Top Universities in Kerala: Courses, Admissions, and FAQs

Kerala, a state known for its rich culture, excellent educational infrastructure, and high literacy rate, is home to numerous universities offering a wide variety of academic programs. Here is a comprehensive list of universities in Kerala, along with key details, official websites, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

List of Universities in Kerala

1. University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram

• Founded: 1937
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Social Sciences, Fine Arts, and more.
• Official Website: www.keralauniversity.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • One of the oldest universities in Kerala.
  • Offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
  • Focuses on research and innovation across various disciplines.

2. Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU), Kottayam

• Founded: 1983
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Humanities, Science, Technology, Arts, Commerce, Education, Law, and more.
• Official Website: www.mgu.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • Known for its interdisciplinary approach to education.
  • Offers a wide range of professional courses and regular programs.
  • Provides extensive support for research and development.

3. Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi

• Founded: 1971
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Engineering, Science, Management, Law, Social Sciences, and more.
• Official Website: www.cusat.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • Renowned for its technical and scientific programs.
  • Offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, especially in engineering and technology.
  • Strong emphasis on research, innovation, and industry linkages.

4. Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Thrissur

• Founded: 1971
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Engineering, Veterinary Science, Fisheries, and more.
• Official Website: www.kau.in
• Key Features:
  • Specializes in agricultural research and education.
  • Focus on sustainable farming and agribusiness.
  • Offers various programs in agriculture, food technology, and biotechnology.

5. Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady

• Founded: 1993
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Sanskrit, Indian Culture, Linguistics, Arts, and Humanities.
• Official Website: www.ssus.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • Specializes in the study of Sanskrit and Indian philosophy.
  • Offers programs in Indian culture, literature, and other related fields.
  • Strong focus on research and preserving India's cultural heritage.

6. Calicut University, Malappuram

• Founded: 1968
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Humanities, Science, Commerce, Law, Business Administration, Education, and more.
• Official Website: www.uoc.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • One of the largest universities in Kerala in terms of student enrolment.
  • Offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
  • Promotes research and professional development.

7. Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), Kochi

• Founded: 2011
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Fisheries Science, Ocean Studies, Marine Biology, Aquaculture, and more.
• Official Website: www.kufos.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • Focused on marine sciences and fisheries research.
  • Provides specialized courses in the fields of oceanography, fisheries management, and marine biology.

8. APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU), Thiruvananthapuram

• Founded: 2014
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Engineering, Technology, Management, Applied Sciences, and more.
• Official Website: www.ktu.edu.in
• Key Features:
  • Specializes in engineering and technology programs.
  • Offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various branches of engineering and technology.
  • Provides strong industry collaboration for student placements.

9. National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS), Kochi

• Founded: 2005
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Law (LLB, LLM), Ph.D. in Law.
• Official Website: www.nuals.ac.in
• Key Features:
  • Offers specialized legal education and training.
  • Focuses on interdisciplinary education in law and related fields.
  • Offers a strong platform for research in legal studies.

10. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Kerala Campus

• Founded: 2016
• Type: Public
• Courses Offered: Social Work, Social Sciences, Development Studies, and more.
• Official Website: www.tiss.edu
• Key Features:
  • Known for its strong emphasis on social welfare and community development.
  • Offers specialized courses in social work, human resource management, and social sciences.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What are the top universities in Kerala?

Some of the top universities in Kerala include:

• University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram
• Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi
• Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU), Kottayam
• APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU), Thiruvananthapuram
• Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Thrissur

2. How can I apply for admission to Kerala universities?

Most Kerala universities have an online application process. You can visit their official websites to:

• Fill out the application form.
• Pay the application fee (if applicable).
• Submit the necessary documents (academic records, ID proofs, photographs).
• Check for specific entrance exams or eligibility criteria for different courses.

3. What courses are offered by universities in Kerala?

Universities in Kerala offer a variety of courses in fields such as:

• Engineering and Technology
• Law (LLB, LLM)
• Agriculture and Fisheries
• Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc.)
• Social Sciences, Humanities, Management
• Fine Arts and Performing Arts

4. What are the eligibility criteria for admission to Kerala universities?

• For undergraduate programs, students typically need to have completed their 12th grade from a recognized board with the required subject combination (Science, Arts, Commerce).
• For postgraduate programs, students need to have a relevant bachelor's degree with the required marks.
• Some universities conduct entrance exams for admission to specific courses (e.g., engineering, law, management).

5. Are there any scholarships available at Kerala universities?

Yes, many universities in Kerala offer scholarships, including:

• Merit-based scholarships for high-performing students.
• Government scholarships for economically disadvantaged students, SC/ST students, and other backward classes.
• Special scholarships for sports, cultural achievements, and students from specific regions.

6. How is campus life in Kerala universities?

Campus life in Kerala universities is vibrant and offers:

• Cultural events, sports, fests, and other extracurricular activities.
• Hostel facilities, library resources, cafeterias, and computer labs.
• Industry connections and internship opportunities for practical learning and development.
• Research and development programs to foster innovation and creativity.

7. Are Kerala universities recognized globally?

Yes, many universities in Kerala are recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and offer degrees that are widely accepted in India and abroad. Additionally, some universities have collaborations with international institutions for exchange programs and research initiatives.