What Constitutes an Honours Degree?

As mentioned earlier, an honours degree allows you to broaden your knowledge in your field while gaining practical experience, all within the timeframe of your course. You will not receive extra time for completing both the degree and honours components. Many international institutions value this distinction.

Requirements for KTU Students Seeking an Honours Degree

As an engineering graduate from KTU, my focus will be on the criteria applicable to KTU students. Other university students are encouraged to share their criteria for inclusion.

#### Eligibility Criteria To qualify for application, you must meet the following conditions: - Maintain a GPA of 8.5 or higher until the end of S4 - No backlogs until the conclusion of S4 - Consistently sustain your performance through to S8

> Note: It is crucial to pass all remaining exams; failing to do so will result in the loss of your honours degree eligibility.

The Advantages of an Honours Degree

One significant benefit of an honours degree is the comprehensive knowledge it provides, which can aid in pursuing further studies, research, or various projects. For B. Tech students, an honours degree might be essential for direct entry into prestigious research programs or PhDs at institutes like IITs.

Being part of the honours program indicates that you have achieved a CGPA above 8.5, showcasing your academic commitment. Successfully completing the programme, free of backlogs, can greatly enhance your resume and career prospects. If you're considering studying abroad, universities will likely favor you over other candidates, as your degree will highlight your honours achievement.

The benefits derived from an honours degree depend significantly on your dedication and how you navigate your academic journey. For enthusiastic learners willing to invest extra effort, pursuing an honours degree can be immensely rewarding.

Steps to Achieve an Honours Degree

To obtain an honours degree, you need to earn a minimum of 20 additional credits in your major. Here’s how you can achieve that:

• Complete additional credits by successfully passing exams in at least three subjects. You will need to select three extra theory subjects from the elective list and pass their end-semester exams.
• One of those subjects must involve a mini-project, which is to be submitted by the end of your last semester.
• You are also required to complete two online MOOC courses that are approved by AICTE and your college, which will provide an additional eight credits. Each MOOC must last at least 12 weeks, with a passing grade required.
• Pass all regular subject exams from S5 to S8.
• Maintain a CGPA of 8.5 by the end of S8.

> Note: There are no supplementary exams for honours subjects, meaning you must pass on your first attempt.

Key Information

Honours subjects will not influence your overall CGPA; they will solely impact your total credits. Under the new NEP 2020 guidelines, you have the flexibility to change courses through credit transfer.

Cancellation of Honours Degree

Enrolling in an honours degree does not guarantee completion. You may withdraw voluntarily or fail to meet the required standards.

Here are the primary reasons for cancellation: - Failing to maintain a CGPA of 8.5 or higher. - Not passing any of the honours subjects. - Failing to pass any of your regular subjects, which require a 100% pass rate on the first attempt.

#### Voluntary Withdrawal

If you decide that the honours path is not for you, you can opt out via your student portal. However, be mindful that this decision is irreversible, and you cannot re-enroll.

Why Choose Honours?

An honours degree sets you apart in a competitive landscape, especially among a large number of graduates from institutions like KTU, where thousands of students graduate annually. It distinguishes you from peers, especially if you’re aiming for a good job placement.

In addition to the standard curriculum, students pursuing honours engage with extra subjects and maintain a backlog-free record. This experience prepares you for the demands of further studies, equipping you to handle complex subjects and pressure more effectively.

For advanced studies in fields like M-Tech, MS, PhD, or research, an honours degree is a valuable asset, enhancing your depth of knowledge compared to others.

Reasons Against Pursuing Honours

An honours degree may not suit everyone. If your goal is simply to secure a job or prepare for government exams, an honours degree may not be necessary. You might prefer to focus your time on job preparation instead.

If you’re uncertain about continuing your academic journey or are considering switching fields, the demands of an honours programme—including extra subjects, projects, and MOOCs—might feel overwhelming.

Ultimately, an honours degree is not a guaranteed ticket to success. While it offers numerous advantages, it may not be essential for achieving your personal goals.

What an Honours Degree Does Not Provide

An honours degree is not a shortcut to success. It does not automatically assure you of better job prospects or placement opportunities. Your CGPA remains unaffected, and you can pursue research without an honours degree.

My Personal Journey with an Honours Degree

During my sixth semester, I learned about the opportunity to enroll in the honours program under the 2015 scheme, which required maintaining a CGPA of 8.0 and completing additional coursework.

I undertook subjects like Mobile Computing and Machine Learning, which proved to be valuable learning experiences, along with the MOOCs from NPTEL-Swayam.

Choosing to pursue an honours degree was a significant decision for me, and although it felt challenging at times, I was grateful for the opportunity to rise to the occasion.

What I Gained

Despite my bachelor’s degree being in a different field, the honours experience was rewarding. While it may not directly align with my current studies, it remains a notable accomplishment. The knowledge I gained and the challenge I embraced have been invaluable.

Should You Pursue an Honours Degree?

I’ve outlined various aspects of the honours degree to give you a comprehensive understanding. While your peers may choose different paths, consider the implications for your future. Discuss with family and friends, weigh your options, and make a well-informed decision.

I have also created a series of guides on Computer Science semesters, tips, and placement strategies that can be beneficial as you navigate your academic journey.