Kannada University was founded in the year 1991with the aim to develop the Kannada language as well as to promote the literature, traditions, culture, and folklore of Karnataka. The three main wing of the university are Adalitanga (Administrative wing), Adhyayananga (Academic wing) and Prasaranga (Publication wing).

Courses offered at Kannada University
Integrated M. A. Ph.D. in Kannada literature and folklore, Bachelor in Fine Arts, B.A in Sangeeta (B.A in Music), Diploma in Sculpture, and minimum qualification for this course of two years is SSLC, Diploma in music.

The University also offers postgraduate and certificate courses related to Kannada languages.

In order to be in tune with the recent developments like distance education the University has started following courses:

Post Graduate Diplomas
* Bashanthara Adhyayayayana (Translation Studies)
* Kriyatmaka Kannada (Functional Kannada)
* Dalita Adhyayana (Dalit Studies)
* Puratatva, Samskriti Mattu Pravasodyama (Archaeology, Culture and Tourism)
* Mahila adhyayana (Women`s Studies)
* Karnataka Adhyayana (Karnataka Studies)
* Dravida Adhyayana (Dravidian Studies)
* Abhivriddhi Samvahana (Development Communication)
* Karakushala Kalegalu (Handicrafts)
* Janapada Sangita (Folk-Music)
* Naataka Kale (Theatre Arts)
* Paaramparika Jnana (Traditional Knowledge)

Certificate Courses
* Samshodhana Vidhana (Research Methodology)
* Telugu
* Tamil
* Malayalam