Odisha State Open University: About Us

Odisha State Open University, established in 2022, is a state-open university headquartered in Sambalpur, Odisha. It aims to provide accessible and affordable higher education opportunities to all through open and distance learning modes. With seven regional centres across Odisha, it offers a flexible learning framework suitable for working professionals and disadvantaged groups. Upholding principles of equality, creativity, and social commitment, the university provides vocational, undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programmes spanning diverse disciplines. With industry linkages and practical exposure, the university focuses on experiential learning for better employability. Embracing the latest educational technologies, it follows blended pedagogies blending online and onsite interactions via virtual classrooms, teleconferencing, etc. Odisha State Open University strives to take quality education to the next level while upholding academic excellence.

Odisha State Open University Vision, Mission & Objectives

Vision: Quality, accessible ODL for all, empowering individuals, and developing Odisha.

Mission: Education for lifelong learning, equity, and skilled manpower.

Objectives:

• Open learning opportunities for everyone.

• Diverse programmes: UG, PG, diplomas, certificates.

• Innovative ODL technology.

• Support services for academic success.

• Research in ODL and related fields.

Odisha State Open University Admission Process, Eligibility Criteria and Fee Structure

Course	Eligibility Criteria	Duration	Fee Structure
M.A. in Odia	Bachelor's degree in any discipline	2 years	INR 11,800 (total tuition fee)
BBA	10+2 in any stream	3 years	INR 9,000 (total fees)
M.Sc	Bachelor's degree in relevant field	2 years	INR 10,400 (1st year fees)
Polytechnic	10th pass	3 years	INR 6,400 (total fees)
Diploma in Computer Application	10+2 in any stream	1-2 years	INR 4,500-30,000
Diploma in Cyber Security	10+2 in any stream	1-2 years	INR 4,500-30,000
Diploma in Tourism Studies	10+2 in any stream	1-2 years	INR 4,500-30,000
Diploma in Entrepreneurship Development	10+2 in any stream	1-2 years	INR 4,500-30,000
Certificate in Tourism Management	10+2 in any stream	6 months to 1 year	INR 4,500-30,000

How do I apply for admission to Odisha State Open University?

1. Eligibility Check:

• Confirm that you meet the minimum eligibility criteria for your desired programme. You'll find this information on the OSOU website or in the programme prospectus.

• Typically, you need to have passed 10+2 or an equivalent examination from a recognised board.

2. Application Process:

• Visit the OSOU Online Admission portal: https://onlineadmission.osou.ac.in/

• Create a user account or login if you already have one.

• Choose your desired programme and click on "Apply Now.".

• Fill out the online application form carefully, ensuring all details are accurate.

• Upload scanned copies of required documents like mark sheets, certificates, etc.

• Review your application and make any necessary corrections.

3. Payment:

• Pay the application fee online through the portal using a debit or credit card or net banking.

4. Submit and Confirmation:

• Submit your application once it is complete.

• You'll receive a confirmation email with your application ID.

Odisha State Open University Facilities

Learning resources:

• e-Library: An extensive online library with a vast collection of e-books, journals, articles, and other academic resources across various disciplines.

• Study material: Printed study materials are provided for all courses, covering the entire syllabus, and delivered to students or accessible through regional centres.

• Video lessons: A growing collection of video lectures and tutorials covering crucial topics within various programmes, accessible through the OSOU mobile app and website.

• Pragynavani: OSOU's online journal featuring research papers, articles, and other scholarly works by faculty and students, encouraging a culture of academic discourse.

Support services:

• Study centres: A network of over 200 study centres throughout Odisha provides local access to academic resources, study materials, and counselling services.

• Counselling and guidance: Dedicated counsellors at the study centres and the main campus offer academic, career, and personal guidance to students.

• Alumni association: A strong alumni network providing mentorship, career support, and networking opportunities to current students.

• Online student portal: A one-stop online platform for students to access study materials, submit assignments, check exam results, and stay updated on university news and events.

Technical infrastructure:

• Wide Area Network (WAN) and Local Area Network (LAN): High-speed network connectivity ensures smooth access to online resources and communication channels.

• Mobile app: OSOU mobile app offers access to study materials, video lessons, news updates, and other student services.

• Online examination management system: Secure and efficient system for conducting online exams and managing results.

Additional facilities:

• Physical library and computer labs: Available at the main campus in Sambalpur for students who prefer traditional resources and hands-on learning.

• Hostel facilities: Limited hostel accommodation is available at the main campus for out-of-town students.

• Cultural and sports activities: Occasional cultural events and sports tournaments are organised to promote a vibrant student life beyond academics.

Odisha State Open University Future and Career Opportunities

• Education: Teachers, trainers, and educators in specialised fields.

• Healthcare: Nurses, pharmacists, paramedics, hospital administrators.

• Information Technology: Software developers, web designers, data analysts, and IT support specialists.

• Business and Management: Entrepreneurs, marketing professionals, human resource managers, and financial analysts.

• Government and Public Sector: Administrative officers, social workers, rural development specialists, agricultural extension officers.

• Self-employment: Entrepreneurs in various sectors based on skillset and training.

Odisha State Open University Placements

• Dedicated placement cell: OSOU has a dedicated placement cell that provides career guidance, training on soft skills, and organises career counselling sessions.

• Promising sectors: While overall placement rates hover around 30–40%, certain sectors like IT, healthcare, and business management show promise, with companies like Byju's offering high packages.

• Internship opportunities: Internship opportunities seem to be readily available, sometimes exceeding student demand and providing valuable work experience.

Odisha State Open University Activities

Academic activities:

• Guest lectures and seminars: Renowned scholars and experts are invited to deliver lectures and conduct seminars on various topics, broadening students' knowledge and perspectives.

• Workshops and skill development programmes: OSOU organises workshops and skill development programmes on relevant topics like resume writing, interview skills, digital literacy, and soft skills, preparing students for professional success.

• Quiz competitions and debates: These engaging activities test students' knowledge, stimulate critical thinking, and develop presentation skills.

• Research opportunities: OSOU encourages research by faculty and students, offering grants and research facilities to pursue projects in various fields.

Cultural and social activities:

• Cultural festivals: OSOU celebrates vibrant cultural festivals showcasing Odisha's rich heritage and traditions, including folk dances, music, the arts, and literature.

• Sports tournaments: Sports competitions in various disciplines are organised, promoting physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle while fostering sportsmanship and team spirit.

• Clubs and societies: Students can join or form clubs and societies based on their interests, ranging from academic interests like debate or photography to recreational activities like music or dance.

• Alumni interactions: Regular interactions with alumni provide valuable mentorship, career guidance, and networking opportunities for current students.

Online activities:

• Webinars and online courses: OSOU offers free and paid webinars and online courses on diverse topics, allowing students to expand their knowledge and skills beyond their chosen programme.

• Online forums and communities: Active online forums and communities offer platforms for students to connect, share experiences, ask questions, and engage in discussions.

• Social media engagement: OSOU has an active presence on social media platforms, offering updates on events, news, and opportunities for students to connect and share their experiences.

Additionally:

• Volunteer opportunities: OSOU collaborates with NGOs and government agencies to provide volunteer opportunities for students to contribute to social causes and gain valuable community service experience.

• Entrepreneurship initiatives: OSOU supports student entrepreneurship through workshops, incubation centres, and funding opportunities, empowering students to create their own businesses.

Odisha State Open University Scholarships Programme

Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities:

• OSOU is open to students with disabilities pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

• The scholarship amount varies based on the degree level and type of disability.

• Application through the Odisha State Scholarship Portal.

Central Sector Scholarship Scheme:

• Available for SC, ST, OBC, and SEBC students belonging to families below the poverty line.

• Covers tuition fees and maintenance allowances.

• Application through the Central Scholarship Portal.

Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students:

• Provided by the Government of Odisha to SC/ST students pursuing higher education, including open and distance learning programmes.

• Covers tuition fees and maintenance allowances.

• Application through the official website of the Department of Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes Welfare, Odisha.

Merit Scholarships:

• OSOU offers merit scholarships to top-performing students in specific programmes.

• The eligibility criteria and amount vary depending on the scholarship programme.

• Information about merit scholarships is typically available on the OSOU website or announced in departmental notices.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities:

• Some private organisations and trusts offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing open and distance learning programmes.

• Research the available options and check the eligibility criteria thoroughly.

Odisha State Open University Affiliation and Accreditation

Affiliation:

• University Grants Commission (UGC): OSOU is affiliated with the University Grants Commission (UGC), the apex body in India for higher education. This affiliation recognizes OSOU's programs as equivalent to those offered by traditional universities and gives them national recognition.

• AICTE: For programmes requiring approval by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), OSOU holds the necessary affiliation.

Accreditation:

• NAAC: Currently, OSOU is not accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), the body that assesses the quality of higher education institutions in India. However, OSOU has made significant efforts towards meeting NAAC accreditation standards and submitted two affidavits in 2023 expressing their commitment to the process.

• DEB: For its diploma programmes, OSOU holds accreditation from the Directorate of Extension Education (DEB) of the Government of India.

Odisha State Open University Highlights

Highlight	Details
University Name	Odisha State Open University (OSOU)
Short Name	OSOU
Institute Type	Open University
Campus Location	G.M. University Campus, Sambalpur, Odisha
Established Year	2015
Approved By	UGC
Gender Accepted	Both Male and Female
Landline	0663-2521600, 2521700
Website	https://www.osou.ac.in/
Full Address	G.M. University Campus, Sambalpur, Odisha, India (768004)

Odisha State Open University's FAQs

What are the major disciplines covered by Odisha State Open University in its diploma and certificate programmes?

Answer: Odisha State Open University offers diverse programmes in disciplines such as arts (M.A. in Odia), business administration (BBA), science (M.Sc), polytechnic, computer application, cyber security, tourism studies, entrepreneurship development, and tourism management.

What is the duration of the M.A. in Odia programme at Odisha State Open University?

Answer: The M.A. in Odia programme at Odisha State Open University has a duration of 2 years.

Is there a difference in fee structures for different years in the diploma programmes at OSOU?

Answer: Yes, the fee structure for diploma programmes varies, and it is advisable to check the specific details for each programme on the OSOU website or prospectus.

How does Odisha State Open University facilitate experiential learning for better employability?

Answer: Odisha State Open University focuses on experiential learning by establishing industry linkages and providing practical exposure to students. This approach enhances their employability by preparing them for real-world scenarios.

What is Pragynavani, and how does it contribute to academic discourse at OSOU?

Answer: Pragynavani is OSOU's online journal, featuring research papers, articles, and scholarly works by faculty and students. It plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of academic discourse and intellectual exchange within the university.

What types of academic success support services does OSOU offer?

Answer: OSOU provides support services such as a network of study centres for local access to academic resources, counselling and guidance services, an alumni association for mentorship, and an online student portal for various academic activities.

Can students at Odisha State Open University access study materials through mobile devices?

Answer: Yes, students at OSOU can access study materials, video lessons, and news updates through the OSOU mobile app, making it convenient for learning on mobile devices.

How does OSOU ensure the security and efficiency of online exams through its online examination management system?

Answer: OSOU's online examination management system is designed to be secure and efficient, providing a reliable platform for conducting online exams and managing results while ensuring the integrity of the examination process.

Are there opportunities for students at OSOU to engage in physical library and computer lab facilities?

Answer: Yes, OSOU provides physical library and computer lab facilities at the main campus in Sambalpur, offering traditional resources and hands-on learning experiences for students.

What are the promising sectors for placements at OSOU, and which companies have shown interest in recruiting OSOU students?

Answer: While overall placement rates at OSOU are around 30–40%, promising sectors include IT, healthcare, and business management. Companies like Byju's have offered high packages, and internship opportunities are also readily available.

How does OSOU celebrate and showcase Odisha's rich heritage and traditions?

Answer: OSOU celebrates vibrant cultural festivals showcasing Odisha's rich heritage, including folk dances, music, the arts, and literature. These events contribute to fostering cultural understanding among students.

What kinds of activities and initiatives does OSOU undertake to promote entrepreneurship among its students?

Answer: OSOU supports student entrepreneurship through workshops, incubation centres, and funding opportunities. These initiatives empower students to develop their own businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.

Can OSOU students participate in sports competitions, and how does the university promote physical fitness?

Answer: OSOU organises sports competitions in various disciplines, promoting physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle while fostering sportsmanship and team spirit.

How does OSOU facilitate alumni interactions and networking opportunities for current students?

Answer: OSOU maintains a strong alumni network that provides mentorship, career support, and networking opportunities for current students, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Are there any scholarship opportunities available specifically for students pursuing open and distance learning programmes at OSOU?

Answer: OSOU offers various scholarship opportunities, including the Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities, the Central Sector Scholarship Scheme, and the Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students. Additionally, OSOU may have merit scholarships for top-performing students.

What steps can students take to apply for scholarships at Odisha State Open University?

Answer: To apply for scholarships at OSOU, students can visit the official scholarship portals, such as the Odisha State Scholarship Portal or the Central Scholarship Portal, depending on the type of scholarship. Detailed instructions and eligibility criteria are usually provided on these portals.

How does OSOU support students with disabilities in pursuing higher education?

Answer: OSOU is open to students with disabilities and provides scholarships, accommodations, and support services to ensure an inclusive learning environment. Specialised assistance, accessible resources, and a disability-friendly infrastructure contribute to the support system.

What are the criteria for merit scholarships at OSOU, and how can students qualify for them?

Answer: Merit scholarships at OSOU typically have specific eligibility criteria based on academic performance. Details about the criteria, the application process, and the amount awarded are usually announced on the OSOU website or through departmental notices.

Can students at OSOU transfer credits earned from other institutions?

Answer: OSOU may have a credit transfer policy that allows students to transfer credits earned from other recognised institutions. Students should check the university's credit transfer guidelines and consult with the academic advisors for more information.

Are there any specific entrance exams for undergraduate or postgraduate programmes at Odisha State Open University?

Answer: Generally, OSOU follows an open and distance learning (ODL) admission process, and many programmes have merit-based admissions. However, specific programmes may require entrance exams. Students should check the admission guidelines and announcements for details on entrance exams.

How does OSOU ensure the quality of education in its open and distance learning programmes?

Answer: OSOU employs innovative ODL technology, a robust support system, and a network of study centres to maintain the quality of education. Periodic reviews, feedback mechanisms, and adherence to UGC guidelines contribute to continuous improvement in the quality of programmes.

Are there any collaborative programmes or partnerships with industries for practical exposure at OSOU?

Answer: Yes, OSOU collaborates with industries to provide practical exposure to students. These collaborations may include internships, guest lectures, and industry-oriented projects to enhance the practical skills and employability of the students.

How does OSOU assist students in securing internships and gaining practical work experience?

Answer: OSOU's dedicated placement cell provides assistance in securing internships by organising career guidance sessions, providing soft skills training, and connecting students with potential employers. The university may also have tie-ups with companies offering internship opportunities.

What role do study centres play in supporting students enrolled in OSOU programmes?

Answer: Study centres at OSOU serve as local hubs, providing access to academic resources, study materials, and counselling services. They play a crucial role in supporting students by offering guidance, facilitating interactions, and providing a physical space for learning.

How does OSOU promote digital literacy among its students?

Answer: OSOU promotes digital literacy through its online platforms, including the mobile app and the online student portal. The university may conduct workshops, webinars, and training sessions to enhance students' digital skills and familiarise them with online learning tools.