The Catholic University of Madagascar's roots date back to 1916, with the establishment of the Major Seminary of Antananarivo by French missionary priests.

[1] During the political and economic crisis of 1991, the Episcopal Conference of Madagascar called for the ISTA to reorganize and incorporate courses in economics, social science, and political science in addition to theology and philosophy.

[1][2] These changes were fully incorporated in 1994, through cooperation with consultants, business executives, economists, and political figures.

[1][2] In October 1998, a Faculty of Social Sciences was established alongside the philosophy and theology departments.

[1][2][3] The next year, the Department of Psychology was established, and partnered with the Catholic University of Toulouse.

[6] The Archbishop of Antananarivo, Odon Razanakolona, holds the title of Grand Chancellor.

[2][3] In addition, it provides training for those working in ecclesiastical capacities and also has courses available for those not seeking a degree.

[3] The program lasts three years, and each student is guided by a professor chosen from any of the six academic departments.

[3] The Catholic University of Madagascar contains a library of more than 100,000 books and subscriptions to 23 newspapers and journals.

[3] The Catholic University of Madagascar contained a dedicated research center, and publishes two academic journals, the quarterly Aspects du Christianisme à Madagascar (ACM) and the annual Collection ISTA.

[3] Regular conferences are hosted on a variety of topics, and an interdisciplinary symposium is held every two years.

[3] The university maintains a scientific partnership with the Research Institute for Development in Marseille, France.

[3] The Catholic University of Madagascar supports football (soccer), volleyball, and basketball clubs.