Several students pursuing Msc by Research at Mumbai University are staring at an uncertain future, thanks to inadequate evaluation by the institution. The students say they are being deprived of some marks that they deserve, which is affecting their overall percentage and career prospects in terms of admission in foreign colleges. Varsity officials have refuted the charge.
According to the students, each of their papers has 100 marks – 75 marks in theory and the remaining in viva, practicals and internals. However, they say, the varsity is giving out marks only for the theory papers. Their mark sheet is silent on the practicals.
"A circular issued in 2012 had directed the authorities to brief the external referee about judging and awarding marks on dissertations compiled by students. However, they have failed to act upon it, and as a result, the referees don't give marks for practicals," said a student.
Mumbai University (MU) has about 400 students pursuing the Msc by Research course.
Dean of Faculty of Science, Dr Madhuri Pejawar, denied any lapse on their part. She said marks are never awarded for dissertations as they are either accepted with modifications. Also, each thesis differs from minor to major subjects. A student securing 55%, which is equivalent to B+ grade, will never face a problem on any front, she assured.
Pejawar said, "There is an added advantage for Msc by Research students as they can complete their PhD in a year instead of two. They should be mature enough to decide if they want to get into academics or pure research. The valuation shouldn't pose any hindrance to one who has prioritised his career concerns."
Another student said it may not be possible for everyone to score a B+ grade. "My score fell below average and I couldn't get myself enrolled for further opportunities because of this valuation system."
Senate member Sanjay Vairal said many students are failing to get admission in universities abroad as their aggregate scores are getting affected in the absence of marks or credits for practicals. "I have complained about this to the vice-chancellor and pro vice-chancellor of the university. Let's hope a decision is taken for the benefit of students."
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
)
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
)
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
)
)
)
)
)
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}
){kind=small}