Established in 1924 under the leadership of Texas community college pioneer Randolph Lee Clark, North Central Texas College is the oldest continuously operating public two-year college in the state. From its roots as a small, rural "junior" college -- an extension of the local high school actually -- NCTC has grown and matured into a comprehensive, full-service community college of truly regional scope, serving students from three major campuses located across its three-county service area.

The mission of the College is established by state statute (Texas Education Code, Section 130.003) which governs public community colleges. In accordance, North Central Texas College is a two-year institution primarily serving residents of Cooke, Denton, and Montague counties by offering technical and academic courses for certification or associate degrees; continuing education; remedial and compensatory education consistent with open-admissions policies; and programs of counseling and guidance. The College insists on excellence in all academic areas, instruction, research, and public service. Faculty research, using the facilities provided for and consistent with the College's primary functions, is encouraged.