Overview
Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) is located in southern Connecticut between New Haven and historic Westville Village. As a student-centered institution, Southern regards student success as its highest priority. Originally a teacher's college, Southern has developed into a university where students are given a grounding in the liberal arts and sciences to serve as a foundation for professional development and lifelong learning.
Over 12,000 students receive professional training in 48 graduate and 68 undergraduate programs, guided by the research, scholarship, and creative activity of the teaching staff. Roughly 2,700 students live on campus, with women outnumbering men by a nearly 2:1 ratio.
By mixing tradition with innovation, SCSU attempts to give every undergraduate student the knowledge, skills, and perspectives essential for active participation and impassioned, ethical leadership in a rapidly changing, global society. Southern is a leader in undergraduate education within the Connecticut State University System, producing the largest number of graduates in health/life sciences, education, and social/public services.
Southern Offers Nearly 100 Student Clubs and Organizations to Educate the "Whole Person" in a Balanced Way
Student life is filled with opportunities at Southern. The biggest gathering place on campus is the Adanti Student Center, which plays host to a large number of campus organizations and activities. The facilities are diverse enough to include space for meetings, lectures, dances, movies, and a well-rounded program of cultural, social, and recreational activities. In addition to the meeting rooms and lounges, there is a fitness center, recreation center, copy center, book store, food court, and more.
Roughly 100 student-run clubs and organizations exist at Southern Connecticut State, literally from A to Z -- from the Accounting Society to the Zeta Delta Epsilon Honor Service Society. Religious study groups, community service groups, academic organizations, Greek life groups, and others are all options for enthusiastic SCSU students. In addition to the hundred clubs and organizations, there are numerous opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, help with large events like Homecoming, and participate in various community service projects.
The Owls are the mascot of Southern Connecticut State, and encompass a number of athletic teams from basketball to lacrosse. The Owls swim team even went to Rome in 2009 for the World Championships.
Academics at Southern Give Students the Opportunity to Excel in the Fields of their Choice
SCSU offers undergraduate bachelor's degree programs in liberal arts and in professional studies, and Bachelor of Science degrees in Education with teacher certification. Degrees range from anthropology and communications to theatre and special education. Courses are spread among five schools: Arts and Sciences, Business, Communication/Information/Library Sciences, Education, and Health and Human Services.
There are also a number of special offerings for students who wish to take a pre-law program, join the R.O.T.C. for the Air Force or Army, or embark down the path towards a medical profession. Students can take courses for pre-dental, pre-medical, or pre-veterinary, or even prepare to become registered nurses.
Students who excel in their freshman year may join the Honors College, a unique four-year interdisciplinary program designed to challenge and reward the academically superior student. Honors College students are thrust into a more involved intellectual community where professors and students constantly debate and discuss various schools of thought, in order to stimulate creative analytical dialogue.
Academic support in various forms is available for students who require assistance with their college courses. A free academic advisement center and tutorial center both guarantee that students get the individual attention they need to help foster success. A writing center is also available to help students to become confident and competent writers.
SCSU Makes Quality Education Affordable, with Enlightened Admissions for Students with Non-Traditional Educations
Southern's individualized program of admission takes the full student experience into consideration. Students with non-traditional educations are still given full consideration, so any students who believe they would thrive at Southern are encouraged to apply.
Federal grants and loans are available to some students who maintain satisfactory academic performance. There is also a federal work-study program where students can work up to 20 hours a week on campus, as well as various scholarships based on academic standing, financial need, major, place of residence, and other factors.
