Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) History and Academics

History

Central Connecticut State University was founded as the New Britain normal school. It became the Teachers College of Connecticut in 1933 and the Central Connecticut State College in 1959. It acquired University status in 1983. It is the largest of the four universities in the Connecticut State University system. It is accredited by the The New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Its mission statement says in part that it is “a community of learners dedicated to teaching and a scholarship.” The University emphasizes teaching and the personal and social growth of students. It is classed as a Master’s College and University I by the Carnegie Institute.

Central Connecticut State University was founded in 1849, and is the oldest public university in the State of Connecticut. The University was originally founded as a teachers’ college. In 1959 it included four-year degrees in the liberal arts. Its present name and status as a state university were granted in 1983.

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Information Summary

Ranks 13th in Connecticut and 930th overall. See the entire top 2,000 colleges and universities list
Overall Score (about)	81.2
Total Cost On-Campus Attendance	$25,869
Admission Success rate	N/A
ACT / SAT 75%ile scores	24 / 1170
Student Ratio Students-to-Faculty	18 : 1
Retention (full-time / part-time)	74% / 42%
Enrollment Total (all students)	11,822

Academics

Central Connecticut State offers 100 majors in more than 80 fields, including the liberal arts, sciences, teacher preparation, information technology, and business. CCSU has established international learning partnerships with 70 universities in nearly 40 countries worldwide. There are 400 full-time faculty members, 75% of whom possess the terminal degree in their field, and approximately 400 part-time instructors. CCSU professors have been recognized by their peers and the media as particularly outstanding, especially in the fields of astronomy, technology, and collaborative endeavors. The University has an endowed chair in the fields of finance, Polish-American Studies, public policy, and journalism, ensuring that CCSU will attract and retain some of the greatest minds in those fields today.

Central Connecticut State University has academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. There are 5 schools: the School of Arts & Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education & Professional Studies, the School of Technology, and the School of Graduate Studies.

Bachelor’s degrees are offered in a variety of fields within the various academic colleges. Degrees at the bachelor’s level can be received in such areas as anthropology, computer science, English, political science, theater, accounting, international business, molecular sciences, engineering, technology education, nursing, physical education, and social work.

Graduate programs are offered in all 4 academic schools. These include master’s level programs in accountancy, English, music education, business administration, counselor education, reading, engineering technology, and computer information technology. A doctoral degree is offered in educational leadership. There are also numerous teaching certification programs.

Most Popular Fields of Study

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Unique Programs

The Internet & Multimedia Studies program prepares students to enter the world of cyberspace as intelligent professionals and mold the world of information sharing, research, and access. This includes courses in the social sciences and humanities that concentrate on ethics and values associated with the Internet’s implications.

The Polish Studies Program, established in 1974, includes an endowed chair in Polish Studies currently held by Dr. M.B. Biskupski. Coursework includes culture, history, language, and a study of America’s Polish community. The University’s library includes 21,000 books on the subjects of Polish culture and is a vast resource for anyone studying Polish history or the Polish people.

Central Connecticut State University has several special academic programs. One of these is the Honors Program, which is an interdisciplinary approach to three areas of study: Western culture, science and Society, and world cultures. Students write a thesis in their junior year.

The Intensive English Language Program is for international students, including those not enrolled in the university, wishing an in-depth study of the English language and American culture. It also includes a transition program for those students who desire university admissions.

The Internet and Multimedia Studies Program is a concentration allowing students to take courses in various departments focusing on technical skills. It also aims to have students become involved in the political and cultural values and implications of technology. Students in this program finish a senior project or independent study.

Admissions

CCSU admissions requirements dictate that all freshman applicants must have completed four unites of English, three units of mathematics, two units each of laboratory science and social science, and three years (recommended) of a foreign language. Students who do not meet this preparatory curriculum requirement may still qualify for admissions, based on the decision of the Director of Recruitment and Admissions. Admissions decisions are made based on high school grade point average, rank in graduating class, and scores on the SAT exam. The University desires students who rank in the top 50% of their graduating class, demonstrate a C (2.0) grade point average or above, and score at least a 480 on the verbal and a 450 on the math portion of the SAT exam. Applicants are encouraged to visit the campus and to meet with an admissions counselor prior to making a decision about where to attend. Students are also encouraged to contact or visit the college where they will be studying to learn about particular fields of study, academic requirements, or possible scholarship opportunities available to them. Advanced Placement credit is available for students who score a minimum of 3 on the Advanced Placement Program exam.

Central Connecticut State University has no stated application deadline. The application fee is $50. Applications can be submitted on-line. Students who are enrolled in high school at the time of application will need to have their official final high school transcripts sent after graduation to the Admissions Office.

As part of their application, students should submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT test scores. These must be submitted directly by the high school guidance counselor and not by the student. Students should have completed high school courses as follows: 4 units of English, 3 units of mathematics, 2 units of history and social studies, 2 units of science, and 3 units of a foreign language. Students who are taking courses which will require calculus at Connecticut State of should take an additional unit of mathematics. Admission is based on a combination of high school record, class rank, and SAT scores. Some students may also need to have an interview. Generally students should be in the top 50% of their high school graduating class, have a C average in the required courses, and have an SAT verbal of 480 and SAT math of 450.

Transfer students and international students will have varying requirements depending upon their prior educational background.

Students applying to the graduate programs at Central Connecticut State University should consult the individual department and/or school to which they are applying. Applications can be submitted on-line, and the application fee is $50. General requirements include the GRE or other appropriate test scores (such as the GMAT) and a bachelor’s degree. The graduate application deadline is July 1 for the fall semester.

Financial Aid

Between 2004 and 2006, CCSU will provide over $40 million in student financial aid through a variety of comprehensive sources. CCSU itself contributes approximately $4.5 million annually from endowed scholarship funds and private donations. Nearly half of all CCSU students receive some kind of financial aid award package. Applicants for freshman admissions to CCSU should have their FAFSA and any other necessary paperwork submitted by March 1 in order to be considered for aid. CCSU provides access to and assistance with such aid programs as the Federal PLUS loans, direct deposit programs, alternative student loans, financial aid estimation, and specialized aid programs.

Tuition at Central Connecticut State University was $3,082 for the fall 2005 semester for in-state, undergraduate students attending full-time. Students applying from out of state and graduate students have higher costs.

Financial aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships, and loans. Work-study programs are also available. Students who seek financial aid will need to fill out the Federal Student Financial Aid Form, available on-line. Other financial assistance and scholarships will require the completion of additional forms.

Graduate students may also receive financial aid in the form of teaching or research assistantships, including a stipend and a waiver of some or all of the tuition and other fees. Graduate students should consult with their individual department about what sort of assistantships or fellowships are available and about the details of the application process. There are several scholarships particularly for graduate students.

Student Financial Aid Details

Ranks 3352nd for the average student loan amount.
Secrets to getting the best scholarships and financial aid in Connecticut.

Students

CCSU is home to 8 residence halls housing approximately 20% of all students. The campus sits on 165 manicured acres and is currently undergoing an extensive renovation. The campus’ location just minutes from Hartford and two hours from New York City and Boston provides students with endless opportunities for sight seeing and weekend getaways.

Student life at Central Connecticut State University includes opportunities in a diverse range of activities and organizations. Arts include dance, music, theatre, and visual art exhibitions. Student clubs and organizations include fraternities and sororities, academic groups, religious groups, cultural groups, sports and recreational clubs, and performing groups such as the Jazz Ensemble and the University Singers. Students can write for the student newspaper the Recorder or be a DJ for the campus radio station, WFCS.

Student Enrollment Demographics

Student Graduation Demographics

Athletics

The Central Connecticut State Blue Devils compete in 18 different sports within the NCAA Division I. Men’s sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, and track. Women’s sports include basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, track, and volleyball. Athletic facilities include Arute Stadium, home to the Blue Devils football team; Detrick Gymnasium; the Michael S. Knapp Weight Training Center; Jack Suydam Natatorium; and Balf Savin Baseball Field. The University also has a softball field, athletics bubble, and athletic training facilities. The student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC) provides an organizational format for student athletes to collaborate and support one another on campus, positively promote athletics on campus and in the local community, and establish a link to the Athletics Department for donors, parents, and students. The SAAC organizes such events as charity drives, family events on campus, reading to young and disadvantaged school children, field days, and sports tournaments. The Athletics Department also facilitates the Strength & Conditioning Program, which blends nutrition, sciences, and attention for CCSU student-athletes in order to prepare them for competition and ensure their health.

Central Connecticut State University is an NCAA Division I School. Teams compete in the Northeast Conference. Men’s sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, and track & field. Women’s sports include basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, track & field, and volleyball. The sports teams are supported by a spirit squad, which includes a cheerleading team that competes in various competitions and performs at all home football and basketball games. The team nick-name is the Blue Devils.

Athletic facilities at Central Connecticut State University include a football field, softball field, baseball field, gymnasium, soccer field, swim center, and the Central Connecticut Athletics Bubble, which consists of indoor tennis courts with an inflatable roof.

Student athletes receive academic support from the university in the form of team advisors from the Academic Center for Student Athletes. Athletes also participate in community service projects and take part in other events as part of the NCAA Life Skills program. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee also sponsors different activities such as family night or reading to children for athletes to take part in.

Local Community

Central Connecticut State University is located in New Britain, Connecticut, which has a population of approximately 72,000. New York City is easily accessible. The city has several museums, including the New Britain Industrial Museum, a zoo, art galleries and theaters, and a minor league baseball team.

New Britain boasts 1200 acres of some of the state’s most beautiful parks and outdoor recreation facilities. In addition to the outdoor experience, there are also a number of cultural activities to partake in, including two theaters, historical sites, and a number of museums. There is a 27-hole golf course, a double-A baseball team, and the Willow Brook Park Sports Complex available to all members of the community.

Central Connecticut State University