Calumet College of Saint Joseph

Calumet College of Saint Joseph (CCSJ) stands as a beacon of higher education in the Calumet Region, celebrated for its pioneering spirit and deep roots in the community. What began as a modest extension, CCSJ blossomed into the region's first institution to offer full baccalaureate degrees, a testament to its enduring vision for educational access and excellence. Students joining CCSJ become part of a legacy that has shaped academic opportunities for generations in Indiana.

The college's journey began in 1951 as the Calumet Center, an extension of St. Joseph's College of Rensselaer. Initially holding classes in borrowed spaces within local churches and high schools, CCSJ quickly demonstrated its potential. By 1960, recognizing the growing need for advanced education, the institution expanded into a four-year, degree-granting college, marking a pivotal moment for the region. This period saw CCSJ relocate to a dedicated building in East Chicago, laying the groundwork for its future growth and independence.

The evolution continued, culminating in a significant milestone in 1973 when the college officially separated and acquired a sprawling 256-acre campus from the American Oil Company. This move to its current location in 1976 provided students with expansive facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, a library, a theater, and comprehensive recreational spaces. This unique setting, once a hub of innovation, now fosters a vibrant learning environment designed to inspire and support a diverse student body, preparing them for successful futures.