Established in 1984 by an act of parliament, it is coeducational and provides certificate, diploma, and undergraduate degree programs, as well as technical and vocational training.

It offers a wide range of programmes including Arts, Business and Entrepreneurship, Education, Science, Nursing, Engineering and Maritime Training.

[7] Council members hold office for between one and three years, and may be reappointed for a maximum of three terms.

[10] In 2019 the vice-chancellor, Professor Fui Asofou So'o, was suspended by Cabinet pending an internal investigation.

[13][14] The following people have held the role of vice-chancellor:[15] NUS's academic offerings include programs from eight faculties and schools:[16] The university's gymnasium was used as a venue for the 2007 South Pacific Games and the accommodation areas were made available to the New Caledonia team.