The first classes of the University section of St. Edmund's College (SEC) opened in 1924. From 1924 to 1936, St. Edmund's College was a junior college for Intermediate Arts and Science. Since its inception, SEC has consistently topped University rankings and is one of only two University Colleges run by the Christian Brothers world-wide (the other being Iona College, USA). The college offers comprehensive Degree programs in Arts, Science and Commerce with Majors in different subjects. It also offers a Post Graduate Degree in Social Work, and is now an NAAC accredited 'A' listed institution. Initially, SEC was a boys' only college, but from 1996, it has become a co-ed institution. The Higher Secondary Section has recently been separated from the Degree wing for administrative purposes.