Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) was established on 1^st June 1996 with the assent of H.E. Governor of Karnataka as a full fledged University in the academic year 1996 vide government of Karnataka notification no. ED 1 UOV 95 dated 12^th February 1996 (KSOU Act 1992). The act was promulgated with the object to incorporate an Open University at the state level for the introduction and promotion of Open university and Distance Education systems in the education pattern of the state  and for the co-ordination and determination of standard such systems.

With the virtue of KSOU Act of 1992, Karnataka State Open University is empowered to establish, maintain or recognize colleges, Regional centers and study centers at such places in Karnataka and may also open outside Karnataka at such places as it deems fit.

Keeping in view the educational needs of our country, in general and state in particular the policies and programs have been geared to cater to the needy.

Karnataka State Open University is situated at the North-Western end of the Manasagangotri campus, Mysore. The campus, which is about 5 kms from the city centre, has a serene atmosphere ideally suited for academic pursuits. The university houses at present the Administrative Office, academic Block, Lecture Hall, a well-equipped Library, Guest House Cottages, a moderate Canteen , Girls Hostel and a few cottages providing limited accommodation to students coming to Mysore for attending the Contact programmes or term-end examinations.