YSU Expands Higher Ed Offerings in Steubenville

New Associate Degree and Certificate Programs Aim to Meet Regional Workforce Needs

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:54am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating grid of college textbooks and graduation caps, representing the expansion of educational programs and pathways in the Steubenville community.YSU's expansion into Steubenville brings new opportunities for higher education and workforce development to the Upper Ohio Valley.Youngstown Today

Youngstown State University (YSU) is expanding its educational footprint by taking over the former Eastern Gateway Community College campus in Steubenville, Ohio. Starting in Fall 2026, YSU will offer a range of associate degree and certificate programs designed to address local workforce demands and provide clear academic and career pathways for the community.

Why it matters

The transition from EGCC to YSU in Steubenville represents a significant step in expanding access to higher education and workforce development opportunities in the Upper Ohio Valley region. YSU's swift action to fill the educational void left by EGCC's dissolution underscores the university's commitment to supporting the community and its economic future.

The details

YSU's inaugural program offerings in Steubenville will include associate degree tracks in fields such as criminal justice, early childhood education, information technology, nursing, radiologic technology, social work, and more. The university will also provide certificate programs in areas like police academy training, welding, machining, and medical assisting. University leaders have emphasized that this is just the beginning, with plans to evolve the program lineup based on community and workforce feedback.

  • In October 2024, Eastern Gateway Community College (EGCC) announced its dissolution, ceasing operations by September 2025.
  • YSU took over the Steubenville facilities and assumed ownership of the property in late 2025.
  • Registration for YSU's new Steubenville programs will begin in April 2026, with classes starting in the Fall 2026 semester.

The players

Youngstown State University (YSU)

A public university located in Youngstown, Ohio, that is expanding its educational offerings to the Steubenville campus.

Eastern Gateway Community College (EGCC)

The former community college that previously occupied the Steubenville facilities before announcing its dissolution in 2024.

Jim Johnson

The president of Youngstown State University, who has assured the community that the Steubenville campus will feature a mix of new hires and familiar faces from Youngstown, offering both in-person and online courses.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This development comes just months after YSU took over the Steubenville facilities and assumed ownership of the property, marking a significant step forward in expanding access to higher education and workforce opportunities.”

— Jim Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

“University leaders stress that this is just the beginning of a phased expansion, with plans to evolve programs based on community and workforce feedback.”

— Jim Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

What’s next

Registration for YSU's new Steubenville programs will begin in April 2026, with classes starting in the Fall 2026 semester.

The takeaway

YSU's expansion into Steubenville represents a significant investment in the educational and economic future of the Upper Ohio Valley region. By offering a diverse range of associate degree and certificate programs, the university aims to provide clear pathways for local residents to develop in-demand skills and secure meaningful employment, ultimately strengthening the community's long-term prosperity.