The school was founded in 1981 as Bendel State University and later renamed Edo State University. It was renamed after its founder in 1999 after an act passed the State House of Representatives. Ambrose Alli University was established to promote growth and advancement in Nigeria through experts in research and development and giving its students quality education. The university has no religious affiliation and admits students from all cultural backgrounds in Nigeria, This fosters for a diverse student body. The university offers bachelors and masters degrees in programs cutting across Education, law, engineering, science, technology, agriculture, Arts, management and social sciences