North Orissa University (NOU) was established under section 32 of the Orissa University Act, 1989 (Act 5 of 1989). The University is included in the list of Universities maintained under section 2(f) of the University Grants Commission Act 1956, to impart higher education in the Tribal base area of Northern Orissa. The jurisdiction of the University extends over two districts, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar. There are 80 affiliated colleges, both general and professional, catering to the demand of higher education.

The main objective of the university is to provide quality professional education to all section of the students. Apart from offering regular programs the university is also offering certain programs under distance education mode. These resources are provided by the university’s centre for distance learning.

All courses under this distance mode of learning will offered through Study Centers. Hence students should join the Study Center for acquiring necessary skills. Assignments are submitted by the students to the Counselors, for evaluation of their performances. Finally after the completion of the course students are awarded degree based on their performances in the examinations.