Delhi, the capital city of India, is not only the hub of politics and culture but also one of the country’s most sought-after education destinations. It houses some of the oldest and most prestigious colleges that have shaped the academic and intellectual fabric of India for more than a century. Affiliated mainly with the University of Delhi (DU) and other reputed institutions, these colleges are known for their rich history, academic excellence, and illustrious alumni.
If you are aspiring to study in Delhi, here’s a detailed look at the oldest colleges in Delhi, their history, courses offered, and why they continue to stand out even today.
1. Hindu College (Founded in 1899)
History:
Hindu College is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in Delhi. Established in 1899 in Chandni Chowk, it later shifted to the University Enclave in 1953. The college has played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle, with many students and faculty members participating in the movement.
Courses Offered:
Undergraduate: B.A. (Hons) in English, Political Science, History, Economics, Sociology, Philosophy, etc.
B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology, Statistics.
B.Com (Hons).
Postgraduate programs in select subjects.
Highlights:
Hindu College is known for its vibrant cultural societies, model parliament, and strong academic record. It ranks among India’s top colleges in Arts and Science streams.
2. St. Stephen’s College (Founded in 1881)
History:
Founded in 1881 by the Cambridge Mission to Delhi, St. Stephen’s College is among the most prestigious and oldest institutions in India. Initially established in Kashmere Gate, it later moved to its current location in North Campus.
Courses Offered:
B.A. (Hons) in English, Economics, History, Philosophy, and Sanskrit.
B.Sc. (Hons) in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
B.A. (Programme).
Master’s programs in select disciplines.
Highlights:
St. Stephen’s is famous for its elite academic culture, legacy of distinguished alumni, and a campus that beautifully combines heritage with modern infrastructure.
3. Zakir Husain Delhi College (Founded in 1792 as Madrasa Ghaziuddin Khan)
History:
Zakir Husain Delhi College traces its roots back to 1792 when it was founded as the Madrasa Ghaziuddin Khan by Ghaziuddin Khan Feroz Jang. Later, it became the Anglo Arabic College before being renamed after Dr. Zakir Husain, the former President of India. This makes it the oldest existing college in Delhi.
Courses Offered:
Undergraduate programs in Arts, Science, and Commerce streams.
Courses in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu.
Professional add-on courses.
Highlights:
Known for its multilingual academic environment and historic significance, this college stands as a blend of tradition and modernity.
4. Miranda House (Founded in 1948)
History:
Founded in 1948, Miranda House is one of the most reputed women’s colleges in India. Established soon after independence, it was set up by Sir Maurice Gwyer, the then Vice-Chancellor of Delhi University.
Courses Offered:
B.A. (Hons) in Geography, Political Science, Economics, English, etc.
B.Sc. (Hons) in Botany, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics.
B.Ed. program.
Postgraduate courses in Science and Arts streams.
Highlights:
Miranda House has consistently ranked among the best women’s colleges in India, recognized for its academic excellence and active role in women’s empowerment.
5. Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) (Founded in 1926)
History:
SRCC was established in 1926 by the Commercial Education Trust to promote commerce and economics education in India. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most premier institutions for commerce and economics in the country.
Courses Offered:
B.Com (Hons).
B.A. (Hons) Economics.
Postgraduate programs like M.Com and M.A. in Economics.
Postgraduate Diploma in Global Business Operations (GBO).
Highlights:
SRCC is the dream destination for commerce aspirants, known for its rigorous academic curriculum, placement opportunities, and alumni in business and politics.
6. Indraprastha College for Women (Founded in 1924)
History:
Indraprastha College for Women, popularly known as IP College, was established in 1924 and is the oldest women’s college in Delhi. Initially, it started as part of the Indraprastha Girls School and later became a full-fledged college affiliated with Delhi University.
Courses Offered:
B.A. (Hons) in Journalism, Political Science, English, Philosophy, and others.
B.Sc. (Hons) in Computer Science, Mathematics.
Master’s programs in Humanities.
Highlights:
Known for empowering women through education, IP College boasts of a strong alumni network of women leaders across diverse fields.
7. Ramjas College (Founded in 1917)
History:
Ramjas College was founded in 1917 by educationist Rai Kedar Nath and later became a part of Delhi University in 1922. It was among the first three colleges to be affiliated with DU.
Courses Offered:
B.A. (Hons) in Political Science, History, Economics, and English.
B.Com and B.Com (Hons).
B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Life Sciences.
Postgraduate courses in Humanities and Sciences.
Highlights:
Ramjas is known for its diverse student body, academic rigor, and active societies, offering holistic growth opportunities.
Why Choose the Oldest Colleges in Delhi?
Historical Legacy: Many of these colleges have existed for over a century, contributing significantly to India’s academic and political history.
Academic Excellence: They consistently rank among the top colleges in India, offering high-quality education.
