Don Bosco College, Aluva, which initially began in 1981 as a Centre of Pre-novitiate Formation is currently functioning as the Studentate of Philosophy of the Salesian Province of Bangalore (From May 24, 1995). The institute offers a regular two-year course in philosophy. Salesian students belonging to other provinces are offered residence. The college is also open to students from other Religious Orders and Congregations.

The philosophical formation, through its interdisciplinary and integrated curriculum of studies at Don Bosco College, offers a congenial atmosphere for the study of Religion, Philosophy, and Humanities fostering integral intellectual formation with spiritual growth and pastoral effectiveness. The students are offered opportunities to develop their talents and potentialities.

The institute also extends to the resident students abundant opportunities for pastoral work and experience like teaching Catechism in Parishes, doing social work in villages, and initiating welfare programs for the less privileged in society.