject, students need Mathematics and Physics along with Chemistry. For Chemistry as a DSC or minor, only Chemistry in Higher Secondary is required. This flexible approach accommodates different levels of interest and career goals.
• Biology-Based Subjects: Students interested in Botany, Zoology, or Physiology must have studied Biology in their Higher Secondary examination. This ensures they have the fundamental knowledge of life sciences necessary for these specialised fields.
• Computer Science: Students must have studied Mathematics or Statistics in Higher Secondary. This requirement ensures students have the logical and mathematical foundation necessary for programming and computational thinking.
• Microbiology: Students need both Chemistry and Biology in their Higher Secondary examination. This interdisciplinary subject requires knowledge from both areas for successful study.
Commerce and Liberal Arts – Flexible Entry:
• B.Com Programs: Students who have studied Science subjects along with Mathematics in their Higher Secondary can pursue Commerce programs. This provides an alternative career path for science students interested in business and finance.
• Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology, Education: These subjects are open to students from any stream, recognising that interest and aptitude in these areas can develop regardless of previous academic focus.
• Statistics: Available only as Minor or DSC for students who have studied Mathematics or Statistics in Higher Secondary, ensuring adequate mathematical preparation.
6. MERIT CALCULATION – Fair and Transparent Selection
The University uses a standardised merit calculation system to ensure fair and transparent admission processes.
Single Major Single Minor Program Merit Calculation
The merit calculation method depends on whether the student has studied their chosen major subject at the Higher Secondary level.
For Students Who Studied the Subject at +2 Level: Merit = (Marks in Major/Related Subject + Marks in English + Best Marks in Two Other Subjects) ÷ 4
This method gives weightage to performance in the chosen major subject, recognising students who have demonstrated aptitude in their area of interest.
For Students Who Did Not Study the Subject at +2 Level: Merit = (Marks in English + Best Marks in Three Other Subjects) ÷ 4
This method focuses on overall academic performance and English proficiency, providing opportunities for students to explore new subjects not studied previously.
Three Discipline-Specific Multidisciplinary Program Merit Calculation
Merit = (Marks in English + Marks in Three Other Subjects) ÷ 4
This method emphasises overall academic performance and English proficiency, suitable for the multidisciplinary nature of the program.
7. ACADEMIC CALENDAR – Structured Learning Timeline
The University follows a well-structured academic calendar designed to provide adequate time for learning, assessment, and academic activities.
Session Structure and Timing:
• Academic Year Commencement: The academic year begins in July each year, providing students with a fresh start after the summer break and Higher Secondary examinations.
• Teaching Day Requirements: Each semester must have at least 90 teaching days, excluding examination periods and admission activities. This ensures adequate time for comprehensive coverage of the curriculum and meaningful student-teacher interaction.
• Semester Organisation:
- Odd Semesters (1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th): July to December, allowing students to start their academic journey in the middle of the calendar year.
- Even Semesters (2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th): January to June, providing continuity and completion of the academic year by mid-year.
Benefits of This Structure: • Provides adequate time for fieldwork, practical training, and dissertation work • Allows for proper preparation and conduct of examinations • Enables students to utilise summer breaks for internships and skill development • Aligns with the academic calendar of other universities for transfer and collaboration opportunities
8. SPECIAL PROVISIONS – Inclusive and Supportive Policies
The University has implemented various special provisions to ensure educational accessibility and support for all students.
Seat Reservation – Promoting Educational Equity
Reserved Categories: • SC/ST/OBC/EWS (Economically Weaker Sections): Reservation as per Government rules ensures educational opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. • Differently-Abled (PWD): Students with disabilities receive reservation benefits, promoting inclusive education. • Minimum Disability Requirement: 40% disability is required for PWD reservation, with proper medical certification.
Benefits of Reservation: • Promotes social justice and educational equality • Ensures diverse student body with varied perspectives • Provides opportunities for merit recognition across different social groups • Supports national goals of inclusive development
Session Regulations – Flexibility with Accountability
Gap Year Provisions: • Maximum Permissible Gap: Students can have a maximum gap of 3 years between their Higher Secondary examination and university admission. This provision accommodates students who may need time for competitive exam preparation, financial arrangements, or personal circumstances.
• Re-entry Opportunities: Students who exit the program with an Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma can re-enter within 3 years to complete their degree. This provides second chances for students who may have faced temporary difficulties.
• Study Break Allowances: Students can take breaks during their study period due to health, financial, or family reasons. However, the total program duration cannot exceed 7 years from the date of admission.
Benefits of Flexible Timing: • Accommodates diverse student circumstances • Reduces academic stress and dropout rates • Provides opportunities for practical experience and skill development • Supports students with family or financial responsibilities
Transfer Policies – Maintaining Academic Continuity
Transfer Requirements and Procedures:
• Transfer Certificate Mandate: Students must obtain a proper transfer certificate from their previous institution before admission to a new college. This ensures proper academic record maintenance and prevents fraudulent admissions.
• Optimal Timing: Transfers are preferably processed at the end of semesters to avoid disruption of academic continuity. This timing allows students to complete their current semester’s work and start fresh in the new institution.
• Special Circumstances: Transfers may be granted at other times for specific reasons such as parent/guardian job transfer, health issues supported by medical evidence, or other compelling circumstances. This flexibility ensures that genuine hardships don’t prevent students from continuing their education.
Transfer Process Requirements: • Application within one month of semester result publication • Clear record in all previous semester examinations without any backlogs • Availability of seats in the receiving institution • Same course of study in both institutions • Written intimation to University authorities within a fortnight
Automatic Termination Policy – Ensuring Serious Commitment
Attendance-Based Termination: • Grace Period: New students have 15 days from the start of the first semester to establish regular attendance • Automatic Cancellation: Continuous absence for more than 15 days without any communication results in automatic admission cancellation • Purpose: This policy ensures that admitted students are serious about their studies and don’t occupy seats that could be used by other interested students
Benefits of This Policy: • Maintains seriousness of academic commitment • Allows redistribution of seats to waitlisted students • Establishes disciplinary expectations from the beginning • Protects the academic environment from disruptive influences
9. PROGRAM COMPLETION – Flexible Exit and Achievement Options
The University offers a flexible program structure that allows students to exit at different stages with appropriate qualifications while encouraging completion of the full four-year program.
Duration and Completion Requirements:
• Standard Program Duration: The program is designed to be completed in 4 years, with each year building upon the previous year’s knowledge and skills.
• Maximum Allowable Duration: Students have up to 7 years from their admission date to complete the program. This extended timeframe accommodates students who may need to take breaks for personal, financial, or health reasons.
• Flexible Exit Options: Students can exit the program at the end of any year with appropriate certification, providing options for those who may need to enter the workforce or face other circumstances.
Exit Qualification Options:
• End of Year 1: Undergraduate Certificate – Recognizes completion of foundational courses and basic academic skills • End of Year 2: Undergraduate Diploma – Demonstrates substantial academic progress and knowledge in chosen subjects • End of Year 3: Bachelor’s Degree – Full undergraduate qualification for most career and higher education opportunities • End of Year 4: Honours with Research (if eligible) – Advanced qualification with research experience for academic and professional excellence
Benefits of Flexible Exit Options: • Accommodates diverse student needs and circumstances • Provides meaningful qualifications at different levels • Reduces complete dropout rates • Allows students to return and upgrade their qualifications • Recognises partial achievement and learning.