It was established in 1992 under the Private University Act, 1992 by the then Foundation for Promotion of Education and Research (FPER), a charitable, non-profit, non-commercial and non-political organization.

The foundation of the campus was laid on 30 January 2003 by Begum Khaleda Zia, then prime minister of Bangladesh.

[8] The NSU library has over 70,000 square feet (6,500 m2) floor area on the southeastern side of the campus.

The School of Engineering & Physical Sciences (SEPS) intends to be a center of excellence in innovation and technological entrepreneurship by building a knowledge and skill-based learning environment for students in the field of engineering, architecture and physical sciences with adequate technical competency, social responsibility, communication skill and ethical standard.

[22] The NSU Global Health Institute (NGHI) at NSU was established NGHI for the discovery and competency development of human welfare aiming to build strengthen the emerging field of global health response and leadership.

[25] The North South University-Student Counseling Center (NSU-SCC) is a support system for the students of the university and addresses their emotional well-being.

It serves as a primary mental health care unit, and as such it offers taking therapy and advice for further referrals.

The center has expert technicians, servicemen, and staff under the direct supervision of faculty members to carry out the tests and analyses.

CIRS undertakes research, testing, and consultation work in the field of engineering, construction management, and environmental issues as required by private, government, or autonomous bodies.