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.