Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) is a public open university located in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, established on 26 August 1982 by the Andhra Pradesh State Legislature Act. Originally known as Andhra Pradesh Open University, it was renamed in 1991 in honour of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, to reflect its mission of inclusive and accessible education for all.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) is a well-known public open university located in Hyderabad, Telangana, established in 1982 to provide affordable and flexible higher education to students across India. Recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and approved by the UGC–Distance Education Bureau (DEB), the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and doctoral programs through open and distance learning (ODL) mode. BRAOU is especially suitable for working professionals, students with study gaps, homemakers, and learners who are unable to attend regular college. With flexible study options, self-learning materials, online academic support, and a strong network of study centres, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University helps students earn recognised degrees while balancing education with work and personal responsibilities.
BRAOU offers a wide range of programs through its open and distance learning (ODL) system, making education flexible and accessible. Students can pursue:
✔ Undergraduate degrees such as BA, B.Com, B.Sc, BLISc, B.Ed (Special Education)
✔ Postgraduate degrees including MA, M.Sc, M.Com, MBA and M.L.I.Sc
✔ Doctoral (Ph.D.) & M.Phil programs in multiple subjects
✔ Diploma & Certificate courses in areas such as Human Rights, Marketing, Environmental Studies, and more .
The university’s programs are designed to suit learners who need flexible schedules, including working professionals and students from remote locations.
BRAOU’s primary strength lies in its distance education model, which allows learners to study at their own pace without regular campus attendance. It uses a combination of printed study material, online resources, multimedia content, regional centres, and study support to facilitate learning. The university operates study centers across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, helping students with counselling, exams, and academic support.
BRAOU is recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and its distance programs are approved by the UGC-Distance Education Bureau (DEB), ensuring that degrees offered are valid and accepted nationally. The university is also accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with a quality grade, reflecting its commitment to academic standards.
With the motto of “Education for All,” Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University was founded to democratise higher education and break barriers related to geography, finances, and social status. It provides opportunities for students who cannot pursue regular university education due to work, family commitments, or other constraints.
Located in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, BRAOU combines an urban administrative campus with an extensive network of study and support centers across the region. These centers play a key role in delivering study materials, facilitating exams, and offering student support services.
• Flexible distance and open learning programs ideal for working students
• Wide variety of UG, PG, diploma and doctoral programs
• UGC-recognised and DEB-approved degrees
• Support system with regional study centers
• Affordable and accessible education for learners from diverse backgrounds
Want to study without attending regular campus classes
Need flexible study schedules for work or personal reasons
Want recognised degrees for career progression
Prefer distance education through online and self-study modes
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (formerly Andhra Pradesh Open University) is a state open university located in Hyderabad, Telangana, established in 1982. It provides distance education programs to promote accessible, flexible, and quality higher education for learners across India.
BRAOU offers programs through distance and online learning:
Undergraduate Programs (UG): B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, B.Ed., B.C.A., etc.
Postgraduate Programs (PG): M.A., M.Sc., M.Com, M.Ed., MBA, M.C.A., etc.
Certificate and Diploma Programs in professional and vocational areas
Research Programs: M.Phil. and Ph.D. in selected disciplines
Yes. BRAOU provides:
Merit-based scholarships for outstanding learners
Need-based financial aid for economically disadvantaged students
Government and state-sponsored scholarships for reserved categories