Vermont's public higher education system serving 11,000+ students across community colleges and universities.
The Vermont State Colleges System (VSCS) was created by the Vermont General Assembly in 1961 and operates as a public liberal arts and sciences system. It comprises two main entities: the Community College of Vermont (founded 1970) and Vermont State University, which was formed in 2023 by unifying Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College while maintaining separate campus locations. The system's headquarters is located in Montpelier, Vermont.
The system serves over 11,000 students with small class sizes and a 1:16 faculty-to-student ratio. More than half of VSCS students are first-generation college students. Over 80% of students come from Vermont, with additional enrollment from 40+ U.S. states and 45+ countries. Nearly 90% of faculty hold a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree. The system offers flexible learning options including online education and academic centers within 25 miles of every Vermonter.
The VSCS is deeply rooted in Vermont communities with a mission centered on 'For the benefit of Vermont.' The system educates more Vermonters annually than all other higher education institutions in the state combined and employs thousands of Vermonters. Over two-thirds of VSCS alumni live and work in Vermont. The system emphasizes accessibility, workforce development, and career readiness aligned with Vermont employers and communities.
The Vermont State Colleges offer rolling admissions and feature the lowest tuition rates available. Students can study part-time or online while working or living close to home. The system offers Guaranteed Direct Admissions from Community College of Vermont to any Vermont State College. Additional opportunities include travel, study abroad, service learning, and leadership development programs across the system.