University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES) was established in the year 2003 through UPES Act, 2003 of the State Legislature of Uttarakhand. With an ambitious vision and unique approach, UPES emerged as an innovative institution offering industry-focused specialized graduate, post graduate and doctoral programs in key areas such as Energy, Infrastructure, Transportation, Information Technology, Design, Planning & Architecture, Public Policy and Legal studies.

Founded by prominent educationalists and industry experts, UPES is committed to maintain high standards in providing quality education. The university endeavours to be recognized as a 'Nation Builders University' with a progressive vision of creating specialized professionals in the core sectors that can contribute in the economic growth of the country.

The university’s objective is to develop competent technocrats, professionals and managers who are ready to join the core industries. Advanced teaching methodologies, innovative and updated curricula and the focus on 'on-the-job exposure' give UPES students the edge to be readily deployable in the chosen field.

UPES has made a steady growth in the past decade and has become the “Institution of Choice” for students and corporates in Energy and allied core sectors. The progressive learning aspect is further enriched with inclusion of new programs in the EIT sectors such as Robotics, Nanotechnology and Nuclear Energy. Research & Development activities are carried out rigorously at the constituent colleges, to generate new knowledge.