New Delhi: The Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Delhi (AUD) has launched its first academic programme, the Postgraduate Diploma programme in Development Studies.

The programme has been developed in collaboration with the Council for Social Development and is aimed at preparing development professionals with social concerns.

This programme has several unique features that contribute to nurturing learning skills and professional competence in Development Studies together with a deep social commitment.

An official from the varsity said, "The diploma will give placement possibilities in development organisations, government bodies, banks, international agencies, corporate firms and teaching and research institutions."

Candidates with a Bachelor's degree from any recognized university and with minimum 50 percent marks are eligible to apply for the course. Application forms can be purchased from the office of the Council for Social Development at Lodhi Estate and can also be downloaded from the University website www.aud.ac.in.

The last date for submitting filled-in applications is December 17. Admission will be made on the basis of a written test and personal interview. Classes will commence from January 2009.

The Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Delhi (AUD) was established through an Act of the Delhi Legislature in 2007 and was notified in July 2008.

Mandated to focus on teaching and research in the field of Social Sciences and Humanities and guided by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of promoting equity and social justice with quality, AUD is poised to be a unitary university with both postgraduate and undergraduate programmes on campus.

It will develop into a multi-campus system spread over the National Capital Territory in the coming years.