The college was founded in 1913 as the Collège du Sacré-Cœur by French Jesuits and for many years was the first and only college in northern Ontario. In 1957, with recognition of university status, it became the University of Sudbury / Université de Sudbury. The college is dedicated to promoting the traditions and culture of the indigenous people . It offers degree programs and courses in philosophy, theology, indigenous studies, religious studies, folklore and journalism, many of which are also distance learning.
The University of Sudbury joined the Laurentian Federation in 1960 as a founding member. She works closely with the Research University Laurentian University , also in Sudbury resident.
