Sikkim Manipal University Directorate of Distance Education (SMU-DE) was established in 2001 by the Sikkim Manipal University of Health, Medical and Technological Sciences as part of its efforts to bring education to the masses to fulfill the growing demand for professionals. The programs offered by SMU are recognized by the Distance Education Council of the Government of India. Sikkim Manipal University was established in 1995, and is a unique venture between the Government of Sikkim and the Manipal Group. Distance Education (DE), distance learning or online learning, is a field of education that focuses on the pedagogy, technology, and instructional systems design that aim to deliver education to students who are not physically "on site". Distance learning courses that require a physical on-site presence for any reason including the taking of examinations is considered to be a hybrid or blended course of study. Many teachers feel the opportunities offered by distance learning outweigh the obstacles. In fact, instructors often comment that the focused preparation required by distance teaching improves their overall teaching and empathy for their students. Through Distance learning they can: -