Young men were schooled in Bible reading, hymn singing, and prayers, in Latin.

In 1772, the school moved from its original site near Viborg Cathedral to St. Mogens Gade 1, while the earlier structure was rebuilt to hold a larger number of students and schoolmasters.

The 19th century saw a series of school reforms: a library was established, and subjects were taught in Danish.

In 1903, a national law was introduced in Denmark which allowed girls to be admitted to the gymnasiums, and in 1904 the Katedralskole became coeducational.

At the beginning of 2007, a large new room was added within the roof, providing more space for group work.