Dhurakij Pundit University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธุรกิจบัณฑิตย์) is a university located in Bangkok, Thailand. Founded as Dhurakij Pundit College in 1968, and upgraded to a university status in 1984, it is one of the larger Thai private universities. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs are offered though the university's nine faculties, the graduate school, and the international college. Dhurakij Pundit University (DPU), meaning the University of Business Knowledge, is one of the most respected private universities in Thailand and is recognized by the international academic community. It was begun in 1968 by Dr. Sawai Sudhitipak and Mr. Sana Ketudat as Dhurakij Bandit College with only 40 students. Dhurakij Pundit College rapidly grew in student numbers and academic programs. Its success mainly to the vision and dedication of Dr. Sawai, who served as the university's president until his death in 1994, and Khun Sanan, who guided its expansion as honorary chairman of the University Council while pursuing a distinguished career in government.