William Paterson University has achieved a significant milestone, earning the prestigious designation of “Research Colleges and Universities” in the latest classifications by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education. This new classification highlights institutions nationwide that are making substantial contributions to academic research and development.
This esteemed recognition, announced recently, places William Paterson University among 218 institutions across the United States acknowledged for their commitment to research. The criteria for this classification include universities that annually expend at least $2.5 million on research and development, while maintaining a focus on a broader range of programs compared to institutions heavily concentrated on doctoral programs, categorized as Research 1 and 2.
A hallmark of research at William Paterson University is the active involvement of undergraduate students. These students frequently collaborate with faculty members in on-campus laboratories, present their findings at industry conferences, and in some instances, even co-author articles in peer-reviewed academic journals alongside their professors.
This level of hands-on research experience is often a privilege reserved for doctoral candidates at universities with a stronger emphasis on doctoral programs. William Paterson’s commitment to undergraduate research provides a distinctive advantage for its students.
“I commend the faculty and staff whose dedication and hard work have propelled William Paterson to this distinguished classification through their groundbreaking research and essential support of grant-funded initiatives,” stated President Richard J. Helldobler. “When our faculty are at the forefront of research, our students directly benefit through enriched classroom learning and expanded opportunities for experiential learning. This practical experience provides them with a significant edge as they graduate and embark on their careers.”
Building upon its successful experiential learning model, William Paterson University has recently launched an innovative career experience program, a requirement for all undergraduate students starting with the incoming first-year class. This comprehensive program ensures that every student gains meaningful practical experience to enhance their preparedness for the competitive job market. Participation in faculty-led research projects is one of the key pathways for students to fulfill this new requirement.
“Our new classification is a testament to the outstanding research emanating from William Paterson University – research that is largely supported by grants, fellowships, and other competitive awards,” noted Joshua Powers, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.
William Paterson faculty have secured funding from prominent national organizations, including the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Fulbright Scholar Program, United States Department of Education, and the United States Department of Justice, among others, underscoring the breadth and impact of their research endeavors.
The University hosts several events throughout the year to showcase the scholarly activities of both faculty and students. Notably, the annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, now in its 18th year, brings together college students from across New Jersey to William Paterson’s campus to celebrate and share undergraduate research accomplishments in the biological, chemical, and environmental sciences.
“Our students and alumni witness firsthand our strong commitment to research, and to receive national recognition for this – particularly as a mid-sized public regional university – is a significant source of pride,” Powers added.
