Tianjin Normal University was  as Tianjin Normal College. It was formally established as a university in 1980 and the title was changed to the current “Tianjin Normal University”. In May 2000, it was permitted to integrate Tianjin Masters Preparing Institute, Tianjin Academy and the early Tianjin Normal University by the ministerial Council of education. 

In March 2002, Building scheme in these combined institution's areas were licensed by the Tianjin province government. The total space of the university is 9km2 (new departments included). Today, the buildings are ready to use and most of them (4km2) are servicing to students.

Tianjin Normal University is a public research university established in 1954. In 2017-2018, Chinese University Alumni Association ranks Tianjin Normal University 3rd in normal universities in north China. In 2018-2019, it was ranked 12th among the normal universities in China by CUAA.