OSOU PG Diploma 2026: Eligibility, Fee, Duration and Syllabus
Odisha State Open University (OSOU) offers Post Graduate Diploma programmes including the Post Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security (PGDCS) for graduates in any discipline. Learners enrolled in two-year PG degree courses can also exit after one year (46 credits) with a Post Graduate Diploma under NEP-2020 guidelines. Online applications for the August 2026 session are open until 07 October 2026.
Key facts
| PGDCS Programme Fee | ₹9,000 (₹4,000 for Lateral Entry) |
|---|---|
| PGDCS Eligibility | +3 Pass / Graduation in any discipline |
| PGDCS Duration | 1 to 4 Years (18 months min. for Lateral Entry) |
| Medium of Study | English |
| August 2026 Admission Last Date | 07 October 2026 |
| NEP PG Diploma Exit Requirement | 2 Semesters + 6 additional credits (46 credits) |
PG Diploma in Cyber Security (PGDCS): Key Details
The Post Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security (PGDCS) equips learners with concepts of computer and information security, cryptography, digital currency, network protocols, intrusion detection, and cyber law.
PGDCS Programme Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Code | PGDCS |
| Eligibility | +3 Pass or equivalent in any discipline |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year (18 Months for Lateral Entry) |
| Maximum Duration | 4 Years |
| Total Fee | ₹9,000/- |
| Lateral Entry Fee | ₹4,000/- |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
PGDCS Course Syllabus and Structure
The PGDCS curriculum covers 9 courses spanning core operating systems, network security, white hat hacking, and project work.
- COURSE-01: Operating Systems
- COURSE-02: Data Communication and Computer Networks
- COURSE-03: Information Security
- COURSE-04: Application Cyber Security
- COURSE-05: Network Cyber Security
- COURSE-06: Minor Project
- COURSE-07: White Hat Hacking
- COURSE-08: Security Analysis and Reporting
- COURSE-09: Major Project
PGDCS Delivery, Study Hours, and Evaluation
The programme relies on self-guided learning materials (SLM), open educational resources (OERs), video lectures, and weekend counselling classes.
- Counselling Schedule: Weekend classes held for 4 hours, preferably on Sundays.
- Total Counselling Sessions: 42 theory sessions (82 hours) and 28 practical sessions (84 hours).
- Total Study Hours: 1,440 hours.
- Evaluation Scheme: Continuous evaluation through theory and practical assignments, Term End Examinations (theory and practical), and a final Project Report with Viva-Voce.
- Lateral Entry: Students pursuing the Diploma in Cyber Security (DCS) at OSOU can join PGDCS in the 3rd semester via lateral entry.
NEP-2020 PG Diploma Exit Option for Master’s Students
Under the NEP-2020 framework implemented from the February 2025 academic session, all Master’s degree programmes at OSOU follow a 4-semester, 80-credit structure (20 credits per semester).
- Exit Pathway: A student who completes the first two semesters (40 credits) and earns 6 additional credits (total 46 credits) can exit with a Post Graduate Diploma.
- Re-entry Rule: Learners who exit with a PG Diploma may re-join the same programme in the second year to finish their Master’s degree within the 4-year maximum duration.
- General PG Fee Structure: Master’s programmes cost ₹7,500 per year, plus a one-time Certificate Fee of ₹400 and Alumni Fee of ₹100. Examination fees are ₹200 per course.
How to Apply Online for OSOU Admissions
Applicants must submit their forms through the official OSOU Online Admission Portal. Before applying, candidates must create their Academic Bank of Credits (ABC ID) and DEB ID on the UGC-DEB portal.
- Visit the online admission portal and click on ‘NEW REGISTRATION’ using a current mobile number and email ID.
- Log in using registered credentials and click ‘Proceed to Apply’.
- Complete Step 1 (Personal Information) and click ‘Save & Continue’.
- Complete Step 2 (Academic Information) with educational history.
- Complete Step 3 (Document Upload): Upload passport photograph (JPG, 500×600 px, max 200KB), signature (JPG, 400×80 px, max 200KB), Odia name scan (or English name), qualifying degree certificate, and category/PwD certificate if applicable (max 300KB each).
- Complete Step 4 (Online Payment): Pay the required programme fee online.
- Complete Step 5 (Edit or Submit): Review details and click ‘Save & Submit’ for final submission.
- Print out the completed application using the ‘Print Application Form’ option for personal reference.
Important OSOU links
| What you can do | Official page |
|---|---|
| Register and apply for OSOU admissions online | onlineadmission.osou.ac.in/ |
| View list of active academic programmes offered | osou.ac.in/programmes.php |
| Access OSOU Learning Management System | lms.osou.ac.in/ |
| Log into the OSOU student portal | webportal.osou.ac.in/ |
Official documents (PDF)
- ADMISSION NOTICE PDF — Official admission notice for August 2026 academic session
- 3rd Extension Notice PDF — Extension notice for admission deadlines up to October 2026
Frequently asked questions
Does OSOU offer a Diploma in Odia and Communication?
No separate Diploma in Odia and Communication is listed in OSOU’s published programme schedules. OSOU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Odia (BAOD) and a Master of Arts in Odia (MAOD) for language study.
Is OSOU’s curriculum up-to-date?
Yes. As per university admission notices, OSOU updated its PG academic curriculum starting from the February 2025 session to align fully with NEP-2020 guidelines, incorporating semester credits, LMS-based learning, and exit/re-entry options.
Does OSOU offer a B.Ed program?
OSOU does not list a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) programme among its active admissions on the official portal for the 2026 academic year.
What is the fee for the Post Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security (PGDCS)?
The total programme fee for PGDCS is ₹9,000. Students transitioning into PGDCS through lateral entry from the Diploma in Cyber Security (DCS) pay a reduced fee of ₹4,000.
Can a student get a PG Diploma if they leave a Master’s degree early?
Yes. Under NEP-2020 rules for OSOU Master’s programmes, learners who complete 2 semesters (40 credits) and earn 6 additional credits (46 total) can exit after 1 year with a Post Graduate Diploma.
What documents are required to apply for OSOU PG Diplomas?
Applicants need their ABC ID, DEB ID, a photograph (max 200KB), signature (max 200KB), Odia name scan (max 200KB), educational certificates, and category/PwD certificates (max 300KB each).
Sources
Written from the official OSOU pages and documents below, as read on 2 October 2026.
- Post Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security (PGDCS) | Odisha State Open University, Sambalpur osou.ac.in/…/programme-pgdcs.php
- Admission Online Admission 2026-27 onlineadmission.osou.ac.in
- Last Date of Admission Extended for Academic Year 2026-27 Session… osou.ac.in/…/news.php
- Admission Open for Academic Year 2024-25, Session begining from Febraury,… osou.ac.in/…/news.php