Alagappa University was brought into existence by a Special Act of the Government of Tamil Nadu in May 1985 with the objective of fostering research, development and dissemination of knowledge in various branches of learning. Alagappa University is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India. The University has 15 Departments, 3 Centres and 2 Constituent Colleges on its campus. 23 Affiliated Colleges located in the districts of Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram are part of the University. The University offers education through Regular, Week-end, Distance and Collaborative modes. The Distance Education Directorate offers variety of programmes to the student community spread across the country and in selected foreign countries. Through all modes of education, the University caters to the needs of the student community of around 1,00,000.