For the pragmatic understanding of the socio-political and economic institutions of any country, it is inevitable to study the geography, history, politics, economics and culture of that particular country in an integrated manner. The purpose of offering Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies is, first, to provide a substitute for BA program as well as to promote investigative approach, in Social Sciences paradigms, to study Pakistani society and culture, political and economic institutions, history and geography in an integrated and interdisciplinary ways.

Objectives

The main objective of Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies programme is to produce social scientists who can embark on the task of carrying out scientific research in the fields of Pakistan’s history, politics, economics, society and culture. We hope, this approach will be helpful to understand the complexities and problems associated with the socio-political and economic development of the country.

Scope of Studies

Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies programme would fulfill students’ inner most satisfaction and their thirst for knowledge as well as the requirements of their jobs. After completing Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies the learners will find the jobs in public as well as in various private sectors. Pakistan Studies is a compulsory subject at college level and after completing Associate Degree the students would be feeling to urge to enhance their academic qualifications hence a lot would be prepared for entry to BS Pakistan Studies programme after which the candidates may serve as lecturers/teachers in all over the country.

Scheme of Studies

Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies programme comprises of 60 Credit Hours (CH) of course work, an internship or an entrepreneurship or youth club or sports activity. It would comprise of 04 semesters. The admission in BS (4 years) would be advertised twice a year.

Semester wise break-up of the courses:

Course Load per Semester:                 15 Credit Hours

Number of Courses per Semester:      5 Courses

Provided that in case of failure in one or more courses, the student would be allowed to get admission in coming semester wherein the failed course/s would be offered and take 06 courses. The student could not opt for more than 06 courses in any semester.

Study Material

The University will upload study material in soft form at its website www.aiou.edu.pk to be downloaded by the students at the start of each semester as per AIOU policy.

Change of Rules

Any amendment made by the University in BS rules will be applicable to the Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies programme.

Plagiarism Policy

Plagiarism policy of AIOU and HEC would be followed as updated.

Employability:

The graduates of Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies would have the opportunity to serve in government as well as private sector. It is generally witnessed that there is a shortage of teachers of Pakistan Studies hence degree holders of History are teaching Pakistan Studies. Associate Degree in Pakistan Studies program will to some extent fulfill this deficiency. The graduates will also be prospective candidates for BS Pakistan Studies.