The Karnatak University (Kannada: ಕರ್ನಾಟಕ್ ವಿಶ್ವವಿದ್ಯಾನಿಲಯ) established initially at Mumbai in 1949, the location was shifted to Dharwad in October, 1949 and Karnatak University had its official inauguration in March 1950. The campus spans 750 acres (3 km²). Dr. D. C. Pavate was the vice-chancellor of the university from 1954 to 1967. The rapid development of the institution is credited to him.
The university was also recognized with the "Potential for Excellence" by UGC (University Grants Commission of India). The university is the second oldest, after University of Mysore, in the state of Karnataka.

There are 43 PG Departments, 222 teachers and 5000 students (PG, M. Phil., Ph.D.). The girl students constitute more than 50% of the total strength, including PG Diploma, M. Phil. and Ph.D. courses. 6% of the students are from outside the state. To eliminate social exclusion and to promote social justice, seats are reserved for SC/ST, Cat-I, Minorities, OBC and BC categories in accordance with the policy of the State Government. One seat each is reserved for the children of ex-servicemen, freedom fighters, physically challenged and sportsperson. The University has its own Primary & High School (The University Public School) since 1964, which meets the practice requirements of the B. Ed. College of Karnatak University.

There are 5 constituent colleges, offering UG courses in science, arts, commerce, fine arts, law and education. Karnatak Arts and Karnatak Science Colleges also offer P.G. Courses. There are 23 hostels in all, including a working women's hostel and ladies' hostels. These provide residential accommodation to 2600 students of UG and PG courses. Over the last 59 years the number of affiliated colleges has increased from a mere 34 to more than 528. The University provides wide options and choices – 43 PG courses, 4 advanced diplomas and 28 diplomas, 11 certificate courses, 26 M.Phil. and 42 Ph.D. programmes. There are several self-financing courses, including an integrated course in Master of Tourism Administration, E-Commerce, M.Com. (Corporate Secretaryship), M. Sc. (Applied Genetics), M.Sc. (Biotechnology), M.Sc. (Computer Science), M.Sc. (Microbiology), MBA (CBCS), MBA (evening programme), MBA (International Business), MCA, MIM, P.G. Diploma in Bank Management and P.G. Diploma in Risk Management.

Official Website : http://www.kud.ac.in