Kannur University is one of North Kerala’s most prominent educational institutions, known for its quality teaching, research culture, and diverse academic programs. Established to promote higher education in the Kasaragod, Kannur, and Wayanad regions, the university has grown into a major academic hub with multiple campuses, skilled faculty, and modern facilities.
History of Kannur University
Kannur University was established in 1996 by the Kerala Legislative Assembly with the primary aim of promoting education in the northern districts of the state.
Initially known as Malabar University, it was later renamed Kannur University to reflect the region it serves.
The university follows a unique concept of a multi-campus structure, making higher education accessible to students across the Malabar region.
Campuses Under Kannur University
Kannur University operates several campuses across North Kerala. Some of the major centers include:
1. Thavakkara Campus (Headquarters) – Kannur
- Administrative center
- School of Management Studies
- Applied economics & research departments
2. Mangattuparamba Campus (Main Campus)
- School of Life Sciences
- School of Commerce & Management
- Academic research centers
3. Palayad Campus
- Teacher education
- Department of English
- Social sciences
4. Kasaragod Campus
- Arabic studies
- Languages and literature
- Regional research programs
5. Mananthavady Campus – Wayanad
- Rural studies
- Environmental science
- Tribal community research
Academic Programs Offered
Kannur University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses across disciplines.
🔹 Undergraduate Courses (UG)
- BA, BSc, BCom
- BBA, BCA
- BSW (Social Work)
- BPEd (Physical Education)
- B.Li.Sc (Library Science)
🔹 Postgraduate Courses (PG)
- MA (English, Malayalam, Economics, History etc.)
- MSc (Physics, Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, Computer Science)
- MCom
- MBA
- MSW
- MPEd
- M.Ed
🔹 Professional & Specialized Courses
- Law (LLB, LLM)
- Medical and allied courses (through affiliated colleges)
- Teacher training programs
- Research programs (PhD)
Research & Innovation
Kannur University places strong emphasis on research, particularly in fields such as:
- Environmental studies
- Tribal community development
- Marine science
- Applied biology
- Social sciences
The university regularly collaborates with national and international institutions to enhance research output.
Life at Kannur University
Students at Kannur University experience a vibrant campus environment enriched with:
- Modern classrooms
- Digital libraries
- Well-equipped laboratories
- Sports grounds
- NSS, NCC, and cultural programs
- Arts festivals and inter-collegiate competitions
The university encourages students to engage in academics, sports, arts, and community service.
Admission Process
Admissions to Kannur University courses are generally conducted through:
1. CAP (Centralized Admission Process)
For UG and PG programs based on merit.
2. Entrance Tests
For professional courses like:
- MBA
- M.Ed
- M.P.Ed
- PhD programs
3. Counseling & Document Verification
Based on merit or entrance rank.
Key Highlights of Kannur University
- Established in 1996
- Multi-campus university serving Kannur, Kasaragod, and Wayanad
- Offers 300+ courses through schools and affiliated colleges
- Focus on research, cultural studies, and community development
- Strong support for tribal and rural education
- Modern facilities and highly qualified faculty
Kannur University Affiliated Colleges
Kannur University has numerous affiliated arts, science, commerce, teacher training, and professional colleges across:
- Kannur
- Kasaragod
- Wayanad
These colleges offer a wide variety of UG, PG, and vocational programs.
How to Reach Kannur University
Kannur University is easily accessible from major cities in Kerala and Karnataka. Since it operates multiple campuses, the directions below mainly focus on the Main Campus (Mangattuparamba, Kannur) and Headquarters (Thavakkara, Kannur).
📍 By Road
Kannur is well connected through NH 66 and state highways.
- From Kannur Town to Mangattuparamba Campus → 15–20 minutes
- From Thalassery → 35–40 minutes
- From Kasaragod → 1.5 to 2 hours
- Regular KSRTC and private buses operate to Mangattuparamba, Thavakkara, and Palayad campuses.
🚆 By Train (Railway Stations Nearby)
The nearest major railway stations are:
- Kannur Railway Station (closest to Thavakkara & Palayad Campus) – 4 km
- Kannur South Station – 8 km
- Thalassery Railway Station – 30 km
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are easily available from all stations.
✈️ By Air (Nearest Airport)
- Kannur International Airport (KIAL) – 25–30 km from the main campus
- Direct flights available from Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, UAE, Qatar, and other GCC countries.
Taxis and KSRTC AC buses operate from the airport to Kannur town and Mangattuparamba.
🚌 By Bus
The major bus stops near the university include:
- Mangattuparamba Bus Stop – For Main Campus
- Thavakkara New Bus Stand (KSRTC) – For Headquarters
- Frequent buses run from Kannur, Payyanur, Taliparamba, Thalassery, and Kasaragod.
Kannur University stands as a pillar of higher education in North Kerala, offering world-class learning opportunities, modern facilities, and a student-friendly environment. Its commitment to academic excellence and regional development makes it one of Kerala’s most respected universities.
Whether you’re a student planning your higher studies or a parent exploring academic options, Kannur University provides a strong foundation for future growth.