Originated from Indochina Medical School, which was established in 1902, Hanoi University of Pharmacy is regarded as one of the oldest universities in Vietnam.

In 1941, the Experimental School of Medicine and Pharmacy was renamed to the Indochina Medical and Pharmaceutical University. After August revolution (that followed by the foundation of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam) in 1945, it was renamed to Vietnam University of Medicine and Pharmacy. In 1961, with the increase in the demand of medical and pharmaceutical human resources, the Ministry of Health decided to split Vietnam University of Medicine and Pharmacy into two separate colleges including Hanoi College of Medicine and Hanoi College of Pharmacy. In 1985, due to substantial growth, Hanoi College of Pharmacy was renamed to Hanoi University of Pharmacy as it is today.

In the last 53 years of development, the University has confirmed its important position and pretige in the cause of pharmaceutical staff in health sector and is the trustworthy training address of Education and Training Ministry.​​​​