Islamabad : Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan has published updated list of active MS/MPhil (Level 7) and PhD (Level 8) programmes on its website. List is available at https://www.hec.gov.pk/site/MS-MPhil-PhD
It is pertinent to mention here that HEC recently conducted nationwide training sessions for focal persons of higher education institutions (HEIs) on Pakistan Qualification Register (PQR). The sessions, joined by the focal persons from across the country, aimed at improving the accuracy and completeness of qualifications data that are used for attestation of degrees and other purposes. HEC emphasised the importance of PQR as a centralised, authentic database of recognised degree programmes that are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
The HEIs were advised to ensure complete details of each programme in PQR, followed by approvals from the statutory bodies for graduate programmes. The training reinforced the role of PQR focal persons as the key liaison between HEC and universities/HEIs for resolving verification challenges and assuring transparent, accurate details about each programme.
Following the training activities, the HEIs have verified their PQR entries and HEC has published updated lists on its website. These lists are publicly accessible and intended to guide prospective students in making informed choices.
Prospective applicants are strongly advised to consult the updated PQR List and the NOC Issued List before applying for admission to confirm that their selected programme is active and recognised by HEC. It is advised that admission into any unlisted programme in the PQR may result in non-attestation of the degree.
PQR is an official registry of HEC-recognised academic programmes offered by Pakistani higher education institutions (HEIs). It maps programmes to NQF levels, provides current status (active/suspended/closed), and underpins data-driven decisions by students, universities, employers, and other regulators. It safeguards students from taking admission in unapproved programmes by sharing details of each currently active degree. It streamlines verification and recognition processes and supports universities in maintaining transparent as well as up-to-date academic records. It strengthens planning and public trust in the higher education system.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
