It was Vallathol’s dream that Kalamandalam should attain the status of a university. That dream was further cherished with his close association with the world famous poet, Rabindranath Tagore. But due to one reason or the other that dream did not fructify. The debate during the period hovered around whether Kalamanadalam should be a traditional university or be converted to a cultural university. Long and protracted discussions led to the idea of a ‘Deemed University’. A draft report in this regard was prepared in 2006. In 2007, the government declared Kalamandalam as a deemed university.
A deemed university, Kalamandalam, today, offers post-graduate courses besides M.Phil leading to research. Initially post-graduate courses were offered in subjects like Kutiyattam, Kathakali and Mohiniyattom.
Till 1992, Kalamandalam offered diploma and post-diploma courses on different art subjects. The Government of Kerala through an order announced the setting up of a high school within the premises of Kalamandalam in 1990. Following which, high school, plus two, degree courses began. With Kalamandalam becoming a deemed university, post-graduate courses began to be offered. The course curriculum is prepared by academic council comprising experts in different fields in consultation with the Board of Studies. Scholars and famous artists work as guest faculty at Kalamandalam. Refresher courses are offered to the teachers of Kalamandalam.