Overview – Panjab University Department of Correspondence Studies

Official Name: Department of Correspondence Studies, Panjab University
Short Names: PU Department of Correspondence Studies, PU-DCS
Type: Central University (Panjab University is a Central University)
Established: Correspondence studies initiated in 1962
Location: Chandigarh, Punjab, India
Campuses: Main campus at Sector 14, Chandigarh
Approvals & Accreditation: Recognized by University Grants Commission (UGC)
NAAC Grade: 'A+' Grade (cycle 3, 2022)
Official Website: https://pu.ac.in

Quick Facts

• Founder/Head: Department is under Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Arun Kumar Grover (as of 2024)
• Student Count: Approximately 3000+ distance learners
• Faculty/Department Count: Part of Panjab University's sprawling faculties; dedicated faculty for correspondence
• Contact Info: Department of Correspondence Studies, Panjab University, Sector 14, Chandigarh – 160014; Phone: +91-172-2534814, Email: director-correspondence@pu.ac.in
• NAAC Grade: A+ (2022)
• NIRF Rank: Panjab University overall ranked 38th among Indian universities in NIRF 2023 – NIRF 2023

Courses & Programs

The Department of Correspondence Studies offers distance learning programs affiliated with the diverse faculties of Panjab University including Arts, Commerce, Science, Education, Law, and Management.

• Popular UG Programs: B.A., B.Com, B.Sc (various streams)
• Popular PG Programs: M.A., M.Com, M.Sc., M.Ed., M.L.I.Sc.
• Diploma/Certificate Courses: Various skill and vocational courses
• Ph.D. Programs: Not offered through correspondence
• Duration: Typically 3 years (UG) / 2 years (PG)
• Mode: Distance education (correspondence mode)
• Intake: Varies by program; Not officially published

Admissions

• Admission Mode: Merit-based through qualifying exam marks
• Accepted Exams: No entrance exams; eligibility based on 10+2 for UG and bachelor’s degree for PG courses
• Timeline: Admissions usually open during June-July for odd semester; application deadlines vary
• Admission Page: Department of Correspondence Studies Admission Portal
• How to Apply:
1. Visit the official correspondence studies site.
2. Download and fill the admission form.
3. Submit fees as per the program.
4. Send form and documents by post or apply online if available.

Eligibility

• UG Courses: Passed 10+2 examination from recognized board, minimum 35%-40% aggregate marks depending on course
• PG Courses: Graduation in relevant discipline with minimum 45% aggregate marks
• Age Limit: No age restrictions
• Documents Required: Mark sheets, degree certificates, identity proof, passport size photos

Fee & Scholarships

• Indicative Fees: Approx. ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year depending on program
• Hostel Fee: Not applicable (distance education mode)
• Exam Fee: Included in course fee or nominal separately
• Scholarships: Available for SC/ST/OBC/EWS and meritorious students via state and central govt schemes
  Details: National Scholarship Portal

Placements

Not applicable – Department offers distance education courses without campus placements.

Campus & Facilities

• Access to main Panjab University library and e-resources for correspondence students
• Dedicated student support cell for correspondence courses
• Wi-Fi campus at main university zones
• Study material dispatch via postal and online modes
• No hostel or mess facilities for correspondence students

Faculty & Research

Correspondence studies primarily focus on teaching; research activities are managed through Panjab University’s various departments.

Rankings

• NIRF 2023: Panjab University overall – Rank 38
  Source
• NAAC 2022: 'A+' Grade (CGPA 3.38)
  NAAC Portal
• QS, India Today, Outlook rankings specific to correspondence department not available.

Results, Cut-Offs & Seat Matrix

Not separately published; admissions based on qualifying marks and availability.
Official info: Department of Correspondence Studies Results and Notices

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (IXC), ~15 km from campus
• Nearest Railway Station: Chandigarh Railway Station (~4 km)
• Local Transit: City buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis connect the university campus with Chandigarh city

FAQs

Q1: How do I apply for correspondence courses at Panjab University?

A: Visit the official department site, download and fill the form, pay fees, and submit documents offline or online as per instructions.

Q2: Are there entrance exams for admission?

A: No entrance exams; admission is based on past qualifying examination marks.

Q3: What is the duration of UG courses through correspondence?

A: Generally, 3 years for UG courses like B.A., B.Com, and B.Sc.

Q4: Can I get hostel accommodation as a correspondence student?

A: No hostel facilities are provided for distance learning students.

Q5: Is the degree from correspondence mode recognized?

A: Yes, degrees are awarded by Panjab University and recognized by UGC.

Q6: What is the approximate fee for a PG course?

A: Around ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per year depending on the course.

Q7: Are scholarships available for distance learners?

A: Yes, PSC/ST/OBC and merit scholarships are available through government schemes.

Q8: How can I check my exam results?

A: Results are published on the official correspondence department website: https://dcs.puchd.ac.in.

Q9: Can I pursue a Ph.D. via correspondence mode?

A: No, doctoral programs are not offered through distance mode.

Q10: Who can I contact for admission queries?

A: Contact the Department of Correspondence Studies via phone +91-172-2534814 or email director-correspondence@pu.ac.in.