Academic and Research Excellence at Rutgers University-Newark

Rutgers University–Newark, a regional campus of Rutgers University, is renowned for its academic and research excellence. Located in Newark, New Jersey, this urban research institution offers a diverse and inclusive environment conducive to groundbreaking research and innovative academic programs.

Research Centers and Institutes

Rutgers University–Newark is home to 46 research centers and institutes, spanning a wide array of disciplines. Key areas of focus include neuroscience, criminal justice, climate equity, molecular biology, and data science. These centers often adopt an interdisciplinary approach, addressing current social and intellectual challenges.

Notable research institutes at the university include:

The Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience: This institute focuses on understanding the complexities of the human brain and behavior.
The Cornwall Center for Metropolitan Studies: Dedicated to urban policy research, this center aims to generate solutions for urban challenges.
The Joseph C. Cornwall Center for Metropolitan Studies: Engages in research and public service activities that address urban issues.

Faculty Excellence

Rutgers University–Newark boasts a faculty-to-student ratio of 15:1, ensuring students receive personalized attention. The faculty includes distinguished scholars and practitioners recognized for their contributions to their respective fields.

Prominent faculty members include:

Jeffrey Robinson: The Interim Chancellor and Provost of Rutgers University-Newark, Robinson is an internationally known author and co-founder of The Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and Economic Development.
Charles E. Menifield: A University Professor and former Dean of the School of Public Affairs and Administration, Menifield is recognized for his significant contributions to public administration.
Bonnie Veysey: A professor and former interim dean of the School of Criminal Justice, Veysey has been appointed as Executive Vice Chancellor and Interim Provost.

Collaborative Research and Innovation

Rutgers University–Newark encourages collaboration through its Innovation Ventures team, which works to transform research into products, services, or partnerships for the public good. The university’s Research with Rutgers portal connects researchers with thousands of potential collaborators across the institution.

Community Engagement

As an anchor institution, Rutgers University–Newark is deeply committed to community engagement and addresses local issues with global resonance through innovative community partnerships and projects. This civic-minded approach not only enriches the educational experience but also contributes to the betterment of the surrounding community.

Diverse Academic Programs

The academic offerings at Rutgers University–Newark are as diverse as its student body. The institution includes Schools of Arts and Sciences, Business, Criminal Justice, Law, Public Affairs and Administration, and a Graduate School. Each school is known for conducting wide-ranging, innovative, and collaborative research that tackles pressing issues of the day.

Notable Alumni

The legacy of excellence at Rutgers University–Newark is reflected in its notable alumni, who have made significant contributions across various fields:

Marc Berson: A visionary urbanist and lifelong champion of Newark, Berson’s contributions to the city are celebrated by the university community.

Rutgers University-Newark

Rutgers University-Newark (RU-N) is a distinguished regional campus of Rutgers University located in the vibrant city of Newark, New Jersey. It is one of the three main regional campuses of Rutgers, which includes Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Rutgers University-Camden. As a public land-grant research university, it is committed to addressing the challenges faced by urban areas and fostering community engagement.

Academic Programs

RU-N offers a broad array of academic programs that span undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies. The university is noted for its emphasis on social justice and community involvement. RU-N's schools and colleges include:

Rutgers Business School – Newark and New Brunswick, which offers extensive courses in business and management.
Rutgers Law School, providing rigorous legal education with campuses in Newark and Camden.
The School of Public Affairs and Administration, known for its contributions to public policy and administration.
The College of Arts and Sciences, which offers a diverse range of liberal arts education.

Campus Life and Community Engagement

The campus is situated in University Heights, an area that hosts other academic institutions like the New Jersey Institute of Technology and the New Jersey Medical School. RU-N actively collaborates with local partners, contributing to the socio-economic development of the Newark area.

RU-N provides a rich campus life with numerous cultural, social, and academic activities. The community is characterized by its diversity, fostering an environment where students from various backgrounds feel at home. The university's commitment to inclusiveness is further supported by figures like Nancy Cantor, who served as the chancellor from 2014 to 2024, becoming the first woman to hold this position.

Notable Alumni and Faculty

RU-N has a history of distinguished alumni and faculty members who have significantly contributed to various fields:

Ramy Youssef, an actor and creator known for his pioneering work in film and television, is a noted alumnus who has contributed to the cultural landscape.
Jayne Anne Phillips, a renowned author who served in the faculty and helped establish the MFA program at RU-N.
Anna Stubblefield, a former professor of philosophy known for her work in facilitated communication.

Research and Innovation

RU-N is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," indicating its strong emphasis on research. The university is actively involved in research that addresses urban challenges, social justice, and public policy.