Frequently Asked Questions

Internship
What is an internship?
An internship is a temporary work experience program offered by organizations to students or recent graduates. It provides hands-on experience in a specific field or industry, allowing individuals to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting
Who can apply for an internship?
Internships are typically open to students currently enrolled in college or university, recent graduates, or individuals seeking experience in a new field. Specific eligibility criteria vary by organization
How long does an internship typically last?

For the 2021 scheme:
❖ Industry Internship duration: 15 weeks (90 days)
❖ Research Internship duration: 15 weeks For the 2022 scheme, the following options are available:
❖ A 15-week internship
❖ A two-semester internship focused on project completion
❖ A two-semester company internship, selected through the college placement cell or the university’s centralized placement cell, leading to job confirmation
❖ A two-semester research internship aimed at publishing a paper in a Scopus-indexed journal

Can internships lead to a full-time job?
Yes, internships often serve as a pathway to full-time employment. Many companies use internships as a way to evaluate potential future employees
How do I make the most of my internship?
❖ Be proactive and take the initiative.
❖ Network with colleagues and other interns. SBH/VTU/09.08.2024
❖ Seek feedback and be open to learning.
❖ Keep track of your accomplishments.
❖ Reflect on what you’re learning and how it applies to your career goals.
In 2021 and 2022, scheme swapping of the semester with 50% students' strength for the internship and 50% strength can take up project work. What is the reason?
In both the 2021 and 2022 schemes, the option to swap semesters allows for 50% of the students to engage in internships while the other 50% focus on project work. This approach is designed to balance academic and practical experience, ensuring that facilities, faculty, and resources are effectively utilized without overwhelming them
Exactly 50% strength shall take up Internship/project are strength can very?
The 50% split is more of a guideline rather than a strict rule. The actual distribution of students between internships and project work can vary depending on factors such as student interest, availability of internships, and project opportunities. The goal is to maintain a balanced approach, but flexibility is allowed to accommodate the specific needs and preferences of the students.
Whether all the strength of the students can take up an internship at a time?
Yes, all students can take up an internship simultaneously if enough opportunities and resources are available. However, this typically depends on factors like the availability of internship placements, the capacity of companies to accommodate students, and the ability of the academic institution to manage and support such a large number of internships at once.
In practice, to ensure quality placements and adequate support, institutions often encourage or require a split between internships and project work, as seen in the 2021 and 2022 schemes, where the 50% guideline is suggested.
However, if circumstances allow, and it’s feasible for all students to undertake internships simultaneously, it can be permitted.
Whether online Internship is permitted?
Yes, online internships are generally permitted, especially in recent years due to the growing flexibility in work environments and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many institutions have recognized online internships as a viable alternative to traditional in-person internships. Online Internship arranged through (NSDC) National Skill Development Corporation is a public-private partnership organization in India that aims to promote and facilitate skill development in the country. These online opportunities allow students to gain valuable industry experience and develop skills.
How many students need to participate in project work?
A batch of 04 students needs to participate in project work.
If a single student is selected by the company or organization, in a two-semester internship leading to project work or two-semester training leading to job confirmation, will he or she be permitted to do project work alone?
Yes, if a student is selected by a company or organization for a two-semester internship that leads to project work or job confirmation, they are typically permitted to undertake the project work alone. This scenario is common when a student is placed individually in a company. The project work they complete during their internship can be tailored to align with the needs of the company and the academic requirements.
The key considerations are that the project should meet the academic standards set by the institution and that the student receives proper mentorship and guidance from both the company and the academic institution. Working alone on a project during an internship is often seen as a valuable opportunity for in-depth learning and real-world experience.
Are online Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) permitted in place of Internship?
The students who do not secure an internship can opt for Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC), which offer credits equivalent to those of the internship. These SECs are available online.vtu.ac.in (per the 174th EC proceeding).
Students can take up SEC only in the 8th semester or they are permitted to start in the 7th semester?
Since these are online courses, students can enroll in SEC without interrupting their 7th semester teaching and learning. However, they should inform the university in advance.
Minor Degree Program
What is a minor degree program?
A minor degree program is a secondary, focused area of study that complements a student’s major or primary degree program. While the major is the primary field of specialization, a minor allows students to explore additional interests or gain expertise in a related or different discipline. To enhance employability skills and impart deep knowledge in emerging areas that are usually not covered in the Undergraduate Degree credit framework, AICTE has come up with the concept of a ‘Minor Degree’ in emerging areas. The student/s pursuing a major degree in Civil Engineering can take computer science and Engineering /Data Science/Cyber Security as a minor degree program.
How many additional courses do the students have to complete to get a minor degree award?
Along with the study of the Major degree program he/she can complete a minimum of 18 credit courses in other interested disciplines.
What is the mode of study of these courses?
The courses through online mode approved by the Board of Studies of the University.
The provision of offline study of these courses made?
At present not
One when can start the study of these minor courses?
The student has to study these courses from 4th semester of his/her major degree program
What are the eligibility criteria for a minor degree program?
A student may choose to pursue a B.E./B.Tech. degree with a minor program if, at the time of registration, she/he has permissible backlogs up to the third semester under the regulations governing the B.E./B.Tech. degree and provided that the student’s cumulative grade point average (CGPA) after the third semester does not fall below 5.0 (according to clause 22OB6.4.1(a)).
Whether the student can register for both the Honours and Minor degree programs?
A student can opt for only one minor program along with the major (degree) program. No student shall be permitted to register for both honors as well as minors.
Are there any limitations /conditions for completion of a minor degree program?
Before receiving a major degree, students who enroll in a minor degree program must complete (pass) all prerequisite courses. Even if she/he fails in the courses chosen for minor degree programs, they must be finished (passed) before a major degree is granted. The students have to complete the major degree program within a minimum duration of 04 years. (for lateral entry students 03 years).
• The minimum CGPA required to maintain up to the 3rd semester at the time of registration and at the time of completion of the major(core) degree program is ≥ 5.0.
• A student cannot earn the Minor by earning 18 credits after he/she has already earned a bachelor’s degree by earning 160 credits.
When the student can enroll (Register) for this minor degree program
Against the publication of the Notification from the university, after the announcement of the 3rd-semester result.
Where the students have to enroll/register for a minor degree?
@ http://www.online.vtu.ac.in
What is the procedure for Registration /enrolment?
Procedure for Registration:
• The students have to register online through https://qnline.vtu.ac.in
• Click on the Sign-in button on the top Right Corner.
• If the students are New Users, Click on Create an account.
• Fill in your e-mail ID, Phone No, and Name, and Create a New Password
• Click Sign Up, Enter OTP.
• Login by entering your e-mail ID and Password.
• You will be taken to the student dashboard. Click on Academics in the top right corner then Click on Apply for Minor Degree.
• Fill up the details and submit the form.
•The College MOOC Coordinators for the Minor degree program have to assist the student in the Registration and autonomous colleges have to verify and approve the registrations.
What is the fee for registration? How to make a payment?
Rs.1000/-(one thousand only nonrefundable fee), through online he/she can pay
If she /he is not able to complete a minor degree before the completion of a major degree then?
If students are not able to complete the courses worth 18 credits before the completion of their major degree, he/she will not be awarded the minor degree, however, the CERTIFICATE will be issued against the completed courses and credits.
Whether a separate certificate be issued for the awardee of a minor degree?
The “Minors” qualification shall be suffixed to the respective degrees and shown in the Degree certificate as a recognition of higher achievement by the student concerned.
Whether classes/ranks awarded for minor degree programs?
The CIE and SEE for online courses will have a weightage of 50:50. The minimum qualifying mark for Internal Assignment (CIE) is 40% of 50 marks, and the minimum SEE mark to qualify is 35% of the 50 marks. But in aggregate (ie CIE+SEE) score should be 40% out of 100 marks.
The CGPA and/or Class awarded to the students shall be only based on students’ performance in the various semester-level examinations conducted proctored manner.
For 40% in aggregate of CIE and SEE, the score will be awarded as a Pass-class
For 50% and up to 59% scores will be treated as second-class
Above 60% and up to 69% score will be awarded as Elite Silver (First Class)
What are the objectives of the minor degree program?
• To enable students to pursue an allied academic interest in contemporary areas
• To expand the domain knowledge of the students in one of the other branches of engineering.
• To provide an academic mechanism for fulfilling the multidisciplinary demands of industries.
• To increase the employability of undergraduate students keeping in view better opportunities in    interdisciplinary areas of engineering & technology.
• To offer knowledge in the areas that are identified as emerging technologies/thrust areas of Engineering.
• Provides an opportunity for students to become entrepreneurs and leaders by taking a business/management minor.
• Provides an opportunity for Applicants to pursue higher studies in an interdisciplinary field of study.
• To increase the overall scope of the undergraduate degrees.
What are the benefits of a minor degree?
Here’s a breakdown of its importance:
1. Breadth and depth of knowledge:
• Complements your major: A minor allows you to delve deeper into a specific area related to your major, providing a more specialized skillset. For example, a mechanical engineering major minoring in robotics gains expertise in automation and control systems, complementing their core mechanical knowledge.
• Expand your horizons: You can explore a different engineering field or a whole new discipline altogether. A civil engineering major minoring in business might gain valuable project management and communication skills, broadening their career options.
2. Increased marketability:
• Stands out on your resume: A minor demonstrates intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a desire to acquire diverse knowledge. This can impress potential employers and make you a more competitive candidate.
• Relevant skills and knowledge: The minor’s coursework equips you with valuable skills and knowledge directly applicable to specific job roles. For instance, a chemical engineering major minoring in data science can leverage its data analysis abilities in process optimization or materials research.
3. Personal and academic development:
• Exploration and passion: A minor allows you to explore areas you’re passionate about, even if they differ from your major. This can fuel your academic motivation and lead to unexpected discoveries.• Enhanced problem-solving: By tackling diverse engineering challenges, you develop a more flexible and adaptable approach to problem-solving, a crucial skill for any engineer.
• Networking opportunities: Minor programs often involve dedicated faculty and student communities, providing valuable networking opportunities and mentorship within your chosen field.
4. Flexibility and course optimization:
• Fulfilling elective requirements: Many engineering programs require elective credits. A minor can fulfill these requirements while providing a focused area of study instead of scattered coursework.
• Double counting credits: Some courses may overlap with your major, reducing the overall workload while contributing to both degrees.
What are the Core and elective courses / Subjects?
While elective courses require students to choose a course or subjects of their choosing to study and pass, core courses are sometimes required courses to complete.
How many numbers of elective courses the one have to study?
It is important to choose the elective courses so that the candidate can fulfill the required minimum of 18 credits in order to receive a minor degree.

For regulations governing the MINOR degree program please visit @ https://vtu.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/notification-Minor-Regulations-1.pdf

Honours Degree Program
What is the HONOUR degree program?
An honors degree is an academic distinction conferred upon students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in their undergraduate studies. The criteria for earning an honors degree vary depending on the University and the country’s educational system, but typically it involves maintaining a high GPA (grade point average), and completing recommended advanced ONLINE courses. An honors degree is awarded in addition to the standard bachelor’s degree and is often denoted by additional letters after the degree title (e.g., Bachelor of Electrical and Electronics Engineering with Honors).
Earning an honors degree can be advantageous for several reasons. It signifies to employers and graduate institutes that the student has excelled academically and has demonstrated intellectual rigor and commitment to their field of study.
Overall, an honors degree is a recognition of academic excellence and can open doors to further academic and professional opportunities for graduates.
How many additional courses do the students have to complete to get an Honours degree award?
Along with the study of the Major degree program he/she can complete a minimum of 18 credit courses in the same interested disciplines.
What is the mode of study of these courses?
The courses through online mode approved by the Board of Studies of the University. The student can select the approved NPTEL courses or courses offered by the organizations/companies /industries that are uploaded online.vtu.ac.in.
The provision of offline study of these courses made?
At present
One when can start the study of these honours’ courses?
The student has to study these courses from 5th semester of his/her major degree program.
What are the eligibility criteria for an Honour’s degree program?
A student may choose to pursue a B.E./B.Tech. degree with an honour’s program if, at the time of registration, she/he has a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 7.5 after the fourth semester that does not fall below 7.5 (according to clause 22OB6.4.1(a)).
Whether the student can register for both the Honours and Minor degree programs?
A student can opt for only one honour program along with the major (degree) program. No student shall be permitted to register for both honors as well as minors.
Are there any limitations /conditions for completion of a minor degree program?
• Before receiving a major degree, students who enroll in an honour degree program must complete (pass) all prerequisite courses. Even if she/he fails in the courses chosen for honour degree programs, they must be finished (passed) before a major degree is granted. The students have to complete the major degree program within a minimum duration of 04 years. (for lateral entry students 03 years).
• The minimum CGPA required to maintain up to the 3rd semester at the time of registration and at the time of completion of the major(core) degree program is ≥ 7.5
• A student cannot earn the honour by earning 18 credits after he/she has already earned a bachelor’s degree by earning 160 credits.
When the student can enroll (Register) for this honour degree program
Against the publication of the Notification from the university, after the announcement of the 4th -semester result.
Where the students have to enroll/register for a honour degree?
What is the procedure for Registration /enrolment?
Procedure for Registration:
• The students have to register online through https://qnline.vtu.ac.in
• Click on the Sign-in button on the top Right Corner.
• If the students are New Users, Click on Create an account.
• Fill in your e-mail ID, Phone No, and Name, and Create a New Password
• Click Sign Up, Enter OTP.
• Login by entering your e-mail ID and Password.
• You will be taken to the student dashboard. Click on Academics in the top right corner then Click on Apply for Honour Degree.
• Fill up the details and submit the form.
• The College MOOC Coordinators for the Honour degree program have to assist the student in the Registration and autonomous colleges have to verify and approve the registrations.https://online.vtu.ac.in
What is the fee for registration? How to make a payment?
Rs.1000/-(one thousand only nonrefundable fee), through online he/she can pay
If she /he is not able to complete an Honour degree before the completion of a major degree then?
If students are not able to complete the courses worth 18 credits before the completion of their major degree, he/she will not be awarded the honour degree, however, the CERTIFICATE will be issued against the completed courses and credits.
What are the objectives of the Honour’s degree program?
• Encourage advanced levels of study and multidisciplinary learning,
• Specialize in a focused area of their interest,
• Learn new skills and methodologies pertaining to their area of interest,
• Enable personal creativity,
• Cultivate a sustaining interest in advanced education and research,
• Enhance professional development, and
• Provide opportunities to gain recognition at the time of graduation for advanced, distinguished work as an undergraduate.
Whether classes/ranks awarded for honour degree programs?
The CIE and SEE for online courses will have a weightage of 50:50. The minimum qualifying mark for Internal Assignment (CIE) is 40% of 50 marks, and the minimum SEE mark to qualify is 35% of the 50 marks. But in aggregate (ie CIE+SEE) score should be 40% out of 100 marks.
The CGPA and/or Class awarded to the students shall be only based on students’ performance in the various semester-level examinations conducted proctored manner.
For 40% in aggregate of CIE and SEE, the score will be awarded as a Pass-class
For 50% and up to 59% scores will be treated as second-class
Above 60% and up to 69% score will be awarded as Elite Silver (First Class)
For 70% and above will be awarded as Elite Gold (First class with distinction)
Whether a separate certificate be issued for the awardee of a honour degree?
The “Honour” qualification shall be suffixed to the respective degrees and shown in the Degree certificate as a recognition of higher achievement by the student concerned.
What are the benefits of a Honour’s degree?
Here’s a breakdown of its importance:

1. Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers often view candidates with honors degrees favorably due to their demonstrated commitment to academic excellence and intellectual rigor. Having an honors degree can open doors to a wider range of career opportunities and may increase the likelihood of securing positions with higher salaries and greater responsibilities.

2. Competitive Edge: In competitive job markets, an honors degree sets graduates apart from their peers who have earned standard bachelor’s degrees. It showcases a higher level of academic achievement and dedication to learning, which can give candidates a competitive edge when applying for jobs or graduate programs.

3. Advanced Knowledge and Skills: Honors programs typically involve more rigorous coursework and independent study opportunities. As a result, students graduate with a deeper understanding of their field of study and develop advanced critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers across various industries.

4. Networking Opportunities: Many honors programs offer networking opportunities with fellow high-achieving students, faculty members, and professionals in the field. Building connections through honors societies, seminars, conferences, and research collaborations can be invaluable for future career advancement and personal growth.

5. Preparation for Graduate Studies: For students considering further education, such as graduate school or professional programs, an honors degree provides excellent preparation. The advanced coursework, research experience, and critical thinking skills acquired during an honors program can better position students for success in graduate-level studies and research.

6. Prestige and Recognition: Earning an honors degree brings prestige and recognition both within academic circles and in the professional world. It signifies a significant accomplishment and demonstrates to peers, mentors, and potential employers a high level of dedication, intelligence, and academic excellence.

7. Personal Development: The challenges and opportunities presented by an honors program can foster personal growth, resilience, and self-confidence. Students often develop stronger time management, communication, and leadership skills as they navigate demanding coursework, research projects, and extracurricular activities. Overall, an honors degree offers a range of benefits that extend beyond academic achievement, positioning graduates for success in their careers and personal pursuits.

For regulations governing the HONOUR degree program please visit @ https://vtu.ac.in/en/b-e-b-tech-regulations-honours/

Skill Enhancement Courses
What are the Skill Enhancement Courses;

Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) are educational programs designed to improve specific skills or competencies in individuals. These courses are typically shorter in duration compared to traditional degree programs and focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences. Skill enhancement courses can cover a wide range of topics and may be offered by educational institutions, vocational schools, online platforms (http://online.vtu.ac.in), professional organizations, and employers. Overall, skill enhancement courses play a valuable role in helping individuals develop and refine their skills, stay competitive in the job market, and achieve their personal and professional goals.

What are the advantages of Skill Enhancement Courses?

1. Targeted Learning Objectives: Skill enhancement courses are designed to address specific learning objectives or skill gaps. They are often tailored to meet the needs of learners who seek to acquire new skills or improve existing ones in areas such as technology, communication, leadership, project management, language proficiency, and more.

2. Practical Application: Unlike academic degrees that may focus on theoretical concepts, skill enhancement courses emphasize practical application and hands-on learning. They often include exercises, case studies, simulations, and real-world projects to help learners develop proficiency in applying newly acquired skills to real-life situations.

3. Flexible Delivery Formats: Skill enhancement courses are offered in various formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules. They may be delivered through in-person classes, online courses, workshops, seminars, webinars, self-paced modules, or a combination of these formats, allowing learners to choose the option that best fits their needs.

4. Industry-Relevant Content: Many skill enhancement courses are designed in collaboration with industry experts and practitioners to ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date and relevant to current industry trends and demands. This helps learners acquire skills that are directly applicable to their chosen field or profession.

5. Certification and Credentials: Depending on the course provider, participants may receive certificates or credentials upon successful completion of skill enhancement courses. These certifications can serve as evidence of skill proficiency and are recognized by employers, professional associations, or licensing bodies, enhancing the learners’ credibility and employability.

6. Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Skill enhancement courses provide opportunities for individuals to engage in lifelong learning and professional development.Whether they are seeking to advance their careers, transition to a new field, or stay current in their industry, taking skill enhancement courses allows individuals to continuously update and expand their skill sets.

7. Cost-Effective and Time-Efficient: Compared to pursuing a traditional degree program, skill enhancement courses are often more cost-effective and time-efficient. They provide focused training in specific areas of interest without the need to commit to long-term academic programs, making them accessible to a wider range of learners.

What is the mode of study of these courses?
The courses through online mode approved by the University. The student can select the approved courses offered by the organizations/companies /industries that are uploaded at @ http://online.vtu.ac.in.
The provision of offline study of these courses made?

At present not

What are the eligibility criteria for Skill Enhancement Courses?
There are no requirements or restrictions for university students to enroll in these courses. These courses are open to all students. Refer to VTU/BGM/…/2023-24/6017, dated January 30, 2024, for the 2021 and 2022 scheme, which has these courses in place of internships (I, II, and III of the 2021 scheme and the 7th and 8th-semester levels of the 2022 scheme).
What are the eligibility criteria for Skill Enhancement Courses?
There are no requirements or restrictions for university students to enroll in these courses. These courses are open to all students. Refer to VTU/BGM/…/2023-24/6017, dated January 30, 2024, for the 2021 and 2022 scheme, which has these courses in place of internships (I, II, and III of the 2021 scheme and the 7th and 8th-semester levels of the 2022 scheme).
Where these courses are available?

Skill Enhancement Courses are available at @https://online.vtu.ac.in/courses under the category
•Programming Skills
•Office Skills
•Corporate Skill
•App Development Skill

What is the procedure for opting for these courses and completing/qualifying?

1. Go to the Skill Enhancement Courses subtitle on the page of courses offered @https://online.vtu.ac.in/courses
2. Scroll down you will find the Skill Enhancement Courses menu and list on the left-hand side of the web page.
3. Select any one category (say programming Skill) and click on the title, you will find the number of courses under this category offered.
4. Select any one course of your choice and click on that course. You will be taken to the web page containing the details of the course selected (Computing Programming with C). You will find the details about the course fees, duration, Course Level, and Language in which the course will offer a short video that will explain the highlight of the course.

5. A button for course enrolment will be present. You will be prompted to Create an Account or, if you are already registered, Login with OTP after clicking this button.
6. The enrolment process is self-explanatory; simply click the button to begin. In order to be eligible for the course, you can complete the course and then sit for the examination.
OR
• A button for course enrolment will be present. You will be prompted to Create an Account or, if you are already registered, Login with OTP after clicking this button.

• The enrolment process is self-explanatory; simply click the button to begin.

• In order to be eligible for the course, you can complete the course and then appear for the examination.

How much credit will earn by completing skill enhancement courses on http://online.ac.in/courses
Each course is of 03 credit,
For scheme 2021 for…….
Internship I (02 credits), students have to complete one skill enhancement course
Internship-II (03 credits) students have to complete one skill enhancement course
Internship-III (15 Credits) Students have to complete the courses worth 15 credits (05 courses)
For Scheme 2022
Internship either at the 7th semester /8th semester level (10 credits) you have to complete 3-4 courses
Average students won't be able to finish the 03–05 online skill enhancement courses required for the internship in one semester for the Internship-III program in 2021 and the 7th–8th-semester internship program in 2022. How is this going to be resolved?
Students can sign up for the courses ahead of time (for example, starting in the sixth semester) if they would prefer to take skill-building classes instead of an internship. Students have the freedom to schedule their internships well in advance and finish them on schedule, provided that they follow the plan.
What is the fee for registration? How to make a payment? How to confirm opting for skill enhancement courses in place of an internship?
There is no registration fee, however, there is a fee for each course /some of the courses are free also. But the examination fee each student/s has to pay.
Students wishing to substitute skill-enhancement courses for an internship must submit a letter to the VTU Belagavi Registrar requesting permission, sent through the department head or principal.
You can send an email with a scanned copy of the letter to sbhalbhavi@vtu.ac.in or registrar@vtu.ac.in. .. and a physical copy can be sent to the Visvesvaraya Technological University’s Registrar at Jnana Ganga, Machhe Belagavi-590018.
If she /he fails in qualifying skill enhancement courses … then?
She/he can repeat the course and take up the examination once again, there is NO limitation for the number of attempts
Whether credit earned is considered for credit transfer to the grade card
Yes
Whether the students eligible for the award of the rank if they select Skill Enhancement Course in place of Internship?
Yes
Whether faculty can take these courses?
Yes
Contact details for clarification or quarries
Email- onlineprograms[@]vtu.ac.in, Mobile- 9480223900 / 0831-2498108