About The Delhi University
The University of Delhi (DU) is one of the country’s leading institutions, known for its prestigious legacy, global reputation, high academic standards, and diverse educational offerings. It is celebrated for its distinguished faculty, illustrious alumni, vibrant extracurricular activities, and modern infrastructure. Over its long history, DU has upheld the highest international standards and best practices in higher education. Its motto, "Nishtha Dhriti Satyam" (Dedication, Steadfastness, and Truth), reflects its deep commitment to nation-building and adherence to universal human values.
Founded in 1922 as a unitary, teaching, and residential university by an Act of the Central Legislative Assembly, DU has consistently excelled in teaching, research, and social outreach, serving as a role model and trendsetter for other universities. The President of India serves as the Visitor, the Vice-President as the Chancellor, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India as the Pro-Chancellor. Starting with just three colleges and 750 students, the university has grown into one of the largest in India, with 16 faculties, over 80 academic departments, more than 80 affiliated colleges, and over seven lakh students. Out of the more than 500 programs offered, 209 are under consideration for NAAC accreditation, while others are accredited separately at the college level.
DU attracts students and faculty from all over India and internationally, symbolizing excellence, integrity, and openness in thought, speech, and action.
Under the leadership of Sir Maurice Gwyer, the then Vice-Chancellor, DU built a distinguished faculty by recruiting eminent scholars from across the country, such as Prof. D.S. Kothari in Physics, Prof. T.R. Sheshadri in Chemistry, Prof. P Maheshwari in Botany, and Prof. M L Bhatia in Zoology.
Several departments, including Chemistry, Geology, Zoology, Sociology, and History, have achieved the status of Centres of Advanced Studies, becoming renowned for their excellence in teaching and research. Additionally, numerous university departments have received Special Assistance Programme grants from the UGC for their outstanding academic work. Several other departments also receive grants under various schemes for research and area studies.
DU boasts 15 major libraries, in addition to those in its colleges. The University Science Instrumentation Centre (USIC) houses sophisticated research instruments used by both university researchers and neighboring institutions. The university has also implemented a fiber-optic network that connects all campuses and departments, enhancing its research and academic infrastructure.
The South Campus, established in 1973 to cater to South Delhi residents, moved to its current location in 1984. It covers 69 acres of green, hilly terrain, with buildings harmonizing with the natural environment. The South Campus hosts departments from the Faculty of Arts and Faculty of Inter-disciplinary and Applied Sciences, as well as the S.P. Jain Centre for Management Studies. It also features a library, health center, bank, post office, and other essential amenities, along with accommodation for faculty, staff, and outstation students in three hostels.
