The Marine Corps University's history dates back to 1891 when 29 company officers attended the School of Application. This facility became the Officers Training School in 1909, and later relocated to Marine Corps Base Quantico. In 1919, Major General John A. Lejeune ordered the creation of the Marine Corps Officers Training School. Brigadier General Smedley D. Butler established the Field Officers Course, in October 1920 and the Company Grade Officers Course in July 1921.

Marine Corps University's mission is to "Develop, deliver, and evaluate professional military education and training through resident and distant education programs in order to prepare leaders to meet the challenges of operational environments."