CCSU-New Britain vs Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU)

Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) and Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) are two public universities located in Connecticut, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. While both universities share similarities in terms of their academic offerings and commitment to student success, there are some key differences between the two institutions. These differences include acceptance rates, popular majors, student body demographics, and graduation rates. To help prospective students make an informed decision about which university is the best fit for them, we have compiled a comprehensive comparison table that highlights these key differences. Explore the table to discover which university aligns better with your academic goals, interests, and personal preferences.
Central Connecticut State University logo

Central Connecticut State University

Southern Connecticut State University logo

Southern Connecticut State University

Overview

Location New Britain, Connecticut New Haven, Connecticut
Campus setting Suburb: Large City: Midsize
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 72.0% 72.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 74.8% 82.9%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
SAT range 950 - 1180 N/A
ACT range 19 - 26 N/A
Students submitting SAT score 52.0%
Students submitting ACT score 1.0%
Total number of applicants 6,285 7,294
Total number of admissions given out 4,703 6,049
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,093 1,022
Yield rate 23.2% 16.9%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Required Not required
High school transcript Required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $27,572

Out of state: $40,976
In state: $26,686

Out of state: $40,090
Average net price $14,425 $18,493
Tuition
In state: $6,162

Out of state: $18,436
In state: $6,162

Out of state: $18,436
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $7,174

Meal plan: $5,200
Room/dormitory: $7,438

Meal plan: $6,228
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

90.0%
Average amount $6,526
94.0%
Average amount $6,478
Students receiving federal student loan 48.0%
Average amount $5,113
68.0%
Average amount $5,267
Students taking out private loans 7.0%
Average amount $10,404
7.0%
Average amount $12,508

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 7,748
Men 53.5% Women 46.5%
6,800
Men 37.5% Women 62.5%
Graduate students 1,905
Men 35.9% Women 64.1%
1,988
Men 24.7% Women 75.3%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Moderate
Out-of-state students 5.6% 9.4%
International students 1.6% 1.1%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Large City: Midsize
Dormitory capacity 2,512 2,509
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Connecticut Mississippi New York New Jersey Rhode Island Connecticut New York Mississippi New Jersey Georgia

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Education
  • Business
  • Health Professions
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Engineering Technologies
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration and Social Service
Students to faculty ratio 14:1 12:1
Institutional accreditation New England Commission on Higher Education New England Commission on Higher Education

Outcome

Graduation rate 54.7% 52.3%
Dropout rate 14.3% 14.7%
Transferred out 27.2% 30.6%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $187,984
  • Year 2: $198,307
  • Year 3: $194,357
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $79,864
  • Year 2: $87,604
  • Year 3: $98,038
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,439
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $97,145
Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $78,617
  • Year 2: $82,685
  • Year 3: $86,267
Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,056
  • Year 2: $60,839
  • Year 3: $79,520
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,268
  • Year 2: $68,422
  • Year 3: $79,440
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $64,906
  • Year 2: $63,997
  • Year 3: $78,042
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,873
  • Year 2: $69,617
  • Year 3: $76,973
Construction Management (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,468
  • Year 2: $65,131
  • Year 3: $76,161
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $73,686
  • Year 2: $68,139
  • Year 3: $71,268
Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $73,779
  • Year 2: $75,072
  • Year 3: $81,441
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $73,460
  • Year 2: $71,015
  • Year 3: $74,943
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,714
  • Year 2: $64,706
  • Year 3: $73,822
Public Health (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,286
  • Year 2: $53,358
  • Year 3: $62,933
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $62,930
  • Year 2: $58,221
  • Year 3: $60,874
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,046
  • Year 2: $56,415
  • Year 3: $55,879
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $57,138
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $55,763
Social Work (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $48,671
  • Year 2: $50,263
  • Year 3: $54,461
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $53,775
  • Year 3: $53,125
Special Education and Teaching (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,635
  • Year 2: $54,032
  • Year 3: $52,600

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) and Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU)?

    CCSU, located in New Britain, is known for its strong engineering, education, and business programs, and has a more traditional campus feel. SCSU, situated in New Haven, excels in health sciences, education, and liberal arts, and offers a more urban campus environment with closer proximity to city amenities and cultural experiences. CCSU is generally perceived as having a slightly larger focus on STEM fields, while SCSU has a stronger emphasis on the arts and humanities.

  • Where are CCSU and SCSU located, and how does location impact student life?

    CCSU is located in New Britain, Connecticut, offering a more suburban campus environment. This provides a traditional college experience with a focus on campus activities and a close-knit community. SCSU is located in New Haven, Connecticut, a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, diverse dining options, and numerous internship and job opportunities. SCSU students benefit from easy access to city amenities and a more urban lifestyle.

  • Which university, CCSU or SCSU, is generally considered more affordable?

    Generally, CCSU and SCSU have similar tuition and fees for in-state students. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors like housing, meal plans, and personal expenses. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date tuition and fee schedules and to explore available financial aid options.

  • What are the popular academic programs at CCSU and SCSU?

    CCSU is well-regarded for its engineering, education, business, and technology programs. Popular majors include Mechanical Engineering, Elementary Education, and Accounting. SCSU is known for its health sciences, education, social work, and liberal arts programs. Notable programs include Nursing, Special Education, and Psychology. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

  • How do the campus cultures and student life differ between CCSU and SCSU?

    CCSU offers a more traditional campus experience with a strong emphasis on campus activities, clubs, and organizations. It fosters a close-knit community feel. SCSU, being located in New Haven, provides a blend of campus life and urban experiences. Students have access to city events, cultural attractions, and a diverse range of social opportunities. Both universities offer a variety of student organizations, sports teams, and extracurricular activities to cater to diverse interests.

  • What types of athletic programs are offered at CCSU and SCSU?

    Both CCSU and SCSU offer a variety of NCAA Division I athletic programs. CCSU's athletic teams are known as the Blue Devils, while SCSU's teams are called the Owls. Both universities compete in a range of sports, including basketball, soccer, baseball/softball, and track and field. Students interested in athletics should visit the respective athletic department websites for specific team information and schedules.

  • What are the admission requirements for CCSU and SCSU?

    Admission requirements for both CCSU and SCSU typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, though test-optional policies may apply), transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Specific requirements may vary depending on the program of study and the applicant's academic background. It's recommended to check the admissions websites of both universities for the most current and detailed information.

  • What kind of career services and internship opportunities are available at CCSU and SCSU?

    Both CCSU and SCSU offer comprehensive career services to assist students with career exploration, resume writing, interview preparation, and job searching. They also provide access to internship opportunities through partnerships with local and national employers. SCSU's location in New Haven provides access to a wider range of internship opportunities in various industries, while CCSU has strong connections with companies in the Hartford area.

  • How do the class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios compare between CCSU and SCSU?

    Both CCSU and SCSU strive to maintain reasonable class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios to ensure personalized attention for students. While specific numbers may fluctuate, both universities generally offer a learning environment where students can interact closely with their professors. Check the university websites for the most up-to-date statistics on class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios.

  • Which university, CCSU or SCSU, is better for a student interested in a specific major, like Nursing or Engineering?

    If you're interested in Nursing, SCSU has a particularly strong and well-established program. For Engineering, CCSU is generally considered to have a more robust and comprehensive offering. However, it's crucial to research the specific curriculum, faculty expertise, and available resources within each program at both universities to determine the best fit for your individual academic goals and career aspirations.