The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has announced the reintroduction of one-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) and Master of Education (MEd) programmes from the 2026-27 academic session. The decision, part of new draft regulations, comes nearly a decade after the BEd course was extended to two years in 2015.
As per the new framework, the one-year BEd programme will be available exclusively for candidates who have completed either a four-year undergraduate degree or a postgraduate degree. Those with a three-year graduation will continue to opt for the existing two-year BEd programme.
Similarly, a one-year full-time MEd course will be offered alongside a newly introduced two-year part-time MEd programme designed for working professionals, including teachers and education administrators. The revised MEd curriculum will integrate research, fieldwork, and community engagement to address previous challenges of low enrolment and curriculum inefficiencies.
Expansion of Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP)
The Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP), a four-year programme that combines a bachelor’s degree with a BEd qualification, was introduced in 57 pilot institutions in 2023-24. From 2025-26, it will be established as a regular teacher education course, with institutions invited to apply for recognition.
Additionally, four specialised ITEP courses will be introduced from 2025-26, focusing on:
- Yoga Education
- Physical Education
- Sanskrit Education
- Art Education
Multiple Pathways for Future Educators
With these changes, aspiring teachers will have the following pathways to enter the profession:
- After Class 12: Four-year ITEP
- After a three-year graduation: Two-year BEd
- After a four-year graduation or postgraduation: One-year BEd
This restructuring aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring greater flexibility and inclusivity for students at different academic levels.
The NCTE is also reviewing additional programme options, including a potential three-year integrated BEd-MEd course, with final decisions expected in the coming months. The draft regulations will soon be open for public feedback before formal implementation.
