Best Universities & Colleges in Connecticut for 2024

These are the 18 top schools, both online and traditional, located in the state of Connecticut. Scroll through the list below and get all the information you need about each institution.

Online Colleges in Connecticut

Compare all of the best distance education colleges located in Connecticut to pursue an online bachelors degree, associates, or online masters program degree. Including cost of tuition, degrees they offer, enrollment rates, faculty, famous alumni, and more.

Recommended Schools

  • Albertus Magnus College Seal

    Albertus Magnus College

    New Haven, Connecticut

    Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Connecticut
    • 1,515 Total Students
    • 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • Yes Online Programs

    A private liberal arts college, Albertus Magnus, was established in 1925, by now known as Dominican Sisters of Peace in New Haven, Connecticut. The land for the college was acquired in 1924 and was intended as a women’s college. It remained so until 1985, when it was made into a coeducational college. Over the time, it became a four year degree granting institute and in 1969 was presided over by a Board of Trustees.

    Still maintaining its religious affiliation as Roman Catholic, Albertus Magnus College has only widened its focus to include development of both spirit and mind of its students. Its academic and all other endeavors are firmly rooted in the Dominican Order which stands for search of ‘truth’.  This is reflected in the traditions held at Albertus Magnus such as the candle light ceremony, where candle lighting represents truth and is offered by senior students to the new students. The St. Thomas Aquinas Lecture Series are also offered thrice a year.

    The college operates as multi campus facility. Besides the main campus, there is also East Hartford Learning Center. This offers associate, undergraduate and graduate degrees but with a more flexible routine. The college also has both men and women athletic teams which go by the name ‘Falcons’ and plat at the NCAA Division III. The campus colors are blue and white.

    The programs offered at the Albertus Magnus are undergraduate degree programs with about 50 majors and minors. It also offers 10 graduate programs as well. Some of the prestigious facilities at the college are Cosgrove, Marcus, Messer Athletic Center, Hubert Campus Center, Tagliatela Academic Center, the Rosary Hall library ad few others.

    Albertus Magnus School Facts

    • Years Estd.1925
    • NicknameFalcons
    • ColorsBlue and White
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division III – GNAC, ECAC
    • Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic

    Famous Albertus Magnus Alumni

    • Jacqueline Noonan

      Science & Medicine

      A pediatric cardiologist by profession; she is famed for distinguishing a genetic disorder named Noonan syndrome

    • Margaret Heckler

      Politics & Law

      Served as the member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Michigan; also served as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, U.S. Ambassador to Ireland[

    • Ellen Bree Burns

      Politics & Law

      Formerly served as Federal Judge of United States


  • Central Connecticut State University Seal

    Central Connecticut State University

    New Britain, Connecticut

    Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut
    • 12,086 Total Students
    • 59% Acceptance Rate
    • 27% Enrollment Rate
    • 15 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 8,686 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    CCSU is a public university which originally began as a teacher training institute. It was founded in 1849 as New Britain Normal School. It took almost a decade before the institute turned into a teacher’s college and by 1959 had become a state college. It remained so till some time, and with gradual expansion in its academic programs, and progress in its mission for serving the educational needs of its people, the college transitioned into its present name and state in 1983.

    Central Connecticut State University is based in New Britain, Connecticut and is the state’s oldest public institute. As a state supported university, CCSU realizes the responsibility it carries of improving the lives if its students and contributing positively to its region and beyond.

    At the university, students get more than just education; they get experiences. The university has Student Government Association that works for the concerns and events of the students. Moreover, student involvement at the campus begins with huge array of student run clubs and organizations including cultural, African American, Arts and cultural groups, sports, dance, arts, equestrian, entrepreneurship and many others. There are additional opportunities for students to put to test their leadership skills by leading student clubs and activities and organizing events. Some interesting events are C.A.N Carnival, The Craftastic Color event and many others throughout the year. With a significant art culture throughout New Britain, the university also replicates by not only having arts academically rather through creative performances. Similarly, there is also enthusiasm over athletics by the students, the teams taking part in 18 NCAA Division I sports programs. Its mascot is Kizer the Blue Devil and the campus colors are White and Blue.

    Academic programs offered by CCSU consist of both undergraduate, with 100 majors in more than 80 fields of study ad graduate programs; it provides programs in 41 academic fields. Its preeminent facilities are Elihu Burritt Library, Ruthe Boyea Women’s Center, S.T. Chen Fine Arts Center, Bichum Engineering Laboratory, Welte Hall, Maloney Hall and Kaiser Hall.

    CCSU School Facts

    • Years Estd.1849
    • NicknameBlue Devils
    • MascotKizer the Blue Devil
    • ColorsBlue and White
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division I – NEC
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous CCSU Alumni

    • Erin Stewart

      Politics & Law

      Mayor of New Britain, Connecticut (2013–present), becoming the youngest serving female mayor in the U.S.

    • Maria L. Sanford

      Education & Advocacy

      Educator; whose work has been acknowledged with a statue in the Capitol's National Statuary Hall Collection from the state of Minnesota

    • Steve Addazio

      Professional Sports

      Current Football Head Coach at Boston College

    • Michael J. Ingelido

      Politics & Law

      WWII fighter pilot and the distinguished Service Cross recipient, Air Force Major General

    • John Larson

      Politics & Law

      Congressman; held office former Connecticut Senate President

    • Frederic Beecher Perkins

      Education & Advocacy

      United States Editor, Librarian and Writer

    • Justice Ofei Akrofi

      Social Advocacy & Service

      Archbishop of Church of the Province of West Africa


  • Charter Oak State College

    New Britain, Connecticut

    • 1,735 Total Students
    • 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • Yes Online Programs

    COSC is a public institute and a liberal arts college that traces its origins to the Board of State Academic Awards that was created in 1973. By 1980, it was turned into a college on the orders of the Connecticut legislature and was named as Charter Oak College.  As the institute gained prominence and its academic programs expanded, it was in 2009 through state statue that it was granted the power to award Master’s degrees.

    The college is based in New Britain, Connecticut and it was in 1992 that the college went through name change as recognition of it being part of the state system. It was renamed as Charter Oak State College. The college, since its inception has been dedicated to preparing skilled workforce for their communities.

    COSC, with its aim to become an institute that is centered on student needs, offers online education which means that it comes with the advantages of being flexible as well as convenient. Students decide when to study and determine their own pace of programs. Not only this, the college also aims for affordable education. Understanding the need for some students who not only want to save on their costs but also speed up their degrees, the college adjusts for students the hours they might have spent on learning from any other accredited institute. The college also provides an Admission Counsellor which guides students about deciding on their degrees and fields to choose. It also runs Women in Transition Program which began in 1999 and aims at providing educational and financial convenience to single mothers. For bringing the best educational and training opportunities for its students, the college has engaged in academic and corporate partnerships; these include New York Film Academy, Hartford Consortium for Higher Education, American Red Cross Blood Services, Aetna and a few others.

    The academic programs provided at the college are two Associate degree programs and seven Bachelor degree programs, with 40 different workforce-relevant concentrations. It also offers a Master’s degree program and also a few certificate programs.

    COSC School Facts

    • Years Estd.1973
    • MottoDegrees Without Boundaries
    • LocationConnecticut
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

  • Eastern Connecticut State University Seal

    Eastern Connecticut State University

    Willimantic, Connecticut

    Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic, Connecticut
    • 5,261 Total Students
    • 64% Acceptance Rate
    • 28% Enrollment Rate
    • 16 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 5,370 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    Eastern is a public liberal arts university and among the members of Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges. With the only mission to produce formally educated and trained teachers, Willimantic State Normal School began in 1889. Within a year the school prepared for expansion as the piece of land was allotted to the school by the State of Connecticut. By 1937 it added four year degrees, and by 1967 became a state college.

    It achieved another milestone when in 1983 it gained university status. Eastern Connecticut State University is based in Willimantic, Connecticut and has gained prominence for its quality education and environment where its students gain knowledge and learn to fill the different roles effectively.

    As the students begin their journey at Eastern, they encounter great diversity and inclusivity in its campus life. For students, the main discussion hub is the student center where they engage with faculty, staff and administration in discussing matter of importance. This along with more than 80 student organisations serve as gathering units, not only helping with gaining insights but also for students to form networks and build social and interpersonal relations. Students get leadership skill development through the leadership series and get to apply those skills through Campus Activities Board working to bring activities and programs on campus for fellow students including trips, comedy shows, movies etc. The university also celebrates cultural diversity with full enthusiasm and this comes with community engagement. Not only do students get involved in volunteering work by helping people but also work for awareness and social advocacy. The campus also has athletic teams called the ‘Warriors’ that take part at NCAA Division III. Its campus colors are Navy Blue and Burgundy and the mascot is ‘Willi the Warrior’.

    Academic programs at Eastern are undergraduate programs with 36 majors and 57 minors, and seven Masters Degree programs and three additionally with certifications. its notable facilities consist of J. Eugene Smith Library, Beckert Hall,  Gelsi-Young Hall, Hurley Hall, Burr Hall, Laurel Hall, Niejadlik Hall and more.

    Eastern School Facts

    • Years Estd.1889
    • NicknameWarriors
    • MascotWilli the Warrior
    • MottoConnecticut's Public Liberal Arts University
    • ColorsNavy Blue and Burgundy
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division III
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Eastern Alumni

    • Christopher D. Coutu

      Politics & Law

      Army National Guard Officer and state representative from the 47th District

    • Susan Wilson

      Entertainment & Arts

      Author of seven novels, including her 2010 New York Times best seller One Good Dog

    • David W. Gay

      Social Advocacy & Service

      Adjutant General of the Connecticut National Guard from 1992 to 1999; also Chairman of the Citizen’s Ethics Advisory Board of the Office of State Ethics since 2011

    • Edward Gaffney

      Politics & Law

      Michigan State Representative from 2003 to 2008

    • Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

      Entertainment & Arts

      Nigerian writer included in the 2011 edition of The Best American Short Stories


  • Fairfield University Seal

    Fairfield University

    Fairfield, Connecticut

    Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut
    • 5,138 Total Students
    • 65% Acceptance Rate
    • 14% Enrollment Rate
    • 12 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 10,767 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    Fairfield University (FU) is a co-educational, private, global and Jesuit institution that offers both undergraduate and graduate education. It was inaugurated by the Jesuit Society in 1942, when the society purchased the adjoining estates of Jennings and Lashar off North Benson Road in Fairfield. The first group of students consisted of only 303 male undergraduate students, who were admitted to the College of Arts and Science in 1947. Along the way, the university became a co-educational institute and its capacity grew to be able to admit up to more than 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students per year. It grew more and more to  one of the 28 member institutions included in the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities list and to award more than 45,000 undergraduate and graduate degrees since 1951. Since its establishment in 1942, FU is located in its current location in Fairfield, Connecticut.

    Being a catholic university and one of the Society of Jesus members, FU’s major aim is to improve the mental prospects, creativity, moral as well as religious aspects for enrolled students. Since it is a liberal institute, it encourages respect of diversity among members of the different disciplines. Through it liberal vision, FU promotes personal proficiency criteria including dissecting, networking and synthesizing abilities.

    FU is ranked among the top 15% universities in the country, 1st according to accounting degree review and 2nd for highest starting salaries in Connecticut. Its education is unique in compromising among many perspectives like liberal studies, religion, human skills and intellectual potential development in order to build up new mature generations with high capability of creation, imagination, and integration within the surrounding community. It encourages sustainability in organizing environmental friendly activities, student events, organic food in dining halls and buildings infrastructure.

    Fairfield offers 43 undergraduate programs along with 19 minors in addition to 41 postgraduate degrees. It consists of 4 schools; College of Arts and Sciences, Charles F. Dolan School of Business, The Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Sciences and the School of Engineering, in addition to Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions.

    Fairfield School Facts

    • Years Estd.1942
    • NicknameStags / Lady Stags
    • MascotLucas the Stag
    • MottoPer Fidem ad Plenam Veritatem (Latin)
    • Motto Eng.Through Faith to the Fullness of Truth
    • ColorsCardinal and White
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division I – MAAC
    • Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic

    Famous Fairfield Alumni

    • Michael P. Fitzgerald

      Business & Industry

      CEO and founding member of Bank of Georgetown

    • Richard J. Cantele Jr.

      Business & Industry

      CEO of the Salisbury Bancorp Inc.

    • Arthur J. Gallagher

      Education & Advocacy

      President of Johnson & Wales University

    • James Hanrahan

      Education & Advocacy

      founder of St. Thomas More School

    • Francis X. Foley

      Education & Advocacy

      Principal of Saint Gregory's School


  • Goodwin College Seal

    Goodwin College

    East Hartford, Connecticut

    • 3,549 Total Students
    • 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • Yes Online Programs

    Goodwin is a private non-profit four year degree educational institute that is located in One Riverside Drive, East Hartford, Connecticut. It was established as Data Institute Business School, a small business technology training center, in 1962. In 1999 it was transformed into a more sophisticated educational institute for economic development and consequently its name was changed into Goodwin College. It was accredited in 2004 by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges to be a non-profit college. In 2005, the College inaugurated its new campus along the Connecticut River in East Hartford. In 2008, Goodwin College was approved by the Connecticut Board of Governors for Higher Education to be able to grant four year baccalaureate degrees. In addition, Connecticut River Academy, a magnet school for 9-12 grades student is located within Goodwin College campus.

    Goodwin College aim is to offer diverse academic curricula to suit all the enrolled students who are from different backgrounds and cultures. Goodwin College mission is to prepare students through its dynamic environment and creative educational programs to be capable of coping with the career requirements and serving the surrounding community. In addition to the offered academic programs, Goodwin College helps its students to build up their intellectual, innovative and communications skills.

    Goodwin was selected as one of the distinction college list in 2017. Goodwin College was selected by Hartford Business Journal as one of the “Best Places to Work in Connecticut” for three consecutive years starting 2014 till 2016. In addition it was selected by Hartford Courant as one of “Top Workplaces” in 2014 and 2015.

    Goodwin College consists of 5 academic departments that offer both bachelor degrees and certificate degrees. It offers its degrees in more than 20 majors in business, education and liberal arts and sciences.

    GC School Facts

    • LocationConnecticut
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

  • Holy Apostles College and Seminary Seal

    Holy Apostles College and Seminary

    Cromwell, Connecticut

    • 442 Total Students
    • 6 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • Yes Online Programs

    Holy Apostles College and Seminary is a private higher education institute affiliated to the Society of the Missionaries of the Holy Apostles. It was established in 1956 by Very Rev. Eusebe M. Menard as a college and seminary for men to provide education to those who intend to become priests of the Roman Catholic Church. In 1972, the college started to accept non-seminary students and women. In 2014, the college got approval from the State of Connecticut Office of Higher Education to offer a completely online program that grants the Bachelor of Arts or Associate of Arts degrees. In the following year, the college reduced its tuitions fees by 28% aiming to provide better chances to those willing to become Catholic leaders for the purpose of evangelization. The college is governed by a board of directors that include the the bishops of Connecticut with the Bishop of Norwich as the Chancellor.

    Holy Apostles offers 2 associate degree programs, 5 Bachelor of Arts programs, 3 Master of Arts degree programs, 2 certificate programs in addition to 2 online doctoral degree programs. There are also home school programs offered by the college called Angelicum Academy Program and TakeCredit! Program. The college and seminary are regionally accredited by the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education and by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Students can benefit from the state financial aid as well as the federal financial aid to get support during their studies.

    Holy Apostles School Facts

    • Years Estd.1956
    • MottoErunt sicut stellae
    • Motto Eng.They are like stars
    • LocationConnecticut
    • Religious AffiliationRoman Catholic

  • Lincoln College of New England-Southington Seal

    Lincoln College of New England-Southington

    Southington, Connecticut

    • 619 Total Students
    • 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • Yes Online Programs

    Lincoln College of New England-Southington is a private coeducational residential college located in Southington, Connecticut. It was established in 1966 as Briarwood College till its name was changed in 2010 to its current name.

    The college states its mission is to offer comprehensive education focusing on career and applied knowledge. Lincoln College campus covers 33 acres in the suburban region of Southington close to Lake Compounce Amusement Park and Golf Quest. It offers several distinctive buildings as Brooks Hall and Palmisano Hall. The official colors of the college are royal blue and gold. Its athletic teams compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association.

    Lincoln College offers 6 bachelor degree programs, 9 associate degree programs and 2 certificate degree programs. Additionally, the College offers 3 online degree programs granting bachelor and associate degrees. It is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc. The college provides seven scholarship programs in addition to external scholarships which can provide financial support to the students as Founders Scholarship, Ligouri Scholarship and John J. LeConche Scholarship. There are also three grants offered at the college in addition to the possibility of applying to financial loans.

    Lincoln School Facts

    • LocationConnecticut
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

  • Mitchell College Seal

    Mitchell College

    New London, Connecticut

    Mitchell College in New London, Connecticut
    • 723 Total Students
    • 74% Acceptance Rate
    • 26% Enrollment Rate
    • 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 787 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    Mitchell College is a non-profit private higher education institute located in New London, Connecticut. The college was established in 1938 and was initially named New London Junior College.

    The college states that its mission is to develop distinctive minds. Mitchell College has a suburban campus covering 68 acres which overlooks the Thames River offering several distinctive buildings and facilities including Mitchell Hall, Henry Hall, Nathan Hale Hall, Bingham Hall, Clarke Center Auditorium, Weller Center, Montauk House, Chappell Cottage, Simpson Hall, Saunders Hall, Yarnall Athletic Center & Bookstore, The Red Barn, Eastwinds and Moorings. The official colors of the college are red, white and black. Its athletic teams, who are nicknamed Mariners, compete in NCAA Division III.

    The college offers 10 undergraduate programs granting bachelor and associate degrees. It is accredited by New England Association of School and Colleges. The college also operates several academic centers including Bentsen Learning Center which aims at providing support to students with learning disabilities, Duquès Academic Success Center & Bentsen Learning Center.

    Mitchell School Facts

    • Years Estd.1938
    • NicknameMariners
    • Colorsred, white and black
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division III
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Mitchell Alumni

    • Derrick Levasseur

      Politics & Law

      criminal justice


  • Post University Seal

    Post University

    Waterbury, Connecticut

    • 7,429 Total Students
    • 81% Acceptance Rate
    • 50% Enrollment Rate
    • 19 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 2,401 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    Post University is a for-profit private higher education institute located in Waterbury, Connecticut. The university was established in 1890 Matoon Shorthand School. Three years later, the school was renamed Bliss & Harrington’s Business College & School of Shorthand. The school ownership was transferred in 1897 to Harry C. Post who changed its name to Waterbury Business College. The college name was changed again in 1931 to Post College. The college expanded its campus by relocating to its current location in 1965. Five years later, the college opened its off-campus site in Meriden, Connecticut. In 1976, the college started offering 4-year degree programs. It started offering bachelor degree programs 5 years later. In 1990, the college became affiliated with Teikyo University changing its name to Teikyo Post University. This resulted in attracting international students and establishing new programs. In 2004, the post achieved the university status changing its name to the current one. In 2012, the business school was renamed Malcolm Baldrige School of Business in honor of the former United States Secretary of Commerce.

    Post campus covers 58 acres on Yankee Expressway in Waterbury. One of the landmarks of the campus is the Post Tree which is a Camperdown elm that is part of Connecticut’s natural historic record. Important buildings on campus include Hess Hall, North hall, MacDermid, and the Leever Student Center. The main campus admissions and the president’s office are hosted in Torrance Hall which was formerly the home of Walter Torrance and family. The back of the hall was destroyed by fire and renovated in 1965. The university library, which is known as Traurig Library, consists of three stories and contains more than 12,700 books. The campus also offers 6 residence halls including Paparazzo Hall and Okinaga Hall. It also offers LaMoy Field and Drubner Fitness Center.

    The university is divided into 3 schools including John P. Burke School of Public Service & Education. It is accredited by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education and NEASC.

    PU School Facts

    • Years Estd.1890
    • NicknameEagles
    • Mascot"Swoop" the Eagle
    • Motto"Student Focused, Career Driven"
    • ColorsDark green and white
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsDivision II – Central Atlantic Collegiate ConferenceNational Collegiate Athletic Association
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous PU Alumni

    • Jay Alix

      Business & Industry

      founder of AlixPartners

    • Ron Christy

      Professional Sports

      former Harlem Globetrotters

    • Kimberly Guisti

      Entertainment & Arts

      Miss Connecticut

    • Selim Noujaim

      Politics & Law

      member of the Connecticut House of Representatives

    • Mario Abdo Benítez

      Politics & Law

      president of Paraguay


  • Quinnipiac University Seal

    Quinnipiac University

    Hamden, Connecticut

    Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut
    • 9,654 Total Students
    • 74% Acceptance Rate
    • 11% Enrollment Rate
    • 12 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 22,745 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    Quinnipiac University is a private higher education institute located in Hamden, Connecticut. The university was established in 1929 by Samuel W. Tator and  Phillip Troup. It was established in response to the decision taken by Northeastern University to terminate its program in New Haven, Connecticut due to the Great Depression. The university was initially opened in New Haven and was named Connecticut College of Commerce. The first group graduating from the college included 8 students who were granted associate’s degrees. In 1935, the name of the college was changed to Junior College of Commerce. Most of the students participated in the World War II which resulted in closing the college between 1943 and 1945. The name of the institute was changed again in 1951 to Quinnipiac College in honor of the Quinnipiac Indian tribe that previous lived in Greater New Haven. In the following year, the college expanded by moving to a larger campus in New Haven and by gaining control over Larson College. The college expanded again in 1966 by relocating to its current campus in Hamden. In 1995, the University of Bridgeport’s law school merged into the college as Quinnipiac School of Law Center. In 2000, Quinnipiac gained its current name indicating the growth of the offered programs. It also got accredited in the same year by AACSB.

    The university main campus is located at the foot of the Sleeping Giant Park in the Mount Carmel Section of Hamden. It hosts several important buildings including the Arnold Bernhard Library and Carl Hansen Student Center. Additionally, the university operates two branch campuses; York Hill and North Haven Campuses. York Hill is a green campus that hosts one of the first major wind farms integrated into a university campus.

    The university is divided into 9 schools including the Frank H. Netter M.D. School of Medicine. It offers 58 undergraduate and 20 graduate programs in addition to a Juris Doctoral program.

    Quinnipiac School Facts

    • Years Estd.1929
    • NicknameBobcats
    • MascotBoomer the Bobcat
    • MottoQui Transtulit Sustinet (Latin)
    • Motto Eng."He who transplants, sustains"
    • ColorsBlue and gold
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division I – MAAC ECAC HockeyBig East -Field Hockey
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Quinnipiac Alumni

    • Sam Anas

      Professional Sports

      hockey player for the Iowa Wild

    • Themis Klarides

      Politics & Law

      Deputy Minority Leader of the Connecticut House of Representatives

    • Murray Lender

      Business & Industry

      CEO of Lender's Bagels

    • William C. Weldon

      Business & Industry

      former CEO of Johnson & Johnson

    • William D. Euille

      Politics & Law

      former mayor of Alexandria, Virginia


  • University of Bridgeport Seal

    University of Bridgeport

    Bridgeport, Connecticut

    University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut
    • 5,433 Total Students
    • 52% Acceptance Rate
    • 12% Enrollment Rate
    • 16 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 6,703 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    University of Bridgeport (UB) is a private independent higher education institute. It was established in 1927 under the name of the Junior College of Connecticut. It was then the first 2 year junior college to be established in the state. The campus of the college was established in three old homes in the district that was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1947, the college expanded into a 4-year college after purchasing the former P.T. Barnum estate and neighboring property adjacent to Seaside Park. The name of the institute was then changed to its current name. In the following period, the university continued to expand rapidly as Vietnam War veterans joined the college benefiting from the G.I. Bill. In 1979, the university started offering Ed.D. program in Educational Leadership. Safety concerns regarding the local community resulted in declining enrollment and by 1990 more than two thirds of the campus buildings were unused. The university decided to terminate the employment of 50 tenured faculty staff members which resulted in the longest strike in the history of higher education. The financial difficulties motivated the university to accept the offer from the Professors World Peace Academy (PWPA) in 1992 to take over the institute by investing more than $50 million. At the same period, the law school decided to separate from the university and join the Quinnipiac University. In 2003, the university became financially independent from PWPA.

    Bridgeport campus has an urban 86 acres. Prominent buildings on campus include Bryant Hall and Cortright Hall. The university athletic teams compete in NCAA Division II. Their official colors are purple and white while their mascot is called the Purple Knight.

    The university is divided into 13 colleges, institutes and schools including Ernest C. Trefz School of Business, Shintaro Akatsu School of Design and Fones School of Dental Hygiene. It is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

    Bridgeport School Facts

    • Years Estd.1927
    • NicknamePurple Knights
    • MascotPurple Knight
    • ColorsPurple and White
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division II
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Bridgeport Alumni

    • Ellen Alemany

      Business & Industry

      CEO, chairman and CFO of Citizens Financial Group

    • Kenichi Ebina

      Entertainment & Arts

      winner of America's Got Talent

    • Igor Sikorsky

      Business & Industry

      aviation pioneer

    • Julius Boros

      Professional Sports

      former professional golfer and winner of 18 PGA Tour events

    • Fred DeLuca

      Business & Industry

      co-founder of the Subway franchise of sandwich restaurants


  • University of Connecticut Seal

    University of Connecticut

    Storrs, Connecticut

    University of Connecticut in Storrs, Connecticut
    • 27,043 Total Students
    • 53% Acceptance Rate
    • 20% Enrollment Rate
    • 17 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 34,978 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    University of Connecticut is a public land grant, sea grant and national grant higher education institute. The university was established in 1881 as an agricultural school for men. It was named Storrs Agricultural School in honor of Charles and Augustus Storrs who donated the land and the initial funding for the university. Female students started attending classes at the school in 1891 and were officially admitted two years later. The name was changed in the same year Storrs Agricultural College and it then became Connecticut’s land grant college. The name was changed again in 1899 to Connecticut Agricultural College and then in 1933 to Connecticut State College. It finally got its current name in 1939 after achieving the university status. It was organized in the same year into colleges and schools with the addition of graduate programs. In 1949, the university started offering doctoral programs. In 1975, the university established John Dempsey Hospital. In 1995, the state provided $1 billion to renovate the university campus with additional $1.3 billion in 2002. The university established 10 years later Jackson Laboratory’s for genomic medicine at the cost of $1.1 billion.

    The university main campus covers 4,400 acres in Storrs, Connecticut. It has several prominent buildings and facilities including the Connecticut Repertory Theatre, the Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry, the George Safford Torrey Life Sciences Building, the Thomas J. Dodd Research Center and the Torrey Life Sciences Building. Additionally, the university has several branch campuses in Stamford, Hartford, Waterbury, Torrington in addition to Bioscience Connecticut, Jackson Laboratory and Avery Point campus. The university athletic teams compete in NCAA Division I as members of American Athletic Conference.

    UConn is divided into 14 colleges and schools including Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture. It offers 8 undergraduate degrees in 100 majors. Additionally, it offers 17 graduate and 5 professional degree programs. Students may also choose from 87 minors.

    UConn School Facts

    • Years Estd.1881 (1881)
    • NicknameHuskies
    • MascotJonathan the Husky
    • ColorsNavy blue, white and gray
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division I FBS – The American, Hockey East
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous UConn Alumni

    • Franklin Chang-Diaz

      Science & Medicine

      NASA astronaut and physicist

    • Brian Schulz

      Entertainment & Arts

      Emmy-winning producer and cinematographer

    • Doug Bernstein

      Business & Industry

      co-founder of Melissa & Doug

    • Thomas W. Bucci

      Politics & Law

      Mayor of Bridgeport, Connecticut

    • Tansu Çiller

      Politics & Law

      former Prime Minister of Turkey


  • Western Connecticut State University Seal

    Western Connecticut State University

    Danbury, Connecticut

    Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, Connecticut
    • 5,826 Total Students
    • 56% Acceptance Rate
    • 23% Enrollment Rate
    • 14 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 5,235 Total Applicants
    • Yes Online Programs

    WCSU is a public higher education institute which began in the year 1903 as a teachers training institute. The institute soon grew out of its humble beginnings and transformed into a State Teacher College, although still remaining to be a teachers training institute. By 1959 it expanded academically and that changed it into Danbury State College.

    It went through further name changes but its transformation into a university happened in the year 1983. It is based in Danbury, Connecticut and is as of present part of the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities system.

    At Western Connecticut State University, students are prepared for lifelong learning and so the focus remains overall growth and development and not just academic. With this, the students are encouraged to take in as many activities as possible around the campus. Extracurricular development takes place through more than 80 student-run clubs and organizations present offering academic, cultural, social, media and many other interests. There are opportunities to learn leadership skills through its unique LCCC (Leadership, Compassion and Creativity Certificate) program. Leadership in a real environment can be experienced through participation in the Student Government Association and Program Activities Council, representing student interests and organizing activities and events. For customer support, there is Counseling Center, Career Success Center and also unique CHOICES program which aims at substance abuse and alcohol prevention programs. The campus ministries regulate the spiritual and religious, all the while placing significance on community service and engagement activities. Students are encouraged to volunteer time and other resources in building and working with communities. There are also sports and recreational activities on campus; the university teams called ‘Colonials’ compete at NCAA Division III. Its mascot is ‘Chuck the Colonial’ and the official colors are Navy Blue and Rust Red.

    The academic programs at WCSU consist of 44 undergraduate degree programs, 16 Masters degree and two Doctoral programs. Its prominent facilities/departments are Ancell School of Business, Macricostas School of Arts and Sciences, Robert S. Young Library, Ruth A. Haas Library, Berkshire Hall, O’Neill Center, Pinney Hall, Grasso Hall and more.

    WCSU School Facts

    • Years Estd.1903
    • NicknameColonials
    • MascotChuck the Colonial
    • ColorsNavy Blue and Rust Red
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division III – Little East, ECAC
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous WCSU Alumni

    • Gorman Bechard

      Entertainment & Arts

      American film director and screenwriter

    • Fred Norris

      Entertainment & Arts

      American radio personality and writer for The Howard Stern Show

    • Dan L. Miller

      Politics & Law

      Pennsylvania State Representative

    • Scott Wright

      Professional Sports

      American professional wrestler and bodybuilder, better known by his stage names Mr. Scott Wright and Scotty Charisma

    • Merv Mosely

      Professional Sports

      American football player

    • Dana Sawyer

      Education & Advocacy

      American professor of religion and philosophy and writer on religious studies and spirituality

    • Markus Gottschlich

      Entertainment & Arts

      Austrian jazz pianist

    • Mark D. Boughton

      Politics & Law

      Mayor of Danbury, Connecticut

    • Eric Bassriel

      Professional Sports

      American producer, hip-hop artist, and host for IndieFeed, better known by his stage name Dirt E. Dutch



All Top Colleges in Connecticut

  • Connecticut College Seal

    Connecticut College

    New London, Connecticut

    Connecticut College in New London, Connecticut
    • 1,922 Total Students
    • 40% Acceptance Rate
    • 23% Enrollment Rate
    • 9 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 5,182 Total Applicants
    • No Online Programs

    Conn is a private liberal arts college that was founded in the year 1911, when it was granted charter by the State of Connecticut. The idea for the college however had begun in 1909 when women were barred from admission with the Wesleyan University. Considering more women needed educational opportunities, committee was formed, fundraising began and petition was filed for.

    Based in New London, Connecticut, the college has dedicated itself to providing higher educational opportunities to every individual with the aim of building each student beyond their potential. It offers knowledge, scholarship and research opportunities producing professionals and committed community members.

    The campus life at Conn has much to offer to each student. The college campus holds great number of events for its students, both educational and entertainment. There are performing arts events being held all year round consisting of theatrical productions, musical shows and concerts etc. Furthermore, there are over 80 student led groups and organisations that contribute to leadership skill development and learning outside classrooms. Students also find themselves coming together to serve the community; students participating in various activities, working with partner organisations in spheres of education, social justice, economics, environment, science, health, childhood and others. Some of these partners are Commission on Human Rights, American Red Cross America, Reads Challenge Program and others. These also provide with work study opportunity for the students. The college also has some unique traditions which are Camelympics, Eclipse Weekend, Festivus, Floralia Laurel Chain and many more. There are athletic teams as well, taking part at NCAA Division III. The campus colors are Blue and White and the mascot is ‘Camel’.

    Academically, Conn offers undergraduate programs with 56 majors, minors and certificate programs. It also offers a Master of Arts degree in psychology. Its prominent centers and facilities are Holleran Center for Community Action and Public Policy, Harkness Chapel, Cummings Art Center, Charles E. Shain Library, Charles Chu Asian Art Reading Room, Greer Music Library and others.

    Conn School Facts

    • Years Estd.April 1911
    • MascotCamel
    • MottoTanquam lignum quod plantatum est secus decursus aquarum
    • Motto Eng."Like a tree planted by rivers of water" (that bringeth forth its fruit in its season. – Psalm 1:3)
    • ColorsBlue and White
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division III - NESCAC
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Conn Alumni

    • Charles Chun

      Entertainment & Arts

      Hollywood film and television actor, known for the role in Scrubs

    • Tim Armstrong

      Business & Industry

      CEO of America Online (AOL); former worked at Google Inc. as Vice President and Advertising Sales

    • Haden Guest

      Education & Advocacy

      Director of the Harvard Film Archive and also lecturer at Harvard University

    • Cynthia Enloe

      Education & Advocacy

      Research professor of international relations and women's studies at Clark University

    • Elizabeth Peer

      Business & Industry

      Journalist and the first female foreign bureau chief at Newsweek

    • Kimba Wood

      Politics & Law

      Federal judge at U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York

    • Judy Irving

      Entertainment & Arts

      Emmy Award and Sundance-winning filmmaker

    • Gayl Jones

      Entertainment & Arts

      Novelist, poet and playwright

    • David Grann

      Education & Advocacy

      Journalist; best-selling and staff writer at The New Yorker

    • Christof Putzel

      Business & Industry

      Award-winning journalist and correspondent for Al Jazeera, America


  • Paier College of Art Inc

    Hamden, Connecticut

    • 128 Total Students
    • 4 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • No Online Programs

    Paier College of Art is a private 4-year college located in Hamden, Connecticut. It was established in 1946 by Edward T. and Adele K. Paier under the name of Paier School of Applied Arts. In 1954, the school hosted the students from the closed Whitney School of Art. Accordingly, the school changed its name to Paier School of Art. In the same year, the school relocated to New Haven, Connecticut starting a new program of photography. The college received its charter as a four-year college in 1982 changing its name to the current one.

    Paier states that its mission is to prepare students for professional careers in art by providing intensive art skills practice and developing art expression. The college campus consists of 4 buildings located north of New Haven. Its location provides ease of access to several important institutes as the Yale Gallery; the Peabody Museum; the Mellon Center for British Art; the Beinecke Rare Book Library; the Shubert; Long Wharf and Yale Repertory Theaters.

    Paier College offers 5 bachelor, 1 associate and 3 diploma degree programs in addition to 3 certificate non-degree programs. Students at the college may get financial support in the form of loans, grants or scholarships.

    Paier School Facts

    • LocationConnecticut
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

  • Trinity College Seal

    Trinity College

    Hartford, Connecticut

    • 2,397 Total Students
    • 33% Acceptance Rate
    • 22% Enrollment Rate
    • 10 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 7,569 Total Applicants
    • No Online Programs

    Trinity is a private liberal arts institute that traces its history to Washington College which was founded in year 1823. Although in its early years the college changed locations, no major changes took place until in 1968 when it started granting more and more admissions to minority and black students. Within a year, the college also decided to admit women as well.

    The college received its present name very early on when in 1845 it was renamed as Trinity College. It is based in Hartford, Connecticut and with its programs engages its students in free and critical thinking while understanding the needs of present global societies.

    Being a residential college, Trinity offers a vibrant and engaging environment to its students. It offers more than 140 student organisations, allowing them to pursue their interests and passion outside classrooms as well as to be involved with others students. A unique program at the campus is ‘Bantam Network’ which helps new students to adjust to the student life and be introduced around the campus. Students get to develop their leadership skills by working for the student representation through the Student Government. The campus also has its Greek Life. Addressing diversity, the students has programs and events such as PRIDE Program, Cultural Houses, Women and Gender Resource Action Center (WGRAC) etc. The campus also holds entertainment and arts events such as concerts, theatre productions, guest speakers, service projects or even inter-religious events. Community engagement takes place all year round through projects and activities like Habitrot 5K Run, Red Cross Blood Drive and others. The campus spiritual and religious life is regulated through chapel, religious clubs, projects etc. There are unique campus traditions such as Lemon Squeezer, Let’s Back Ike, 50th Reunion Hat and more. The campus has athletic teams called ‘Bantams’ competing at NCAA Division III. The official colors are Blue and Old Gold.

    Academic programs offered include undergraduate programs with 41 majors. Its notable facilities are Raether Library and Information Technology Center, Widener Gallery, Downes and Williams Memorial building, Jarvis Hall, Seabury Hall, Hamlin Hall and more.

    Trinity School Facts

    • LocationConnecticut
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Trinity Alumni

    • John Williams

      Social Advocacy & Service

      11th Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the United States

    • J. H. Hobart Ward

      Social Advocacy & Service

      American Civil War general

    • Ernest de Koven Leffingwell

      Science & Medicine

      Arctic explorer

    • Isaac Toucey

      Politics & Law

      Former Secretary of the Navy, Attorney General of the United States and the 18th Governor of Connecticut

    • Richard Barthelmess

      Entertainment & Arts

      Silent film actor; founder of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

    • Charles McLean Andrews

      Education & Advocacy

      Historian and professor, Pulitzer Prize winner

    • Ernst Vegelin

      Entertainment & Arts

      Director of the Courtauld Gallery, London

    • Jay Williamson

      Professional Sports

      Professional golfer and current member of the PGA Tour

    • Roy Nutt

      Science & Medicine

      Founder of Computer Sciences Corporation and co-creator of FORTRAN

    • Jim Murray

      Professional Sports

      Pulitzer Prize–winning sportswriter for the Los Angeles Times

    • Thomas Gallaudet

      Social Advocacy & Service

      Priest and also the pioneer of deaf education in the United States


  • Wesleyan University Seal

    Wesleyan University

    Middletown, Connecticut

    Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut
    • 3,138 Total Students
    • 22% Acceptance Rate
    • 35% Enrollment Rate
    • 8 to 1 Student to Faculty Ratio
    • 9,822 Total Applicants
    • No Online Programs

    Wesleyan is a private institute and a liberal arts college that was founded by Methodist leaders and citizens of the region collectively, in the year 1831. It started as an all-male institute but took a progressive approach by starting to admit women in 1872. But that changed again when it again became all male from 1912 to 1970.

    It separated from the church in the year 1937 and is presently a coeducational institute. It is based in Middletown, Connecticut, and has become renowned for its rigor in education, upholding its values of inclusiveness and reaching out, preparing students in creative intellect and for critical thinking.

    The campus life at Wesleyan University is diverse, engaging and exciting with plenty of opportunities. There are more than 200 student clubs which become the first step towards involvement at the campus. Furthermore, students actively seek leadership engagement and education through the Office of Student Activities and Leadership Development which offers advice and resources to hold events and programs. There is the student government body called Wesleyan Student Assembly which works for student interests and empowerment and serves as a great opportunity for a practical leadership experience. There are numerous opportunities for community engagement as well; from service learning and volunteering program to entrepreneurship and studying public life. The Center for Arts provides an additional platform for students engaging in creative and inspirational work; producing artistic performances all year round. Additional resources exist in the form of spiritual/religious life, career service, a student center for activities and more. There are also university athletic teams which are open for sports lovers and enthusiasts; the teams are called ‘Cardinals’ competing at NCAA Division II. The official colors are Cardinal and Black.

    The academics consist of a bachelor and four master degree programs in 45 major and 14 minor fields of study, six doctorate and 12 certificate programs. The prominent facilities are Olin Memorial Library; Russell House, Andrus Public Affairs Center; the Van Vleck Observatory, Davison Art Center, Allbritton Center for the Study of Public Life, Rosenbaum Squash Center and more.

    Wesleyan School Facts

    • Years Estd.1831
    • NicknameCardinals
    • ColorsCardinal and Black
    • LocationConnecticut
    • AthleticsNCAA Division IIINESCAC
    • Religious AffiliationNot applicable

    Famous Wesleyan Alumni

    • Debby Applegate

      Education & Advocacy

      Former faculty, American history, 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography

    • Charles Coulston Gillispie

      Science & Medicine

      Balzan Prize; George Sarton Medal; Pfizer Award; professor, history of science, Emeritus, Princeton University

    • Lin-Manuel Miranda

      Entertainment & Arts

      Playwright, winner of Pulitzer Prize in Drama (2016) for Hamilton

    • James Longley

      Education & Advocacy

      MacArthur Fellow; documentarian, including Gaza Strip, Iraq in Fragments, Sari's Mother

    • Hiram Chodosh

      Politics & Law

      5th president elect of Claremont McKenna College (2013–)

    • John C. Cavadini

      Social Advocacy & Service

      Professor and chair, Theology Department, University of Notre Dame; Vatican adviser; Order of St. Gregory the Great

    • D. Ronald Daniel

      Business & Industry

      Managing partner (1976–88), McKinsey & Company; developed concept, critical success factors

    • Stephen Pryor

      Business & Industry

      Financial director, Merrill Lynch

    • Carter Bays

      Entertainment & Arts

      Writer, creator, executive producer, How I Met Your Mother

    • John Simson Woolson

      Politics & Law

      Judge, United States District Court for the District of Iowa


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