Founded in 1949, the university was the first upper-education institution to concentrate solely on teacher training.

The university had its beginnings when the Higher Teacher Training School at Prasarnmit was founded in 1949.

The following were eventually created: Additional central campuses were also established: In 1974, the College of Education became a comprehensive university by a royal decree of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who granted the university the name of Srinakharinwirot (See-na-ka-reen-wee-rot), which means 'the glory of the city'.

SWU Prasanmit has developed to be a metropolitan university focusing on graduate studies.

SWU Ongkaruk has focused on the development of health science, technology, environment and community services.