BENGALURU: Around 60 engineering colleges may introduce a BSc Honours course in Science from this academic year. On Tuesday, the Visvesvaraya Technological University sought government nod to start the course which is in sync with the new National Education Policy (NEP).
The 4-year BSc (Hons) programme will have Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) subjects. The science and engineering departments will conduct classes on campus and each college can have 60 students per course.
“This course will be different from those in degree colleges given the emphasis on STEM subjects. The open electives, project work and internship will be STEM-centric and from engineering background,” said vice-chancellor Karisiddappa.
Proposal to choose students through CET
The open electives, project work and internship will be STEM-centric and from engineering background like Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity and Internet of Things, among others. It’ll be like courses offered in the Indian Institute of Science and other premier technological institutions,” said vice-chancellor Karisidappa.
There is a proposal to select students through the Common Entrance Test. Engineering colleges offering this programme will be chosen based on NAAC and NBA accreditation and Local Inspection Committee reports. With government colleges not having NBA accreditation, they’re unlikely to offer the course this year. “As most engineering colleges have placement cells, students can benefit from them,” the VC said.
While admission to all BSc programmes in most colleges is over, VTU hopes its course will enthuse those keen to join. “Some students passionate about STEM subjects may want to join an engineering college. Others may prefer pure sciences over engineering. The number of students completing PU course is higher than last year because of the all-promotion policy. The increase in seats will benefit them,” Karisidappa said.
