The Quezon City Polytechnic was created on March 1, 1994 by virtue of the City Council Ordinance No. SP-171 is an institution to primarily undertake the training and development of qualified technicians and skilled workers.

The Three Year Technician Curriculum was introduced in the SY 1994-1995 designed to develop highly competent technicians for industry in the areas of Automotive Technology, Electrical Technology, Welding Technology, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology, and Fashion Technology. Added to the Three-Year Curriculum in the school year that followed were Electronics Technology, Mechanical Technology or Machine Shop, Computer Technology and an industry-led pilot course in Boiler Technology.

The QCPU established its reputation among local government units as a show window and model technology-based institution paving the way for its recognition of the Technological Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and developing a strong alliance with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The Polytechnic was enhanced into a University through Council Ordinance No. 544, S-97 on August 20, 1997.

The Quezon City Polytechnic University, now under the leadership of Mayor Herbert Bautista, more meaningful access to higher education is now possible with a ladderized concept of pursuing higher education. The idea is every person should have the opportunity for education and training commensurate to his abilities. Now, QCPU offers numerous Programs, Technical-Vocational Courses, as well as Special Short-term courses.