The Kongunadu Arts and Science College was founded in Coimbatore, an industrial area that was expanding quickly, in the 1970s to address the growing demand for educational institutions. On August 12, 1973, the institution was founded, addressing the need for higher education in the area.
On October 16, 1972, the Thudiyalur Cooperative Agricultural Services Limited held a Saraswathi Pooja celebration, which was a landmark occasion. During this occasion, well-known people like Dr. M. Aruchami and Thiru. V. K. Lakshmanan declared their wish to start college. The concept was warmly accepted and supported by Thiru. T.N. Palanisamy, the then President of the Thudiyalur Cooperative Agricultural Service. A reputable physician named Dr. N.S. Palaniappan supported the Anna Memorial Committee in Coimbatore's effort to establish the college.
Several knowledgeable and illustrious individuals, including Thiru. N. Kumaraswamy, Thiru. K. P. Muthuswamy, Thiru. V. S. Chinnaswami Gounder, Thiru. S. R. Rathnaswami Gounder, Thiru. R. Ramasamy, Thiru. M. Subbiah Gounder, Thiru. C. S. Ramachandran, Er. K. M.
A substantial donation of about Rs.75,000 was made by the Thudiyalur Cooperative Agricultural Services Limited, which also received contributions from 16,000 farmers. The agricultural community in Kongunadu's other philanthropists and contributors have contributed significant gifts to the college.
One of the college's founders, Dr. M. Aruchami, held the positions of first Principal, Secretary, and President. He has helped the university to its current level of prominence through his academic expertise, visionary attitude, and strong leadership. A dedicated mentor has also been Er.R.Somasundaram, a member of the College Council and Committee.
The college is close to the city yet located in a peaceful rural area. Town buses provide excellent access to all areas of Coimbatore. The college's intellectual prestige has increased greatly since its modest beginnings in 1973, and it currently enjoys autonomy. It provides 22 undergraduate programs, 11 postgraduate programs, and 13 research programs. Around 5000 students receive higher education at the college, the majority of whom are from socioeconomically and socially disadvantaged families. Moreover, with more than 60% of its students being female,
the college is vital in advancing social justice and the empowerment of women.
In the academic year 2004–2005, the University Grants Commission (UGC) granted the college autonomous status. The college received an "A" grade with a CGPA of 3.64 out of 4 from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in consecutive re-accreditation cycles and later an "A+" grade. In 2016–2017, the UGC named the college a College of Excellence.
Over the years, Kongunadu Arts and Science College have advanced significantly, providing students with a high-quality education and supporting their social and intellectual growth.