Mary Matha Arts & Science College, a college managed by the Catholic Diocese of Mananthavady, symbolises the realisation of the dreams and aspirations of the people of North Wayanad. It was sanctioned by the Government of Kerala on the recommendation of the University of Calicut in response to the demands of the people. His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Jacob Thoomkuzhy, the then Bishop of Mananthavady, was kind enough to take upon himself the onerous task of establishing and managing this institution. The college was formally inaugurated on 23rd October 1995 with three degree courses in Functional English, Zoology and Mathematics. When Kannur University came into existence in 1996, the college became affiliated to it.
His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Pothanamuzhy was consecrated as the Bishop of the Diocese, in 1997. As the founder principal of Christ College, Bangalore, he had long years of experience as a teacher and administrator. His vision and commitment to academic excellence were guiding beacons in our institution's efforts to achieve its social and educational goals. His Excellency passed away in 2003 and subsequently His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Jose Porunnedom became the Patron. The College is heading for accelerated growth and expansion under his benevolent leadership.
Dr. K. T. Varkey was the founder Principal of the college from 1995-2002. Rev. Fr. Dr. James Maruthukunnel (CMI), former Principal, St. Joseph's College, Devagiri, Kozhikod, was the Principal during 2002-06. After his retirement in March 2006, Dr. Raju George, Reader in English, Marian College, Kuttikanam.

Rev. Msgr. Joseph Kaniamattam was the founder Manager of the college. Rev. Msgr. George Njaralakatt, former Vicar General of the Diocese of Mananthavady, was the Manager of the College during 1997-2006. Rev. Fr. Jose Kocharackal, Syncellus, Education Department of the Diocese of Mananthavady, was the Manager till 13 th May 2008. Rev. Fr Robin Vadakkancheril succeeded as Manager till 13 May 2011. At present, Rev. Msgr Dr. Mathew Madappallikkunnel, the Vicar General of the Diocese is the Manager.
Decennial celebration of the founding of the college was held in 2005-06 with several innovative initiatives in the academic programmes and in the extending of the infrastructure. In 2006, National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Banglore, awarded B++ grade (83.5%) to the college.
The college offers six degree courses, one PG course and Research Centres in Mathematics and Zoology. The Research Centre in English is awaiting University approval. An Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) is set up to sustain and enhance the quality of education in the post-accreditation stage. The faculty members have undertaken 13 minor research projects with financial assistance from UGC and a major research project sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India.
Mary Matha Arts & Science College is situated on the Mananthavady -Mysore High way on a 25 acre sprawling campus amidst the greenery of the western ghats and the campus is well cultivated and looked after.