Manila Central University dates back to 1903 and the formation of the Escuela de Farmacia del Liceo de Manila. It has been awarding degrees since 1917 and steadily expanded its provision and was awarded university status in 1948.
It also has a high school.
It has colleges of arts and science, dentistry, medical technology, medicine, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, physical therapy, education, and business and management.
It is noted for its range of student festivities and in 2023 began a long-term programme of campus renovation.