The University

At the University of New Haven, we are wholly dedicated to the professional future of our students and caringly committed to their achievement. We provide the people, the programs, and the places that enable our students to prepare for personal success — in their careers and in life.

The University of New Haven is a private, independent, comprehensive University based in southern New England, specializing in quality educational opportunities and preparation of both traditional and returning students for successful careers and self-reliant, productive service in a global society.

Our Mission

The University of New Haven is a student-centered comprehensive university with an emphasis on excellence in liberal arts and professional education. Our mission is to prepare our students to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives in a global society by providing the highest-quality education through experiential, collaborative and discovery-based learning.

Our Vision

For nearly a century, the University of New Haven has equipped students with the practical skills and critical knowledge necessary for success in an array of professional pursuits. In turn, our graduates have become the business executives, engineers, scientists, teachers and public officials leading and supporting our communities.

As knowledge expands and these pursuits become more complex, a university’s approach to education must correspondingly change.   A new generation of technologically sophisticated students learn differently and require refashioned forms of teaching. They collaborate, find and share knowledge instantly, and fully immerse themselves in the educational process. They think globally and don’t recognize academic silos. They increasingly aim to apply what they learn to their chosen careers, even before graduating, by engaging in internships and research projects. Universities must facilitate this discovery-based learning and prepare students for success in today’s rapidly changing economic and technological landscape.

A national leader in experiential education, the University of New Haven is on the vanguard of this revolution. We seek to harness new advances in technology, reshape teaching and learning, and foster an educational environment where students benefit by creating, doing and achieving. We also will build upon our historical academic strengths in science, engineering and business—and, more recently, in security and public safety. We will enhance these programs and discover new ways of creating interdisciplinary connections and promoting strategic partnerships.

Our vision is to become one of the Northeast’s premier comprehensive universities offering a technologically advanced, experience-based, outcomes-focused education, one that produces graduates who will use their knowledge and skills to strengthen communities throughout our region, our nation and our world.

Our Guiding Principles

UNH is committed to educational innovation, to continuous improvement in career-focused and professional education, and to support for scholarship and professional development.

UNH takes pride in, and models itself by, the standard of best practices in its commitment to service, quality, integrity, and personal caring. All academic programs, as well as campus and student life, provide rich opportunities for leadership, personal growth, and participation in the aesthetics of life so that the University of New Haven will personify a successful commitment to diversity, equality, and “the pursuit of happiness.”

Our goal is to distinguish ourselves by the measures of student admissions; retention; career development; collaboration with business, industry, and community; and the success of our graduates and their support as alumni.

Our Values

We believe in:

• The University of New Haven
• Active learning
• Discovery, creativity and scholarship
• Collaboration
• Independent critical thinking
• Curiosity and inquisitiveness
• Transformational educational experiences
• An appreciation of diverse viewpoints and different cultures
• Individual and institutional integrity

How We Will Be Known

We wish to be known for the following qualities:

• Excellence in career professions
• Currency in information technology and knowledge management
• Exceptional faculty, talented students, and accomplished alumni
• Mentored and engaged real-life learning
• Cultural awareness in a global society
• Community, business, and professional partnerships
• Ideal size and presence
• Student satisfaction

The hallmarks of a UNH education are quality educational opportunities at all post-secondary levels, through career-oriented academic programs with a strong liberal arts foundation, taught by a caring and highly qualified faculty in safe, convenient, and diverse campus environments.

A solid core curriculum of liberal, humanistic course work is balanced with professional programs in business, engineering, applied computer sciences, public safety, and other advanced technical areas.

Moreover, the University is flexible enough to meet the needs of students who work while they attend UNH. A range of programs for part-time study is offered at night. A cooperative education program makes it possible for students to augment their academic program with related work experience.

The Graduate School offers students the opportunity to continue study beyond the bachelor degree on a part-time or full-time basis.

By responding to the educational needs of its students, the University of New Haven has become a major regional University serving both our students and the business community.

Accreditation

The University of New Haven is a comprehensive, nonsectarian, independent institution of higher learning chartered by the General Assembly of the State of Connecticut.

The University of New Haven is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), Inc., a nongovernmental, nationally recognized organization whose affiliations range from elementary schools to collegiate institutions offering postgraduate instruction.

Accreditation by NEASC indicates that an institution meets or exceeds criteria for the assessment of institutional quality periodically applied through a peer group review process. An accredited school or college is one which has available the necessary resources to achieve its stated mission through appropriate educational programs, is substantially doing so, and gives reasonable evidence that it will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Institutional integrity is also addressed through accreditation.

Accreditation by NEASC is not partial but applies to the institution as a whole. It is not a guarantee of the quality of every course or program offered or of the competence of individual graduates. Rather, it provides reasonable assurance of the quality of opportunities available to students.

The UNH College of Business is actively seeking accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The College has voluntarily committed to participate in a systematic program of quality enhancement and continuous improvement that makes AACSB accreditation a more realistic and operational objective.

The University of New Haven’s curricula leading to the bachelor degrees in chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineering are fully accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (EAC/ABET). The computer science bachelor degree program is fully accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET (CAC/ABET).

Individual programs, departments, and schools hold various forms of national professional accreditation, which are listed in relevant sections of the catalog.

History

The University of New Haven (UNH) was founded in 1920 on the campus of Yale University as the New Haven YMCA Junior College, a division of Northeastern University. The college offered instruction in business and engineering to local students. The university also owed much to Yale University, for the use of its buildings and laboratories and for the assistance of its faculty and graduate students for nearly forty years.

In September 1958, the College completed construction of a classroom building on Cold Spring Street, New Haven, for its daytime engineering programs. That same year, the College received authorization from the Connecticut legislature to offer the bachelor of science degree in the fields of business, accounting, management, and industrial engineering.

Although the student body on the new Cold Spring Street campus numbered fewer than 200, the College’s facilities were fast becoming overcrowded. To meet the needs of the College and the local community, the Board of Governors purchased, in 1960, three buildings and twenty-five acres of land in West Haven formerly belonging to the New Haven County Orphanage.

The combination of increased classroom space and four-year degree programs sparked a period of tremendous growth in enrollment and facilities. In 1961, the year after the College moved to West Haven, the graduating class numbered seventy-five. Forty-seven years later the figure has climbed to 1,200 graduates annually.

New Haven College received full accreditation for its baccalaureate programs from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges in 1966. In 1969, the College took a major step forward with the addition of the Graduate School. Initially offering programs in business administration and industrial engineering, the Graduate School expanded rapidly. Today, twenty-eight master’s programs, along with a wide variety of graduate certificates, offer the approximately 1,800 graduate students many choices for post-baccalaureate study.

In 1970, on the fiftieth anniversary of its founding, New Haven College became the University of New Haven, reflecting the increased scope and the diversity of academic programs offered.

Today, the university offers a rich variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in five schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the Tagliatela College of Engineering, the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, and the Graduate School.

Undergraduate and graduate courses and programs are offered on the main campus in West Haven and at other off-campus and in-plant sites. Graduate courses in selected fields are offered at our Southeastern campus in New London and in Waterbury, Shelton, Newington, and at our newest site on Saw Mill Road in West Haven. Company-restricted programs are also offered at Pitney Bowes (MBA for Emerging Leaders) and Sandia Laboratories in New Mexico (M.S. in National Security).

Philosophy

The University of New Haven, a private, comprehensive, multi-campus University based in southern New England, provides quality educational opportunities and preparation for self-reliant, productive, ethical service in a global society.

Since its founding in 1920, the University of New Haven has been an innovator in providing quality educational opportunities with special emphasis on programs addressing current and emerging social needs. Building on its successful past, the University will strive to achieve prominent and distinctive leadership as an institution that empowers students with substantive knowledge, the ability to communicate, skills in problem-solving, and the practical experience appropriate for success as leaders in their professions and as citizens of the local and world communities.

The University is committed to participatory governance and quality management through continuous improvement as the means to achieve its goals and perform its primary service — successful student and faculty growth and learning.

Colleges of the University

The College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences offers associate and bachelor’s degrees in numerous fields, from traditional to career-focused, all of which prepare graduates for life in a global environment.

Through the Graduate School, the College of Arts and Sciences also offers master’s degree programs and graduate certificates. Detailed information on the graduate programs is available in the Graduate School catalog.

The College of Business

The College of Business offers programs in the fields of management, accounting, marketing, finance, management of sports industries, hotel and restaurant management, and tourism and event management.

Through the Graduate School, the College of Business offers the M.B.A. and other master degree programs as well as a number of business-related graduate certificates.

The Tagliatela College of Engineering

The Tagliatela College of Engineering offers eleven degree programs in ten fields: chemistry, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, general engineering, information technology/network administration and security, information technology/web and database development, mechanical engineering, and system engineering.

Master of science degree programs and graduate certificates in several engineering and applied science fields are offered through the Graduate School. Students should consult the Graduate School catalog for details.

The Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences

The Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences provides programs for students who wish to major in degree programs specifically oriented toward careers in criminal justice, forensic science, forensic psychology, fire science, arson investigation, fire protection engineering, forensic computer investigation, legal studies, and related programs. The College provides a broad professional education, which often incorporates classroom learning with laboratory and field experience. The College attracts students of varied ages and levels of experience from recent high school graduates to seasoned industry professionals. It also serves professionals seeking programs designed to meet requirements of national and/or regional accreditations and licensures.

College of Lifelong & eLearning

The University of New Haven was founded in 1920 as New Haven College to train students to meet the local needs of the community and region, often integrating education with experiences in business and industry. For more than 80 years UNH has continued to provide upward mobility to adult students who otherwise would not be able to receive a college education. University College was created in 2007 to reflect UNH’s continued dedication to meeting the educational needs of adult students.  The College was renamed in 2012 to the College of Lifelong & eLearning.  The new name more clearly reflects the work of the College in assisting part time and adult students in pursuing and reaching their educational goals.  The new name also emphasizes that learning is a lifelong endeavor as well as the College’s new focus on developing totally online programs.  The new online programs will create a new level of access to adult students wherever they may live to take advantage of the quality of a University of New Haven educational experience without ever having to come to campus. 

The Graduate School

The Graduate School, founded in 1969, offers twenty-five master’s programs and a variety of graduate certificates. The Main Campus in West Haven offers all our graduate programs. Courses leading to the master’s degree in business administration, education, engineering management, public administration, industrial/organizational psychology, national security, and other selected subjects are also offered at off-campus locations in Connecticut (New London, Newington, Shelton, and Waterbury), and New Mexico, depending on the program.

The Graduate School offers numerous programs and certificates that can be found in the most recent Graduate Catalog.

The Graduate School operates on a trimester calendar, with terms beginning in September, January, and April. Classes generally meet once each week during the regular trimesters. In addition, an abbreviated summer session is offered during July and August. Classes meet twice each week during the summer session.

To accommodate working professionals, most courses meet in the evenings, beginning at 5:30 or 6 p.m. A few classes are scheduled earlier in the day or on weekends. Students may enroll either full time or part time.

Additional information regarding graduate programs may be obtained from the Graduate School Admissions Office, by emailing gradinfo@newhaven.edu, or by calling 203.932.7133, or 1.800.DIAL. UNH, ext. 7133.

Degrees Offered by the University

The University of New Haven offers undergraduate programs leading to the bachelor of arts degree, the bachelor of science degree, and the associate in science degree. A number of undergraduate certificates are also available.

Bachelor’s Degrees

The bachelor’s degree programs at the University of New Haven require 120 or more credits of study and generally take a minimum of four years for full-time students. Part-time students take advantage of courses offered in the evening and complete their undergraduate degrees on a schedule that complements their careers. Accelerated programs for working adults are offered in various disciplines.

Associate Degrees

Associate degree programs are designed to encourage students to begin their college education even though they do not yet want to commit themselves to a full, four-year course of study. A minimum of sixty credits is required for the associate degree, and the credits earned usually apply toward relevant bachelor’s degree programs.

Certificates

Students can take their first step toward an undergraduate degree by registering for one of the certificates offered by the University.

Each certificate is carefully designed as a concentrated introduction to a particular subject area and consists of courses totaling twelve or more credits.

Later, students may choose to apply the credits they have earned toward a relevant undergraduate degree at the University.

Graduate Degrees

Through the UNH Graduate School, programs are offered leading to the master of arts, the master of science, the master of public administration, the master of business administration, the executive master of business administration, the executive master of science in engineering management, and a number of graduate certificates. For more information, contact the Graduate School Admissions Office, or consult the Graduate School catalog.

University Policies

Diversity Policy

The University of New Haven is committed to achieving a diverse and pluralistic community that reflects the multiracial and culturally diverse society of contemporary America.

The University of New Haven does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment against any individual on the basis of gender identity or expression, race, color, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or civil union status, or national or ethnic origin.

Notice of Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of New Haven is committed to equal access in educational and employment opportunities for all applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or civil union status, or disabilities not related to performance, in compliance with federal and state statutes. Benefits, privileges, and opportunities offered by the University of New Haven are available to all students and employees on a nondiscriminatory basis in accordance with federal and state statutes. In recruitment of students and employees, the University of New Haven subscribes to a policy of affirmative action and equal opportunity. Inquiries regarding affirmative action, equal opportunity, and Title IX may be directed to the University’s Affirmative Action Officer at 300 Boston Post Road, West Haven, CT 06516; Phone 203.932.7479.

Notification of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act affords students certain rights with respect to their education records, as follows:

1. The right to inspect and review records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of academic department, or other appropriate official written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request amendment of records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is a disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Governors; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University of New Haven to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act

In accordance with Connecticut’s Public Act 90-259 concerning campus safety and the 1990 federal law, PL101-542: The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act, all colleges and universities receiving state and federal financial assistance are required to maintain specific information related to campus crime statistics and security measures, annually provide such information to current students and employees, and make the data available to prospective students and their families and to prospective employees upon request.

Safety on the University campus is a natural source of concern for parents, students, and University employees. Education — the business of the University of New Haven — can take place only in an environment in which each student and employee feels safe and secure. UNH recognizes this and employs a number of security measures including its own sworn police department to protect the members of this community.

The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act (Clery Act) is a federal law that requires all colleges and universities to disclose annually information about crime on and around their campuses. The Campus Crime Report includes statistics for the three most recently completed calendar years.

The full report for the University of New Haven, prepared by the UNH Police Department, is available on the UNH website and in printed form at the UNH Police Department. This report also includes information on University policies concerning sexual assaults, alcohol, drugs, weapons, and residence hall security, fire safety and missing person reports.

Drug-Free and Smoke-Free Environment

In accordance with federal law concerning a drug-free campus environment, the relevant University policy and regulations are provided to all current students and employees. The information is also available upon request at the human resource department.

The No Smoking policy is in effect in any campus administrative, academic, or recreational building. This restriction applies to all UNH offices, classrooms, hallways, stairwells, restrooms, dining facilities, conference/meeting facilities, athletic facilities, and any other public spaces within these buildings. Smoking is confined to outdoor space, with ashtrays provided at entrances to each building.

In accordance with Connecticut law, smoking is not permitted in the residence halls.

University Email Accounts

Upon acceptance to the University, each student is assigned a UNH email account. This login is used for a variety of purposes including gaining access to Blackboard, the University’s central record-keeping platform, email distribution lists, emergency warning notification systems, and others. Consistent with the goals of providing timely information and limiting the use of paper-based communication, the University deems its email system to be an official means of notification to staff and students, equivalent to registered mail. Students must review their UNH email on a consistent and regular basis. The students may not establish a non-UNH email address as their principal address for receipt of email from UNH faculty, staff, or system-wide communication unless a given mechanism specifically encourages or provides for the use of non-UNH addresses. Forwarding of mail from the students’ UNH account to their commercial accounts is acceptable.