Tamil Nadu Open University - Online Courses

Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) was established in the academic year 2003-04 and has emerged as a leading institution offering higher education that is both accessible and of high quality in India. Acknowledged and endorsed by UGC-DEB, NCTE, RCI, and AICTE, TNOU's dedication to educational excellence is underscored by its attainment of the UGC's 12B status. By implementing a unique year-round admission policy and strategically scheduling weekend examinations, TNOU has effectively addressed the issue of enabling broader access to higher education. Employing cutting-edge Information and Communication Technology (ICT), TNOU is unswerving in its pursuit of enhancing the caliber of education provided. Over the past two decades, TNOU has experienced remarkable growth, boasting a cumulative enrollment exceeding one million students across a comprehensive array of 234 programs. These programs span the spectrum from Certificate courses to Post Graduate Programs. They are imparted through 11 distinct Academic Schools, 5 Support Divisions, 1 Media Centre, and an expansive network of Learner Support Centres and Community Colleges. A significant milestone was achieved in 2017 when TNOU, by UGC-DEB's endorsement, introduced M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs in the Regular Mode, showcasing the university's commitment to advancing research and higher learning. Notably, TNOU's mission extends to marginalized groups, and it has proactively provided Skill-Based Education and Training via Community Colleges, as mandated by the Government of Tamil Nadu since 2008. These skill development initiatives encompass programs at various levels including Short-Term courses, Certificate programs, Vocational Diplomas, and Advanced Vocational Diplomas. TNOU's extensive reach is facilitated by its automated systems for learner support, encompassing tasks such as admissions, examinations, distribution of study materials, academic guidance, and more. The latest enrollment data for the ongoing academic year (2022-2023) indicates an impressive count of 16,881 students. With a teaching staff numbering 105 and a non-teaching team of 68, TNOU is distinct among the sixteen open universities in India, being one of the six institutions granted the esteemed 12B status by the UGC. The university's founding principles revolve around catering to the educational needs of marginalized sections of society. Through collaboration with the state's provisions for open and distance learning, TNOU plays a vital role in the state's endeavors to enhance access and elevate the quality of higher education. Ultimately, TNOU's journey embodies unwavering dedication, expanding educational frontiers, and championing education as a vehicle for empowerment and transformation.