Mater Christi Diocesan High School was founded in 1961 through the efforts of Bryan J. McEntegart, then the Bishop of Brooklyn.

It had separate boys' and girls' divisions which were staffed by De La Salle Brothers and Sisters of Mercy respectively.

The school motto was "Ut vitam habeant et abundantius " from the Gospel of John 10:10, "That They May Have Life More Abundantly."

The Sisters of St. Joseph also helped start the Holy Family Catholic Academy in Fresh Meadows, New York.

All students graduate with a New York Regents diploma and in 2023, 90% of the senior class won an academic scholarship to college.

Thus, Prep students can complete high school and attain a baccalaureate degree from the university in seven years rather than the typical eight.

Students are eligible to apply for this program if they successfully complete the prescribed academic course of study.