Andhra University (AU), established in 1926, is a prestigious public university located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It has been a pioneer in higher education, offering a diverse range of academic programs in various disciplines. Recognized for its academic excellence, AU holds high rankings in national and international assessments.
The School of Distance Education (AU SDE) was founded in 1972 to provide flexible and quality education to students who cannot pursue regular courses. It offers Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, and Certificate programs across multiple fields, including Science, Arts, Commerce, Management, and Law. AU SDE is approved by UGC-DEB (University Grants Commission - Distance Education Bureau) and recognized for its well-structured curriculum, experienced faculty, and digital learning initiatives.
With modern facilities, e-learning support, and a strong alumni network, AU SDE ensures accessible and affordable education to thousands of students across India and abroad.
AU SDE Highlights
Here are some key details about Andhra University's School of Distance Education:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andhra University School of Distance Education |
| Ownership Type | Public University |
| Establishment Year | 1972 |
| Top Accreditations | NAAC 'A++' Grade with a CGPA of 3.74 |
| Ranking (2024) | 7th in State Public University Category 25th in University Category 41st in Overall Category 16th in Law Colleges Category |
| Course Levels | UG, PG, Diploma, Certificate |
| Popular Programs | MBA, MCA, M.Sc., M.A., B.A., B.Com |
| Top Recruiters | Wipro, Accenture, Infosys, L&T, Nagarjuna Fertilizers |
| Official Website | https://www.andhrauniversity.edu.in/ |
| How to Reach | Location: Waltair Junction, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – 530003 By Air Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ) (~12 km from Andhra University) How to Reach: Take a cab/taxi (Ola, Uber, or local cabs). Auto-rickshaws are also available, but cabs are more convenient. By Train Nearest Railway Station: Visakhapatnam Railway Station (VSKP) (~4.5 km from Andhra University) How to Reach: Take an auto-rickshaw (₹50-₹100) or a cab/taxi (~15 mins). Public transport buses are also available from the station towards Waltair Junction. By Road Andhra University is well connected via NH-16 and city roads. Nearest Bus Stand: Dwaraka Bus Station (RTC Complex) (~4 km from the university) Frequent city buses (APSRTC) run from different parts of Visakhapatnam to the university. Transport Options: City buses, auto-rickshaws, cabs are easily available. If coming from other cities, you can take APSRTC long-distance buses to Visakhapatnam. |
AU SDE Ranking 2024
Andhra University has been recognized for its academic excellence in various rankings. Here is a table summarizing the rankings of Andhra University and its School of Distance Education (AU SDE):
| Ranking Agency | Category | Ranking | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIRF 2024 | University Category | 25th | 2024 |
| NIRF 2024 | Overall Category | 41st | 2024 |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings | Overall | 1501+ | 2024 |
| THE World Rankings | Engineering & Technology | 601-800 | 2019 |
| QS World University Rankings | BRICS Ranking | 185th | 2017-18 |
| QS World University Rankings | BRICS Ranking | 351-400 | 2018-19 |
| QS World University Rankings | India Ranking | 46th | 2017-18 |
| QS World University Rankings | India Ranking | 47th | 2018-19 |
| NAAC Accreditation | University Accreditation | 'A' Grade (Score: 3.60/4.0) | Valid up to 2023 |
These rankings highlight Andhra University's academic excellence, including its distance education programs at AU SDE.
AU SDE Courses
The School of Distance Education offers a wide array of programs at different levels. The university provides UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate courses in various disciplines. Admission is based on merit or entrance exams for select programs like MBA and MCA. Candidates can apply online through the AU SDE portal by registering, filling out the application form, uploading documents, and paying the application fee. Below are some of the popular courses along with their fees and durations:
| Courses Offered | Duration | Specializations | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) | 3 Years | History, Economics, Politics | 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board |
| History, Public Administration, Politics | |||
| History, Politics, Special English | |||
| History, Politics, Special Telugu | |||
| History, Politics, Sociology | |||
| Public Administration, Politics, Sociology | |||
| Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) | 3 Years | General | 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board |
| Master of Arts (M.A.) | 2 Years | English, Hindi, Telugu | Any Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university |
| Economics, History, Political Science | |||
| Public Administration, Sociology, Philosophy | |||
| Human Resource Management, Journalism & Mass Communication | |||
| Master of Science (M.Sc.) | 2 Years | Mathematics | B.Sc. with Mathematics as a subject |
| Psychology | Any Bachelor’s Degree | ||
| Botany, Zoology, Organic Chemistry, Physics | B.Sc. in the respective subject | ||
| Master of Commerce (M.Com.) | 2 Years | General | B.Com. or related degree from a recognized university |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 3 Years | General | Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of 50% marks + APICET or equivalent |
| Executive MBA | 2 Years | General | Bachelor’s Degree with at least 3 years of work experience |
| Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM) | 2 Years | HRM | Any Bachelor’s Degree |
| Master of Computer Applications (MCA) | 2 Years | Computer Applications | Bachelor’s Degree with Mathematics in 10+2 or Graduation |
| Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) | 2 Years | Journalism & Mass Communication | Any Bachelor’s Degree |
| PG Diploma in Cooperation and Rural Studies | 1 Year | - | Any Bachelor’s Degree |
| PG Diploma in Computer Programming and Applications | 1 Year | - | Any Bachelor’s Degree with Computer Science as a subject |
| Certificate in Office Automation & Accounting | 6 Months | - | 10+2 or equivalent |
AU SDE Admission 2025
Andhra University School of Distance Education (AU SDE) offers a flexible admission process for 2025, catering to students seeking quality education through distance learning. The university provides UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate courses in various disciplines. Admission is based on merit or entrance exams for select programs like MBA and MCA. Candidates can apply online through the AU SDE portal by registering, filling out the application form, uploading documents, and paying the application fee. The admission process ensures accessibility and academic excellence. Below are the details:
How to Apply for Andhra University SDE Programs:
- Visit the official website: https://www.andhrauniversity.edu.in/
- Navigate to the School of Distance Education section.
- Register with a valid mobile number and email ID.
- Fill in personal details, upload a photograph & signature, and provide educational qualifications.
- Select the desired course/program.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the application fee.
Documents Required for Admission:
- Passport-size photograph and signature
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Graduation certificate (for PG courses)
- Aadhar Card
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of fee payment
- Entrance examination scorecard (if applicable)
AU SDE Campus & Hostel Facilities
Andhra University's School of Distance Education (AU SDE) primarily offers academic programs through distance learning, allowing students to study remotely. As such, AU SDE does not provide dedicated on-campus facilities or hostel accommodations specifically for its distance education students.
However, the main Andhra University campus in Visakhapatnam boasts a range of facilities and hostel accommodations for its regular, on-campus students. These include various hostels categorized by academic disciplines, such as:
- Arts & Commerce Hostel: Accommodates students from the Arts and Commerce faculties.
- Science & Technology Hostel: Designed for students enrolled in Science and Technology programs.
- Engineering Hostel: Caters to students from the Engineering faculty, with multiple blocks like Bhaskara Hostel (B-1), Thomas Alva Edison Hostel (B-2), and others.
- Ladies Hostel: Provides accommodation for female students across various disciplines.
- Law Hostel: Dedicated to students from the Law faculty.
- Research Hostel: Intended for research scholars and postgraduate students.
- International Students Hostel: Specifically for international students studying at the university.
These hostels are equipped with essential amenities to support students' residential needs. For distance education students, AU SDE facilitates learning through self-study materials, online resources, and occasional contact programs. While they don't have access to on-campus hostel facilities, they can utilize the university's extensive digital resources and support services designed to aid their academic journey.
AU SDE FAQs
Is AU SDE approved by UGC and DEB?
Yes, AU SDE is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Distance Education Bureau (DEB) for offering distance learning programs.
What courses are offered at AU SDE?
AU SDE offers UG (BA, B.Com, B.Sc), PG (MA, M.Com, MBA, M.Sc, MCA), Diploma, PG Diploma, and Certificate programs in various disciplines.
What is the admission process for AU SDE?
Candidates can apply online through the official AU SDE admission portal by registering, filling out the application form, uploading documents, and paying the application fee.
What are the eligibility criteria for UG courses?
Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Intermediate) or equivalent from a recognized board.
What are the eligibility criteria for PG courses?
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university. Entrance exams like APICET are required for MBA and MCA programs.
How are students evaluated in AU SDE?
Students are evaluated through assignments, term-end exams, and practical sessions (where applicable). Examinations are conducted in designated centers.
Does AU SDE offer scholarships or fee concessions?
Yes, AU SDE provides fee concessions for SC/ST, economically weaker sections, and differently-abled students as per government norms.
How are study materials provided to students?
AU SDE provides printed study materials, e-books, online resources, and video lectures through the university’s e-learning platform.
Can distance education students use university facilities?
AU SDE students can access the university library, digital learning platforms, and attend perQues. sonal contact programs (PCP) sessions conducted periodically.
Does AU SDE offer placement support?
While AU SDE does not have dedicated placement services, students are guided on career opportunities and can participate in job fairs and university-organized events.
Are AU SDE degrees valid for government jobs and higher education?
Yes, AU SDE degrees are valid for government jobs, private sector jobs, and further studies, provided the course is UGC-DEB approved.
