University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) has received a letter of intent from India’s University Grants Commission (UGC) to set up a campus in Hyderabad, making it the first public American university authorized to do so in India.

The Hyderabad location will offer pathways in high-demand fields such as business, computing, engineering, and analytics, while encouraging interdisciplinary thinking and problem-solving.

“Expanding access to high-quality education has long been central to CU Denver’s vision and goals,” said Kenneth T. Christensen, PhD, chancellor at CU Denver. “Our plans in Hyderabad build on that commitment, as well as our longstanding connection with students from India who have been part of the CU Denver community for decades. “

Global education company Emeritus is the university’s strategic joint venture partner in India, working alongside the university to enable its successful establishment and growth through expertise across key non-academic functions.

“University of Colorado Denver | Hyderabad marks an important step in bringing globally relevant education closer to students in India,” said Ashwin Damera, co-founder & CEO, Emeritus. “CU Denver’s focus on applied learning, interdisciplinary education, and career readiness is particularly relevant to the aspirations of today’s students and the needs of a rapidly evolving workforce. The initiative will create opportunities for students and provide greater access to an education that is both academically rigorous and closely connected to the world of work.”

The Hyderabad campus plans on welcoming the first cohort of students in August 2027. Additional programs will be proposed to the UGC for approval in year two and beyond.