University of Calcutta

The University of Calcutta, popularly known as Calcutta University (CU), is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in India. Established in 1857, it was among the first modern universities in South Asia and has played a significant role in shaping the academic, cultural, and intellectual landscape of India. Located in Kolkata, West Bengal, the university has a long tradition of excellence in education, research, and innovation.

With a motto of Advancement of Learning, CU has produced several Nobel laureates, renowned scientists, economists, politicians, and literary giants, making it a prominent institution not only in India but across the world.

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History and Establishment

The University of Calcutta was founded on 24 January 1857 under the University of Calcutta Act, 1857 passed by the Legislative Council of India. Modeled after the University of London, it initially functioned as an affiliating and examining body without teaching departments of its own.

Initially, the university’s jurisdiction extended over a vast area, including the whole of British India east of Delhi and even Burma (now Myanmar). In its early years, CU played a major role in expanding higher education in the Indian subcontinent. Over the years, it developed its own teaching departments and research centers, evolving into a full-fledged teaching and affiliating university.

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Campuses and Infrastructure

The University of Calcutta operates through multiple campuses across Kolkata, each specializing in different academic streams:

1. College Street Campus (Ashutosh Building) – The main administrative office and headquarters of CU.

2. Rajabazar Science College Campus – Houses the Faculty of Science and research laboratories.

3. Ballygunge Science College Campus – Known for its departments of botany, zoology, anthropology, and genetics.

4. Alipore Campus – Hosts social science and women’s studies programs.

5. Technology Campus (Salt Lake) – Home to the Department of Applied Physics and other engineering-related departments.

6. Hazra Road Campus – Focuses on law and professional courses.

7. South Sinthi Campus – Used for certain science and technology programs.

All campuses are equipped with libraries, laboratories, computer centers, hostels, auditoriums, and sports facilities.

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Faculties and Departments

The University of Calcutta has 8 faculties covering a wide range of disciplines:

1. Faculty of Arts

Includes departments such as:

• Bengali

• English

• History

• Philosophy

• Political Science

• Economics

• Sociology

• Archaeology

• Journalism and Mass Communication

2. Faculty of Science

Includes departments such as:

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Mathematics

• Statistics

• Zoology

• Botany

• Anthropology

• Geography

• Computer Science

3. Faculty of Commerce, Social Welfare & Business Management

Includes:

• Commerce

• Business Management

4. Faculty of Law

The Department of Law at CU is one of the oldest legal education centers in India.

5. Faculty of Education, Journalism & Library Science

Includes:

• Education

• Journalism and Mass Communication

• Library and Information Science

6. Faculty of Engineering and Technology

Covers Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Chemical Engineering, and related fields.

7. Faculty of Fine Arts, Music, and Home Science

Includes courses in music, painting, and home science.

8. Faculty of Agriculture

Offers programs in agricultural sciences and related areas.

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Courses Offered

The University of Calcutta offers a wide range of Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG), Doctoral (Ph.D.), Diploma, and Certificate courses.

Undergraduate Courses

• B.A. (Bachelor of Arts)

• B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science)

• B.Com. (Bachelor of Commerce)

• BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)

• B.L.I.Sc. (Bachelor of Library and Information Science)

• B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology)

• LL.B. (Bachelor of Laws)

• B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education)

• BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts)

Postgraduate Courses

• M.A. in various specializations

• M.Sc. in various branches of science

• M.Com.

• M.L.I.Sc. (Master of Library and Information Science)

• M.Tech.

• LL.M. (Master of Laws)

• M.Ed.

• MBA (Master of Business Administration)

• MFA (Master of Fine Arts)

Research and Doctoral Programs

• Ph.D. in Arts, Science, Commerce, Law, Technology, and other fields.

• M.Phil. in selected subjects.

Diploma and Certificate Courses

• Language courses (e.g., French, German, Spanish)

• Computer application courses

• Journalism and Mass Communication

• Human Rights Studies

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Admission Process

Admission to CU varies according to the course:

• UG Admissions: Based on merit in the qualifying examination (Class 12) or entrance tests for some professional courses like LL.B.

• PG Admissions: Based on entrance examinations or merit in UG scores.

• Ph.D. Admissions: Based on Research Entrance Test (RET) followed by an interview.

For professional and technical courses, national-level entrance exam scores such as WBJEE, GATE, CAT, etc., are accepted.

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Fees Structure

The University of Calcutta offers affordable education, with fees much lower compared to private institutions. The approximate annual tuition fees are:

• UG Programs: ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 per year (depending on course)

• PG Programs: ₹4,000 – ₹15,000 per year

• Professional Courses (Law, MBA, etc.): ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 per year

• Ph.D. Programs: ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 per year

(Note: Fees may vary depending on the department and academic year.)

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

CU offers various scholarships for meritorious and economically weaker students, including:

• Merit-cum-Means Scholarships

• Endowment Scholarships

• State Government and UGC Scholarships

• Research Fellowships for Ph.D. students

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Research and Achievements

The University of Calcutta has a strong focus on research and has contributed significantly in areas like physics, chemistry, biology, economics, and literature. Notable achievements include:

• Nobel Laureates: C.V. Raman, Amartya Sen, and Rabindranath Tagore (affiliated at various times).

• Breakthroughs in Science: Contributions in quantum mechanics, botany, and applied physics.

• Publications: High research output in international journals.

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Library Facilities

The CU library system includes the Central Library and numerous departmental libraries. With over 10 lakh books, journals, and rare manuscripts, it is one of the richest academic libraries in India.

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Hostel and Accommodation

The university provides separate hostels for male and female students. Facilities include mess, study rooms, recreation areas, and 24-hour security.

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Notable Alumni

CU has produced some of the most influential personalities in Indian history:

• Rabindranath Tagore – Nobel Prize-winning poet and philosopher

• Amartya Sen – Nobel laureate economist

• Satyendra Nath Bose – Renowned physicist

• Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy – Former Chief Minister of West Bengal

• Jagadish Chandra Bose – Scientist and inventor

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Cultural and Student Activities

CU organizes cultural fests, debates, seminars, and inter-college competitions. The university encourages students to participate in sports, theatre, music, and social work.

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Rankings and Recognition

• Recognized as a "Centre with Potential for Excellence" by the UGC.

• Ranked among the top universities in India by NIRF.

• Accredited with Grade A by NAAC.

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Conclusion

The University of Calcutta is a historic and prestigious institution that continues to uphold its legacy of excellence. With its affordable education, highly qualified faculty, and rich heritage, it remains a preferred destination for students across India and abroad.

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Related Universities and Colleges in West Bengal

1. Jadavpur University – Kolkata

2. Presidency University – Kolkata

3. Visva-Bharati University – Santiniketan

4. Rabindra Bharati University – Kolkata

5. The University of Burdwan – Burdwan