History and Institutional Mission
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.
Ground-breaking was held June 22, 1968. Since September 1969, the
University has occupied 300 acres, most of which was donated by SIHE.
Southern Indiana Higher Education, Inc. still owns 1,100 acres for
development of higher education opportunities. On April 16, 1985,
legislation was signed which made USI a separate state university. All
legal matters were effective July 1, 1985.
American
education assumes a link between the truth of an idea and the good it promotes
for individuals and society. An educated person can be expected not only to
be knowledgeable and more financially secure, but also a better citizen, among
whose virtues are tolerance, judgment, and belief in freedom for self and
others. These values develop in an atmosphere of open inquiry and pursuit
of truth. Therefore, as the University of Southern Indiana seeks to support
education, social and economic growth, and civic and cultural awareness in
southwestern Indiana, it will be devoted primarily to preparing students to
live wisely.
The University of Southern Indiana is a broad-based institution providing instruction, research, and service. There are five academic colleges within the University's structure: College of Business, Bower Suhrheinrich College of Education and Human Services, College of Liberal Arts, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and the Pott College of Science and Engineering. In addition, USI houses the Evansville Center for the Indiana University School of Medicine.
A liberal arts and science curriculum serves as the foundation of knowledge for all programs and complements undergraduate programs leading to careers in business, engineering, government, health professions, education, and related fields. Selected master's degrees already in existence, and in development, serve persons in professional and technical studies. As a public institution, the University of Southern Indiana counsels and assists both business and industry and social, educational, governmental, and health agencies to higher levels of efficiency and improved services.
The University was established in 1965 in response to a need for public higher
education in southwestern Indiana, a region lacking public higher education
until that time. From its earliest stage of planning in the early 1960s, community
leaders have supported the University in providing a solid base for its present
success and future growth. The University is expected to grow moderately in
the years ahead.
Academics | Calendar | Athletics | Visitors | Events and News | Administration
8600 University Boulevard - Evansville, IN 47712-3596 - 812/464-8600
Copyright © 2008 University of Southern Indiana. All rights reserved.
