Bachelor of Science
B.Sc.
- Biotechnology
- Physics
- Mathematics
Design Your Degree (DYD)
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra
A flexible four-year undergraduate programme that helps students explore multiple disciplines, discover their strengths, and choose an approved major after the second year.
Design Your Degree at SMVDU is designed for students who want academic flexibility within a structured University framework. The programme allows students to build strong foundations, explore multiple areas of learning, and progress towards a focused major discipline from the approved list notified by SMVDU.
Programme at a Glance
Programme NameDesign Your Degree (DYD)
NatureFlexible / Multidisciplinary Undergraduate Programme
Duration4 Years (8 Semesters)
FrameworkNEP-2020
Major SelectionAfter completion of the second year
Major OptionsBiotechnology, Business Administration, Computer Science, Dogri, English, Economics, Hindi, Mathematics, Philosophy, Physics
What is Design Your Degree?
Design Your Degree (DYD) is an innovative academic initiative introduced at Shri Mata Vashino University (SMVDU) in the academic session 2024-2025 under the National Education Policy (NEP-2020) framework. Unlike traditional Degree programs where students are confined to a single stream, DYD allows learners to design their own unique academic pathway by selecting courses across multiple disciplines- such as sciences, humanities, management and technology.
This pioneering program emphasizes freedom, flexibility and creativity, enabling students to combine their passions with professional goals. DYD prepares them for a future where knowledge is interconnected and innovation arises from crossing boundaries. DYD Programme empowers students to combine disciplines, explore diverse interests, and build personalized career pathways aligned with emerging global opportunities.
Areas of Academic Exposure
DYD allows learners to select courses across multiple disciplines, such as:
Sciences
Humanities
Management
Technology
What Makes DYD Different
Traditional education often limits students to a single discipline. DYD encourages learners to move beyond rigid academic structures and explore multiple domains of knowledge, helping them develop a broader perspective and a versatile skill set.
Who Should Consider DYD?
DYD may be suitable for students who:
- Are interested in more than one academic area
- Want time to explore before choosing a major
- Prefer a structured University degree with room for academic choice
- Want exposure to multidisciplinary learning
- Are looking to build communication, analytical, digital, and problem-solving skills
- Are considering higher studies, competitive examinations, entrepreneurship, research, public service, or interdisciplinary career pathways
Learning Beyond Classrooms
The Design Your Degree (DYD) Programme offers students opportunities to learn, explore, create, and grow through a wide range of academic, cultural, creative, and experiential activities.
For Parents and Guardians
Design Your Degree is not an unstructured or informal programme. It is a guided four-year undergraduate pathway offered within the approved academic framework of SMVDU. The programme gives students the time and academic exposure required to make an informed major choice after the second year while remaining within University rules, curriculum requirements, and mentoring support.
Flexibility with structure. Exploration with guidance. Choice with academic accountability.
Disclaimer
All admissions, eligibility conditions, fee structure, seat matrix, curriculum, course offerings, degree pathways, degree nomenclature, evaluation, progression, exit/award conditions, and other academic matters shall be governed by the latest SMVDU notifications, ordinances, regulations, and applicable statutory guidelines. Candidates are advised to refer to the official SMVDU Admission Portal for updated admission information.
Our Vision
To create a learner-centric educational ecosystem that nurtures curiosity, creativity, innovation, and lifelong learning while preparing students to address emerging societal and professional challenges.
Our Mission
- To promote multidisciplinary and holistic education.
- To provide flexibility in learning pathways.
- To encourage innovation, creativity, and critical thinking.
- To develop future-ready graduates with diverse competencies.
- To foster experiential and project-based learning.
DYD Philosophy
Traditional education often limits students to a single discipline. DYD encourages learners to move beyond rigid academic structures and explore multiple domains of knowledge, helping them develop a broader perspective and a versatile skill set.
Core Principles
- Multidisciplinary Learning
- Academic Flexibility
- Experiential Education
- Innovation & Creativity
- Personalized Mentorship
- Real-World Relevance
Why Choose DYD?
- Stress-free Learning
- Unconventional Learning!
- Hands-on projects instead of rote memorization.
- Real-world skills through projects & workshops.
- Focus on Application, Not Just Theory!
- Everything you learn will have a real-world connection.
- Learn Together, Grow Together!
- Learn What Really Matters!
- Create, Explore, Apply!
DYD Learning Model: Learn–Explore–Apply–Innovate
01
Learn
Build strong foundations and essential academic skills.
02
Explore
Discover disciplines, perspectives, and areas of interest before choosing a major.
03
Apply
Engage with projects, practical tasks, field exposure, or application-based learning as per approved curriculum.
04
Innovate
Develop ideas, solutions, and interdisciplinary perspectives through guided academic engagement.
Alignment with NEP 2020
The DYD Programme reflects the core principles of NEP 2020 by promoting:
- Multidisciplinary Education
- Flexibility and Choice-Based Learning
- Skill Development
- Experiential Learning
- Holistic Development
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
What Will You Gain?
By pursuing DYD, students will:
- Develop interdisciplinary perspectives.
- Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Build communication and leadership skills.
- Gain exposure to research and innovation.
- Enhance employability and career readiness.
- Become adaptable lifelong learners.
How DYD is Different
| Conventional Undergraduate Programme | Design Your Degree at SMVDU |
|---|---|
| Student usually enters with a fixed discipline | Student explores before choosing a major |
| Limited flexibility in the initial years | Multidisciplinary exposure in the early years |
| Discipline identity is clear from the beginning | Major identity is finalized after completion of second year |
| Suitable for students already sure of their field | Suitable for students with multiple academic interests |
| Programme structure is predefined | Structure remains guided but allows academic choice as per University rules |
DYD provides flexibility within an approved academic structure. It should not be understood as an unregulated or unrestricted degree pathway.
Why Choose SMVDU for DYD?
Institutional Foundation
State University established under an Act of the J&K State Legislature in 1999 and recognized by UGC under Sections 2(f) and 12(B).
Residential Campus
A fully residential campus at Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, with a peaceful environment suited for focused learning.
Multidisciplinary Ecosystem
Schools and faculty expertise across sciences, management, engineering, humanities, languages, philosophy, and allied areas.
Student Support
Academic and student support systems for University-facilitated academic processes.
Designing Your Academic Journey
The Design Your Degree (DYD) Programme offers a flexible and multidisciplinary academic framework that enables students to pursue their interests while building strong disciplinary foundations and future-ready competencies. The programme is designed to provide a balance between core disciplinary knowledge, interdisciplinary learning, skill development, experiential exposure, and innovation.
Programme Duration
Duration4 Years (8 Semesters)
Degree AwardedBased on the chosen academic pathway
Degree Pathways
Students may pursue any one of the following degree pathways:
Bachelor of Business Administration
B.B.A.
- Business Administration
Bachelor of Arts
B.A.
- English
- Hindi
- Dogri
- Philosophy
- Economics
Bachelor of Computer Science
B.C.S.
- Computer Science
How the Four-Year DYD Pathway Works
Year 1
Foundation and Exploration
Build academic foundations, communication ability, analytical thinking, digital awareness, and exposure to different disciplines.
Year 2
Discipline Discovery and Major Readiness
Continue exploration, identify areas of interest, and prepare to choose an approved major discipline after completing the second year.
Year 3
Major-Focused Learning
Progress into focused study in the chosen major discipline along with approved electives, skill courses, and academic requirements as per curriculum.
Year 4
Advanced Learning / Project / Research Orientation
Undertake advanced coursework, project work, research-oriented learning, internship, capstone, or other approved academic components as per the University curriculum.
This is an indicative academic pathway. The actual course structure, credits, evaluation, progression rules, and degree award shall be as per approved SMVDU regulations and notifications.
Major Disciplines
After completion of the second year, students shall choose one major discipline from the approved list notified by SMVDU, subject to University rules, academic requirements, availability, and other notified conditions.
Biotechnology
Business Administration
Computer Science
Dogri
English
Economics
Hindi
Mathematics
Philosophy
Physics
Major Selection
Major Selection after the Second Year
Major selection under DYD is not random or informal. After completing the second year, students choose one major discipline from the approved list notified by SMVDU. Major allocation and continuation shall be governed by University rules, academic requirements, availability, and other notified conditions.
Explore first. Choose later. Progress with academic guidance.
Structure of Learning
The DYD curriculum is built around five key components:
Foundation Courses
Courses that develop communication skills, critical thinking, environmental awareness, ethics, and foundational knowledge.
Discipline-Specific Courses
Courses that provide depth and expertise within the chosen degree pathway.
Interdisciplinary Electives
Courses selected from diverse domains to broaden perspectives and encourage multidisciplinary learning.
Skill Enhancement Courses
Practical and application-oriented courses designed to strengthen employability and professional competencies such as:
- Communication Skills
- Digital Literacy
- Entrepreneurship
- Data Analysis
- Problem Solving
Experiential Learning
Hands-on learning opportunities through:
- Projects
- Workshops
- Field Visits
- Community Engagement
- Industry Interaction
Assessment Approach
The programme emphasizes continuous learning and engagement through:
- Assignments
- Presentations
- Projects
- Practical Activities
- Group Work
- Reflective Exercises
- Field-Based Learning
Course Structure of DYD
Course Structure of DYD — To be updated soon.
Admissions and Enquiries
Admissions to DYD shall be conducted as per the latest SMVDU admission notifications. Candidates are advised to refer to the official admission portal for eligibility, fee structure, admission schedule, seat matrix, counselling process, and other updated details.
- Official Admission Portal: https://admission.smvdu.ac.in/
- Email: fyug.admission@smvdu.ac.in
- DYD Email: dyd.admission@smvdu.ac.in
- Phone: 8899246534
DYD Core Committee
DYD Core Committee — To be updated soon.
DYD Mentors
The Design Your Degree (DYD) Programme is supported by a dedicated team of academic leaders, faculty mentors, and programme coordinators committed to helping students make informed academic choices and achieve their personal and professional goals.
Prof. Sharda Potukuchi
Dr. Shafaq Rasool
Dr. Parvez Singh Slathia
Dr. Preeti Sharma
Dr. Ravi Dutta Sharma
Dr. Sakshi Arora
Dr. Sunanda
Dr. Rashi Taggar
Dr. Sarabjot Singh
Dr. Meenakshi Gupta
Dr. Pankaj Biswas
Dr. Sandeep Bhougal
Dr. Vivek Kumar
Dr. Madhu Mangal Chaturvedi
Dr. Sumantha Sarthi Sharma
Dr. Isha Malhotra
Dr. Manpreet Sharma
Dr. Mir Irfan Ul Haq
Dr. Rajiv Kumar
Dr. Jatin Soni
Prof. Sumeet Gupta
Dr. Mantisha Gupta
Smt. B. V. Uma Devi (Retd. IFS)
Mr. Abhinav Behal
The Design Your Degree (DYD) Programme offers students opportunities to learn, explore, create, and grow through a wide range of academic, cultural, creative, and experiential activities.
Student Achievements
Celebrating student accomplishments in academics, innovation, research, competitions, certifications, and co-curricular activities.
Highlights include: NPTEL Certifications, Academic Awards, Research Contributions, Innovation Competitions, Student Recognition & Achievements
Workshops & Skill Development
DYD students regularly participate in workshops, hands-on training sessions, and skill-building activities that enhance practical knowledge and future-readiness.
Areas include:
- Artificial Intelligence & Coding
- Communication Skills
- Entrepreneurship
- Design Thinking
- Emerging Technologies
- Problem Solving & Creativity
Educational Visits & Field Exposure
Experiential learning through educational visits, exposure tours, and field-based activities helps students connect classroom concepts with real-world experiences.
Highlights:
- Kashmir Educational Visit
- Community-Based Learning
- Institutional Visits
- Cultural Exposure Activities
Creativity & Expression
The programme encourages students to discover and nurture their creative potential through:
- Dance
- Music
- Art & Design
- Photography
- Cultural Activities
- Literary Expression
Sports & Wellness
Promoting physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, and holistic well-being through sports and wellness activities.
Activities include:
- Fitness Sessions
- Outdoor Sports
- Team Building Activities
- Recreational Engagement
Student Projects & Innovation (To be updated)
Students are encouraged to work on interdisciplinary projects that promote innovation, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. The details of the projects will be shared soon.
Student Speaks
The DYD Programme has allowed me to learn beyond a single discipline and explore diverse fields of knowledge. Interacting with students and faculty from different academic backgrounds has broadened my perspective and strengthened my creativity, curiosity, and confidence. It is a unique learning experience that truly encourages innovation and personalized education.
— Saifan Tayyib
The Design Your Degree (DYD) Programme at SMVDU has given me the freedom to explore subjects beyond conventional boundaries and shape my learning according to my interests. The interdisciplinary approach has enhanced my critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills, making my academic journey both enriching and transformative.
— Aditya Karwani — 25BDD001
Being a part of the DYD Programme has been a truly enriching experience. From AI and coding to sports, fitness, music, and dance, the programme encouraged both skill development and personal growth. The educational visit and interactive learning experiences helped me build creativity, confidence, teamwork, and lifelong memories.
— Piya
The Design Your Degree (DYD) Programme at SMVDU has been a unique and enriching journey that allowed me to explore courses across disciplines and tailor my education to my interests and aspirations. The flexibility and interdisciplinary learning environment helped me develop confidence, critical thinking, and a broader perspective, making my learning experience truly rewarding.
— Ganga
Campus Life @ SMVDU
Explore student life, facilities, events, and activities across the SMVDU campus.
To be updated soon. DYD notifications, announcements, and circulars will be published here.
Design Your Degree is a four-year undergraduate programme at SMVDU that allows students to explore multiple disciplines during the initial years and choose an approved major discipline after completion of the second year.
Students choose their major after completion of the second year, from the approved list of major disciplines notified by SMVDU and subject to applicable academic regulations.
The listed major disciplines include Biotechnology, Business Administration, Computer Science, Dogri, English, Economics, Hindi, Mathematics, Philosophy, and Physics, subject to University rules and notifications.
No. The major must be selected from the approved list of major disciplines notified by SMVDU.
Major allocation shall be governed by SMVDU rules, academic requirements, availability, and other notified conditions. Students should refer to official University notifications for the final procedure.
Any change of major, if permitted, shall be governed strictly by University rules, academic feasibility, availability, and notified procedures.
No. DYD is a separate four-year undergraduate multidisciplinary programme. It should not be treated as equivalent to B.Tech, B.Design, B.Sc, B.A, BBA, or any other programme unless specifically notified by SMVDU or the competent regulatory/statutory authority.
No. The Computer Science major under DYD shall follow the approved DYD/FYUG curriculum and academic structure. It is not the same as B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering unless specifically notified.
DYD is inspired by the multidisciplinary and flexible learning vision of NEP 2020. The detailed implementation shall be as per SMVDU’s approved curriculum and applicable regulations.
Degree nomenclature, award conditions, and academic progression shall be governed by approved SMVDU ordinances, curriculum, notifications, and applicable regulations. Candidates should refer to the latest official University notifications for final details.
The detailed course structure, if officially notified, shall be published or linked through the official SMVDU website or admission portal. Candidates should refer only to official SMVDU sources.
Candidates should refer to the official SMVDU Admission Portal for the latest eligibility, fee structure, admission schedule, seat matrix, counselling process, and notifications.
Candidates may contact the FYUG/DYD admission helpline at fyug.admission@smvdu.ac.in or call 8899246534. The programme-specific email dyd.admission@smvdu.ac.in is displayed where officially notified by SMVDU.
DYD Programme — SMVDU
For programme-related queries, please contact the DYD team. For admissions, refer to the official admission portal.
- University: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Kakryal, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir – 182320
- Email: fyug.admission@smvdu.ac.in
- DYD Email: dyd.admission@smvdu.ac.in
- Phone: 8899246534
- Admission Portal: admission.smvdu.ac.in
- Website: www.smvdu.ac.in