Distance learning gives you an edge

After completing a three-year course in civil engineering from Berhampur, Orissa, in 2002, Komiti Gouri thought of expanding her knowledge base and improving her skill sets in the same discipline. She had the option of enrolling in a regular programme but opted for a distance learning courseGandhi National Open University) as it was economical, offered flexibility of timing and enabled her to pursue self-study. Besides, setting and meeting her own deadlines was challenging for her.

“Civil engineering is a competitive field, especially when it comes to getting a job in the public sector. The BTech programme in construction management from Ignou offered great scope. The degree came in handy during my job hunt as my employer was looking for candidates who were new to practical training,” says Gouri, now an assistant engineer with BHEL in Hyderabad, who won a gold medal in Ignou’s 2009 batch of BTech in civil engineering.

When it comes to getting a job, candidates need not despair, say experts. “It does not matter whether you hold a regular or a distance learning degree. Those who have done courses through the distance learning mode are eligible for employment if the degree is approved by the Distance Education Council (DEC),” says Vikas Gupta, director, DEC.