North Orissa University (NOU), now known as Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (MSCB University), was established in 1998. Located in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, NOU is a state public university recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and accredited with a ‘B+’ grade by the NAAC. The university operates through its two campuses and more than 80 affiliated colleges, and it also offers distance education programs via the Directorate of Distance & Continuing Education (DDCE). NOU provides more than 50 on-campus and distance mode programs in Science, Arts, Commerce, Education, and Management. The university has over 100 affiliated colleges and a modern campus spread over approximately 100 acres.
NOU offers a wide range of postgraduate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs across various disciplines, including arts, science, commerce, education, and management. Admissions are either merit-based or conducted through entrance exams, such as the OJEE, for MBA and MCA programs. The university emphasises research and regional development, particularly in tribal areas. With qualified faculty and expanding infrastructure, NOU supports academic excellence and promotes skill development among its students.
NOU Highlights 2025
NOU Ranking 2025
NIRF has ranked North Orissa University in the 101–150 band in India in the 2024 edition of the NIRF University rankings.
NOU Courses 2025
NOU offers a diverse range of academic programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, M.Phil., Ph.D., and certificate levels. PG programs like MBA and MCA require valid OJEE scores, while other courses admit students based on merit or university-conducted entrance tests and interviews. Eligibility varies by program, generally requiring a bachelor's or master’s degree with minimum qualifying marks (relaxation for reserved categories). Course durations range from 1 year (for certificate and M.Lib.I.Sc.) to 3 years (Ph.D. and integrated programs).
NOU Admission 2025
North Orissa University (now Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University) accepts online applications for various postgraduate, integrated, M.Phil., Ph.D., and certificate courses. Admissions are primarily based on merit in the qualifying examinations or entrance tests conducted by the university or the Odisha Joint Entrance Examination (OJEE) for professional courses like MBA and MCA. For research programs like M.Phil. and Ph.D., candidates must clear the university’s entrance exam and interview.
The standard eligibility varies by program - generally a bachelor’s degree with minimum marks ranging from 45% to 60% depending on the course, and valid scores in relevant entrance exams where applicable (OJEE for MBA, MCA; university entrance tests for M.Phil., Ph.D.).
How to apply?
- Visit the official NOU admission portal athttps://nou.nic.in/.
- Navigate to the “Admissions” or “Online Application” section.
- Select the course or program you wish to apply for.
- Read the eligibility criteria and entrance exam requirements carefully.
- Register by providing your personal details and creating a login.
- Fill out the online application form with academic details, choice of specialisation, and preferred exam centre if applicable.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents such as mark sheets, caste certificate (if applicable), and passport-sized photographs.
- Pay the application fee online - typically INR 500 to INR 1000 depending on the program category.
- Submit the application form and note the application number for future correspondence.
- Keep track of entrance exam dates, admit cards, and counselling schedules through the official website.
NOU Placement 2025
North Orissa University has a dedicated Training & Placement Cell that supports students with internship and job opportunities. Placement drives and industry interaction programs are regularly conducted.
Training & Placement Cell
- The university has an established Training and Placement Cell, led by designated faculty members (e.g., Dr. K.K. Sahu), responsible for career guidance, facilitating on-campus recruitment, and organising training initiatives.
- It conducts career guidance workshops, placement preparation sessions, and liaises with employers for internship and job opportunities.
Skill & Employability Focus
- Placement efforts are integrated with departmental academic planning, incorporating NET/GATE-oriented syllabus content, life-skill training, and employability-focused coursework.
Engagement with Students
- Most academic departments include student participation in career guidance and placement activities, ensuring a culture of employability development at all levels.
NOU Campus & Hostel Facilities
North Orissa University (NOU) offers a well-equipped campus with modern academic infrastructure, student support services, and separate hostel facilities for boys and girls.
Campus Facilities
- The Baripada campus spans approximately 98.84 acres, featuring dedicated academic blocks, administrative offices, guest houses, and residential areas.
- The campus includes essential infrastructure for academic, research, and cultural activities.
- Facilities include a central dispensary located near the Central Library, operated by part-time medical staff.
- Amenities such as tiffin, tea, and snacks are available at the university canteen, with ongoing improvements under institutional planning.
- The university promotes innovation and incubation through dedicated infrastructure supporting faculty and student initiatives.
Hostel Facilities
- Each hostel includes a common room equipped with newspapers, indoor games, and a television. Shared dining facilities are provided.
- Hostels operate under the supervision of the Office of the Warden and have separate common rooms for girls and boys.
- The university provides accommodation for students with disabilities, with buildings equipped with lifts or ramps, accessible to over 80% of facilities.
NOU FAQs
What is North Orissa University now called?
North Orissa University is now officially known as Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (MSCBU).
Where is North Orissa University located?
North Orissa University is located in Takatpur, Baripada, in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha.
Is North Orissa University recognised by UGC?
Yes, North Orissa University is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) under sections 2(f) and 12(B) of the UGC Act.
What types of courses are offered at North Orissa University?
NOU offers PG, certificate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs across disciplines such as Arts, Science, Commerce, Education, and Computer Applications.
Does North Orissa University offer distance education?
The university previously offered distance education through the Directorate of Distance and Continuing Education (DDCE), but admissions are currently paused.
How can students apply for admission to NOU?
Interested candidates can apply online through the university's official admission portal during the application window.
What is the eligibility criteria for postgraduate courses?
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum of 45%-50% aggregate marks, depending on the course.
Are hostel facilities available at North Orissa University?
Yes, the university provides separate hostels for male and female students, subject to seat availability.
Is North Orissa University good for research?
Yes, the university actively supports M.Phil. and Ph.D. research programs in areas like tribal studies, regional language, zoology, and life sciences.
Does NOU provide any scholarships to students?
While specific scholarships are not listed, eligible students can apply for state and central government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
Is there an alumni association at North Orissa University?
Yes, some departments like Zoology have registered alumni associations, though a university-wide alumni network is not prominently available.
Is NOU a state university or a central university?
North Orissa University is a state public university, established by the Government of Odisha.
