Established in 1917, Patna University is the seventh-oldest university in India, carrying a legacy of over a century of academic excellence and cultural enrichment. As a prestigious institution, it has consistently attracted students from diverse backgrounds, becoming a hub of learning and intellectual growth for the region. The university has cultivated a rich academic tradition and remains a beacon of education, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment that values innovation and heritage alike. The university is NAAC-accredited with a B+ grade and is ranked among the top 51-100 state universities in the NIRF 2024 rankings, making it the only institution in Bihar to achieve such recognition.

Academically, Patna University offers an impressive range of programs through its 31 departments, 3 institutes, and 10 constituent colleges. It provides unique degree programs in disciplines like Ancient Indian History & Archaeology and Geology, alongside languages such as Maithili, Bengali, Arabic, and Persian. Several of its postgraduate departments have celebrated over 75 years of their establishment, further cementing the university’s reputation as a center of advanced learning. The adoption of the Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, along with the introduction of a four-year degree program, reflects its focus on modern education that integrates a multidisciplinary approach, skill development, and internship opportunities. The fully automated library of Patna University stands as a testament to its commitment to learning and research. With a collection exceeding 236,000 books, including 100,000 unique titles and 5,436 rare manuscripts, the library serves as an invaluable resource for scholars. With over 300 daily visitors, it continues to play a vital role in supporting academic excellence.

Research is a cornerstone of Patna University's mission. The establishment of a Research and Development Cell in 2022 marked a significant step in fostering innovation, providing minor research grants of up to ₹5,00,000 from its internal resources. More than 35 projects have been approved, and over 70 are under consideration. Its Central Research Facility, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and instruments, supports the needs of contemporary research, enabling faculty and students to engage in cutting-edge work. The university has developed collaborations with national and international institutions, including Sam Houston State University (USA), the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (New Delhi), Tata Institute of Social Sciences (Mumbai), and the Indo-European Education Foundation (Poland), Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agriculture University, Pusa. These partnerships enhance its academic and research capabilities, allowing it to address global challenges and foster innovation.

Patna University is deeply committed to social outreach and community engagement. Its NSS and NCC units, reflecting the university’s dedication to societal well-being, organize regular activities such as cleanliness drives, plantation programs, and anti-tobacco campaigns. The Institute of Psychological Research and Services provides psychological counseling to students and the broader community, while yoga sessions and blood donation drives, in collaboration with the university dispensary, further emphasize its holistic approach to health and wellness. Notably, women comprise over 70% of the total enrollment, underscoring the university's commitment to inclusivity and gender empowerment. The university also stands out for its efforts to promote Indian Knowledge Systems, with a faculty member trained as a UGC IKS Master Trainer to advance this initiative. Additionally, Patna University has been selected for a transformative ₹100 crore grant under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) to develop into a multidisciplinary education and research university (MERU). This funding will bolster its infrastructure, academic offerings, and research capabilities, enabling it to achieve greater heights.

With its deep-rooted traditions and forward-looking vision, Patna University remains a leader in higher education, blending academic excellence with societal contributions to shape future generations of scholars and professionals. Its unwavering commitment to innovation, research, and holistic education ensures its continued relevance and prominence in India’s educational landscape.