Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology University, Patiala launched B.Tech. Programmes through Distance Education in April 2007. These programmes judiciously combined the flexibility and ingenuity of the distance mode with the features of the on campus education system.With advances in multimedia and communication technologies, distance education is being adopted by corporations as well as universities. Proponents of distance education point out that the practice may allow learning to reach thousands or even millions more people on an “anytime-anywhere” basis. This applies especially to potential students who are motivated and committed but work bound, as well as students who find it extremely difficult to fit their family and work responsibilities into a traditional academic schedule.

The new admission to the B.Tech (Distance Education) programme has been stopped as per the directions issued by Govt. of India, Ministry of Human Resource and Development (MHRD) vide letter No. vide letter No. D.O. 6-7/2009-DL dated July 29, 2009.