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Why Choose Central

At Central, you'll find the opportunities, support, and experiences to help you succeed in college—and beyond.

As Connecticut's first publicly funded university, Central combines academic excellence, affordability, and hands-on learning to prepare graduates for meaningful careers.

Explore Our Programs

We offer a diverse array of academic programs allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. Beyond traditional coursework, our students engage in academic research, career-starting co-op programs and internships, and a growing array of community engagement activities.

Learn More About Our Programs

Explore it all. Find your fit at Central

At Central, students are encouraged to follow their curiosity, get hands-on, bring ideas to life, build what’s next, and discover where their interests can take them. Whether you’re creating, innovating, or launching your next big idea, there’s room to explore, experiment, and find your fit.

Top Reasons to attend Central

  • Affordable Excellence

    The lowest tuition and fees in the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities system.

  • Real-World Experience

    Two applied learning experiences before graduation help you build career-ready skills.

  • A Legacy of Student Success

    Connecticut’s first publicly funded institution of higher education, with a proud tradition of helping students succeed.

  • Exclusive academic programs

    Including the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP), Certified Financial Planner (CFP) program, and Technology Education Certification

  • A Community Where You Belong

    Learn directly from experienced faculty and join a vibrant, diverse community that supports first-generation, military-connected, and lifelong learners.

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The only 
NCAA Division I University 
in the CSCU system

Hear From Our Students

Discover why students choose Central through their stories and experiences.

portrait of Capone Reyes

“I chose Central as it had the most affordable commuter tuition and ease of public transportation across the Hartford-New Britain area.

I was able to attend university as a first-generation student and support myself financially thanks to Central's affordability and the grants I obtained throughout my time here.”

— Capone Reyes ‘26

portrait of Aaliyah Brown

“Being a part of the Accelerate Central Criminal Justice program has been an amazing opportunity for me to advance academically and professionally. I immensely appreciate how this program has allowed me to save time and money, while also pushing me and challenging me intellectually. I love being a part of the criminal justice program here at Central, and I believe that I have extremely benefited from starting my graduate degree while simultaneously completing my undergraduate degree. This allows me to apply certain concepts more effectively, and I am receiving a more robust and extensive education as a result. I would definitely recommend this pathway to anyone considering getting a Master's degree.”

— Aaliyah Brown ‘26

Central Ranks High

Community Engagement Classification - The Carnegie Elective Classification
Best Cybersecurity Bachelor's Degree Program - Cybersecurity Guide
Most Affordable Colleges in Connecticut – Research.com
Top Performers on Social Mobility – U.S. News & World Reports
America’s Best Colleges – Wall Street Journal
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. - CFP Board

Academic Schools & Colleges

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School of Business

First Certified Financial Planner Board Registered Program in CT

Central Connecticut State University’s School of Business equips students from diverse backgrounds to achieve career success and drive positive change through affordable, high-quality, and transformative educational experiences.

School of Business

Student practicing teaching

School of Education

175 Years. One Enduring Specialty: Education.

Central Connecticut State University’s School of Education is dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders who will serve in diverse communities. For more than 175 years, we have been preparing teachers to excel in the classroom. Our students participate in learning experiences that are rich in a variety of perspectives, values, attitudes, and beliefs.

School of Education

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College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

Pathways to Professional Health and Human Services.

College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences provides students a comprehensive inter-professional education, equipping them with the essential skills and experiences needed for careers in various health and human service fields. Collaborative programs emphasize holistic, patient centered approaches including prevention, assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and chronic illness management. These programs and practical experiences foster cultural competency and advocacy in healthcare, empowering students to become transformative leaders in health and rehabilitation services.

College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

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College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences

A Creative, Critical, and Transformative Community.

At the Carol A. Ammon College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, students build the skills employers value most: critical thinking, communication, creativity, and problem-solving. Supported by expert faculty and hands-on learning opportunities, graduates are prepared to lead, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences

Students in lab coats

School of Engineering, Science, & Technology

Discover your potential. Build your future. Shape your world.

Central Connecticut State University’s School of Business equips students from diverse backgrounds to achieve career success and drive positive change through affordable, high-quality, and transformative educational experiences.

School of Engineering, Science, & Technology