History

Goodwin College was founded in 1999, having evolved from Data Institute Business School, a career training school that had operated in East Hartford, Connecticut since 1962.

In 2004, the college became a nonprofit organization and received accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). By 2007, the college’s nursing program had grown to become the second largest in the state of Connecticut.

In the fall of 2009, enrollment increased to 2,083 students – a 31 percent growth since the fall of 2008.

For an interactive timeline, click here.

Students

Goodwin College’s students are both recent high school graduates and adult professionals. According to figures provided in the college’s 2009-10 Institutional Data report, 47 percent are students of color, 99 percent are Connecticut residents and 85 percent are female. The student population’s median age is 27.

To get to know some of our students, click here.

For statistics on enrollment and other information, click here.  

Campus Expansion Project

In 2007, Goodwin College initiated a major project to construct a new campus along the Connecticut River in East Hartford. The college purchased riverfront property that was home to a defunct oil terminal and took steps to redevelop the site in partnership with state and federal environmental agencies.

The main building, a 109,000 square foot academic and student life hub overlooking the river, opened for classes in January 2009. Students, faculty and staff have at their disposal 39 classrooms, 8 labs, an 840-seat auditorium and a 2-story, 6,700 square foot library.

Magnet High Schools

Goodwin College is spearheading the development of new technology and environment-themed magnet high schools on its campus. One institution, the Connecticut River Academy, is an early college high school that will host students of grades 9 through 12 and provide them with the opportunity to earn college credit beginning in grade 11. Academic focus includes river studies; land, water and air quality; plant and animal growth; human ecology; and renewable energy.

More information about the Connecticut River Academy can be found here.  

Resources

Click here for directions to Goodwin College facilities.

Click here for a message from Goodwin College’s president.

Click here for information on jobs at Goodwin.