The University of Rizal System is a merger of two (2) state colleges and a University extension campus- the Rizal Polytechnic College, Rizal State College, and the Rizal Technological University extension campus. The Republic Act 9157 lapsed into law on August 11, 2001, established as a State University in the province of Rizal to be known as the University of Rizal System, by integrating the Rizal State College and its extension campuses in Angono, Binangonan, Pililla and Rodriguez, the Rizal Polytechnic College and its extension campus in Cainta and Rizal Technological University-Antipolo Annex, all in the province of Rizal. On June 18, 2002, CHED Resolution No. 411-4004 was issued identifying Tanay Campus as the main campus of the University.
The Rizal National Agricultural School (RNAS) was established by Republic Act Number 1560 authored by Cong. Serafin Salvador, which was approved on June 16, 1956. RNAS was opened on May 27, 1959. It was chartered as a state college on June 24, 1983 by Batas PambansaBilang 622 authored by Assemblyman Frisco F. San Juan making it the first state college in the Province of Rizal known as Rizal College of Agriculture and Technology (RCAT). RCAT was later renamed Rizal State College (RSC) by virtue of Republic Act 7858 sponsored by Hon. Congressman Emigdio S. Tanjuatco, Jr. and approved by His Excellency Fidel V. Ramos on January 21, 1995.
Rizal Polytechnic College was first established as Morong High School on August 16, 1944. It was converted into Morong National High School on August 20, 1976 and to Morong National Comprehensive School on March 30, 1977. With the integration of Tomas Claudio Memorial Elementary School, it was converted into Morong National Comprehensive School, later renamed Rizal Technological and Polytechnic Institute on August 10, 1983 through Batas Pambansa 469. RTPI became a state college, the Rizal Polytechnic College on March 1, 1995 through Republic Act 7933. Through Board of Trustees Resolution No. 06-13-98 dated February 12, 1998. RPC Cardona Research Extension was established.
At present the University operates with ten (10) campuses in the Province of Rizal, namely: URS Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, Cainta, Cardona, Morong, Pililla, Rodriguez, Tanay and Taytay. It offers complete education from Kindergarten to Graduate School. The University implements a number of academic programs in the doctorate, masters, baccalaureate, non-degree and short-term courses. It also provides research, extension and production services as well as establishment of centers. The existence of the University caters to the needs of the stakeholders within and nearby provinces.
