The Deanship of Graduate Studies (DGS) was established in 1973 to specifically address the needs of the current and prospective graduate population. As the University has always aspired to make available specialized higher education so as to meet the needs of the Kingdom of qualified graduates holding high academic degrees, in 1978 the University Council approved, the establishment of the College of Graduate Studies. Afterwards, in 1997, name was amended to the Deanship of Graduate Studies to further support the graduate population. This was due to an increased interest in providing services designed for current and prospective graduate students. DGS's profile has expanded to include more full-time masters and doctoral students.

DGS at King Saud University (KSU) administers all graduate programs and implements regulations and executive procedures relating to these programs. It communicates the benefits of the graduate education within and beyond the KSU community. The DGS fosters collaborations with industry, government, national universities, and world-class universities to insure that: high academic standards for graduate studies are maintained; diversity across graduate programs and graduate students is valued and respected; new graduate programs that are in line with the academic needs, keep pace with scientific and technical progress, and address social issues are initiated; policies and procedures related to graduate education are fair and consistent; creativity and innovation are encouraged; serving the comprehensive national development plans is sought; and providing graduate education and serving graduate students are integral parts of the university mission.