UGC changes rules: MPT and MOT degrees will now be awarded with a specialization, not just as generic titles..

UGC Notification 2026: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced significant changes to the degree structure of Master of Physiotherapy (M.PT) and Master of Occupational Therapy (M.OT) courses, effective from the 2026-27 academic session. Through the fifth amendment to the 2014 notification regarding degree specifications, the UGC has decided that M.PT and M.OT degrees will no longer be awarded as generic degrees; instead, students will receive degrees with specific specializations based on their field of study. Let us look at the specializations available for these courses.

**Specializations available in M.OT**
Under the new system, universities offering M.OT programs must restructure their courses. The key specializations recognized for M.OT include:

Musculoskeletal Sciences
Paediatrics and Neonatology
Neurosciences
Mental Health
Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences
Rehabilitation
Geriatrics
Hand
Oncological Sciences

According to the UGC, M.OT will remain a master's level program with a minimum duration of two years. Admission will require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

**Rules changed for M.PT as well**
Similarly, Master of Physiotherapy (M.PT) programs will also be conducted as specialized courses. The specializations mentioned in the notification include:

Musculoskeletal Sciences
Neurosciences
Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences
Sports Sciences
Paediatrics and Neonatal Sciences
Obstetrics and Gynaecology Sciences
Oncology Sciences
Community Rehabilitation Sciences

It is worth noting that the M.PT program will also remain a master's level course with a fixed minimum duration of two years.

**No impact on existing students; applicable to new students**
The UGC has clarified that these changes will come into effect only from the 2026-27 academic session. Students who have already enrolled in M.PT or M.OT programs prior to this will not be affected; they will obtain their degrees under the old regulations. Additional Healthcare Degrees Included
The notification also includes several other degree programs in the allied and healthcare fields. These include courses such as Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (B.MLS), Master of Medical Laboratory Science (M.MLS), Medical Microbiology, Hematology, Paramedics, and Anesthesia & Operation Theatre Technology.

Additionally, B.Sc. HIM and M.Sc. HIM programs related to Health Information Management have been included in the revised list.

It is worth noting that this change was notified in the Gazette of India on August 27, 2026, and has received approval from the Central Government.

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