Department of Telugu in Osmania University was established in 1919. Sri Rayaprolu Subba Rao, a famous poet of Modern Telugu Literature was the first Head of the Department. Initially Telugu was introduced as a second language at Intermediate and optional language at Under Graduate level. Later, a full time Masters Course in Telugu was started from the academic year 1939-40. At present M.A. Telugu course is offered in the University College of Arts & Social Sciences, University College for Women and Nizam College. The department has P.G. Centers at various affiliated colleges viz. A.V. College, Sri Ramachandra College in Hyderabad.

Department of Telugu has a legacy of producing eminent scholars and writers who contributed enormously to the field of education and literature and further striving for bright future while up keeping its past glory of 100 years.