Can I Do a Regular Degree Course While Working in a Government Job?

Many government employees aspire to further their education while continuing in their official roles. The process of pursuing a regular degree course alongside a government job does require certain permissions and considerations. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of taking a regular degree course while working, the necessary permissions, and the benefits.

Permissions Required for Studying in a Government Job

If you are a government employee, you may wonder whether it is possible to pursue a regular degree course during your work hours. Generally, the government provides significant flexibility, but there are specific conditions to ensure that your studies do not interfere with your official duties.

For evening classes, obtaining permission is relatively straightforward. Many government employees pursue such courses, often working towards professional qualifications like LLB (Bachelor of Laws) or other relevant fields. As long as your study hours are outside your regular working hours and do not impede your job performance, you are likely to receive permission.

For regular day-time courses, the process is slightly more complex. You may need to take regular leaves or apply for study leave, which is only granted in cases of public exigencies. However, this does not mean that you cannot study; many IPs, IAS officers, and higher-level officials take advantage of this route, often receiving special increments for pursuing higher studies in a relevant field.

It is important to note that your right to undertake further studies as a government employee is protected. Pursuing such a course is a fundamental right, and you can seek permission from your concerned department to obtain approval. This permission is necessary for your promotion and is often required for obtaining certain qualifications.

Admission to a D.ED Course

A specific case in point is the Diploma in Education (D.ED) course, which is designed for teacher training and certification. D.ED is particularly valuable for candidates aspiring to become government teachers. This course can be pursued through both full-time and distance mode.

The D.ED course is a certification-based program that takes two years to complete. It is available in institutions where candidates can enroll once they have completed their class 12 or equivalent exam with at least a 50% mark.

Admission Process

Candidates can enroll in the D.ED program through either a merit basis or an entrance test basis. Here's a detailed look at each admission method:

D.ED Admission - Merit Basis

Those candidates who perform well in a merit-based exam can enroll directly in the D.ED course. You need to meet the specific requirements, such as academic performance, and fulfill some formalities to secure your admission.

D.ED Admission - Entrance Basis

For candidates who prefer to take an entrance exam, you must first qualify the test. Once you have passed the entrance exam, you need to complete additional formalities, such as uploading documents, to be admitted.

The entrance exams for D.ED can be conducted in both online and offline modes, offering flexibility to a wide range of candidates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is indeed possible to pursue a regular degree course while working in a government job. Whether it is through a day-time or evening course, or a specialized program like D.ED, obtaining the necessary permissions is crucial. These courses provide excellent career advancement opportunities and are an important part of professional development.

For further guidance on studying and promotions, be sure to consult the relevant government notifications and policies. By understanding and following the steps outlined here, you can balance your professional and educational goals effectively.