Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU or Southern) is a state university in Connecticut. Part of the Connecticut State University System, it was founded in 1893 and is governed by the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education. SCSU is located in the West Rock neighborhood of New Haven, Connecticut.
On September 11, 1893, New Haven State Normal School, a two-year teacher training school, was established. The Skinner School, a two story building, was used as the first campus. Prospective students had to be at least 16 years of age, and typically had either a three year high school degree or two years teaching experience. There were 85 women in the first class. Tuition was free for students, in-state or out-of-state, as long as a declaration to complete their studies and teach in Connecticut was signed. All textbook materials were provided by the school. Boarding was available for between $3.50 and $4.00 a week, although the majority of the students were from New Haven and commuted.
The Skinner School was soon outgrown by the rapidly growing Normal School. In 1896, was moved to a new building on Howe and Oak St. This was a better location because of its larger size and its proximity to several elementary schools where students could train. At this point, the Normal School could only award certificates in teaching to graduates.
By 1937 the school was able to grant bachelor's degrees, and thus renamed New Haven State Teacher’s College. Graduate degrees were offered starting in 1954, a year after the school moved to its current campus on Crescent St.
In March 1983 the school was renamed Southern Connecticut State University and made part of the Connecticut State University System.
Last Updated on: Nov 26, 2024