Yes, the Virtual University of Pakistan is a Federal Government University recognized by HEC and this is making its degrees recognized and accepted all over Pakistan and overseas.
The Virtual University of Pakistan offers a wide range of degree programs through its online education platform.
BS Degree (4 years)
B.Ed. Programs
MS Programs
The above-mentioned degree programs are regularly viewed by the academic team of the virtual university and these programs are up to date as are being taught at top universities in Pakistan as well as all over the world and taking into consideration the needs of local and international job market.
The Virtual University of Pakistan working since 2002. Since that time almost 100,000/- number of students graduate from virtual universities in Pakistan from different disciplines. Today in the spring semester of 2023 total of 130,000 students are currently active students.
Government Job Requirements
In certain professions, extensive education and experience requirements are often established to ensure that candidates possess the necessary qualifications and skills to perform the job effectively. For instance, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), a government department in Pakistan, recently advertised a job opening for the position of Assistant Director of Administration at the BPS-17 level. According to the advertisement, the minimum qualification required for this post is 16 years of education in business administration.
Given this requirement, a graduate from a virtual university with a degree in business administration would be eligible to apply for the job. The advertisement explicitly stated that equal employment opportunities are available to all candidates, without specifying any restrictions for candidates from online institutes. It is important to note that the virtual university in question is recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), which further validates the qualifications obtained from it.
In Pakistan, graduates from universities recognized by the HEC are generally entitled to apply for government jobs or positions within job agencies. It would be considered a violation of Pakistani law if such candidates were denied job opportunities based solely on their educational background, especially when the requirements set by the government or relevant authorities have been met.
Equal employment opportunities aim to ensure fairness and prevent discrimination in the hiring process. Candidates who meet the specified qualifications, regardless of whether they have obtained their education from traditional or online institutions, should have an equal chance to pursue their desired careers. By recognizing the qualifications of graduates from accredited institutions, the law seeks to promote meritocracy and ensure that the best-suited individuals are selected for the job.
Employers, government departments, and job agencies need to adhere to these legal requirements and treat all candidates fairly based on their qualifications and competencies rather than their educational background. This helps create a level playing field and fosters inclusivity in the job market, benefiting both job seekers and the overall progress of the country.
Accreditation and Recognition
The Virtual University of Pakistan is a prestigious university that has gained recognition from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. This recognition signifies that the university has met all the required standards of quality education set by the HEC. That ensures a high level of credibility and assurance for students, employers, and other educational institutions.
Accreditation plays a vital role in facilitating students who wish to transfer their credit hours between educational institutes. Students enrolled at the Virtual University have the flexibility to migrate to another university and transfer their earned credit hours to their desired programs. Similarly, students from other institutes can also transfer their credits to the Virtual University. This flexibility in credit transfer is particularly important for students who choose to change institutes to pursue higher education, as it allows them to carry out their academic progress seamlessly.
Virtual University Graduates Success Stories
Mr. Mansoor Ali Khan (Senior Anchorperson)
This is how our prior student, Mr. Mansoor Ali Khan (Senior Anchorperson), completed his degree at the Virtual University of Pakistan via online mode. He had always intended to complete his higher education, but due to his rigorous schedule, it was difficult for him to enroll physically at the college or the universities. The ICT-Based Education System at Virtual University allowed him to complete his master’s degree in media studies in his own time.
Muhammad Usama Baig
Study Program: BS Software Engineering
Batch: Fall 2014 – Spring 2018
I work as a Senior Software Engineer at a reputable software company in Lahore. I obtained my BS in Software Engineering degree from VU. The quality of lectures at VU, along with the flexibility to study at my own pace and convenience, allowed me to pursue internships and work alongside my studies. This greatly benefited both my education and career. I highly recommend VU to other students based on my personal experience.
Iram Ghafoor
Study Program: M.Sc. Mass Communication
Batch: Spring 2017 – Fall 2018
I successfully completed my master’s in mass communication from VU with distinction. Throughout my study program, VU granted me 100% merit-based scholarships, which were extremely helpful during times when I wasn’t financially independent. However, the most significant impact VU had on me was introducing me to the online world, leading me to start freelancing. Without VU, I would still be struggling with finances. VU not only helped me complete my degree but also provided me with valuable exposure to the digital world, allowing me to establish myself in the freelancing industry. It has truly been a blessing in my academic and professional journey.
Ahmad Awais
Study Program: BS Business Admin
Batch: Fall 2003 – Fall 2009
I earned my BBA (Hons) degree from VU. Afterward, I pursued my master’s in international HRM from the University of Bedfordshire, and recently, I completed my Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of the West of Scotland (UK). Currently, I work as a Business Lecturer at the largest college network in the UK, London School of Science and Technology. In addition to teaching, I also serve as a module leader and dissertation supervisor for Level 6 students. Throughout my master’s degree, I had the opportunity to participate in three consecutive work placements within the university, where I was recognized with the best performer award.
Dr. Shahid Minhas
Study Program: BS Mass Communication
Batch: Fall 2004 – Spring 2008
In 2008, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from the Virtual University of Pakistan. Currently, I hold the position of Head of the Mass Communication Department at GIFT University. I had a positive experience with VU’s education system, finding it informative and supportive. The university’s TV channels were especially beneficial for students. VU holds the distinction of being the first university in Pakistan to introduce virtual education and a learning management system (LMS). This pioneering approach allows for affordable and high-quality education right at your doorstep.
Advantages of Virtual University Degrees
Flexibility
Pakistan’s virtual university allows students to learn at their own pace and on their own timetable. This is especially beneficial for individuals who work full-time or have other social and family obligations that prevent them from attending traditional classes.
Accessibility
The virtual university of Pakistan provides also access to education for those students who may not have access to traditional universities/institutes for any reason. The students who live in rural locations have physical disabilities, or other constraints that prevent them from attending physical institutes can avail the benefits of the virtual university.
Very low fee Structure
When compared to traditional classroom-based universities/institutions, VU has an extremely inexpensive fee structure. Students can save money on transportation, textbooks, and other course supplies by using this service. A fee of roughly 17,000/- is charged per semester.
Customized Education
Students can learn in a fashion that is shaped to their customized learning patterns thanks to the virtual university. Students have more control over their studies in a personalized learning environment since they can set their own exam schedules and study timetables. The students can track their study progress, and make decisions about the speed, course, and content of their studies. Teachers act more as facilitators and mentors, leading and assisting the students in the virtual university.
Virtual University Specialized Programs Relevant to government job sectors
Virtual University (VU) degree programs have been designed to equip students with up-to-date knowledge and skills in various fields.
Specifically, their Computer Science programs focus on the tools and technologies used in government institutes, enabling graduates to easily handle related tasks.
VU’s B.ED. programs offer comprehensive teacher training for those already working in government schools or fresh graduates interested in teaching. These programs ensure graduates are well-prepared to excel in their roles and positively contribute to the education system.
The Business Administration program emphasizes the latest skills needed in the job market, providing students with a solid foundation in business principles and contemporary trends.
VU’s Life Science programs, covering disciplines like Zoology, Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics, equip students with practical and up-to-date knowledge in fields such as food, agriculture, animal sciences, and health sciences.
VU graduates are well-prepared to address complex challenges in government and private firms.
Potential Challenges and Concerns
Virtual university degrees may face concerns and skepticism due to their online nature. Common concerns include the quality of education, credibility, and accreditation, lack of hands-on experience, limited interaction and networking opportunities, self-discipline and time management, and perception by employers.
However, the virtual university of Pakistan addresses these concerns by adhering to academic standards, employing qualified faculty, offering practical components like Bio Labs in every city of Pakistan, and internships, facilitating interaction through online platforms, providing resources for self-discipline and time management, and ensuring accreditation. VU has opened 200 campuses across the country to facilitate the students at their doorstep.
Policy Changes and Future Outlook of Virtual University
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia agreed to reconsider the validity of Pakistani degrees earned through online learning from HEC-accredited universities. An Education Ministry official who was part of the Pakistani delegation told Dawn News that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were not hiring Virtual University graduates; however, the education minister successfully convinced Saudi authorities that VU is a recognized e-Learning University in Pakistan. Saudi officials agreed in principle to reconsider their decision.
This is a significant accomplishment for us because thousands of Pakistani graduates of Virtual University would be able to get jobs in Saudi Arabia.
The education minister also requested the rapid creation of a Joint Working Group (JWG) comprised of officers from the Ministry of Education, Saudi authorities, and representatives from both nations’ embassies.
According to the education minister, Saudi Arabian colleagues have also agreed to reinstate 600 scholarships granted by Saudi colleges through the Higher Education Commission.
Dawn News: report
Published On: Tuesday, June 28, 2022.
FAQs
- Is a Virtual University degree acceptable?
Yes, Virtual University degrees are acceptable all over Pakistan and overseas. It is accredited by the HEC of Pakistan and has been designed to meet quality standards, ensuring the value and recognition of the degrees in the job market.
- Is Virtual University a government university?
Yes, Virtual University is a government university in Pakistan. It was established by the Government of Pakistan through an Act of Parliament in 2002.
- Is a virtual university degree valid in Pakistan?
Yes, virtual university degrees are valid in Pakistan. They hold the same validity and recognition as degrees from traditional brick-and-mortar universities.
- Is a Virtual University degree valid by HEC?
Yes, Virtual University degrees are valid and recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. The HEC is responsible for ensuring the quality and credibility of higher education in Pakistan.
- Is a Virtual University degree worth it?
Yes, a Virtual University degree can be worth it. The worth of a degree depends on various factors such as the program’s quality, accreditation, relevance to the job market, and individual goals. Virtual University offers specialized programs, up-to-date knowledge, and flexible learning options, making it a valuable choice for many students.
I appreciate & thanks the government Pakistan as well as HEC establishing Virtual University which knowledge spreading action.Dr. Said Bad shah Afridi
ASSLAMVALIKOM DEAR RESPECT TEBL EE ONE I WANT TO HAVE A CONFESSION WITH ABOUT HOW CAN I APPLY AND FOR FURTHER KNOW LEDGE MORE. TEXT US BACK AS SOON AS POSSIBLY I SHALL BE VERY THANKFUL TO YOU( SIR)
I want to know how can apply bachelor degree I have secondary high school certificate from government degree college Faisalabad.