Mangalore University grew out of a modest Postgraduate Centre of the University of Mysore to become the focal point of an independent University in 1980. The campus started with only three postgraduate departments, now has 26 postgraduate departments. Mangalore University has transformed itself by each passing year with the experienced faculty and modern infrastructure. The university has grown impressively since its inception with 204 affiliated colleges, two constituent colleges (at Mangalore and Madikeri) and five autonomous colleges.

Located about 20 km to the south-east of the historic coastal town of Mangalore, it is a picturesque campus that sprawls over 353 acres, overlooking the confluence of the river Nethravathi with the Arabian Sea on one side, and the cloud-capped Western Ghats on the other. The infrastructure and surrounding is developed to enhance the learning experience and for excellence in higher education.

There are two guest homes for visiting dignitaries and academics, a well-equipped health Centre, a shopping Centre, two nationalised banks, and an ATM location in addition to the spectacular administrative structure. From the campus, a post office and a phone exchange run their operations. For its staff, the university has built a sizable number of housing units on the campus. The University has taken steps to establish contacts through the exchange of scholars and students with universities in USA, UK, Finland, Japan, Norway, Germany, Spain and other countries.

Mangalore University becomes the major centre for the study of ecology and environment. Some of the affiliated colleges of the University have direct institutional linkages with reputed national and international institutions of learning.

Vision- To evolve as a National Centre of Advanced Studies and to Cultivate Quality Human Resource.

Mission – To provide excellent academic, physical, administrative, infrastructural and moral ambience. To develop quality and excellence in teaching, learning and research. To spark innovation and creativity.