The Higher Education Commission Pakistan (HEC) has approved dual and joint-degree programs for universities across the country, introducing new academic opportunities for students in higher education.
Under the new policy, university students in Pakistan will now be able to enroll in two different degree programs at the same time.
Students Can Pursue Two Degrees Together
According to HEC officials:
- 📘 Students can study two degree programs simultaneously
- 📘 The degrees do not have to belong to the same department or discipline
- 📘 Universities will be allowed to offer dual-degree programs under approved guidelines
Officials said the initiative aims to provide students with broader academic and professional opportunities.
HEC Also Approves Joint-Degree Programs
The commission has also approved:
- Joint-degree programs between universities
- Academic partnerships between local and international institutions
Under this system, students will be able to:
- Complete part of their studies at one university
- Finish the remaining semesters at another institution
Universities Must Sign Approved Agreements
According to the new framework:
- Universities must sign an HEC-approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
- Institutions will need to follow official academic standards before launching programs
The policy will also allow Pakistani universities to collaborate with foreign institutions for joint-degree offerings.
Aim of the New Policy
HEC officials stated that the decision is intended to:
- Expand academic flexibility
- Improve higher education standards
- Increase international collaboration
- Provide students with diverse learning opportunities
Final Words
The approval of dual and joint-degree programs marks a major development in Pakistan’s higher education sector. Students will now have more flexibility to pursue multiple academic pathways and gain broader educational exposure through local and international university partnerships.
