The Periyar University
The Government of Tamil Nadu established the Periyar University at Salem on 17th September 1997 as per the provisions of the Periyar University Act, 1997. The University covers the area comprising the districts of Salem, Namakkal, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri. The University got the 12(B) and 2f status from the University Grants Commission and has been accredited by NAAC with B+ grade in 2007.
The Periyar Institute Of Distance Education (PRIDE)
The Periyar University has established a directorate for distance education namely PERIYAR INSTITUTE OF DISTANCE EDUCATION (PRIDE). The PRIDE has been started functioning from the year 2001-2002. The PRIDE offers various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The course materials are supplied to the students well in advance. There are about 54 PCP Centers throughout the Country. Well qualified and experienced faculties are involved in the classroom teaching . The Periyar University has also introduced its off Campus regular academic programmes from the academic year 2005 - 06 through PRIDE.