University of Southern Indiana

ABOUT Founded in 1965, the University of Southern Indiana enrolls over 11,000 dual credit, undergraduate and graduate students in more than 130 areas of study. A public higher education institution, located on a beautiful 1,400-acre campus in Evansville, Indiana, USI offers programs through the College of Liberal Arts, Romain College of Business, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. USI is a Carnegie Foundation Community Engaged University and offers continuing education and special programs to more than 20,000 participants annually through Outreach and Engagement. The University offers study-abroad opportunities in more than 60 countries, and is host to international students from around the globe. A competitive member of NCAA Division II and the Great Lakes Valley Conference, USI offers 17 varsity intercollegiate men's and women's sports. MISSION VISION The University of Southern Indiana’s vision is a simple but powerful one: Shaping the future through learning and innovation. Its mission statement is: USI is an engaged learning community advancing education and knowledge, enhancing civic and cultural awareness, and fostering partnerships through comprehensive outreach programs. We prepare individuals to live wisely in a diverse and global community. HISTORY The rich history of the University of Southern Indiana extends from its early founding at Centennial School to its growth and current 1,400-acre campus on Evansville’s westside; from the nationally-recognized education programs, to the multiple athletic national championships. Dive into USI's history and see its growth through an interactive timeline and other online resources. The University was established in 1965 in response to a need for public higher education in southwestern Indiana. From its earliest stage of planning in the early 1960s, community leaders have supported the University by providing a solid base for its present success and future growth. The University of Southern Indiana began as a regional campus of Indiana State University, opening on September 15, 1965. In 1967, Southern Indiana Higher Education, Inc., (SIHE) raised nearly $1 million to acquire 1,400 acres for the Mid-America University Center. Groundbreaking was held June 22, 1968. Since September 1969, the University has occupied 330 acres, mostly donated by SIHE. On April 16, 1985, legislation was signed which made USI a separate state university. All legal matters were effective July 1, 1985. On June 30, 2008, SIHE transferred ownership of over 900 acres of land and remaining assets to the USI Foundation. There are four academic colleges within the University's structure: Romain College of Business, College of Liberal Arts, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education. Students also are served through Outreach and Engagement and University Division. In addition, USI houses the Indiana University School of Medicine-Evansville. The University of Southern Indiana is one of five state universities in Indiana conferring baccalaureate and higher degrees.