Compare Kerala University

Kerala University, officially known as the University of Kerala, is one of the oldest and most prominent universities in Kerala, India. However, there are other universities in Kerala as well, such as Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU), Calicut University, Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kannur University, and others.

Here’s a brief comparison of Kerala University with some other major state universities in Kerala:

1. University of Kerala (KU)

  • Established: 1937

  • Location: Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

  • Affiliated Colleges: Over 150 affiliated colleges

  • Key Features:

    • One of the oldest universities in Kerala.

    • Offers a wide range of UG, PG, and research programs.

    • Strong in traditional arts, sciences, and humanities.

    • Well-known departments include Physics, Chemistry, and Literature.

2. Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU)

  • Established: 1983

  • Location: Kottayam

  • Affiliated Colleges: Over 250 affiliated colleges

  • Key Features:

    • Covers central Kerala districts (Kottayam, Idukki, etc.).

    • Strong focus on research and interdisciplinary studies.

    • Known for courses in Social Sciences, Management, and Biotechnology.

3. Calicut University (University of Calicut)

  • Established: 1968

  • Location: Malappuram (headquarters in Tenhipalam)

  • Affiliated Colleges: Over 400 affiliated colleges (largest in Kerala)

  • Key Features:

    • Covers northern Kerala (Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, etc.).

    • Known for distance education (School of Distance Education).

    • Strong in Commerce, Humanities, and Science programs.

4. Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT)

  • Established: 1971

  • Location: Kochi

  • Affiliated Colleges: Fewer affiliated colleges but strong in tech & research.

  • Key Features:

    • Specializes in Engineering, Technology, and Applied Sciences.

    • Offers unique courses like Marine Engineering, Polymer Science, etc.

    • More research-oriented compared to traditional universities.

5. Kannur University

  • Established: 1996

  • Location: Kannur

  • Affiliated Colleges: Around 100 affiliated colleges

  • Key Features:

    • Focuses on northern Kerala (Kannur, Kasargod).

    • Known for programs in Folklore Studies, Tourism, and Languages.

Comparison Summary:

FeatureKerala UniversityMGUCalicut UniversityCUSATKannur University
Establishment19371983196819711996
LocationThiruvananthapuramKottayamMalappuramKochiKannur
Affiliated Colleges150+250+400+Fewer100+
SpecializationArts, Science, HumanitiesSocial Sciences, ResearchCommerce, Distance Ed.Engineering, TechFolklore, Tourism
Research FocusModerateHighModerateVery HighModerate

Which One is Better?

  • For Traditional Arts & SciencesKerala University or Calicut University.

  • For Research & Interdisciplinary StudiesMGU or CUSAT.

  • For Engineering & TechnologyCUSAT is the best.

  • For Distance EducationCalicut University has a strong School of Distance Education.

PHD Admission 2026

Free Listing
PHD Admission
Admission Partner