Rowan University: A Rising Leader in Growth, Innovation, and Online Education, Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, is one of the fastest-growing public research universities in the United States. Over the last few decades, Rowan has built a reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and accessibility. It has become a model for how public universities can evolve to meet the needs of modern learners.
A Century of Progress and Vision
Rowan University began in 1923 as Glassboro Normal School, a small teacher-training college. Today, it is a nationally recognized public research university with over 20,000 students and multiple campuses across southern New Jersey. The university’s transformation is often credited to the historic $100 million gift from Henry M. Rowan in 1992, which led to the creation of the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering.
This milestone investment sparked a wave of development, helping the university expand academic programs, strengthen research, and modernize its infrastructure. What began as a local college now stands as a respected Carnegie-classified R2 research institution.
Academic Strengths and Research Growth
Rowan offers more than 80 undergraduate programs, 60 master’s degrees, and several doctoral and professional programs. It is one of only a few U.S. universities with both M.D. and D.O. degree-granting medical schools:
- Cooper Medical School of Rowan University (CMSRU)
- Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (Rowan-Virtua SOM)
These programs reflect Rowan’s commitment to health sciences and community-centered care. The university also excels in business, engineering, computer science, and education—fields that prepare students for leadership in an ever-changing world.
Expanding Horizons with Rowan Online
In recent years, Rowan Online has revolutionized how the university delivers education. Through online and hybrid programs, students can earn degrees from anywhere in the world while maintaining the same quality as on-campus courses.
Popular Rowan Online programs include business administration, data analytics, nursing, education, and cybersecurity. Every course is designed by expert faculty and supported with 24/7 technical help, interactive tools, and digital resources.
As of 2025, more than half of Rowan’s students had taken at least one online course—a testament to the university’s commitment to flexibility and accessibility.
Affordable, Accessible, and Student-Focused
Affordability remains central to Rowan’s mission. The university offers competitive tuition, financial aid, and generous transfer pathways for community college students. Its “Rowan Choice” and “Rowan Partnerships” initiatives make it easier for students to complete bachelor’s degrees without high debt.
This focus on affordability and access has helped Rowan attract a diverse student body while maintaining high academic standards.
Research and Industry Collaboration
Rowan’s growing research enterprise fuels innovation across fields such as medicine, sustainability, and materials science.
Key initiatives include:
- Rowan-Virtua Health Partnership – advancing healthcare research and medical training.
- South Jersey Technology Park – connecting faculty and students with start-ups and global tech firms.
- Sustainability and Smart Materials Research – developing green technologies and future-ready solutions.
These collaborations not only strengthen Rowan’s research impact but also create career opportunities for students.
A Culture of Inclusion and Innovation
Rowan University actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and equity. Through initiatives like the Office of Social Justice, Inclusion, and Conflict Resolution, students are encouraged to engage in open dialogue and community action.
For online learners, Rowan provides full access to tutoring, advising, and mental health support services. Every student, whether on campus or online, receives the same opportunities to succeed.
The Future of Rowan University
Rowan’s strategic plan, Transforming Tomorrow Together, sets ambitious goals for research growth, sustainability, and student achievement by 2030. The university aims to double research funding, expand global partnerships, and further improve online education infrastructure.
By combining affordability, innovation, and community focus, Rowan is shaping the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders.
Conclusion
Rowan University’s journey from a local teacher’s college to a nationally respected research institution is a story of determination and vision. Through Rowan Online, industry partnerships, and a commitment to affordability, the university continues to set a new standard for public higher education in the digital age.