Founded in 1927, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is a distinguished private, co-educational institution known for its vibrant and diverse student community.
It operates under the auspices of the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, primarily serving the English-speaking territories of Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, the British and U.S. Virgin Islands, the Windward and Leeward Islands (excluding the French dependencies), and Suriname.
A Journey of Educational Growth
USC embarked on its educational beginnings as the East Caribbean Training School, dedicated to shaping the futures of youths within the Caribbean Union Conference.
In just two years, it transformed into Caribbean Training College, laying the foundation for its commitment to academic excellence.
USC's First President, C.J. Boyd (1927 - 1928)
Becoming Caribbean Union College
In 1956, USC embraced change once again and rebranded as Caribbean Union College. This marked the beginning of significant academic expansion. In 1970, a groundbreaking academic extension brought forth a four-year academic preparatory programme, leading to the Bachelor of Theology degree.
The institution’s commitment to diversified education was further evident with the conferral of degrees in various disciplines, achieved through its affiliation with Andrews University in Michigan, the USA, since 1985.
Earning the Title of "University"
February 2006 was a momentous milestone for USC when it officially earned the title of “University.” The Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago (ACTT) bestowed this esteemed recognition, positioning USC as the third university in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. This accomplishment solidified USC’s status as a leading institution of higher learning in the region.
Traditions
Take a stroll through the corridors of our main Administrative building, and artistic masterpieces adorn the walls, each telling a compelling story of our past. From the leadership of our first president, C.J. Boyd, to the pioneering spirit of former Dean of Women, Linda Austin. Delve deeper, and you’ll uncover our roots in agriculture and construction, integral parts of our early curriculum. Stories abound of the broom shop, the beloved campus truck named “Bobby,” and the College Press, a past printing powerhouse in Trinidad and Tobago.
The La Realista plantation building stands as a testament to our enduring presence in the community. Music has always been the heartbeat of USC life, echoing through our halls then and even now. We take pride in preserving our traditions through art and our motto, “Beyond Excellence.”