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University of Bridgeport

Bridgeport, CT

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1927
Founded
Private university
Type
3,152
Undergrad
2,282
Graduate
$34M
Endowment
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Danielle Wilken

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Bridgeport

Bridge the future: Connecticut's historic private university with unique professional paths.

The University of Bridgeport (UB) stands as a vibrant private university in Bridgeport, Connecticut, offering a dynamic educational experience for over 5,000 students. As the sole university in Bridgeport, it plays a pivotal role in the region's academic landscape. UB distinguishes itself with a broad spectrum of over 60 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs, preparing students for diverse professional careers.

UB's rich history began in 1927 as the Junior College of Connecticut, notably the first junior college in the Northeastern United States. Visionary founders E. Everett Cortright, Alfred Fones, and Sumner Simpson recognized the need for higher education in Bridgeport, a bustling city at the time. The institution expanded rapidly, acquiring the historic P. T. Barnum estate and transforming into a four-year university, officially becoming the University of Bridgeport in 1947.

Academically, UB boasts several highly specialized programs that attract students nationwide. It hosts the only Chinese medicine program in Connecticut, one of only two medical laboratory sciences programs in the state, and one of the few respected chiropractic schools on the East Coast. This commitment to unique, professional-focused education, coupled with its accreditation by the New England Commission of Higher Education, ensures a rigorous and valuable learning experience within its 86-acre midsize city campus. Though acquired by Goodwin University in 2021, UB has proudly maintained its distinct name, brand, and governing board, continuing its legacy of educational excellence.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1927 as the Junior College of Connecticut, the first junior college in the Northeastern U.S.
  • A private university offering over 60 degree programs at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.
  • Home to over 5,000 students across various disciplines.
  • Features the only Chinese medicine program and one of two medical laboratory sciences programs in Connecticut.
  • Hosts one of the few chiropractic schools on the East Coast.
  • Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
  • Spans an 86-acre campus in a vibrant midsize city setting.

Timeline

1927
Founded as Junior College of Connecticut, the first junior college in the Northeastern United States.
1947
Became a four-year institution, purchased P. T. Barnum estate, and renamed University of Bridgeport.
2021
Acquired by Goodwin University, retaining its name, brand, and board of trustees.
🏛️
99 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of Bridgeport

💼

School of Business

An early and significant addition to the university's academic offerings mentioned during its expansion phase.

🏫

School of Chiropractic

One of the few comprehensive chiropractic education programs available on the East Coast.

Leadership

Danielle Wilken
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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