Rowan University

Since its founding in 1923, Rowan University has evolved from a teacher preparation college to a bustling regional university that's ranked among the best public universities in the North by U.S. News and World Report. Today, Rowan's more than 19,000 students choose from more than 74 bachelor's and 51 master's degree programs, four doctoral programs and two professional programs. The university is one of just 56 institutions in the country with accredited programs in business, education, engineering and medicine.

in the early 1900s, many aspiring New Jersey teachers lacked proper training because of a shortage of schools in the state that provided such an education. To address the problem in South Jersey, the state decided to build a two-year training school for teachers, known then as a normal school.

The town of Glassboro was an early favorite because of its excellent rail system, harmonious blend of industry and agriculture, natural beauty and location in the heart of South Jersey. Several towns in the region competed to be the site of the new normal school because of the economic benefit and prestige such an institution would bring.

In 1917, to sway the decision in their favor, 107 Glassboro residents raised more than $7,000 to purchase 25 acres, which they offered to the state for free if the borough were selected as the site. The tract of land included the Whitney mansion (now known as Hollybush) and carriage house. Before the purchase, the entire property belonged to the Whitney family, prominent owners of the Whitney Glass Works during the 1800s. This show of support, along with the site's natural beauty, convinced the selection committee that Glassboro was the perfect location.

In September 1923, Glassboro Normal School opened with 236 students arriving by train to convene in the school's first building, now called Bunce Hall. Dr. Jerohn Savitz, the institution's first president, expanded the curriculum as the training of teachers became more sophisticated.

Live On-Campus
Rowan University features seven residence halls and ten apartment communities nestled among the trees of a 200 acre  campus  in  historic  Glassboro,  New  Jersey.  University  and  affiliated  residences  provide  easy  access  to  campus  resources, recreational facilities and social opportunities.

Students  who  live  on  campus  benefit  from  facilities  and  resources  that  support  students’  success  during  their  first  year and throughout their four year experience. Research and experience tells us that students who live on campus...

• Develop a greater sense of belonging.
• Find it easier to form friendships.
• Participate more in student organizations.
• Develop stronger connections to faculty.
• Increase their awareness of diversity.
• Are more likely to complete a degree in four years.
• Earn higher GPAs.

Off-Campus Housing
Several apartment communities and homes surround the Rowan campus and are available to rent to students who choose to live off campus. This page is made available to provide students who are exploring off campus housing options with useful information to make their decision.

When deciding whether to live off-campus, you should first review Rowan's Mandatory Housing Policy to see if you are eligible to live off campus. Freshmen and Sophomore students who are unmarried and under the age of 21 are required to live in University housing (see the full policy for details).  If you are eligible to live off-campus, here are some resources and common items to consider:

• Planning your Budget
• Finding Roommates
• Location & Housing Type
• Knowing your Rights & Responsibilities
• Being a Good Tenant/Neighbor
• Additional Off-Campus/Commuter Resources at Rowan University 

Students at Rowan University have access to a variety of facilities and services. There are three libraries available for students at this university. Furthermore, the online library provides subscriptions to over fifty-thousand online journals, as well as thousands of other e-resources. 

The campus life is vibrant, where students can easily indulge themselves in a range of activities and clubs. The University encourages and motivates students to participate in activities that promote their professional and personal development both in and out of the classroom. The campus also has facilities for sports such as street hockey, table tennis, tennis, soccer, softball, swimming, and wrestling, among others. In addition to this, Rowan Campus Recreation has two facilities, one of which includes a sand volleyball court, a turf field, and three outdoor basketball courts. 

Rowan University has a worldwide network of alumni who are connected with their alma mater through a range of utility services and programs. Some of the notable alumni are Ric Edelman (Author), Patti Smith (American singer-songwriter) and Stink Fisher (American actor).