Madurai Kamaraj University, established in 1966, has 18 Schools comprising 73 Departments. The Directorate of Distance Education of the University has a student strength of about 1.30 lakhs. The University has 109 affiliated Colleges (9 Autonomous) including other approved institutions and 7 evening colleges. There are centres which promote research potential of teachers. Extension activities are carried out through Department of Youth Welfare, NSS, SC/ST cell and Adult Education programmes.

The genesis of TERI University is rooted in the comprehensive research, consultancy, and outreach activities of TERI, a not for profit independent research institute recognized globally for its contribution to scientific and policy research in the realms of energy, environment, and sustainable development.