HEC approves landmark multi-degree policy to globalise Pakistan’s higher education

• New policy clears way for dual, double and joint degree programmes with local and foreign universities

• Framework introduced to align Pakistan’s higher education system with international academic standards

• Students to benefit from global learning opportunities, credit mobility and joint academic supervision

 ISLAMABAD: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has approved Policy on Dual, Double and Joint Degree Programmes to facilitate structured academic collaboration between Pakistani higher education institutions and recognised local and foreign partner institutions.

The policy has been introduced in view of the growing globalisation of higher education, increasing student mobility, international academic partnerships, and the need to align Pakistani higher educations with global standards. It provides a formal regulatory framework for universities seeking to offer collaborative degree programmes at undergraduate and graduate levels.

The policy provides for three forms of collaborative academic arrangements, namely Dual Degree programmes leading to the award of two degrees in distinct or closely related fields, Double Degree programmes leading to the award of two degrees in the same discipline by partnering institutions, and Joint Degree programmes involving the issuance of a single degree jointly awarded and signed by collaborating institutions.

HEC has revealed that such programmes may only be offered where universities enter into formal collaborative arrangements in accordance with the approved policy. Institutions will be required to obtain necessary statutory approvals, execute a detailed Memorandum of Understanding, ensure credit mapping, define admission and exit requirements, disclose fee structures, provide student protection arrangements, and seek HEC’s NOC before launching any such programme.

The policy will benefit students by expanding access to international learning opportunities, credit mobility, joint supervision, global academic exposure and improved employability. It will also support Pakistani universities in strengthening international partnerships, improving curriculum relevance, enhancing quality assurance, and increasing the global recognition of Pakistani higher education.

Through this policy, HEC aims to promote responsible internationalisation of higher education while safeguarding academic standards, student interests and institutional accountability.