SRM University distinguishes itself as a centre that offers an enriching environment of learning for over 40,000 students. It became a deemed university in 2002. The institution’s growth has been envisioned by the Founder-Chancellore Dr T R Paarivendhar.

Its strong foundation has given it an edge for over three decades to impart quality education. SRM University runs four campuses in Tamil Nadu and one in the national capital region (NCR) of New Delhi with a faculty strength of 3,000. The institution also comprises educators from foreign countries. 

Students from over 50 nations, including those from across India and NRIs from different parts of the globe, come here for its infrastructure and exceptional mentoring by an expert faculty. With the prime focus on Engineering and Technology, SRM University offers several subjects, including Medicine, Dental and Health Sciences, Management, Pure Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities and Law. 

The evolution of SRM as a premier brand in the educational arena stems from an approach that extends beyond books, examinations and degrees. A future-oriented vision underlies the success of the SRM brand. The management’s strong belief is that students should be trained to be adept at applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations and the demands of the world. Apart from customising the curriculum to match industry requirements, the college provides hands-on experience. 

Professor Prabir Bagchi, the new Vice Chancellor of SRM University, unveils his mantra to run this mega educational enterprise, “I stress on the three ‘R’s which is Rigour, Relevance and Research, which are critical to develop successful students.” He thinks that academics should match market requirements and research is imperative to offer solutions to mankind’s quest for conquering the unknown. The three R’s have been the principal focus ever since Dr Bagchi took over the mantle of heading the university in May 2015. 

After a long stint of four decades in academia and industry, Dr Bagchi relocated from Washington DC where he was last working in George Washington University’s School of Management. Prof Bagchi also speaks about the importance of academic rigour and the emphasis on research. “Definitely, there must be academic rigour,” he says, “This is what SRM University is all about; but it does not stop here. Academic rigour must go hand-in-hand with relevance. Academics must be relevant to what the market is asking; otherwise it will be a futile enterprise. 

Also imperative is the emphasis on research where the faculty and students are always seeking answers to problems that have not yet been solved or to look for deeper meaning in the issues that will impact the world.” 

Over the course of college’s existence, it has been a stepping stone for many illustrious alumni who have made a mark in their respective fields. Murali Vijay was still studying in SRM when he made his test debut against Australia. He graduated with an MBA degree. He has played for the Indian cricket team and has also been a part of the Chennai Super Kings franchise.  Abhay Jodhpurkar is currently making waves as a playback singer. He graduated from SRM with a degree in Biotechnology. He got his big break when he sang Moongil Thottam for the film Kadal, directed by Mani Ratnam.