Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai was  established under Tmt. Kannammal Educational Trust. Dr. M.G.R. Engineering College and Thai Moogambigai Dental College were established in 1987 and 1991 respectively. Both the colleges acquired Deemed University status in 2003 as Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute as per the orders of the University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi and the Union Ministry of Human Resources and Development, Government of India, New Delhi.

The vision of the University is to provide a better foothold for the students of today to face the challenges. Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute has preserved to support and groom young men and women through Engineering, Medical, Humanities and Sciences and Dental.