Tamil Nadu’s ‘One Degree, Six Skills’ Scheme: 6 Job Skills Alongside UG Degree
Tamil Nadu will introduce its ‘One Degree, Six Skills’ programme in 181 government arts and science colleges from January 2027, adding practical, job-oriented skills to undergraduate education.
A three-year college degree in Tamil Nadu could soon come with six additional job-oriented skills. The state government plans to launch its “One Degree, Six Skills” programme across 181 government arts and science colleges from January 2027.
Under the proposed model, students will learn one practical skill every semester alongside their regular undergraduate degree. The programme has been developed with the Tamil Nadu State Council for Higher Education and was earlier referred to as the “One Skill Per Semester” initiative under Naan Mudhalvan.
The state has identified 20 skill courses covering areas related to arts and basic sciences. Colleges will choose the courses they want to offer and appoint expert trainers. Each course is expected to involve 30 to 45 hours of instruction.
And there’s a twist: students will not face a traditional written exam for these courses. Assessment will focus on practical performance, with 40% based on skill exercises, 30% on individual competency and 30% on a final demonstrable output.
Tamil Nadu also wants colleges to build stronger industry connections. Each government college has been asked to sign MoUs with at least three leading industries, potentially creating more opportunities for curriculum development, internships and placements.
With around 1.30 lakh sanctioned undergraduate seats across these colleges, the initiative could change what students take away from a conventional three-year degree. Because apparently, having one degree wasn’t enough—now you need six skills to unlock the full package.
