CTC was established in 1972 by the dioceses of Victoria and Tasmania, and a group of religious orders, which agreed to act together as a confederated body in academic matters. In 1973, CTC became a recognised teaching institution of the Melbourne College of Divinity (which was constituted as a degree-granting body by the Parliament of Victoria in 1910). CTC is also an affiliated college of Monash University and Australian Catholic University.

The College is now conveniently located in East Melbourne, beside the Fitzroy Gardens, and on the edge of the Melbourne CBD. Its buildings bring together the historic bluestone of the original Parade College and the award-winning architecture of Gregory Burgess.

Students come from a wide range of backgrounds and interests. Some are preparing for ministry in the Church, while others are undertaking study for professional development or personal enrichment.

CTC offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as the possibility of auditing individual units for interest rather than for assessment.

The teaching staff at CTC are internationally qualified and highly experienced.