Ranchi University came into existence on the 12th of July, 1960 as a teaching-cum-affiliating university with headquarters at Ranchi. At present, the University spans five districts of Jharkhand, namely, Ranchi, Gumla, Khunti, Simdega and Lohardaga. Right since its inception Ranchi University has been alive to the ever increasing demands of higher education. Keeping apace with changing times, the University today offers vocational courses.For the less privileged students coming from the scheduled tribes or scheduled castes, special coaching classes are engaged to prepare them for competitive examinations.
The syllabi for main stream courses in science, humanities and commercetoo have been upgraded to meet the requirements of University GrantsCommission(UGC).
In sports and cultural activities too the Universityhas carved a niche for itself. It has made its presence felt at the allIndia level in cricket, hockey, football, and athletics. Regularcultural activities at the college and the university level are anintegral part of the University's academics calendar.
Following creation of Jharkhand on November 15, 2000, the stategovernment has decided to build a new capital, which will be as GreaterRanchi. Ranchi University too will find a place of pride in the newcapital area. Deputy Prime Minister L. K. Advani laid the foundationstone of the new university campus on November 15, 2002 when the statecelebrated its second foundation day. The new campus, spread over 729acres,will have modern study centers, CD library racks, modernlaboratories, playing grounds with the latest equipments, culturalcenters, etc.
The University then covered wholeof Jharkhand, except Santhal Parganas. In 1992, RanchiUniversity was bifurcated to create Vinoba BhaveUniversity, reducing itsarea by nearly half. In 2009 Ranchi University was divided twice – in January to create Nilambar PitambarUniversity, atMedininagar, and in August 2009 to create Kolhan University,at Chaibasa. At present, the University spans five districts of Jharkhand,namely, Ranchi,Gumla, Khunti, Simdega and Lohardaga.