Growing interest in tech-driven courses, traditional programmes still in demand: MDU VC Rajbir Singh

As the admission season progresses, Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak, is bustling with academic enthusiasm and vibrant student engagement. In conversation with Ravinder Saini, Vice-Chancellor Rajbir Singh shares valuable insights into admission trends for the 2025-26 academic session.

Advertisement

How many applications has MDU received this year?

Over 17,000 applications have been received for 6,731 available seats across undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programmes. This overwhelming response reflects the trust students have in MDU’s academic environment and the quality of education we offer. Our mission is to nurture excellence, and we are proud to see this recognition. We have seen a clear rise in demand for professional and interdisciplinary programmes. Courses such as public health, forensic science, and defence and strategic studies are gaining popularity, which shows how students are aligning their choices with contemporary career paths and global needs.

What courses are students preferring this year?

The admission data reveals evolving trends in student preferences. While traditional programmes such as BA (English), BSc (genetics, mathematics), and BCom remain in high demand, there is also a noticeable shift toward professionally and technologically oriented courses. Among the most sought-after programmes, the five-year LLB course has seen the highest number of applications — 1,893. This is followed by MBA (809 applications), BCA (706), and BBA (620). Meanwhile, the computer science stream — which includes programs such as MCA and MSc (computer science) — has attracted 559 applications, indicating a steady rise in interest toward digital and tech-driven careers.

What response has MDU received from international students?

This year, more than 100 international applications from countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Ghana, Kenya and Vietnam have been received for courses such as BSc (genetics), BA (English), BA (public administration), and bachelor of public health — further boosting MDU’s global academic profile. We are proud to see MDU becoming a centre of cultural and intellectual exchange. Our international appeal is growing, and we remain committed to providing a welcoming and enriching experience for students from around the world. While the number of applications from foreign students had significantly declined in recent years due to the Covid pandemic, this year has seen a notable resurgence in interest to seek admission at MDU.

How is the university implementing NEP-2020?

MDU’s proactive approach to adopting National Education Policy-2020 is a key factor behind its continued success. The university has introduced skill-based and digitally integrated courses, laying a strong foundation for future-ready graduates. Our implementation of NEP-2020 has been systematic and meaningful. It is not just about curriculum changes — it’s about reshaping how we view learning and teaching. Flexibility, choice-based credit systems, and interdisciplinary learning are now central to our approach.

How is MDU enhancing infrastructure to support its growing student base?

With a sprawling network of nearly 250 affiliated colleges and around two lakh students, MDU is one of the largest public universities in Haryana. On its main campus alone, over 15,000 students are enrolled. The infrastructure at MDU continues to evolve in tandem with academic growth. Its central library was recently recognised as the best university library, offering an expansive digital repository and scholarly resources. Cutting-edge laboratories and world-class sports facilities provide students with a holistic

educational environment.

How is MDU strengthening its research ecosystem?

The university’s Research Promotion Policy has placed it on the global academic map. With over 19 faculty members and students listed among the world’s top 2 per cent scientists, MDU’s research footprint is both significant and impactful. Research is at the heart of any great institution. Our faculty’s contributions in science, technology, and social sciences are now being recognised at the global level, and we intend to strengthen this ecosystem further.

How is MDU promoting sustainability and shaping socially responsible graduates?

Recognised as both a ‘green university’ and a ‘clean university’, MDU is deeply committed to sustainability and student welfare. Our goal is not just to deliver degrees, but to shape responsible citizens and global thinkers. We are building an inclusive, eco-friendly, and innovation-driven campus that reflects the future of higher education.