Kannur University is a multi-campus public university established in 1996 to provide development of higher education in Kasaragod, Kannur, and Wayanad districts of Kerala, India. It was established after the passing of Act No. 22 of 1996 of the Kerala Legislative Assembly. Kannur University is a multi-campus university, at Kannur, Kasargod, Mananthavady, Payyannur, Thalassery, and Kanhangad. Kannur University is also accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with Grade ‘B’. The university-affiliated by University Grants Commission (UGC) and affiliated by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). The university has 20 departments, 8 government affiliated colleges, 6 professional affiliated colleges, 13 aided arts & science colleges, 70 affiliated colleges. It also offers undergraduate distance education courses for prison inmates.
Kannur University was established by the Act 22 of 1996 of Kerala Legislative Assembly. The University was inaugurated on 2nd March 1996 by the former Hon. Chief Minister of Kerala. Kasargod and Kannur revenue Districts and the Mananthavady Taluk of Wayanad District are covered under Kannur University Jurisdiction. Kannur University has campuses at Kannur, Kasaragod, Mananthavady, Payyannur, Thalassery, Kanhangad.