Founded in 1999, North Orissa University is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Baripada (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Odisha. Officially recognized by the University Grants Commission of India, North Orissa University (NOU) is a coeducational Indian higher education institution. North Orissa University (NOU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in several areas of study. NOU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.