The history of North Eastern Mindanao State University began in 1982 when Bukidnon State College opened its extension in Tandag City, known as Bukidnon External Studies Center. In 1992, it became Surigao del Sur Polytechnic College (SSPC) through Republic Act No. 7377, signed by President Corazon Aquino, amalgamating BESC and other schools.

In 1998, SSPC became Surigao del Sur Polytechnic State College (SSPSC) under Republic Act No. 8628. Dr. Antonio S. Ang was the first President, followed by Dr. Remegita C. Olvida in 2001. In 2010, SSPSC became Surigao del Sur State University through Republic Act No. 9998, with Dr. Olvida as the first University President.

Dr. Baceledes R. Estal served as President from 2014 to 2022, overseeing significant campus improvements. In 2018, a Memorandum of Agreement with the University of Southeastern Philippines integrated the Bislig Campus into SDSSU. On July 30, 2021, Republic Act 11584 renamed SDSSU to North Eastern Mindanao State University.