Sir J.J.College of Architecture is one of the famous institutes of architecture in the world. Its origin can be traced to the founding of a Draftsman's class attached to Sir J.J.School (estab. 1856) of Arts in 1896. The course was reorganized in 1913 to make it suitable for training in architecture, and Government Diploma examination was held subsequently. The entire course was reorganized again in 1936 and was made into a Full Time Five year Diploma course. In 1952, the Department of Architecture was affiliated to the then University of Bombay for teaching courses leading to Degree in Architecture. Thus it was the first college of Architecture in Asia.

The Government of Maharashtra transferred the management of the college to the University in 1973. The University has appeared a Standing Committee as Board of Advisory to advise the University on all matters relating to the management of the College.