Nalanda Open University (NOU) is a university at Patna in Bihar state in India. The university was established in March, 1987. It is named after the famous Buddhist University of Nalanda, the ancient seat of learning. In 1995 the Nalanda Open University Act was passed, and the University came under the jurisdiction of that law. It is the only University in Bihar providing education through Distance and Open education. With a vision of providing education to those who have been deprived of formal education, it follows the norms of flexibility with respect to eligibility, admission and course structure. Nalanda Open University has 28 Study Centers all over Bihar. They are situated in the more important cities like Jamshedpur and Ranchi and also in small towns like Katihar and Bettiah, thus catering to the educational needs of every section of the society. Degree courses at undergraduate level and degree as well as diploma courses at post graduate level are offered. Certificate courses for 6 or 9 months are also provided in this university. Nalanda Open University is the only university where various courses on Bihari Languages (Magahi, Bhojpuri, Maithili) are offered.