In a bid to ensure that the students do not face problems in getting admissions into degree programmes, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked Universities to consider ‘Applied Mathematics’ which has been introduced by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) as eligibility criteria for admission.
The CBSE had introduced Applied Mathematics course for students of classes 9 and 12. The subject involves 80 per cent marks for theory and 20 per cent marks for practical works in the board examination.
“This subject is offered under Academic stream and has curriculum specifications that are compatible with the other major subjects. This subject is a regular academic subject. The marks obtained by the candidates in this subject may be included for calculating the aggregate marks for deciding the eligibility for admission. Hence, Applied Mathematics may be considered at par with Mathematics while calculating aggregate marks for admission in courses of humanities and commerce, other than pure sciences,” the UGC circular read.
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The UGC has directed the vice-chancellors of universities to take appropriate action for recognition of this new subject for the purpose of admission of students in degree programmes.
According to CBSE, this new subject is in addition to the existing Mathematics course offered by the the Board at Senior Secondary level and is being offered to the students of Class 11 from the academic session 2020-21.
This course is introduced primarily to enhance the Mathematical skills and knowledge required even in social science, humanities, commerce, accountancy and other aligned fields.
On February 15, the CBSE had written to UGC regarding the introduction of the new course: Applied Mathematics at 10+2 level and admission into different courses at UG level.
“ It has been observed that some universities make it mandatory for the students to offer Mathematics at Sr. Secondary level to take admission in undergraduate courses in Economics, Commerce, and Social Sciences etc. ln view of this, you are requested to consider the new Applied Mathematics course at par with the existing Mathematics course of CBSE for admission to higher studies in courses other than Engineering,” the CBSE letter read.