Overview

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University - Directorate of Open and Distance Learning (TNAU DODL), also known as TNAU Open University, is a State Agricultural University established in 1971. Located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, it functions under Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. It offers agricultural education through distance learning modes to reach remote learners.

The university is approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC). TNAU holds a NAAC A Grade (2021). The Director of Open and Distance Learning oversees programs via the Coimbatore campus.

Official Website: https://www.tnau.ac.in/dodl/

Quick Facts

• Founder: Tamil Nadu Government
• Vice-Chancellor: Not available on official sources as of 2024-06-01
• Director (DODL): Not available on official sources as of 2024-06-01
• Student Count: Approx. Not specified, estimated several thousands via ODL mode
• Departments/Faculties: Agriculture, Horticulture, Agricultural Engineering, Home Science, etc.
• Contact Info: Directorate of Open and Distance Learning, TNAU, Coimbatore - 641003, Tamil Nadu; Phone: +91-422-6611263; Email: dodl@tnau.ac.in
• NAAC Grade: A (2021) (Source)
• NIRF Ranking: Agriculture Universities ranked within Top 10 (2023) (NIRF 2023)

Courses & Programs

• Faculties: Agriculture, Horticulture, Agricultural Engineering, Home Science
• Popular Programs: B.Sc. (Agriculture), M.Sc. (Agriculture), Diploma in several agriculture-related disciplines, Ph.D. courses
• Duration: UG - 3 to 4 years; PG - 2 years; Diploma - 1 to 2 years; Ph.D. - 3 to 5 years
• Mode: Distance learning mode with study materials, online/offline support, and occasional contact classes
• Intake: Depends on course; typically 50-100 students per program

Admissions

• Mode: Merit-based / entrance depending on course; direct admission for diploma and certificate courses
• Accepted Exams: For regular programs usually through TNAU entrance or Tamil Nadu state entrance exams; ODL admissions primarily merit-based
• Timeline: Applications open usually in May-June every year; classes begin July-August
• Admission Link: https://www.tnau.ac.in/dodl/
• Apply Steps:
  1. Visit official site and download prospectus
  2. Fill application form online or offline
  3. Attach required documents (marksheets, ID, photo)
  4. Pay application fee online or via demand draft
  5. Submit form as per instructions, await confirmation
• Application Portal: Available on official DODL site

Eligibility

• UG Courses: 10+2 with science/agriculture background, minimum 50% marks in relevant subjects
• PG Courses: Relevant UG degree with minimum 50% aggregate
• Diploma Courses: Typically 10th or 12th pass depending on program
• Ph.D.: Master’s degree in relevant field with qualifying entrance/interview
• Documents Required: Marksheets, Transfer Certificate, Identity proof (Aadhar/PAN), passport size photos, caste certificate (if applicable)

Fee & Scholarships

• Indicative Fees: UG Tuition: ₹10,000 - ₹30,000 per annum; PG Tuition: ₹15,000 - ₹40,000 per annum; Hostel & Exam fees separate
• Scholarships: State government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC/EWS, merit scholarships; Central scholarships for minorities via Ministry of Education
• Check updated details at TNAU DODL Fee & Scholarship page

Placements

• Placement Percentage: Not separately available for DODL; on-campus placements for regular TNAU approx. 70%
• Average CTC: ₹3.5 to ₹5 LPA for agriculture graduates on-campus
• Top Recruiters: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Private agro-companies, Banks, State Dept. of Agriculture
• Placement Cell: TNAU Placement Cell
• Internships: Mandatory for UG/PG agriculture courses coordinated through university extension centers

Campus & Facilities

• Hostels for women and men students at main Coimbatore campus
• Mess with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
• Sports complexes including cricket, volleyball, football grounds
• Well-equipped labs and research stations
• Central library with extensive agricultural collections
• Healthcare unit on campus
• Wi-Fi connectivity and transport facility for day scholars
• Student clubs for cultural, literary, and environmental programs and annual fests

Faculty & Research

• Experienced faculty specializing in crop science, soil science, horticulture, entomology
• Research Centers on biotech, pest management, organic farming
• Significant research grants from ICAR, DST, and state government schemes
• Multiple patents filed in seed technology and biofertilizers
• MOUs with national and international agricultural institutes for collaborative research and student exchange

Rankings

• NIRF Agriculture University Ranking: 6th (2023) (Source)
• NAAC Accreditation: A Grade (2021) (Source)
• QS & India Today/Outlook rankings not available specifically for TNAU Open and Distance Learning as of 2024

Results, Cut-Offs & Seat Matrix

Not available specifically for Directorate of Open and Distance Learning on official sources as of 2024-06-01.

For regular TNAU programs, cut-offs are published annually at https://www.tnau.ac.in/admissions.

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 10 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Coimbatore Junction Railway Station (approx. 7 km)
• Local Transit: Frequent buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis connect city to campus

FAQs

Q1: Can non-agriculture background students join TNAU DODL courses?

A: Some diploma courses accept students from other streams; UG/PG agriculture courses require relevant background.

Q2: What is the mode of study for DODL programs?

A: Primarily distance learning with study materials, online lectures, and few contact classes.

Q3: How can I apply for scholarships?

A: Apply through the university website after admission; government scholarships require separate applications.

Q4: Are hostel facilities available for distance learners?

A: Hostels are mainly for regular students; ODL students may use accommodations during contact classes if needed.

Q5: What documents are needed for admission?

A: Marksheets, identity proof, passport size photos, and caste certificate if applicable.

Q6: When does the admission process start?

A: Usually in May-June each year; check the official website for exact dates.

Q7: Is there an entrance exam for DODL courses?

A: Most ODL courses admit on a merit basis; some PG programs may require entrance tests.

Q8: Does TNAU provide internship opportunities?

A: Yes, internships are part of curriculum and coordinated through university centers.

Q9: How do I download the prospectus?

A: Available at TNAU DODL official site.

Q10: Who can I contact for admission queries?

A: Directorate of Open and Distance Learning, Email: dodl@tnau.ac.in Phone: +91-422-6611263