Which Courses are offered by Allama Iqbal Open University AIOU? complete details
Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is Pakistan’s largest public sector distance-learning university, headquartered in Islamabad (Sector H-8). Established in 1974, it was the first institution in South Asia to introduce the open and distance education system. Today, AIOU serves over 1.4 million students annually across Pakistan and abroad through its regional campuses, online platforms, and flexible learning programs.
The university offers a wide range of academic and professional courses, starting from Matriculation (Secondary School Certificate) up to Ph.D. level research programs. These programs are designed under different faculties, online learning platforms, and short-term skills development initiatives to meet the needs of modern learners.
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General Distance Learning Programs Offered by AIOU
AIOU provides accessible programs for every level of education:
- Matriculation & Intermediate Programs: Humanities, General Science, and Commerce streams.
- Undergraduate Degrees (BS / Associate Degree Programs): BS (4 years) in multiple disciplines and Associate Degrees in Arts, Education, and Commerce.
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.): Offered in 1.5-year, 2.5-year, and 4-year formats as per HEC guidelines.
- Master’s Programs: MA, MSc, MBA, M.Ed. (being gradually replaced by BS/MS programs under HEC policy).
- Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD): Available in Education, HRM, Business Administration, and related fields.
Certificate & Short Courses: Computer Basics, Arabic Language, Teaching Methods, Library Science, and Islamic Studies.
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Programs Offered by AIOU In Faculty of Arabic & Islamic Studies
This faculty is dedicated to promoting Arabic language proficiency and Islamic knowledge at all levels.
- Certificate in Arabic Language
- Diploma in Arabic Language
- BS Arabic
- MA Arabic
- MPhil Arabic
- PhD Arabic
- Certificate in Islamic Studies
- Diploma in Islamic Studies
- BS Islamic Studies
- MA Islamic Studies
- MPhil Islamic Studies
- PhD Islamic Studies
Programs Offered by AIOU In Faculty of Education
Since teacher education is one of AIOU’s strongest domains, it offers multiple flexible B.Ed. and M.Ed. pathways.
- B.Ed. (1.5 years)
- B.Ed. (2.5 years)
- B.Ed. (4 years / BS Education)
- M.Ed. (1 year / 2 years)
- MPhil Education
- PhD Education
- Certificate in Teacher Education
- Diploma in Teacher Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education
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Programs Offered by AIOU In Faculty of Sciences
This faculty covers both basic and applied sciences, preparing students for research and professional careers.
- Matriculation & Intermediate (Science Group)
- BS in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Computer Science
- MPhil in selective Science subjects (subject to supervisor availability)
- PhD in selective Science subjects
- Certificate in Computer Science
- Diploma in Computer Science
- BS Computer Science (BCS/BSCS)
- MS/MCS (Computer Science)
Programs Offered by AIOU In Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities
This faculty covers literature, languages, culture, and media sciences.
- BS (English, Urdu, History, Mass Communication, Pakistan Studies)
- MA (English, Urdu, History, Mass Communication, Pakistan Studies)
- MPhil in selective Social Science subjects
- PhD in Social Sciences & Humanities
- Certificate in Library & Information Science
- Diploma in Library & Information Science
- BLIS (Bachelor of Library & Information Science)
MLIS (Master of Library & Information Science)
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Programs Offered by AIOU In Faculty of Economics & Management Sciences
Equipping students with professional and business knowledge.
- BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
- MBA (1.5 years / 2.5 years)
- MPA (Master of Public Administration)
- M.Com (Master of Commerce)
- BS Economics, BS Commerce, BS Accounting & Finance
- Certificate in Business Administration
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Postgraduate Diploma in Management Sciences
Programs Offered by AIOU In Faculty of Law (Limited Programs)
Currently, AIOU does not offer LLB or LLM, but provides law-related diplomas and certifications.
- Diploma in Criminology
- Diploma in Human Rights
- Short Courses in Law-related subjects
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Online & Skills Development Courses In AIOU
In line with market needs, AIOU has introduced short-term online certificate courses:
- Digital Marketing
- E-Commerce & Online Business
- Web Development
- Graphic Designing
- Cyber Security Essentials
- Data Analysis & AI Basics
- Entrepreneurship
Leadership & Management Skills
Online Learning Platforms at AIOU
To ensure accessibility, AIOU has introduced multiple digital learning platforms:
- AIOU LMS (Learning Management System – Moodle): For assignments, study materials, and quizzes.
- AIOU Virtual Classroom: Online lectures, live sessions, and workshops.
- AIOU Digital Library: Provides access to international research journals, e-books, and databases.
AIOU Mobile App: For quick access to results, assignments, schedules, and notifications.
Level Wise Programs Offered by AIOU
| Program Level | Courses / Degrees Offered |
|---|---|
| Matric / SSC | Matriculation (General / Dars-e-Nizami) |
| Intermediate / HSSC | FA, FSc, I.Com, Open Courses |
| Associate Degree | Arts, Commerce, Islamic Studies |
| Undergraduate (BS) | BS programs in multiple disciplines |
| Graduate | MA / MSc / MBA / M.Com / MPA |
| PG Diplomas | PGD in Management, Communication, Education, HR, etc. |
| Research | M.Phil / Ph.D. (various fields) |
| Certificates / Vocational | IT, Technical skills, Language, STEP programs |
| Open / Single Courses | Flexible standalone subjects |
Important Notes for Students:
- Old BA/BSc/MA/MSc programs are being phased out under the HEC BS 4-year policy.
- Advanced research programs like MPhil & PhD depend on supervisor availability.
Short courses and diplomas vary by semester, so students should check the official website regularly.
Summary Table of Courses Offered at AIOU
Faculty / Category | Programs Offered | Levels Available |
General Programs | Matric, FA, BA (Associate), BS, B.Ed., MA/MSc, MBA, PGD, Certificates | Matric to Postgraduate |
Arabic & Islamic Studies | Arabic, Islamic Studies | Certificate to PhD |
Education | Teacher Education, B.Ed., M.Ed., MPhil, PhD | Certificate to PhD |
Sciences | Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Computer Science | Matric to PhD |
Social Sciences & Humanities | English, Urdu, History, Mass Communication, Pakistan Studies, Library Science | Certificate to PhD |
Economics & Management Sciences | Business Administration, Commerce, Accounting, Economics, Public Administration | Certificate to PhD (selected) |
Law | Criminology, Human Rights, Law-related diplomas | Diplomas / Short Courses |
Online & Skills Development | Digital Marketing, E-Commerce, IT, Cyber Security, Data Analysis, Leadership | Certificate / Short Courses |
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FAQs – AIOU Courses & Admissions
1. Does AIOU offer programs from Matric to PhD?
Yes. Allama Iqbal Open University provides academic programs starting from Matric/SSC all the way up to MPhil and PhD levels. It is one of the few universities in Pakistan that offers such a wide range of study options.
2. Are short courses and skill-based programs available?
Yes, AIOU offers various short-term, vocational, and technical courses. These include practical training such as auto mechanics, electrician work, welding, and modern skills like web development, office management, and language courses.
3. What makes STEP programs different from regular AIOU courses?
STEP programs are designed as Skill Training & Enhancement Programs. They are shorter, more practical, and focus on hands-on learning. Successful students receive professional skill certificates, which help in employment or freelancing.
4. Can I study only one or two subjects without being admitted to a full program?
Yes. AIOU offers an Open Courses system, allowing students to enroll in individual subjects independently. This option is great for learners who want to upgrade skills or study specific topics without joining a complete degree.
5. Are AIOU degrees recognized in Pakistan?
Yes. All degrees, diplomas, and certificates offered by AIOU are approved and recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. These qualifications are valid for jobs, further studies, and competitive exams.
6. Does AIOU provide technical or vocational training trades?
Yes. AIOU has multiple Technical & Vocational Training courses, such as Mason, Auto Electrician, Computer Hardware & Software, Plumbing, Tailoring, and several other skill-based trades.
7. Can international/overseas students apply?
Yes. AIOU accepts applications from foreign and overseas Pakistani students. Many BS, Diploma, and Master-level programs are available through distance-learning modes suitable for international learners.
8. Where can I check course codes, subjects, and semester details?
You can find updated course codes, study schemes, and semester offerings in the official AIOU prospectus or through the online portals:
AIOU Admission Portal
AIOU Student Profile / CMS
University official website
These platforms provide complete and regularly updated academic information.