Central Connecticut State University

Overview

Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) is the largest university in the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system. Established in 1849 as the New Britain Normal School, it holds the title of the state's oldest public university. In 1983, it became a university under its current name. The university's 13th president, Dr. Zulma R. Toro, took office in January 2017, making history as the first female and first Hispanic president of CCSU.

CCSU is known for its beautiful 165-acre campus, which features modern academic buildings, administrative offices, and plenty of green spaces. The campus includes accessible walkways, sports facilities, recreational areas, and residence halls. The Elihu Burritt Library is a highlight, housing over 750,000 books, more than 3,000 periodicals, and around 550,000 microforms and other non-print materials. There are nine residence halls on campus that accommodate 23% of students, offering spacious rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi, satellite TV, study lounges, and game rooms. Additional facilities include a bookstore, wellness center, gym, swimming pool, fitness studio, student center, athletic fields, and multiple dining options.

The university has five schools, each with various departments, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as science, liberal arts, social sciences, engineering, technology, professional studies, business, and education. CCSU encourages international exposure through exchange programs and provides internships and training opportunities for students to gain real-world experience. With over 125 clubs and organizations, students can find community and leadership opportunities by participating in events and competitions organized by the Students' Association.

CCSU has a diverse student body, with individuals from more than 40 countries. The total enrollment is about 10,262 students, with 51% female and 49% male. The faculty includes 435 full-time and 504 part-time staff. The average class size is 25 students, resulting in a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.

The university boasts an impressive list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Notable graduates include Erin Joyce Brady (Miss USA 2013), Maria L. Sanford (educator), Kenny Johnson (actor), Michael Francis Sherman (former football player and current head coach), Justise Hairston (football player), Robert Michael Gates (politician and intelligence analyst), John Barry Larson (politician and entrepreneur), Shimon Peres (former Prime Minister of Israel), Dan Rather (journalist), and Robert Upshur Woodward (investigative journalist).

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