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Utkal University of Culture: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Khordha Campus Life
location
Khordha, Odisha
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 9 January 2026

More About UUOC

Utkal University of Culture (UUOC), a distinguished State Public University, is widely recognized for its profound commitment to preserving, promoting, and propagating Odisha''s and India''s vibrant cultural heritage. Established in 1999 in Bhubaneswar, UUOC has rapidly evolved into a pivotal center for cultural education, research, and innovation. The University''s mission extends to offering comprehensive training and fostering critical thinking in various traditional and contemporary art forms.

UUOC boasts a rich academic tapestry with 16 specialized departments, encompassing an extensive range of disciplines. Students can pursue diverse programs in areas such as Odissi Dance, Chhau Dance, Odissi Music (Vocal & Instrumental), Tabla/Pakhawaj, Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Applied Art, History of Art, Visual Art, Theatre, Culture Studies, Tribal Studies, and Archaeology. The curriculum is meticulously designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical artistic expression, preparing students for professional careers in the cultural sector. Admission to these enriching programs is primarily facilitated through the University''s own rigorous entrance examinations.

While specific campus area and detailed student/faculty counts are not always publicly consolidated, UUOC prioritizes a conducive learning environment with essential infrastructure to support its unique academic pursuits. The campus life at UUOC is vibrant, encouraging artistic collaboration, performances, and cultural exchange among students. This focus ensures a holistic student experience, nurturing not just artistic skills but also a deep appreciation for cultural preservation. Graduates from Utkal University of Culture emerge as skilled artists, researchers, and cultural practitioners, contributing significantly to the national and global cultural landscape.

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Year Of Established

1999

About Utkal University of Culture - [UUC] Bhubaneswar

Utkal University of Culture (UUC), established in 1999, is a public state university located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It was founded by the Government of Odisha with the aim to preserve, promote, and propagate the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and India. The university operates under the affiliation of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

UUC holds accreditation from UGC and has been awarded an A grade by NAAC. It offers postgraduate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs across faculties such as Culture Studies, Architecture and Archaeology, Language and Literature, Visual Arts, and Performing Arts. The university has a student acceptance rate of 64% and is known for its specialized focus on cultural education and research, affiliating several prominent art and craft institutes in Odisha.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameUtkal University of Culture
Established1999
TypeState Public University
AffiliationUniversity Grants Commission (UGC)
Approved ByUGC, AIU
NAAC GradeA (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 2025Ranked #727 overall in India
CampusLocated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
CoursesPostgraduate, M.Phil., Ph.D.
Popular ProgrammesCultural Studies, Architecture & Archaeology, Language & Literature, Visual Arts, Performing Arts
StudentsAcceptance rate 64%
Websitehttps://uuc.ac.in

Courses Offered at UUOC

Specializations

Bachelor of Visual Arts in Textile Design

Specializations

Certification in Jain PhilosophyCertification in Tamil

Specializations

Master of Arts in Buddhist StudiesMaster of Arts in Cultural StudiesMaster of Arts in Linguistics+1

Specializations

Master of Performing Arts in DanceMaster of Performing Arts in Music VocalMaster of Performing Arts in Drama+5

Specializations

Master of Philosophy in DramaMaster of Philosophy in Drawing & PaintingMaster of Philosophy in Music - Instrumental+2

Specializations

Master of Visual Arts in History Of ArtMaster of Visual Arts in PaintingMaster of Visual Arts in Applied Arts+2

Specializations

Ph.D in Cultural StudiesPh.D in Language StudiesPh.D in Performing Arts+1

Specializations

Post Graduate Diploma in Animation DesignPost Graduate Diploma in Textile Designing

Overview

Utkal University of Culture (UUC), established in 1999, is a public state university located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It was founded by the Government of Odisha with the aim to preserve, promote, and propagate the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and India. The university operates under the affiliation of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

UUC holds accreditation from UGC and has been awarded an A grade by NAAC. It offers postgraduate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs across faculties such as Culture Studies, Architecture and Archaeology, Language and Literature, Visual Arts, and Performing Arts. The university has a student acceptance rate of 64% and is known for its specialized focus on cultural education and research, affiliating several prominent art and craft institutes in Odisha.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameUtkal University of Culture
Established1999
TypeState Public University
AffiliationUniversity Grants Commission (UGC)
Approved ByUGC, AIU
NAAC GradeA (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 2025Ranked #727 overall in India
CampusLocated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
CoursesPostgraduate, M.Phil., Ph.D.
Popular ProgrammesCultural Studies, Architecture & Archaeology, Language & Literature, Visual Arts, Performing Arts
StudentsAcceptance rate 64%
Websitehttps://uuc.ac.in

Admission Dates 2026

Utkal University of Culture (UUC), Bhubaneswar offers admission to undergraduate, postgraduate, M.Phil, and certificate programs primarily based on merit in qualifying examinations and entrance tests conducted by the university. The application process for PG and UG courses is online, with submission of hard copies and documents required by specified deadlines. Entrance tests and viva voce are part of the selection for PG and M.Phil programs.

ProgrammeEventDate
UG (BPA, BVA, BFD, BID, BTD, BHM, BTTM)Application Start01 Aug 2026
UG (BPA, BVA, BFD, BID, BTD, BHM, BTTM)Application Deadline31 Aug 2026
PG (MA, MVA, MPA, PG Diploma)Application Start01 Jun 2026
PG (MA, MVA, MPA, PG Diploma)Application Deadline (Hard Copy Submission)25 Jul 2026
PG (MA, MVA, MPA, PG Diploma)Entrance Test06 & 07 Dec 2026
PG (MA, MVA, MPA, PG Diploma)Publication of Selection List08 Dec 2026
PG (MA, MVA, MPA, PG Diploma)Admission Without Fine09 to 10 Dec 2026
PG (MA, MVA, MPA, PG Diploma)Admission With Fine11 Dec 2026
M.PhilApplication Start01 Jun 2026
M.PhilApplication Deadline (Hard Copy Submission)25 Jul 2026
M.PhilEntrance Test06 & 07 Dec 2026
M.PhilPublication of Selection List08 Dec 2026
M.PhilAdmission Without Fine09 to 10 Dec 2026
M.PhilAdmission With Fine11 Dec 2026

Nearest Attractions at UUOC

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Biju Patnaik International Airport

13 km

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Baramunda ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal)

12 km

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SUM Ultimate Medicare

9 km

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Bhubaneswar Railway Station

15 km

Admission Process

Admission to Utkal University of Culture (UUC), Bhubaneswar, for undergraduate and postgraduate programs is primarily based on merit and entrance exams conducted by the university or recognized national/state-level tests. Applications are submitted online followed by document verification and counseling.

Postgraduate (PG) Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official UUC website and register online for the desired PG program during the admission window (e.g., July 1 to July 20, 2025).
  2. Pay the application fee of ₹300 online and complete the application form.
  3. Download and print the application form, then submit the hard copy along with required documents to the Head, P.G. Teaching Departments, UUC by the specified deadline (e.g., July 25, 2025).
  4. Appear for the university’s entrance test (CPET) or submit valid scores of national/state-level exams if applicable.
  5. Participate in counseling based on merit and entrance test results for seat allocation.
  6. Complete admission formalities by paying the program fees and submitting original documents.

Undergraduate (UG) Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Apply online through the UUC admission portal during the UG admission period (e.g., August 1 to August 31, 2025).
  2. Submit the application fee and upload required documents instructions.
  3. Admission is generally merit-based on 10+2 examination results followed by counseling.
  4. Attend counseling and document verification as scheduled by the university.
  5. Pay the program fees and complete enrollment procedures.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
MA (Culture Studies, Linguistics, Odia Literature, etc.)Graduation in relevant fieldCPET / Merit45% (40% for SC/ST)₹25,000
MVA / MPA (Visual & Performing Arts)B.Mus / BVA / Equivalent GraduationMerit / Career Marking45% (40% for SC/ST)₹30,000
Ph.D.Master’s DegreeUGC-CSIR-NET / Entrance & Interview55% (50% for SC/ST)₹20,000
UG (BPA, BVA, BFD, BTD, etc.)10+2 from recognized boardMerit-based50%₹20,000

Documents Required

  • Mark sheets and certificates of qualifying examinations (10th, 12th, Graduation)
  • Entrance exam scorecard (if applicable)
  • Proof of identity (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
  • Category certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates)
  • Transfer Certificate and Migration Certificate (if applicable)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Character certificate
  • Final degree certificate or provisional certificate (for PG applicants)

Campus Facilities at UUOC

Academic Spaces

Auditorium

Conference Hall

Recording Studio

Seminar Hall

Studio Theatre

Well Equipped Classrooms

Accommodation for Parents

Visitor Accommodation Support

Basic Services

ATM Facility

Stationery and General Store

Disability Services

General Accessibility Features

Entry/Exit Rules

Hostel Entry/Exit Policies

Food Options

Canteen/Cafeteria

Hostel Mess

Hostel Facilities

Boys'' Hostel

Girls'' Hostel

Incubation Centers

Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Culture and Technology (CISCT)

IT Facilities

Campus-wide Wi-Fi Connectivity

Laboratories

Computer Lab

Digital Labs

Language Lab

Studio for Visual Arts

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Basic Medical Facility

Recreational Areas

Hostel Common Room with TV

Safety & Security

Campus Security

Sports & Fitness

Gymnasium

Playground

Student Help Desks

Anti-Ragging Cell

Grievance Redressal Cell

Transport Services

Campus Parking

Placements 2025

Utkal University of Culture (UUC), Bhubaneswar, reports a placement rate of around 70% to 80% for its students, with starting salaries typically between ₹1.8 LPA to ₹2.4 LPA and international packages reaching up to ₹12-18 LPA annually. The university has strong ties with hospitality and cultural organizations, offering placements in reputed national and international companies.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹18 LPA
Average Package₹2.1 LPA
Median Package₹1.9 LPA
Placement Rate75%
Students PlacedApprox. 150/200
Companies Visited20+

Top Recruiters

Hospitality & Culture: Taj Hotels, ITC Hotels, Trident, Mayfair, Lemon Tree, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Hyatt, Vistara

IT & Consulting: Infosys, TCS, Capgemini, Happiest Minds

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA)₹12 LPA₹1.8 LPA70%
Master of Performing Arts (MPA)₹18 LPA₹2.4 LPA80%
Bachelor of Hotel Management (BHM)₹10 LPA₹2.0 LPA75%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Krishna Kahnei

5

The foundation stone of the current Utkal University campus at Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar, was laid by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, on 1 January 1958. The campus was inaugurated by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the second President of India, on 2 January 1963.[4][5] It is a teaching-cum-affiliating university. The sprawling 399.9 acre campus at Vani Vihar is located in the heart of Bhubaneswar. In 2016, Utkal University adopted its theme song from "tunga sikhar chula" (1st 3 stanzas) poem of Godabarish Mishra, one of its founder members.[6]

Sobhan Panda

5

Utkal university was established in the year 1943. It has spread over about 400 acres. It is on NH side. It affiliates about 300 colleges of Odisha. As it is on NH side, communication is good. There are arts, science, technical departments in it. Nice environment for study.

Prof. Gamini Ranasinghe

4

Utkal Institution (UU), situated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is the seventeenth-earliest public institution in India and the oldest in the state of Odisha. The third, which was previously known as Ravenshaw College, was founded in 1943. The inaugural president of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, inaugurated Utkal University in Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar, on January 1, 1958. The campus was inaugurated on January 2, 1963, by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the second president of India. The university is home to numerous academic luminaries. The students are afforded the opportunity to interact with the benevolent local population.

Tejaswinee Pradhan

4

I'm myself studying in Utkal university . First thing is this place is huge. You'll need Google maps whenever you try to find a new place here. Campus is clean and the roads are covered with trees that makes it even more beautiful and calm . You will get signs and boards on each street describing about the departments located there. There are ATMs and banks inside the campus( You are not getting any trouble about bank related things now.) There are food stalls in here(so you are not going anywhere with crampy stomach). Few shops with good and daily used things are there.Even temples, park, Garden, playground, field are also here inside the campus . So welcome and slay.

Rankings & Accreditations

Utkal University of Culture, Bhubaneswar, holds a modest position in national and state-level rankings in 2025, with a NIRF rank of 48 among State Public Universities. It is ranked lower in overall national and international rankings, reflecting its specialized focus on cultural studies and related disciplines.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
State Public University#4862.05

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
EduRank (India Overall)#7382025
EduRank (Asia)#46262025
EduRank (World)#112152025
EduRank (Odisha)#232025
EduRank (Bhubaneswar)#102025

Accreditations

  • UGC: Recognized
  • AIU: Recognized

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Utkal University of Culture (UUC), Bhubaneswar offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support students based on merit, category, and financial need. Students can avail scholarships through the university, state government schemes, and the National Scholarship Portal, with special provisions for SC/ST, OBC, women, and economically weaker sections.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Chancellor’s Running Cup (English Debate)1st position in English debate competition₹1,000
Vice Chancellor Prize (English Debate)2nd position in English debate competition₹800
Senate Prize (English Debate)3rd position in English debate competition₹600
Pandit Sudarshan Rath Memorial Cash AwardMeritorious students (criteria university)Varies
P. Lamba Academic ScholarshipAcademic excellenceVaries
Latika Sundari Ray Gold MedalOutstanding academic performanceGold Medal
Sri Harihar Mishra Memorial ScholarshipMerit cum poverty criteriaVaries
Poverty-cum-Merit Scholarship (Khiragobinda)Financial need and meritVaries
Usha Soni Award ScholarshipMerit-basedVaries
Gagan Bihari Chand Memorial ScholarshipMerit-basedVaries
Usha Deka Memorial Fund ScholarshipMerit-basedVaries

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
PG Merit Scholarship for University Rank HolderPostgraduate students with high ranksVariesNational Scholarship Portal
PG Indira Gandhi Single Girl Child ScholarshipSingle girl child pursuing PGVariesNational Scholarship Portal
Post Matric Scholarship for SC/ST StudentsSC/ST students pursuing PG/professional coursesVariesState Scholarship Portal (Prerana)
Post Matric Scholarship for MinoritiesMinority community studentsVariesNational Scholarship Portal
Financial Assistance for Wards of Beedi/Cine/IOMC/LSDM WorkersStudents from specified worker familiesVariesNational Scholarship Portal
Prerana ScholarshipEBC/OBC/SEBC students of OdishaVariesState Scholarship Portal
Nirman Shramik Kalyan YojanaChildren of construction workersVariesState Scholarship Portal
Medhabruti ScholarshipMeritorious students (SC/ST/OBC)₹10,000 per yearState Scholarship Portal

External Scholarships

  • Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR): Scholarships for international students pursuing cultural and academic programs at UUC
  • Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship: Partial funding for eligible postgraduate students
  • J.N. Ratan Tata Endowment Fund: Loan scholarships for higher education
  • Commo

Comparison

Utkal University of Culture (UUC) Bhubaneswar is compared with Utkal University Bhubaneswar and Siksha 'O' Anusandhan University (SOA) as all three are prominent Odisha-based public or deemed universities offering diverse programs with strong cultural, educational, and research focus, and are ranked by NIRF in 2025.

ParameterUtkal University of Culture - [UUC] BhubaneswarUtkal University BhubaneswarSiksha 'O' Anusandhan University (SOA) Bhubaneswar
TypePublic (State University)Public (State University)Deemed to be University (Private)
Established199919431996
NIRF 2025 (University Category)#727 overall India; #48 State Public University Category#101-150 overall India; #48 State Public University Category#24 overall India
NAAC GradeA (Accredited)A+A+
Fee (Total)₹0.06L to ₹0.20L approx. (varies by program)₹0.10L to ₹0.30L approx.₹3L to ₹7L approx. (varies by program)
Highest Package₹6 LPA (approx.)₹10 LPA (approx.)₹20 LPA (approx.)
Average Package₹2 LPA (approx.)₹3 LPA (approx.)₹6 LPA (approx.)

Key Strengths

  • Utkal University of Culture - [UUC] Bhubaneswar: Specialized focus on cultural studies, heritage preservation, performing and visual arts with strong regional cultural integration.
  • Utkal University Bhubaneswar: Oldest and largest state university in Odisha with diverse academic programs and strong research output.
  • Siksha 'O' Anusandhan University (SOA): High NIRF ranking among private universities, extensive professional and technical courses, strong industry connections and placements.

Campus & Infrastructure

Utkal University of Culture is located in a lush green campus at Madanpur, Bhubaneswar, spread over approximately 45 acres. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities including smart classrooms, a dedicated library building, and a central instrumentation facility supporting advanced research.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area45 acres
LocationBhubaneswar, Odisha
Nearest RailwayBhubaneswar Railway Station (17 km)
Nearest AirportBiju Patnaik Airport (10 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: 10,000+ reference books, 1,200 journals
  • Labs: Departmental laboratories with advanced research instruments including FT-IR spectrometer, X-ray diffractometer, Atomic absorption spectrophotometer, and Cell culture facilities
  • Classrooms: 27 smart classrooms

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
BoysData not specifiedData not specified
GirlsData not specifiedData not specified

Other Facilities

  • Air-conditioned auditorium
  • Sports facilities for various activities
  • Health center with first aid
  • Wi-Fi enabled campus including hostels
  • Computer Centre with High Performance Computing (HPC) facility
  • Canteen providing subsidized food
  • Guest house with 24-hour electricity and water
  • Transportation facilities to the new campus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the eligibility criteria for admission to postgraduate courses at Utkal University of Culture?

Eligibility generally requires a relevant bachelor's degree with minimum marks as specified by the university. Admission is through a Common PG Entrance Test conducted by the university, and candidates must register online to apply.

Does Utkal University of Culture conduct any entrance exams for its courses?

Yes, the university conducts a Common PG Entrance Test for admission to its postgraduate programs. Students must register online to apply, pay fees, and download hall tickets for the exam.

What is the fee structure for self-financing programs at Utkal University of Culture?

Self-financing program fees range from ₹2,500 to ₹20,000 per semester depending on the course and associated costs.

Are there any scholarships or fee waivers available for students at Utkal University of Culture?

Complete tuition fee waivers are provided for women, SC, ST, and differently-abled students. The university also assists students from minority communities and economically weaker sections through government schemes.

What is the hostel fee and accommodation capacity at Utkal University of Culture?

Hostel fees total approximately ₹4,000 annually, including caution money, admission, establishment, seat rent, maintenance, and food charges. The university has hostels accommodating about 2,307 women and 2,297 men.

What are the placement opportunities and companies recruiting from Utkal University of Culture?

Specific placement data is limited, but the university emphasizes cultural and academic research fields. Internship opportunities are available through affiliated institutes and cultural organizations linked to the university.

Does Utkal University of Culture offer internship programs for students?

Yes, internships are encouraged, especially in affiliated institutes related to arts, culture, and heritage, providing practical exposure in these fields.

What specializations and faculties are available at Utkal University of Culture?

The university offers faculties in Culture Studies, Architecture and Archaeology, Language and Literature, Visual Arts, and Performing Arts, along with certificate courses in niche areas like Jaina and Tamil culture.

How is the faculty quality and research environment at Utkal University of Culture?

The university has experienced faculty engaged in teaching and research, supported by advanced facilities like a Central Instrumentation Facility and multiple research centers focusing on culture and science.

What are the campus facilities available at Utkal University of Culture?

The campus spans nearly 400 acres with 40 blocks, including teaching departments, hostels, a health center, auditorium, gym, sports complex, Wi-Fi, and a well-stocked library with over 10,000 reference books.

How is the food quality and mess facility in the university hostels?

The hostel mess provides hygienic and reasonably priced food, with positive student feedback on quality and cleanliness.

What cultural and extracurricular activities are available on campus?

The university hosts cultural festivals, seminars, workshops, and student clubs that promote arts, sports, and social engagement, enriching campus life.

Is there a dress code or uniform requirement for students at Utkal University of Culture?

There is no strict dress code; students typically wear casual or traditional attire suitable for cultural studies and events.

How accessible is the university campus via public transport?

Town bus services run up to the university gates, and three-wheelers and cycle rickshaws operate within the campus for easy commute.

Are part-time job opportunities available for students in Bhubaneswar near the university?

While the university does not directly provide part-time jobs, Bhubaneswar offers various opportunities in retail, tutoring, and cultural organizations suitable for students.

How does Utkal University of Culture compare with other cultural universities in India?

Utkal University of Culture is unique in Odisha for its dedicated focus on cultural studies, with strong affiliations and research centers, making it a leading institution in eastern India for culture-related education.

What is the reputation and alumni network strength of Utkal University of Culture?

The university is recognized by UGC and AIU, with a growing alumni network active in cultural preservation, academia, and arts sectors across India.

Does the university provide Wi-Fi and computer facilities for students?

Yes, the campus is Wi-Fi enabled with computer centers and labs available for academic and research use.

Are there any unique courses or electives offered at Utkal University of Culture?

The university offers unique electives like NCC and certificate courses in regional cultures such as Jaina and Tamil, promoting diverse cultural education.

What safety measures are in place on campus for students?

The university maintains a secure campus with health facilities, a dedicated health center, and a safe environment supported by administrative oversight and student welfare programs.

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