The enabling legislation is the General and Vocational Colleges Act [1] The Cégep de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu traces its origins to the merger of several institutions which became public ones in 1967, when the Quebec system of CEGEPs was created.

CEGEP de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu then prepared students for university or to enter a technical profession.

A Memorandum of Understanding between the city and the Cégep de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu covers maintenance of outdoor sports fields (football, soccer, tennis, softball).

The Cégep contracted management of its performance hall, Théâtre des Deux Rives, to a local non-profit organization.

To support the growth of the Cégep de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, the Development fund organizes various fundraising activities, for example an annual golf tournament.