Students who take admission in the honours programme of Delhi University in 2013 will get their degree after four years, instead of three, as is the case now.

The academic council passed this landmark proposal at a nine-hour long meeting on Monday.   Under the new system, the degree will be called baccalaureate honours and will include research components.

"The meeting was well attended and we saw a small number of dissents...This is a step that will change the face of education in the university," said Dinesh Singh, vice chancellor, Delhi University.

However, not all students will have to take the four-year course.

Students can opt for a two-year associate baccalaureate degree or a three-year baccalaureate degree. Only those working towards an honours degree will have to take the four-year course.

The new proposal will also allow interdisciplinary work. For example, a student of Chemistry honours will be allowed to opt for political science as a minor discipline. Extra-curricular activities and sports have also been made a part of the curriculum.  

The proposal will be discussed in the executive council on Wednesday, where it is expected to be passed without much difficulty.