Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions a learner can make. The college chosen will influence career choices and form the basis for lifelong learning and friendships. Independent colleges are free of direct state control and can offer the widest possible variety of educational programs and services to students.

CCIC institutions:

• provide a quality education
   
• respond to the educational and personal needs of their students
   
• comprise a sector rich in the liberal arts and sciences tradition
   
• are student-friendly
   
• offer innovative academic programs
   
• provide individualized teaming environments
   
• facilitate dynamic campus life
   
• prepare students for a career or graduate school
   
• comprise a sector with a rigorous focus on personal inquiry and the development of strong personal values
   
• are affordable - the average annual financial aid package for our students totals approximately $17,000
   
• provide several types of financial aid on the basis of each student's individual financial situation. Most students receive some form of financial aid to help pay for their education.
   
• offer small classes and an average faculty to student ratio of 13-1
   
• graduate twice as many students within four years than students who graduate from public institutions.

At Connecticut's independent colleges, students don't learn what to think-they learn how to learn.

These critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to acquire new knowledge and skills, to communicate effectively and to understand other languages and cultures, are at the center of a liberal arts education. Likewise, these well-developed, flexible skills are the key to staying ahead and succeeding in today's constantly changing global knowledge-based economy.

Put simply, a degree from Connecticut's independent colleges and universities is an investment that keeps on giving, and that won't become obsolete with each new innovation.