Universities in Uttarakhand

Known for its spirituality and natural beauty, Uttarakhand has become one of North India’s educational hotspots. In addition to being a popular destination for tourists, the state has become a hub for higher education, with a number of reputable universities providing programs in management, engineering, law, medical sciences, design, and other fields.

 

The Top 10 Universities in Uttarakhand will be discussed in this article, along with their important characteristics, curriculum, placement histories, and reasons for being the greatest options for students in India.

 

1. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee

Why IIT Roorkee?

IIT Roorkee is not just the pride of Uttarakhand but also one of the oldest and most prestigious engineering institutions in India. Initially established as Thomason College of Civil Engineering, it was converted into an IIT in 2001. Known for its cutting-edge research and strong alumni network, IIT Roorkee ranks consistently among the top engineering colleges in India and globally.

Location: Roorkee
Type: Public Institute of National Importance
Established: 1847

Popular Courses:

• B.Tech in Civil, Computer Science, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.
• M.Tech., M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D. programs

Highlights:

• Global recognition and high NIRF ranking
• Excellent placement packages with top recruiters like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon
• World-class research facilities and innovation centres
  

Average Placement Package: ₹18–20 LPA (can go as high as ₹1 Cr+ for top tech roles)

 

2. Graphic Era University (GEU)

Graphic Era University (GEU) is located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It was established in 1993 and gained deemed university status in 2008. The university is recognized by the UGC and approved by AICTE. It has an A+ grade accreditation from NAAC. GEU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs mainly in engineering, management, science, commerce, hospitality, and humanities.

The campus spans 40 acres in the Doon Valley, near Rajaji National Park, which provides a calm learning environment. GEU has partnerships with international universities for study abroad programs, internships, and student exchanges.

Location: Dehradun
Type: Private University
Established: 1993

Popular Courses:

• B.Tech (CSE, AI, Data Science)
• MBA, BBA
• Hotel Management, Humanities
  

Highlights:

• Accredited with NAAC ‘A+’ grade
• Excellent placement support and internships
• International collaborations with leading universities
  

Average Placement Package: ₹5–6 LPA (Top companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro hire)

 

3. University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES)

The University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES) is in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is a highly ranked private university that began in 2003. The university is recognized by the UGC and has an ‘A’ grade accreditation from NAAC. UPES focuses on programs that meet industry needs in areas such as energy, infrastructure, transportation, information technology, design, law, business, health sciences, and liberal studies. It provides undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and distance learning programs across its seven schools.

Location: Dehradun
Type: Private University
Established: 2003

Popular Courses:

• B.Tech in Petroleum, Energy, and Computer Science
• BA LLB, BBA LLB (School of Law)
• MBA (Energy Management, International Business)
  

Highlights:

• Industry-oriented curriculum
• Tie-ups with global institutions for student exchange
• Excellent placements in the energy, oil, and IT sectors
  

Average Placement Package: ₹6–8 LPA (with top recruiters like Schlumberger, Shell, ONGC)

 

4. Doon University

Doon University is a public university in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It was established in 2005 by an act of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly. The university is a unitary and residential institution on the outskirts of the city, located in the beautiful foothills of the Shivalik range. It offers many academic programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels in various fields such as Arts, Sciences, Management, Commerce, Design, and Technology. The university features modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms, libraries, auditoriums, sports facilities, and a peaceful campus environment.

Location: Dehradun
Type: State Government University
Established: 2005

Popular Courses:

• MA in Mass Communication
• MBA
• Environmental Studies programs
  

Highlights:

• Eco-friendly campus with advanced research centres
• Affordable tuition fees compared to private universities
• Focus on holistic learning and skill development.

 

5. Hemavati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University (HNBGU)

Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University (HNBGU) is a Central University established in 1973. It is located in Srinagar, Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. The university is named after Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna, who was a former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. HNBGU offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various fields across its multiple campuses in the Garhwal region. It is both a residential university and an affiliating institution, with jurisdiction over seven districts, and it affiliates many colleges. The university holds an “A” grade accreditation from NAAC and boasts solid infrastructure, academic programs, and research activities.

Location: Srinagar, Garhwal
Type: Central University
Established: 1973

Popular Courses:

• BA, MA, B.Sc., M.Sc.
• Law, Commerce, and Professional programs
  

Highlights:

• Government-recognised Central University
• Affordable and accessible education
• Extensive research and academic programs

 

6. Kumaun University

Kumaun University, founded in 1973, is a well-known public state University in Nainital, Uttarakhand. It was created by merging two respected Government Colleges: DSB Government PG College in Nainital and Almora Government PG College. The University covers over 160 acres across its campuses in Nainital and Bhimtal. It offers a wide variety of academic programs in arts, sciences, commerce, management, law, technology, visual arts, and more. Accredited with an ‘A’ grade by NAAC and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Kumaun University is the largest state university in Uttarakhand, with over 150,000 students and more than 80 affiliated colleges.

Location: Nainital
Type: State University
Established: 1973

Popular Courses:

• BA, MA, B.Ed.
• M.Sc., M.Com.
  

Highlights:

• NAAC ‘A’ accreditation
  Multiple campuses across the Kumaon region
• Research-oriented programs

 

7. DIT University

DIT University, formerly known as the Dehradun Institute of Technology, is a leading private university located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Established in 1998 and granted the status of a private university in 2013, DIT University boasts a scenic 25-acre campus situated in the foothills of Mussoorie, equipped with modern academic infrastructure and comprehensive student amenities. The university is accredited with an ‘A’ grade by NAAC and holds approvals from UGC, AICTE, the Council of Architecture, and the Pharmacy Council of India. Offering more than 80 diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines—such as engineering, pharmacy, management, architecture, and liberal arts—DITU combines rigorous academics with strong industry partnerships.

Location: Dehradun
Type: Private University
Established: 1998

Popular Courses:

• B.Tech (AI, Machine Learning, Civil)
• MBA
• Architecture and Pharmacy
  

Highlights:

• Modern labs and infrastructure
• Industry-driven curriculum
• Good placement records

 

8. Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University (DBUU)

Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University (DBUU) is a renowned private university in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and diploma programs across various disciplines. It is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and other statutory bodies, with a modern 42-acre campus focused on holistic education and industry relevance.

Location: Dehradun
Type: Private University
Established: 2005

Popular Courses:

• B.Tech, BBA, B.Sc. (Agriculture)
• Nursing and Pharmacy
  

Highlights:

• State-of-the-art campus facilities
• Skill-oriented programs
• Affordable fees with good placements

 

9. Uttaranchal University

Uttaranchal University is a prominent private university located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India, known for its high academic standards, strong placement record, and modern infrastructure. It is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC), approved by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and accredited with an A+ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)—the highest in Uttarakhand in its first cycle.

Location: Dehradun
Type: Private University
Established: 2013

Popular Courses:

• Law (BA LLB, BBA LLB)
• Engineering and Management
• Health Sciences
  

Highlights:

• NAAC ‘A+’ accreditation
• Global partnerships for student exchange
• Strong placement cell

 

10. Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU)

One of Uttarakhand’s most prestigious universities, particularly in the medical and health sciences fields, is Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU). It was founded to offer top-notch instruction in allied health sciences, nursing, pharmacy, and healthcare. The Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust (HIHT) was established by the renowned philanthropist and spiritual leader Swami Rama, in honour of whom SRHU is named.

Location: Dehradun
Type: Private University
Established: 2012

Popular Courses:

• MBBS, Nursing, Pharmacy
• Paramedical and Allied Health Sciences
  

Highlights:

• Excellent medical training and infrastructure
• Research opportunities in health sciences
• Experienced faculty and clinical exposure

 

Top Reasons to Study in Uttarakhand

• Peaceful and pollution-free environment for studies
• Affordable cost of living compared to metros 
• Growing hub for education with reputed institutions
• Strong industry-academia collaborations for placements

 

Conclusion

Uttarakhand is now a leading hub for higher education, offering top universities like IIT Roorkee, Graphic Era, and UPES. From engineering and management to medical and law, these institutions provide world-class education, excellent placements, and global exposure. The state’s peaceful environment and modern facilities make it ideal for students seeking quality learning and career opportunities. Choose the right university to shape your future and achieve your academic goals.

FAQs

1. Which is the No. 1 university in Uttarakhand?

 IIT Roorkee is the top-ranked university in Uttarakhand and among the best in India for engineering and research.

2. Which private university is best in Uttarakhand?

Graphic Era University and UPES are the most reputed private universities in Uttarakhand.

3. Which university in Uttarakhand has the best placement?

 IIT Roorkee tops the list, followed by Graphic Era and UPES for private universities.

4. Is Doon University good for higher studies?

Yes, Doon University is a government university with affordable fees and a research-oriented curriculum.

5. Can I pursue law in Uttarakhand?

Yes, Uttaranchal University and UPES offer top law programs in Uttarakhand.

6. Which is the best university for medical courses?
 Swami Rama Himalayan University (SRHU) is the best for MBBS, nursing, and health sciences.

7. Are these universities UGC-approved?

 Yes, all the universities mentioned in this list are recognised by UGC and other regulatory bodies.

8. What is the average cost of studying at Uttarakhand universities?

 Government universities charge between ₹20,000 and ₹60,000 annually, while private universities can cost ₹1.5–3 lakh per year, depending on the course.