Introduction: The Karnataka State Open University was established on 1st June 1996 vide Govt. Notification No. ED IUOV 95 dated 12th February 1996 KSOU Act 1992, keeping in view the educational needs of our country in general and the Karnataka State, in particular. It is the Eighth Open University in the country. This University is an erstwhile Institute of Correspondence Courses of Mysore University and enjoys a unique privilege of a long and rich experience in the filled of Distance Education. It is also a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) as well as Commonwealth Universities Association. It is also a recognized Member-University of Distance Education Council (DEC), Ministry of HRD, Government of India.

Special Features: The open learning system is a unique and challenging mode of education offered at the University level. This system provides ample opportunities for those who desire to have University Education at their place of work or residence. This method is popularly known as Distance Education. It is perhaps the only way to meet the ever-increasing demand for Higher Education especially in a developing country like India. Distance education programmes are specially designed for:

1. Candidates who discontinue their formal education owing to pecuniary or other circumstances.
2. Candidates residing in geographically remote areas.
3. Candidates who cannot get admission to a regular college/post-graduate Department.
4. Employed persons who cannot pursue their study as full-time Candidates.
5. Individuals who wish to pursue learning for knowledge sake.
6. Candidates who wish to update knowledge and skills

Objectives of Karnataka State Open University:

1. Democratizing higher education by taking it to the doorsteps of the learners.
2. Providing access to high-quality education to all those who seek, irrespective of age, region or formal qualifications.
3. Offering need-based academic programmes by giving professional and vocational orientation to the courses.
4. Promoting and developing distance education in India.
5. Relaxed entry regulations.
6. Providing opportunity to study at one's own pace and convenience.
7. Flexibility in choosing the combination of courses from a wide range of disciplines.
8. To help candidates to select the study centers, preferably of their own choice

Collaborative Arrangement
The KSOU has launched various programs in collaboration with Osteen Academy, Administrative and Registered office at Bangalore since 2008. Is responsible for total program delivery as per the norms of KSOU