Visakhapatnam: Several degree colleges in Andhra Pradesh have recently begun integrating advanced courses into conventional degree curricula, offering them as minors or skill-based programmes.

For example, a BSc student can now opt for minors or skill development courses such as fundamentals of economics, management, principles of accounting, public administration, entrepreneurship development, data analytics, and business writing. Similarly, Arts students have the option to choose from subjects like basic mathematics, statistics, principles of chemistry, and marketing skills. This marks a significant shift from previous norms, as until recently, such minor programs were primarily available only in engineering colleges.

Colleges believe this transition not only fosters interdisciplinary learning but also significantly boosts employability by equipping students with practical, industry-relevant skills that go beyond their core subjects.Prof K Vedavathi, principal of the school of science at Gitam Deemed to be University, said the 11 BSc and 11 MSc programs, along with MCA and BCA courses offered at the school, are designed to empower students not only with deep subject knowledge but also with the flexibility and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

"This initiative represents a conscious move towards multidisciplinary education, which is expected to be a pathway to holistic development. Under the NEP-2020 framework, students enrolled in undergraduate science programs at Gitam have the unique opportunity to pursue minors in other disciplines. Students can select minors from a diverse array of disciplines and flexible liberal education courses, such as atmospheric physics, business analytics, quantum computing, and Carnatic vocal music.

This broad-based approach not only expands intellectual horizons but also equips students with versatile skills that are crucial in today's dynamic job market It plays a vital role in nurturing critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability — qualities essential for both professional success and personal growth," Vedavathi explained.K Gunda Reddy, president of Andhra Pradesh private degree college managements association, noted that when the four-year honours program with a single major was introduced two years ago, guidelines were issued to ensure degree programs allowed students to focus on their chosen major while also pursuing minors and skill development programmes aligned with their interests.