Bharath University

ChennaiIndia 12° N · 80° E

Bharath University, officially known as Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), stands as a beacon of academic excellence and cultural…

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What Bharath University is

Bharath University, officially known as Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), is a private institution in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Founded in 1984 as the region’s first self-financing engineering college, it has grown into a multidisciplinary university with academic, research, and entrepreneurship programs. Its campus also contains a monument commemorating the university’s heritage and evolution.

BIHER has six campuses across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, covering over 603 acres, with 1.3 crore square feet of built-up area. Its facilities include advanced laboratories, libraries, sports complexes, research centers, and spaces for cultural and academic events (Bharath University - Who We Are).

The university has over 10,000 students from 52 countries and more than 1,300 faculty members (Campus Option). It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in engineering, science, technology, medicine—including dentistry, physiotherapy, and nursing—arts, management, and allied health sciences (Wikipedia). Its constituent colleges include:

  • Bharath Institute of Science and Technology (BIST)
  • Sree Balaji Dental College and Hospital
  • Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital
  • Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences & Hospital (Puducherry)
  • Bharath School of Arts & Science

BIHER is approved by AICTE, UGC, BCI, COA, DCI, INC, NMC (MCI), PCI, and SIRO (CollegeBatch). It holds an “A” grade accreditation from NAAC, has NBA recognition, and is the first private university in India accredited by ABET, USA (Bharath University - Ranking and Accreditation). In the 2024 NIRF, BIHER ranked 91st overall and 73rd among universities; it was placed in the 551-600 band in QS Asia 2023 (Wikipedia).

The university’s International Advisory Board includes experts from 40 top global institutions, while its Corporate Advisory Board includes over 215 industry leaders. International initiatives include the Faculty Abroad Program and Student Semester Abroad. BIHER maintains MOUs with organizations such as Cambridge University Press and Assessment, and offers internship opportunities at institutions including Ural Federal University, Russia (Bharath University - Who We Are; Bharath University).

BIHER has contributed to expanding access to higher education in Tamil Nadu and India and fosters a multicultural environment. Its Center for Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship reflects its focus on research and entrepreneurship; university achievements include top honors at the Smart India Hackathon (Bharath University).

History

The institution was founded in 1984 as the Bharath Institute of Science and Technology (BIST) by Dr. S. Jagathrakshakan and the Sri Lakshmi Ammal Educational Trust. It pioneered the self-financing engineering college model in Tamil Nadu (Bharath University - Who We Are). Initially affiliated with the University of Madras and later Anna University, BIST developed a reputation for academic rigor and innovation.

In 2002, it received “Deemed to be University” status from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and became Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER) (Wikipedia). It briefly adopted the name “Bharath University” in 2006, reverting to BIHER in 2017.

What to see

Bharath University Monument

The Bharath University Monument is a campus landmark commemorating the institution’s history and development. Its architecture combines traditional Indian styles with modern elements, and it serves as a focal point for cultural events and ceremonies.

Campus facilities and activities

Campus facilities include libraries with print and digital collections, laboratories, hostels, sports courts and grounds, a multi-purpose auditorium, research centers, and a primary health center. The cafeteria serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Academic, technical, and cultural events take place throughout the year, alongside activities organized by student clubs, sports teams, and cultural festivals.

Practical visiting information

Location and transport

The main campus is at 173 Agharam Road, Selaiyur, Chennai – 600073. It is 12 km from Chennai International Airport and 5 km from Tambaram railway station. Public buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available; the campus is also described as being close to major railway stations and the airport.

Visiting hours, entry, and tours

The campus visiting hours are given in three versions:

  • Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • Academic visits by prior appointment

For campus entry, a valid photo ID and registration at the main gate are required (Official Bharath University Website).

Guided tours are available by prior appointment and are recommended for prospective students, collaborators, and tourists. Tours are also offered during admission seasons and on request; advance booking is recommended. A virtual campus tour is available online.

The monument’s listed hours are Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission to the monument is free for all visitors. Guided tours are available upon request, with advance booking advised through the university’s visitor center.

Accessibility, facilities, and services

The campus is described as wheelchair-friendly, with ramps and accessible or designated pathways. Visitor parking is available near the main entrance. Free Wi-Fi is available to registered visitors.

Hostels are separate for boys and girls and include Wi-Fi and recreational spaces. Hostel accommodation is available for students and event participants, with fees applying. Hotels and paying guest options are available in Selaiyur and Tambaram. Dining options include the campus cafeteria and nearby South Indian restaurants, fast-food outlets, and cafes. There is an on-campus convenience store, with broader shopping options in Tambaram.

Admissions and support

Admissions are conducted with guidelines and support for domestic and international students. Orientation, accommodation assistance, and dedicated counseling services are provided. Further details are available on the official Bharath University website.

Contact

Tips

  • Confirm visiting hours and special events in advance, as the campus schedules listed above differ.
  • Wear comfortable footwear for exploring the campus.
  • Carry water and sun protection, especially in summer.
  • Dress modestly in academic buildings.
  • Outdoor photography is permitted, but restrictions apply in laboratories and classrooms. For the monument, check for specific restrictions.
  • The campus is described as accessible and secure.
  • The guide also mentions Bharath University’s social media and the Audiala app for real-time information and interactive resources.

Nearby places

Nearby Chennai attractions include Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, Marina Beach, and Government Museum Chennai. Tambaram has shopping, dining, and parks. Vandalur Zoo is 10 km from campus, and Mahabalipuram is 40 km away. The campus guide also refers visitors to Chennai’s historic and cultural sites.

Fort St. George

Established in 1644 by the British East India Company, Fort St. George is Chennai’s oldest English fortress and a symbol of the city’s colonial past (Tamil Nadu Tourism, Chennai Tourism). The complex includes:

  • St. Mary’s Church India’s oldest Anglican church
  • Fort Museum Artifacts and memorabilia from the colonial era
  • Governor’s Residence An example of colonial design
  • Ramparts and bastions Views of the city and sea

Fort St. George is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Mondays and public holidays. Entry costs INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign tourists; children below 15 enter free. The site is wheelchair-friendly. Photography is permitted, but drones are prohibited. Nearby attractions include Marina Beach, Government Museum, and Kapaleeshwarar Temple.