Kerala University
Kerala University: Legacy of Knowledge, Future of Innovation.
📍 Thiruvananthapuram, India 🇮🇳
🏆 #25 in India · THE World #1201
Quick Facts about Kerala University
- Type: Public
- Students: 130,000
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $900 – $3,000/year
- Language: English, Malayalam, Hindi
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
- Intakes: Fall
About Kerala University
The University of Kerala, established in 1937, is a public state university located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India. It holds the distinction of being one of India's oldest universities and the first in Kerala. The university is recognized by the UGC and accredited by NAAC with the highest grade of A++.
Academics
The University of Kerala offers a broad spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across sixteen faculties and 44 departments. The university emphasizes a research-oriented ecosystem, with departments primarily focusing on postgraduate, MPhil, and doctoral research. Notable programs include those in Computer Science, Electronics, English and Communicative English, Malayalam and Mass Communication, and various B.Com specializations. The university also has specialized study centers for fields such as Kerala Studies, Nano Technology, Women's Studies, and Gandhian Studies, highlighting its multidisciplinary strengths.
International Students
The University of Kerala actively promotes internationalization, with the Centre for Global Academics (CGA) coordinating matters related to foreign student admissions and international collaborations. Students and faculty from various countries, including the USA, UK, Middle East, Persia, Germany, France, Sweden, and Italy, have studied or taught at the university. In 2024, approximately 218 international students from 53 countries were enrolled. The academic system, traditionally modeled after the British system, has transitioned to a choice-based credit and semester system, making it more internationally understood.
Campus & Location
The University of Kerala operates a sprawling campus with extensive infrastructure in Thiruvananthapuram. The main campus at Kariavattom spans 359 acres, featuring modern amenities, specialized research centers, and a large central library with over 3.5 lakh books. Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and natural beauty, including serene beaches and lush hills. The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with Trivandrum International Airport connecting to various domestic and international destinations.
Career Outcomes
Kerala University's placement ecosystem demonstrates steady growth, with structured recruitment drives involving national and multinational corporations like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Wipro, Infosys, and Accenture. According to the NIRF report 2025, the median package for PG 1-year and PG 2-year placements in 2024 was INR 2.88 LPA and INR 3.48 LPA, respectively. The university's placement cell coordinates recruitment activities, including pre-placement workshops and industry interactions, and also extends job assistance to alumni. While placement rates vary by department, technology-oriented programs generally achieve higher rates, and the university supports academic progression through research opportunities for those pursuing higher education. Kerala also boasts a strong startup ecosystem, with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) actively fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Information for International Students at Kerala University
Kerala University in Thiruvananthapuram, India welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$3000/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English, Malayalam, Hindi
Admissions Requirements for Kerala University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Kerala University:
- GPA minimum: 2
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: May 10, 2026
Programs at Kerala University (60 programs)
Kerala University offers 60 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (24)
- Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering (BTech) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the fundamentals of computer science, including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software development. Students gain practical skills for designing and implementing complex software systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, System Analyst, Web Developer - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program offers a rigorous study of pure and applied mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and differential equations. Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to various fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Data Scientist - Bachelor of Arts in Malayalam Language and Literature (BA) — 36 months · Malayalam
This program focuses on the study of Malayalam language, literature, and culture, including classical and modern works. Students develop a deep appreciation for regional literary traditions.
Field: Malayalam Literature
Career outcomes: Teacher, Writer, Journalist, Translator - Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) — 36 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, accounting, finance, and economics. Students develop skills essential for careers in commerce and related fields.
Field: Commerce
Career outcomes: Accountant, Financial Advisor, Auditor, Business Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature (BA) — 36 months · English
This program explores English literature from various periods and genres, alongside developing critical analysis and communication skills. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of literary theory and cultural contexts.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Writer, Teacher - Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students gain laboratory experience and problem-solving skills.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Analyst, Research Assistant - Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering (BTech) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and testing of electronic equipment and communication systems. Students learn about circuits, signals, telecommunications, and embedded systems.
Field: Electronics and Communication Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Engineer, Telecommunication Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Embedded Systems Developer - Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) (BFA) — 48 months · English
This program provides intensive training in various visual arts disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and graphic design. Students develop artistic skills, creativity, and critical perspectives.
Field: Fine Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator, Illustrator - Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering (BTech) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the fundamentals of computer science, including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software development. Students gain practical skills for designing and implementing complex software systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, System Analyst, Web Developer - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program offers a rigorous study of pure and applied mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and differential equations. Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to various fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Data Scientist - Bachelor of Arts in Malayalam Language and Literature (BA) — 36 months · Malayalam
This program focuses on the study of Malayalam language, literature, and culture, including classical and modern works. Students develop a deep appreciation for regional literary traditions.
Field: Malayalam Literature
Career outcomes: Teacher, Writer, Journalist, Translator - Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) — 36 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, accounting, finance, and economics. Students develop skills essential for careers in commerce and related fields.
Field: Commerce
Career outcomes: Accountant, Financial Advisor, Auditor, Business Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature (BA) — 36 months · English
This program explores English literature from various periods and genres, alongside developing critical analysis and communication skills. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of literary theory and cultural contexts.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Writer, Teacher - Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students gain laboratory experience and problem-solving skills.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Analyst, Research Assistant - Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering (BTech) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and testing of electronic equipment and communication systems. Students learn about circuits, signals, telecommunications, and embedded systems.
Field: Electronics and Communication Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Engineer, Telecommunication Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Embedded Systems Developer - Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) (BFA) — 48 months · English
This program provides intensive training in various visual arts disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and graphic design. Students develop artistic skills, creativity, and critical perspectives.
Field: Fine Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator, Illustrator - Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering (BTech) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the fundamentals of computer science, including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software development. Students gain practical skills for designing and implementing complex software systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, System Analyst, Web Developer - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program offers a rigorous study of pure and applied mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and differential equations. Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to various fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Data Scientist - Bachelor of Arts in Malayalam Language and Literature (BA) — 36 months · Malayalam
This program focuses on the study of Malayalam language, literature, and culture, including classical and modern works. Students develop a deep appreciation for regional literary traditions.
Field: Malayalam Literature
Career outcomes: Teacher, Writer, Journalist, Translator - Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) — 36 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, accounting, finance, and economics. Students develop skills essential for careers in commerce and related fields.
Field: Commerce
Career outcomes: Accountant, Financial Advisor, Auditor, Business Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature (BA) — 36 months · English
This program explores English literature from various periods and genres, alongside developing critical analysis and communication skills. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of literary theory and cultural contexts.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Writer, Teacher - Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Students gain laboratory experience and problem-solving skills.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Analyst, Research Assistant - Bachelor of Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering (BTech) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and testing of electronic equipment and communication systems. Students learn about circuits, signals, telecommunications, and embedded systems.
Field: Electronics and Communication Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Engineer, Telecommunication Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Embedded Systems Developer - Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) (BFA) — 48 months · English
This program provides intensive training in various visual arts disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and graphic design. Students develop artistic skills, creativity, and critical perspectives.
Field: Fine Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator, Illustrator
Master Programs (24)
- Master of Arts in History (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides an in-depth exploration of historical events, movements, and interpretations, with a focus on research methodologies. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills to understand the past.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator - Master of Science in Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of biological organisms and systems to create new products and technologies. It covers molecular biology, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics.
Field: Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst, Biomedical Engineer - Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program delves into theoretical and experimental aspects of physics, covering areas like quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and condensed matter physics. Students develop research skills and a deep understanding of physical phenomena.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Researcher, Lecturer, Scientist, Data Analyst - Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) (MLIS) — 24 months · English
This program focuses on the organization, management, and dissemination of information in various formats and settings. Students learn about library science, information technology, and archival studies.
Field: Library and Information Science
Career outcomes: Librarian, Archivist, Information Manager, Knowledge Manager - Master of Computer Applications (MCA) (MCA) — 24 months · English · STEM
The MCA program provides advanced knowledge and practical skills in computer applications, software development, and information technology. It prepares students for roles in the IT industry.
Field: Computer Applications
Career outcomes: Software Developer, System Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Consultant - Master of Social Work (MSW) (MSW) — 24 months · English
The MSW program prepares students for professional practice in social work, focusing on social justice, human rights, and community development. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Counselor, Policy Analyst - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
The MBA program provides a strong foundation in business management, covering areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. It prepares students for leadership roles in diverse industries.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Consultant - Master of Arts in Sociology (MA) — 24 months · English
This program examines social structures, institutions, and human behavior, with a focus on sociological theories and research methods. Students analyze contemporary social issues and their impact.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Sociologist, Researcher, Social Policy Analyst, Community Development Worker - Master of Arts in History (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides an in-depth exploration of historical events, movements, and interpretations, with a focus on research methodologies. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills to understand the past.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator - Master of Science in Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of biological organisms and systems to create new products and technologies. It covers molecular biology, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics.
Field: Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst, Biomedical Engineer - Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program delves into theoretical and experimental aspects of physics, covering areas like quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and condensed matter physics. Students develop research skills and a deep understanding of physical phenomena.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Researcher, Lecturer, Scientist, Data Analyst - Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) (MLIS) — 24 months · English
This program focuses on the organization, management, and dissemination of information in various formats and settings. Students learn about library science, information technology, and archival studies.
Field: Library and Information Science
Career outcomes: Librarian, Archivist, Information Manager, Knowledge Manager - Master of Computer Applications (MCA) (MCA) — 24 months · English · STEM
The MCA program provides advanced knowledge and practical skills in computer applications, software development, and information technology. It prepares students for roles in the IT industry.
Field: Computer Applications
Career outcomes: Software Developer, System Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Consultant - Master of Social Work (MSW) (MSW) — 24 months · English
The MSW program prepares students for professional practice in social work, focusing on social justice, human rights, and community development. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Counselor, Policy Analyst - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
The MBA program provides a strong foundation in business management, covering areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. It prepares students for leadership roles in diverse industries.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Consultant - Master of Arts in Sociology (MA) — 24 months · English
This program examines social structures, institutions, and human behavior, with a focus on sociological theories and research methods. Students analyze contemporary social issues and their impact.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Sociologist, Researcher, Social Policy Analyst, Community Development Worker - Master of Arts in History (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides an in-depth exploration of historical events, movements, and interpretations, with a focus on research methodologies. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills to understand the past.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator - Master of Science in Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of biological organisms and systems to create new products and technologies. It covers molecular biology, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics.
Field: Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Analyst, Biomedical Engineer - Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program delves into theoretical and experimental aspects of physics, covering areas like quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and condensed matter physics. Students develop research skills and a deep understanding of physical phenomena.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Researcher, Lecturer, Scientist, Data Analyst - Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) (MLIS) — 24 months · English
This program focuses on the organization, management, and dissemination of information in various formats and settings. Students learn about library science, information technology, and archival studies.
Field: Library and Information Science
Career outcomes: Librarian, Archivist, Information Manager, Knowledge Manager - Master of Computer Applications (MCA) (MCA) — 24 months · English · STEM
The MCA program provides advanced knowledge and practical skills in computer applications, software development, and information technology. It prepares students for roles in the IT industry.
Field: Computer Applications
Career outcomes: Software Developer, System Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Consultant - Master of Social Work (MSW) (MSW) — 24 months · English
The MSW program prepares students for professional practice in social work, focusing on social justice, human rights, and community development. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Counselor, Policy Analyst - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
The MBA program provides a strong foundation in business management, covering areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. It prepares students for leadership roles in diverse industries.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Consultant - Master of Arts in Sociology (MA) — 24 months · English
This program examines social structures, institutions, and human behavior, with a focus on sociological theories and research methods. Students analyze contemporary social issues and their impact.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Sociologist, Researcher, Social Policy Analyst, Community Development Worker
PhD Programs (12)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English
The PhD in Management Studies offers advanced research opportunities in various management disciplines, including finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. Candidates contribute to management theory and practice.
Field: Management Studies
Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Manager, Researcher - Doctor of Philosophy in Botany (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Botany focuses on advanced research in plant sciences, including plant physiology, ecology, genetics, and biotechnology. Candidates conduct original research contributing to the understanding of plant life.
Field: Botany
Career outcomes: Botanist, Research Scientist, Environmental Consultant, University Professor - Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Chemistry offers an opportunity for in-depth research in various chemical disciplines, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Candidates contribute original research to the scientific community.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Industrial Chemist, Consultant - Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English
The PhD in Economics offers advanced research opportunities in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics. Candidates contribute to economic theory and policy analysis.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Policy Analyst, Researcher, University Professor - Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English
The PhD in Management Studies offers advanced research opportunities in various management disciplines, including finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. Candidates contribute to management theory and practice.
Field: Management Studies
Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Manager, Researcher - Doctor of Philosophy in Botany (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Botany focuses on advanced research in plant sciences, including plant physiology, ecology, genetics, and biotechnology. Candidates conduct original research contributing to the understanding of plant life.
Field: Botany
Career outcomes: Botanist, Research Scientist, Environmental Consultant, University Professor - Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Chemistry offers an opportunity for in-depth research in various chemical disciplines, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Candidates contribute original research to the scientific community.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Industrial Chemist, Consultant - Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English
The PhD in Economics offers advanced research opportunities in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics. Candidates contribute to economic theory and policy analysis.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Policy Analyst, Researcher, University Professor - Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies (PhD) — 36 months · English
The PhD in Management Studies offers advanced research opportunities in various management disciplines, including finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. Candidates contribute to management theory and practice.
Field: Management Studies
Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Manager, Researcher - Doctor of Philosophy in Botany (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Botany focuses on advanced research in plant sciences, including plant physiology, ecology, genetics, and biotechnology. Candidates conduct original research contributing to the understanding of plant life.
Field: Botany
Career outcomes: Botanist, Research Scientist, Environmental Consultant, University Professor - Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Chemistry offers an opportunity for in-depth research in various chemical disciplines, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Candidates contribute original research to the scientific community.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Industrial Chemist, Consultant - Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English
The PhD in Economics offers advanced research opportunities in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics. Candidates contribute to economic theory and policy analysis.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Policy Analyst, Researcher, University Professor
Scholarships & Tuition at Kerala University
Annual tuition for international students: $900 – $3,000/year
✅ Kerala University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Kerala University
- National Ranking: #25 in India
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1201
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Kerala University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$3000/month
Key Highlights
- First in Kerala, oldest in India
- NAAC A++ accredited
- Diverse academic programs, research focus
- Significant international student body
- Sprawling campus, modern amenities
Accreditation
- NAAC A++ Grade
- UGC
Fields of Study at Kerala University
- Arts
- Science
- Commerce
- Engineering
Notable Alumni
- P. V. Jagadish Kumar
- M. A. Yusuff Ali
- Thomas Jessayyan Netto
- Appu Kuttan
- T. V. Paul
Frequently Asked Questions about Kerala University
What is Kerala University?
Kerala University is a public university located in Thiruvananthapuram, India. It has approximately 130,000 students.
How much does it cost to study at Kerala University?
Tuition fees at Kerala University for international students range from $900 – $3,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $3000/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Kerala University?
GPA minimum: 2. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: May 10, 2026.
What language are courses taught in at Kerala University?
Courses at Kerala University are taught in English and Malayalam and Hindi.
How many programs does Kerala University offer?
Kerala University offers 60 programs: 24 Bachelor's, 24 Master's, and 12 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Kerala University ranked?
#25 in India · THE World #1201.
Does Kerala University offer scholarships?
Yes, Kerala University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Kerala University provide visa support?
Yes, Kerala University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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