The university was founded by Andrés de Santa Cruz by Supreme Decree on 25 October 1830.

[3] Owing to its being situated in the nation's seat of government, La Paz, the Higher University of San Andrés has since its founding influenced the social life and history of Bolivia.

[3] The building that now hosts the university's main offices, known as Monoblock, is located on Avenue Villazón.

It contains the most complete library in the country, an auditorium that is open to the public for various events, and a semi-subterranean garden with access to the central atrium.

Due to the high demand for rooms, various pavilions and two buildings were built in the surrounding areas.