Azim Premji University, Bangalore: A Detailed Overview

Introduction

Azim Premji University, Bangalore is a not-for-profit, private university established by the Azim Premji Foundation, with the mission of making education a powerful vehicle for social change. Located in Electronic City, the university is renowned for its focus on education, development, economics, public policy, and sustainability studies. It offers a unique blend of academic rigor, social commitment, and a values-based education framework that prepares students to work in the public interest.

This detailed guide offers an extensive look into Azim Premji University, highlighting its vision, academic offerings, faculty excellence, infrastructure, campus life, placement opportunities, and more.

Vision and Mission

Azim Premji University was founded with the mission to contribute to the realization of a just, equitable, humane, and sustainable society. The university focuses on preparing professionals who can work with empathy and commitment in various sectors such as education, development, public policy, and non-profits.

Its core objectives include:

• Offering quality higher education with a focus on social relevance.

• Conducting research to influence policy and practice.

• Working closely with public systems and civil society organizations.

• Promoting values such as inclusion, participation, justice, and sustainability.

Accreditation and Recognition

• Recognized by UGC (University Grants Commission)

• NAAC Grade: A

• AICTE approval not applicable as the university does not offer engineering programs.

While the university has not participated in NIRF Rankings, it is widely acknowledged for its academic integrity and community-driven approach to learning.

Academic Programs

Azim Premji University offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs designed to foster critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world problem-solving skills.

Undergraduate Programs

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

  • Economics

  • English

  • History

  • Philosophy

  • Social Science

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)

  • Biology

  • Mathematics

  • Physics

• Dual Degree Programs

  • Science and Education (B.Sc. + B.Ed.)

Each undergraduate program integrates foundational courses, interdisciplinary studies, and field practice, encouraging students to explore social contexts in depth.

Postgraduate Programs

• M.A. in Education

• M.A. in Development

• M.A. in Public Policy and Governance

• M.A. in Economics

• M.Ed. (Master of Education)

• LL.M. in Law and Development

These two-year programs are designed for individuals aspiring to work in the development sector, education systems, government, or non-profit organizations.

Doctoral Programs

• Ph.D. in Education

• Ph.D. in Development Studies

• Ph.D. in Public Policy

• Ph.D. in Economics

The Ph.D. programs are research-intensive and focus on areas of public interest and social change.

Faculty Excellence

Azim Premji University is home to a community of highly qualified, experienced, and socially committed faculty. Many faculty members have international degrees, rich field experience, and significant contributions to research and policy-making.

• Faculty-to-student ratio: Approximately 1:10

• Strong mentorship system

• Active involvement in curriculum design and research projects

Infrastructure and Campus

The university is located on a 75-acre green campus in Electronic City, Bangalore. The campus is designed with sustainability at its core and offers:

• Modern academic blocks with well-equipped classrooms

• Science laboratories, media studios, and IT labs

• A well-stocked library with physical and digital resources

• On-campus residential facilities for students and faculty

• Sports infrastructure including football ground, basketball courts, and indoor games

• Cafeteria, medical facilities, and Wi-Fi across campus

The campus also includes rainwater harvesting, solar energy systems, and waste management units, promoting eco-conscious living.

Campus Life

Student life at Azim Premji University is vibrant, inclusive, and enriching. Students come from diverse backgrounds, including various Indian states and socio-economic groups. The university promotes:

• Student-led clubs and forums (theatre, debate, music, sustainability)

• Annual festivals like “Kaapi Aur Charcha” and “Nirantar”

• Community living and service projects

• Fieldwork and internships integrated with academics

The university strongly believes in the holistic development of students, promoting physical, emotional, intellectual, and ethical growth.

Placements and Career Services

Though Azim Premji University does not follow traditional placement models like engineering and business schools, it has a strong career guidance and placement support system, particularly focused on the development and education sectors.

Top Recruiters

• Azim Premji Foundation

• Pratham

• Teach for India

• Selco Foundation

• Piramal Foundation

• Aga Khan Foundation

• Samaj Pragati Sahayog

• Oxfam India

• CARE India

• Government and CSR wings of corporates

Placement Statistics (2024 Estimate)

• Average Package: ₹4.5 LPA

• Highest Package: ₹10 LPA

• Placement Rate: 92%

• Top Hiring Domains: Non-Profit Sector, Education NGOs, Policy Think Tanks, CSR, Research Organizations

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Azim Premji University is committed to ensuring that no student is denied education due to financial constraints. It offers generous need-based scholarships, covering up to 100% of tuition and accommodation.

• Income-based sliding scale

• Merit-cum-means scholarships

• Special scholarships for marginalized communities

• Interest-free education loans available

Research and Publications

The university is a hub of cutting-edge research in areas such as:

• Public education

• Livelihoods and sustainability

• Gender equity

• Rural and tribal development

• Constitutional values and law

Research centers include:

• Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability

• Centre for Law and Policy

• Centre for Local Democracy

• Centre for Science and Education

Collaborations and Partnerships

Azim Premji University collaborates with:

• Government agencies

• Civil society organizations

• International institutions

• Policy think tanks

These partnerships enable students to gain hands-on experience through field projects, internships, and exchange programs.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is a cornerstone of Azim Premji University. The institution actively promotes:

• Gender equity

• Inclusion of students from marginalized communities

• Accessibility for differently-abled students

• Financial inclusion through scholarships

More than 60% of the students come from outside Karnataka, and a significant percentage are first-generation learners.

Admission Process

Admissions are based on a national entrance test followed by a personal interview.

Key Features:

• Application fee waivers for students from disadvantaged backgrounds

• Online and offline test centers

• Holistic assessment beyond academics

Alumni Impact

Graduates of Azim Premji University work in areas like:

• Rural education and teacher training

• Policy research and development consulting

• Environmental activism and sustainability

• Law and human rights

Many alumni have gone on to create their own NGOs, work with state governments, or pursue further education in prestigious institutions abroad.

Social Impact

Unlike conventional universities, Azim Premji University emphasizes impact over income. Its alumni and faculty are deeply involved in improving India’s education and development landscape.

• Over 3,000 graduates contributing to grassroots change

• Direct involvement in teacher training in rural areas

• Research influencing national education policy

• Projects supporting local governance and sustainability

Conclusion

Azim Premji University, Bangalore is not just an academic institution—it’s a movement for social change. With its deep commitment to equity, quality education, and sustainable development, the university is shaping a new generation of leaders, educators, and thinkers who are equipped to build a better, fairer world.