The University of Calcutta (CU), also known as Calcutta University, was established on 24 January 1857, making it one of the oldest modern universities in South Asia. It was modeled after the University of London and was among the first institutions in India to offer Western-style university education.

College Website: https://www.caluniv.ac.in/

It started as an affiliating and examining body for institutions across a vast region, and later evolved into a premier teaching and research university. Over time, it has nurtured some of India’s most iconic figures, including C. V. Raman, Amartya Sen, Satyendra Nath Bose, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Swami Vivekananda.

Facilities

Despite being over 160 years old, the University of Calcutta has adapted to modern educational needs while preserving its rich heritage.

Campuses:

The university operates from multiple campuses in Kolkata, including:

College Street Campus (the main and historic campus)

Rajabazar Science College

Alipore Campus

Ballygunge Science College

Technology Campus at Salt Lake

Academic and Research Infrastructure:

Offers over 65 departments under 8 faculties, including arts, science, commerce, law, engineering, and more

Well-equipped research labs, especially in physics, chemistry, biotechnology, and applied sciences

One of the largest university libraries in India, with over 1 million books and manuscripts

Computer centers and e-learning facilities

Access to UGC-INFONET and other digital resources

Additional Facilities:

Hostel accommodations for both men and women

Health services for students and staff

Sports and recreation facilities

Museum collections and archival research centers

The university has several centers of excellence and works with various national and international bodies for funded research projects.

Reputation

The University of Calcutta enjoys a legendary status in Indian education and has been a symbol of academic prestige for over a century. Key highlights of its reputation:

First university in South Asia to be established as a modern university

Conferred the status of “Centre with Potential for Excellence” by the UGC

Five-star rating by NAAC in the past and currently holds an A grade

Consistently ranked among India’s top universities, especially in the fields of science, commerce, and law

Alumni include Nobel Laureates, Bharat Ratna awardees, and several Chief Justices, Presidents, and Prime Ministers

CU has played a central role in the intellectual and nationalist movements of India and continues to contribute to higher education and research.