Undergraduate, graduate, diploma, and doctoral programs in a variety of fields are available at the University of Madras. Through its affiliated colleges, it offers undergraduate courses in subjects like computer applications, science, commerce, and the arts. B.A., B.Sc., B.Com., BCA, and BBA are popular undergraduate programs. Building foundational knowledge and preparing students for both professional careers and further education are the goals of these courses. In order to accommodate students who need flexible learning schedules, the university also provides distance education options through the Institute of Distance Education (IDE).
The University of Madras is well-known for its postgraduate M.A., M.Sc., M.Com., MBA, MCA, M.Ed., and MSW programs in addition to a number of specialized professional courses like M.L. in Law and M.Tech in Geoinformatics. With M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs available in more than 75 departments, the university is also a center for research, promoting advanced research and innovation in the social sciences, humanities, sciences, and interdisciplinary fields. Numerous programs are backed by active research centers and partnerships with international organizations, providing students with access to cutting-edge labs, scholarly materials, and practical experience.
For deserving and financially disadvantaged students, UM provides a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. These consist of university merit scholarships, government-funded scholarships (such as SC/ST/OBC scholarships), and project-based funding and UGC fellowships for research scholars.
Many campuses, including Taramani, Guindy, and Marina, have hostels that can house a sizable student body. Essential facilities like a water supply, electricity, and recreational spaces are provided in the hostels. The mess facilities provide students with wholesome meals, and commuting is made easy by the close proximity to local transportation. Nearby PGs and rental options are available for those who prefer off-campus housing; monthly rates typically range from ₹7,000 to ₹15,000, depending on the location and amenities provided. ​