UGC Introduces New Regulations for Allied and Healthcare Degrees

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced significant changes to the regulations governing degrees in allied and healthcare education, effective from the 2026-27 academic year. This includes the introduction of specific specializations for Master of Physiotherapy (M.PT) and Master of Occupational Therapy (M.OT) programs. Current students will not be affected by these changes, which aim to enhance clarity in degree specifications. The new framework also expands the list of healthcare courses, including Health Information Management, ensuring that degrees reflect the specific areas of expertise. Read on to learn more about these important updates.

By Ambika Singh Sep 23, 2026, 13:59 IST

New Regulations for Healthcare Degrees

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has revised its regulations regarding degrees in allied and healthcare education, set to take effect in the 2026-27 academic year. This amendment specifies that degrees for Master of Physiotherapy (M.PT) and Master of Occupational Therapy (M.OT) will now explicitly state the student's specialization, ensuring clarity in their area of expertise. This update was officially published in the Gazette of India on August 27, 2026, marking the fifth amendment to the UGC's 2014 degree specification notification.

Specializations in Master of Occupational Therapy

According to the new guidelines, the M.OT program will be structured around eight distinct specializations: Musculoskeletal Sciences, Pediatrics and Neonatology, Neurosciences, Mental Health, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences, Rehabilitation, Geriatrics, and Hand Oncological Sciences. The minimum duration for this master's program will be two years, and candidates must hold a relevant bachelor's degree for admission.

Updated Master of Physiotherapy Program

Similarly, the M.PT program will also award degrees based on specific specializations. The areas of focus will include Musculoskeletal Sciences, Neurosciences, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences, Sports Sciences, Pediatrics and Neonatal Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology Sciences, Oncology Sciences, and Community Rehabilitation Sciences. This program will also require a minimum study duration of two years.

Exemption for Current Students

The newly established regulations will not affect students who are already enrolled in M.PT or M.OT programs prior to the 2026-27 academic session. These students will receive their degrees according to the previous guidelines, as confirmed by the NCAHP.

Expanded List of Healthcare Courses

The updated regulations also include a variety of other healthcare courses such as Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Microbiology, Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Histology, and Cytopathology. Additionally, fields like Paramedics, Anesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology, Nutrition and Dietetics, Medical Radiology and Imaging Technology, Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine, Medical Physics, Dialysis, and Respiratory Technology are now part of the curriculum.

Health Information Management Courses

Furthermore, the new framework encompasses B.Sc. and M.Sc. programs in Health Information Management. The B.Sc. program will have a minimum duration of four years, while the M.Sc. program will last two years. This initiative aims to provide clear recognition for degrees in allied and healthcare professions based on their specific specializations.