Punjabi University

Punjabi University, established on April 30, 1962, by the Punjab Assembly under the Punjab Act No. 35 of 1961, is a prominent state public university situated in Patiala, Punjab, India. Named after the Punjabi language, it holds the distinction of being only the second university in the world to be named after a language, following the Hebrew University of Israel. Initially envisioned to promote Punjabi language, art, and literature, the university has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering a wide array of academic disciplines across its expansive campus, which spans 600 acres.

Since its inception, Punjabi University has grown significantly, starting from nine colleges within a 16 km radius to becoming an affiliating university with over 278 affiliated colleges spread across nine districts of Punjab. The university now offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes through its 70+ teaching and research departments, chairs, and centres. These academic offerings encompass humanities, arts, sciences, engineering, languages, technology, and more, catering to the educational needs of a large student population exceeding 14,000.

In terms of academic influence and regional impact, Punjabi University holds a distinct position among educational institutions in India. It continues to foster education and research, not only in Punjabi studies but also in various other disciplines, contributing to the cultural, social, and economic development of the region. With a lush green campus and modern facilities, the university remains dedicated to its founding principles of advancing Punjabi language and culture while addressing the contemporary educational requirements of Punjab.

Punjabi University, situated in Patiala, Punjab, India, was established through the Punjab Act No. 35 of 1961 on April 30, 1962. Its creation aimed to promote Punjabi language, arts, and literature, reflecting the cultural aspirations of the state. Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, then President of India, laid the foundation stone on June 24, 1962, highlighting its role in national development through education.

Initially, Punjabi University began operating from temporary spaces in the Baradari Palace building. Its jurisdiction covered a 16 km radius, including just nine colleges—six professional and three arts and science colleges in Patiala. The university quickly expanded and relocated to its current campus in 1965. Spread over 316 acres of green land, this campus provided ample space for academic and research growth.

In its early years, Punjabi University focused primarily on developing the Punjabi language. It was set up as a unified institution for teaching and research, designed not only to educate but also to preserve Punjab's cultural heritage. The university's initial academic programs aimed at advancing Punjabi studies, while also addressing broader educational and societal needs.

By 1969, Punjabi University had evolved into an affiliating university, a significant milestone in its growth. It began overseeing 43 colleges across Patiala, Sangrur, and Bathinda districts of Punjab, expanding its reach and influence in higher education. This change allowed the university to serve a larger student population and diversify its academic offerings.

Over the following decades, Punjabi University continued to expand its academic programs and improve its infrastructure. It broadened its scope beyond language and literature, establishing numerous departments and research chairs across various subjects. Today, the university has over 70 teaching and research departments, offering a wide range of subjects including humanities, arts, sciences, engineering, and technology.

The institution's commitment to academic excellence is reinforced by its extensive network of affiliated colleges, now numbering more than 278 across nine districts of Punjab. These colleges play a vital role in extending the university's academic reach and ensuring access to higher education in remote and rural areas.

Punjabi University's journey has been characterised by its dedication to creating a supportive academic environment for learning and research. Its sprawling campus not only offers modern facilities but also serves as a hub for cultural and intellectual activities. The university's evolution—from a small institution focused on promoting Punjabi language to a comprehensive center of higher learning—highlights its pivotal role in Punjab's educational landscape.

Today, Punjabi University stands as a symbol of academic achievement and cultural preservation in the region. It continues to uphold its founding principles while adapting to contemporary educational challenges and opportunities. With over 14,000 students benefiting from its diverse academic programs and a faculty of over 1500 teachers, the university remains committed to its mission of providing holistic education and achieving research excellence.

Punjabi University in Patiala, Punjab, offers a wide range of courses across different subjects to meet the educational needs of its diverse student body. The university provides programmes in humanities, arts, sciences, engineering, technology, and more, reflecting its growth from initially focusing on Punjabi language to becoming a comprehensive higher education institution.

In the humanities and arts, Punjabi University offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in subjects such as Punjabi literature, history, politics, economics, sociology, and fine arts. These courses aim to develop critical thinking, cultural awareness, and creativity among students.

For those interested in science, the university provides degrees in subjects like physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, environmental sciences, and computer applications. These programmes focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, preparing students for careers in research, industry, and teaching.

Engineering and technology are also key areas at Punjabi University, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and information technology. These programmes blend classroom learning with practical experience, equipping graduates with the skills needed in today's job market.

Additionally, the university offers professional courses in law, business management, commerce, and education. These programmes provide specialised training and practical insights into their respective fields, preparing students for roles in legal practice, business leadership, accountancy, and teaching.

Punjabi University is committed to delivering high-quality education across its various departments, with a faculty dedicated to teaching and research. With over 70 departments and a wide array of courses, the university continues to expand its academic offerings and maintain its reputation as a leading educational institution in Punjab and beyond.

• Punjabi University is ranked 1976 in the Best Global Universities.
• The University of the Punjabi ranked 570 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
• Punjabi University Patiala ranked 62nd in India, and 2375th in the global 2024 rating.

Punjabi University has achieved a commendable job integration rate of 75%, indicating a strong employment outcome for its graduates. According to the placements report for 2023, the university recorded the highest package of INR 13.70 LPA and an average package of INR 5 LPA during its placement drive. The event saw participation from over 35 recruiters, resulting in a total of 141 job offers extended to the students of the 2023 batch. Notable companies such as TCS, KPMG, Jio, and Tech Mahindra were among the top recruiters during Punjabi University Patiala placements 2023, highlighting the university's success in preparing students for diverse career opportunities.

• Punjabi University| Wikipedia
• Punjabi University Patiala Courses & Fees 2024| Shiksha
• Punjabi University Patiala| Facebook
• Punjabi University Fee Structure and Courses List 2024| GetMyUni
• Punjabi University Courses & Fees Structure 2024| Careers360
• Punjabi University Rankings| U.S. News & World Report
• Punjabi University Patiala Ranking 2024| Shiksha
• University of the Punja| Top Universities
• Punjabi University, Patiala | World University Rankings| Times Higher Education
• Panjab University in India| U.S. News & World Report