It is one of the leading educational institutions in the country in the field of criminology, having produced a number of topnotch graduates since its inception in 1947.

PHINMA COC attracts students from Northern Mindanao, especially the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, and Bukidnon.

The aim, as defined in its Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, was to give elementary, secondary, collegiate, and vocational education, with a non-political and non-sectarian characteristic.

The institution formally opened in June 1948 and admitted not only children and youth to earn degrees but also men and women already employed who needed further education growth, knowledge and skills to help them advance professionally.

Seven years later, all academic activities were transferred to Asok Building at the corner of Tiano Brothers and Gomez Streets, Cagayan de Oro.

A two-storey building was constructed to house the classrooms, the administrative offices and laboratory rooms; it was occupied later that year.

In 1981–1982, the college was authorized to offer Master of Arts in Teaching Social Studies and Bachelor of Science in Secretarial Administration.

At present, PHINMA COC is the only educational institution in the country to have been granted the authority to operate a commercial television and radio stations by virtue of RA 8740.