The Department of Fisheries was started in Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) during 1973. The Fisheries College, Thoothukudi was established in 1977 and the first batch of students for B.F.Sc., Programme were admitted. The Fisheries College was upgraded as Fisheries College and Research Institute (FCRI) during the year 1989. The Fisheries College and Research Institute (FCRI), Thoothukudi became a constituent Institute of Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) with effect from 20.09.1989. Tamil Nadu Fisheries University (TNJFU) was established on June 19, 2012 with head quarters at Nagapattinam. In due course of time, the TNJFU have gained widespread recognition as University of excellence.