Karnataka State Open University

About

Karnataka State Open University (KSOU), Mysuru is a prominent State Public University dedicated to expanding access to higher education through Open and Distance Learning (ODL). The university was established under the Karnataka State Legislature Act in 1992 and came into force as a full-fledged university on 1 June 1996. Before becoming an independent university, its academic activities were carried out through the Institute of Correspondence Courses and Continuing Education of the University of Mysore, established in 1969. KSOU's main campus, Muktha Gangothri, is located in Mysuru and provides academic, administrative, library, laboratory, hostel, health and other learner-support facilities. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, diploma, certificate and professional programmes across disciplines including Arts, Science, Commerce, Management and Education. KSOU's ODL model is designed to provide flexible higher education opportunities to learners who may not be able to pursue conventional campus-based education, including working professionals and learners from different geographical and social backgrounds. The university supports learning through self-learning materials, digital resources, online education, learner support centres and regional centres. KSOU has developed a wide academic and learner-support network across Karnataka, with regional and learner support centres helping students access academic guidance and university services. It also promotes research, extension activities, skill development, e-learning and industry-oriented learning. The university has established research and extension centres and continues to expand digital learning resources and student-support initiatives. With its focus on accessibility, affordability and flexible learning, Karnataka State Open University plays an important role in widening participation in higher education. Its motto, “Higher Education for Everyone, Everywhere,” reflects its commitment to reaching learners who may otherwise have limited access to conventional higher education.