Rowan University

For in-state students, Rowan University's affordability score of 90 is a significant advantage. However, the negative ROI score suggests that even with lower tuition, the median earnings may not significantly outpace the debt incurred for all graduates.

Rowan University has a negative ROI score of -10, indicating that the median earnings 10 years after entry ($59,988) may not sufficiently cover the median debt at graduation ($20,500) and the overall cost of attendance for many graduates.

Rowan University's graduation rate of 67.8% is moderate. Further comparison with peer institutions would be needed to determine if this is a strength or weakness within its specific context.

Rowan University is a large public university with a diverse student body. The admission rate of 77.7% suggests it is accessible to a broad range of students.

While Rowan University has a high affordability score, this is largely driven by in-state tuition. Students requiring significant financial aid, especially out-of-state students, should carefully review aid packages and compare them against potential debt and earnings.

Rowan University has an acceptance rate of approximately 77.7%, classifying it as a moderately selective institution. This means that while a significant portion of applicants are admitted, meeting the general admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Successful applicants typically demonstrate a solid academic record, including strong grades in high school coursework, particularly in core subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are considered, though Rowan has adopted a test-optional policy for some programs, allowing applicants to choose whether to submit scores. Beyond academics, Rowan looks for well-rounded individuals who show potential for success both in and out of the classroom. Extracurricular involvement, volunteer work, leadership roles, and compelling essays can strengthen an application. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the campus, attend information sessions, and connect with admissions counselors to understand specific program prerequisites and gain insights into what makes a competitive applicant. Early application can also be beneficial.

Rowan University's value proposition is moderate, particularly when considering its median 10-year earnings of $59,988 against its tuition costs and median debt of $20,500. For New Jersey residents, the in-state tuition of $16,574 makes it a more financially accessible option. If a graduate earns at the median and diligently repays their debt, the $20,500 could potentially be paid off within 5-7 years, assuming a significant portion of their income is allocated to debt repayment. However, the ROI score of -10 suggests that, on average, the financial return doesn't significantly outweigh the investment compared to other institutions. The value increases significantly for students pursuing high-demand fields with earning potential well above the median, or for those who receive substantial financial aid or scholarships. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition ($26,932) makes the financial calculation more challenging. While Rowan provides a good education and career services, it's crucial for students to research specific program outcomes and potential salary ranges within their chosen field to determine if the investment aligns with their financial goals.

Rowan University offers several strong programs that align well with regional job market demands and often lead to favorable career outcomes. The College of Science & Mathematics and the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering & Computational Sciences are particularly noteworthy. Majors such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science are in high demand, with graduates often finding employment with major tech and defense contractors in the region like Lockheed Martin. The College of Humanities & Social Sciences also boasts strong programs, with majors like Psychology and English leading to diverse career paths, including roles in human resources, marketing, and education. For students interested in healthcare, Rowan's robust health sciences programs, including pre-medical tracks, nursing, and physical therapy, are excellent choices, feeding into the strong regional healthcare network including Virtua Health and Cooper University Health System. The Rohrer College of Business offers solid programs in Finance and Marketing, preparing students for roles in the financial services and corporate sectors. Students considering Rowan should research specific program curricula, faculty expertise, and internship opportunities to find the best fit for their career aspirations.

Student life at Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ, offers a blend of traditional college experiences within a suburban setting. The university fosters a vibrant campus community with over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, Greek life, and intramural sports. Rowan's campus is designed to be walkable and engaging, with student centers, performance venues, and recreational facilities. The university places a strong emphasis on student engagement and leadership development. Social events, concerts, and campus-wide traditions are common throughout the academic year. While Glassboro is a smaller town, Rowan students often find ample opportunities for social interaction and activities on campus. Proximity to Philadelphia also allows students to easily access the diverse nightlife, cultural attractions, and entertainment options of a major city. The university's commitment to student success extends beyond academics, aiming to provide a supportive and enriching environment where students can grow personally and socially.

Rowan University is committed to making education accessible and offers a range of financial aid options to eligible students. This includes federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, and student loans. Merit-based scholarships are awarded to incoming freshmen based on academic achievement, while need-based aid is determined by a student's financial circumstances as assessed through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Rowan also offers specific scholarships tied to academic programs, leadership, or community involvement. The university's financial aid office works with students to help them navigate the application process and understand their aid packages, which may include a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans. It's crucial for prospective students to complete the FAFSA and any institutional aid applications by the deadlines to maximize their eligibility for aid. While specific average aid amounts vary annually, Rowan aims to provide support to help students manage the cost of attendance, making a Rowan education more attainable.

The median earnings for Rowan University graduates 10 years after starting their studies is $59,988. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, industry, geographic location of employment, and individual performance. Graduates from engineering and computer science programs, for instance, often command higher starting salaries, potentially in the $70,000-$90,000 range, especially when employed by major tech firms or defense contractors in the region. Those entering the healthcare field, such as nurses or physical therapists, can also expect competitive salaries, often starting in the $60,000-$80,000 range, with strong potential for growth. Graduates from business programs like finance or marketing might start in the $50,000-$70,000 range, with significant earning potential as they advance in their careers. Conversely, majors in fields like humanities or social sciences might see starting salaries closer to the lower end of the spectrum, but these graduates often find success through further education or by developing specialized skills in areas like human resources or non-profit management. It's essential for students to research specific salary data for their intended major and career path.

Rowan University offers a variety of on-campus housing options designed to accommodate its growing student population. The university provides traditional residence halls, suite-style living, and apartment-style accommodations. Traditional halls typically house students in double rooms with shared common bathrooms on each floor, fostering a communal living environment. Suite-style options offer a middle ground, with several rooms sharing a common living area and bathroom. Apartment-style living provides more independence, with multiple bedrooms, a shared kitchen, and living space. All residence halls are equipped with basic furnishings, and students have access to common areas, study lounges, and recreational spaces. The university emphasizes safety and support, with Resident Assistants (RAs) available in each hall to assist students. Housing is guaranteed for freshmen, and many upperclassmen also choose to live on campus. Rowan's housing aims to provide a comfortable, convenient, and supportive living environment that complements the academic experience, facilitating student engagement and community building.

Rowan University is increasingly recognized as a strong institution for undergraduate research, particularly given its status as a public research university. The university actively encourages students across various disciplines to engage in research opportunities alongside faculty members. This includes opportunities within Rowan's own colleges, such as the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering & Computational Sciences and the College of Science & Mathematics. Furthermore, Rowan's affiliation with Cooper University Health System and its own medical school, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, provides significant avenues for research in health sciences, biomedical fields, and clinical studies. Students can participate in faculty-led research projects, present their findings at university symposia, and even pursue external research grants. These experiences are invaluable for students considering graduate studies, as they provide hands-on training in research methodologies, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry, preparing them for advanced academic and professional pursuits.

Rowan University is often compared to other public universities in the Mid-Atlantic region, such as Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Temple University, and the University of Delaware, as well as private institutions like Drexel University. In terms of academic reputation and national rankings, Rutgers-New Brunswick generally holds a higher standing. Temple and Drexel, being larger urban universities, offer a more intense city experience and potentially broader industry connections in Philadelphia. The University of Delaware is a strong competitor, particularly in engineering and business. Rowan's advantages lie in its more focused campus environment, strong emphasis on experiential learning, and its growing medical school, which offers unique opportunities. Its in-state tuition is competitive, especially compared to private peers. However, Rowan may have less name recognition nationally than Rutgers and potentially fewer direct pipelines to the most elite, high-paying jobs compared to top-tier research universities. Its graduation rate is also slightly lower than some of its peers. The choice often comes down to program strength, campus culture preference, and financial considerations.

Employers generally view a degree from Rowan University favorably, particularly within the New Jersey and greater Philadelphia region. Rowan has built a solid reputation for producing well-prepared graduates, especially in fields like engineering, health sciences, and business. The university's emphasis on experiential learning, internships, and hands-on projects means that graduates often enter the workforce with practical skills and a degree of real-world experience that employers value. Companies like Virtua Health, Lockheed Martin, and TD Bank, which are significant regional employers and actively recruit from Rowan, demonstrate employer confidence in the university's programs. While Rowan may not have the same level of national brand recognition as some of the more elite or older institutions, its strong regional presence and the practical competencies of its graduates ensure that its degrees are respected and sought after by many employers. The university's career services also play a role in fostering these employer relationships and facilitating graduate placement.