The opening of a technical institution in the last quarter of the 19th century was ushering a new epoch of scientific learning and technical education in Bihar. The history, how a small survey school founded in 1876 developed into a premier college of technical education is very interesting which also throws light on various social and educational aspects.

The thought of opening a technical school in Patna most probably drew its inspiration from the proposed scheme of industrial institution laboriously framed by Mr. W. Taylor in 1855-56 when he was the Commissioner of Patna. Consequently, Patna Survey School was started in March 1876, which appeared as a milestone of technical education in Bihar. It appears that the school was administered by Government of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa and was under the control of Board of Visitors. It was under the control of Board of Visitors. It was equipped with workshop, laboratories, and lecture theatres, drawing halls and there was also a hostel to accommodate students.

In 1913 the provinces of Bihar and Orissa were separated from Bengal and it necessitated the emergence of a self-sufficient technical college, which could cope with the growing demand of the facility of technical education in the region. When Patna University came into existence in 1917, a Committee was formed to make proposals for the development of the institution. In 1923, the Bihar School of Engineering becomes affiliated to the Patna University. In July 1924 the present Bihar College of Engineering started functioning with 30 students only. A mechanical apprentice course was also started the same year.

In 1926, an expansion scheme was prepared which recommended all-round development of the College including acquisition of land for various purposes. Opening of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering degree courses was also recommended. The period between 1929-39 was a period of economic depression all over the world resulting in shelving of the proposed scheme of starting electrical and mechanical engineering courses. It was around 1945, after the closure of II World War, Electrical and Mechanical degree courses could see the light to the day. Gradually the number of students from 30 rose of 132 in all the three branches. In 1952, the administration of the college was transferred from the Government of Bihar to the Patna University as one of its constituent units.