William Paterson University of New Jersey
Acceptance rate
90.1%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$25,344
In-state $15,704
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
6,647
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
36.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.0%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
William Paterson University of New Jersey, located in Wayne, New Jersey, is a public university that boasts a diverse and vibrant academic community. Established in 1855, it has a rich history and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, education, arts, and sciences. The university prides itself on its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive environment for students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, the university ensures personalized attention and mentoring, which enhances the learning experience. Faculty members are not only distinguished educators but also active researchers and practitioners in their respective fields, contributing to a dynamic learning atmosphere.
The campus culture at William Paterson University is characterized by its inclusivity and engagement in extracurricular activities. Students can participate in over 100 clubs and organizations, ranging from academic and professional groups to cultural and recreational activities. This vibrant student life is complemented by various athletic programs, as the university competes in NCAA Division III sports. The university's commitment to community service and social responsibility is reflected in its emphasis on experiential learning opportunities and initiatives that encourage student involvement in local and global communities. Notable alumni from William Paterson University include successful professionals in various industries, showcasing the university's ability to prepare students for rewarding careers post-graduation. Overall, William Paterson University is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.
Analysis of Key Metrics at William Paterson University
The data from William Paterson University reveals noteworthy trends in tuition costs, student demographics, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years.
Starting with tuition, there has been a consistent increase in both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition. For instance, in 2014, in-state tuition was approximately $11,918, which rose to $15,150 by 2024, reflecting a significant increase of about 27% over that period. This rise in costs may influence prospective students' decisions, especially given the steep out-of-state tuition, which jumped from $19,458 to $24,464 in the same timeframe. Such increases could deter enrollment, particularly from out-of-state applicants, as they face an even heavier financial burden.
The university's student population has also seen a decline in undergraduate enrollment, dropping from 10,089 in 2013 to 6,604 in 2023. This reduction correlates with rising tuition costs and may indicate a trend where students are either seeking more affordable options or experiencing difficulty affording higher education altogether, a challenge faced by many institutions nationwide.
On a positive note, the graduation rates have shown a commendable upward trajectory. The rate of on-time graduation for undergraduates has increased from 17.1% in 2013 to approximately 36.8% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the university may be enhancing its support services and academic resources, enabling students to complete their degrees in a timely manner.
Retention rates have fluctuated but notably spiked to 90.1% in 2021 before settling at around 71.5% in 2023. Such volatility may reflect the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional learning environments and affected student engagement.
In summary, while the increasing tuition rates pose challenges for enrollment, the university's efforts to improve graduation rates indicate a commitment to student success. Addressing the issues associated with retention and affordability will be critical for sustaining and enhancing William Paterson University's reputation and accessibility.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 20 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Richard J. Helldobler (President)
- Phone
- 9737202000
- City
- Wayne, New Jersey
- Address
- 300 Pompton Rd, Wayne, NJ 07470
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 72.3%, women 77.1%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at William Paterson University
The admission data for William Paterson University of New Jersey over the years reveals significant trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education. The male and female admission rates have shown fluctuations, with male admission rates starting at approximately 67.1% in 2009 and peaking at around 91.3% in 2019. Female admission rates have similarly varied, beginning at around 60.9% and reaching as high as 94.5% in 2019.
The increase in admission rates during this period suggests a shift towards a more inclusive and accessible educational environment, particularly for women, who have consistently maintained higher admission rates compared to their male counterparts. The data also indicates a decline in total enrollment numbers, particularly noted in 2023 with only 806 students admitted, compared to higher figures in previous years.
This downward trend in enrollment could be attributed to various external factors, including changes in demographic trends, economic conditions, or increased competition from other institutions. The substantial number of applicants denied admission each year highlights the competitive nature of university admissions, with thousands of students still vying for limited spots.
Overall, the admission data for William Paterson University reflects a dynamic educational landscape, where shifting social and economic factors play a crucial role in shaping the accessibility and diversity of higher education. As universities adapt to these changes, it remains essential to monitor these trends to ensure that institutions continue to meet the needs of prospective students.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at William Paterson University
The data from William Paterson University over the years illustrates a notable trend in the admission test scores, particularly for the SAT. From 2007 to 2023, the university maintained a high percentage of students submitting SAT scores, with figures consistently around 95% or higher in recent years. This indicates a strong reliance on standardized testing in the admissions process, reflecting broader trends in higher education where standardized tests are often seen as critical indicators of academic readiness.
The range of SAT reading and math scores has shown some fluctuation, with the 25th percentile scores rising from 430 in 2007 to 530 in 2023. This suggests that the university is potentially becoming more selective over time, as higher scores may correlate with an increased applicant pool and a shift towards admitting students with stronger academic backgrounds.
Additionally, the number of students submitting SAT scores peaked in 2022 with 1,613 submissions, but dramatically dropped to just 5 in 2023. This sharp decline may reflect a growing trend among universities to adopt test-optional policies, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional testing schedules and raised questions about the fairness and accessibility of standardized tests.
Overall, the data suggests that while William Paterson University has historically depended on SAT scores for admissions, recent trends may indicate a significant shift in its approach to evaluating prospective students. This evolution aligns with a national conversation about the role of standardized testing in college admissions, emphasizing the need for universities to adapt to changing educational landscapes and student needs.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
9,165 applicants in 2025, 90.1% admitted
8,256 admitted 909 not admitted Yield 12.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's357 (1% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's261 (1% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's113 (0% international)
- Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's66 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's59 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's32 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at William Paterson University
The graduation data from William Paterson University for 2023 reveals a significant focus on graduate-level education, particularly in the field of Educational Leadership and Administration, where a total of 88 students completed their master's degree. This indicates a strong interest in advancing professional qualifications among educators, likely driven by the current emphasis on educational reform and leadership development in response to challenges faced in the education sector today.
Interestingly, all reported programs show no graduates at the bachelor’s or associate levels. This could suggest a strategic shift or an evolving focus on graduate education, possibly in line with national trends that prioritize advanced degrees for educational professionals. The lack of international students across all program levels also raises questions about the university's attractiveness to global talent, especially in fields that could benefit from diverse perspectives, such as education and the sciences.
Moreover, the absence of doctoral graduates indicates a potential gap in pathways for advanced research and academic careers within the institution. This is critical given the increasing importance of research-oriented roles in academia and the need for educator-researchers to address complex educational challenges.
Overall, the data calls for a closer examination of program offerings and recruitment strategies, particularly for undergraduate and international student populations, to enhance the university's educational impact and global presence.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $42,249 | |||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | $63,349 | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other. | - | |||
| Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling. | $43,780 | |||
| Public Health, General. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $100,216-$118,161 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $100,216-$118,161 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $80,549 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $80,549 | |||
| Accounting. | $54,755 | |||
| Finance, General. | $53,654 | |||
| Financial Planning and Services. | $53,654 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Management Science. | $49,389 | |||
| Actuarial Science. | $49,389 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $46,144 | |||
| Selling Skills and Sales Operations. | $62,669 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $71,809 | |||
| Higher Education/Higher Education Administration. | $71,809 | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $67,193 | |||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $60,584 | |||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $57,730-$64,261 | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $57,730-$64,261 | |||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $57,730-$64,261 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $57,730-$64,261 | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $63,391 | |||
| Reading Teacher Education. | $63,391 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,321 | |||
| Clinical Psychology. | $52,191 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $40,304 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,442 | |||
| Biochemistry. | - | |||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | - | |||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $37,756 | |||
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | $37,756 | |||
| Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Other. | - | |||
| Organizational Communication, General. | - | |||
| Public Relations/Image Management. | - | |||
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $55,703 | |||
| Information Technology. | $55,703 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | $29,262 | |||
| Music, General. | $29,407 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $38,200 | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $38,200 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $45,236 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | |||
| Economics, General. | $57,866 | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $35,038 | |||
| Sociology, General. | $40,202 | |||
| Applied/Public Sociology. | $40,202 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $37,346 | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $46,676 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | |||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - | |||
| Materials Chemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community Organization and Advocacy. | - | |||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $47,577 | |||
| Computational and Applied Mathematics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | $37,512 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | $39,623 | |||
| Disability Studies. | $39,623 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
9,942 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 73.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,648
- First-year undergraduates 1,030
- Graduate students 3,295
- Transfers and others 969
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,647)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights at William Paterson University, 2023
The student demographic data from William Paterson University in 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding gender representation and diversity among different student categories. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 806, with a relatively balanced gender ratio of 45.7% male and 54.3% female students. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent across other undergraduate categories, with upperclassmen and transfer students also showing a majority of female students at 60.1% and 68.2% respectively.
Graduate students present an even starker gender disparity, where females comprise 77% of the total 2,466 graduate students, with only 23% being male. Such trends highlight an ongoing phenomenon in higher education, where female students are increasingly outnumbering their male counterparts, particularly at the graduate level. This could be reflective of broader societal trends, where women are pursuing higher education at higher rates than men.
Diversity among the student body is also noteworthy, particularly among underrepresented groups. Although specific numbers for upperclassmen and transfer students are not available, it is evident that the university is likely serving a diverse population, as indicated by the presence of various ethnic categories within the freshmen group. The presence of international students and minorities is important for fostering a rich educational environment that promotes inclusivity and cultural exchange.
Overall, these statistics suggest that William Paterson University is on a progressive path toward gender equity and diversity, aligning with national trends in higher education.
Age Demographics of Students at William Paterson University
The age demographics of students at William Paterson University provide a fascinating snapshot of the student body. It is notable that the majority of the undergraduates fall within the 18-21 age range, with a significant number of students aged 18-19 and 20-21, making up approximately 41% of the total student population. This reflects a typical trend in American universities, where younger students dominate the undergraduate landscape.
The data also reveals that there is a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases, which is common in higher education settings. For instance, students aged 22-24 comprise about 23% of the total enrollment, while those aged 25-29 account for roughly 20%. This trend may imply that many students are either entering the workforce after their undergraduate education or are returning to complete their studies later in life.
Interestingly, the number of graduate students shows a more balanced gender representation, particularly in the 25-29 age group, where female graduate students slightly outnumber their male counterparts. This shift highlights the increasing participation of women in graduate education, which aligns with national trends emphasizing gender equity in higher education.
The presence of older students, particularly those aged 30-39, is also noteworthy, suggesting that lifelong learning is becoming more prevalent. As society evolves, the landscape of higher education continues to adapt, accommodating a diverse range of ages and backgrounds, reflecting the ongoing commitment to education across a lifetime.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
172 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
34 in 2025 · 1.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at William Paterson University
The data from William Paterson University of New Jersey reveals a notable trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. In the early 2000s, the university experienced a relatively steady number of international undergraduates, with percentages fluctuating between 1.44% and 1.64%. However, a significant decline occurred around 2007, where the number of international undergraduates fell to just 64, resulting in a low participation rate of 0.72%.
As the years progressed, there were slight ups and downs, but the overall trend for undergraduates has not shown significant growth. The highest percentage in recent years was recorded in 2022 at 1.32%, and in 2023, it slightly increased to 1.56%. This stagnation could be attributed to various factors, including changes in U.S. immigration policies, global events affecting travel, and competition from other institutions.
On the graduate level, the enrollment of international students has shown a more erratic pattern. From a low of 0.52% in 2007 to a peak of 3.51% in 2017, the figures indicate fluctuations that may align with broader trends in international education. The percentage of international graduate students has generally remained below 2% in recent years, with a slight recovery in 2023 to 1.62%.
Overall, these statistics reflect broader challenges faced by universities in attracting international students, particularly in a changing global environment. As universities seek to enhance their global presence, understanding these trends becomes crucial for developing effective recruitment strategies.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$41,584
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $25,344
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $15,704
- Room and board
- $16,240
- Graduate tuition
- $24,211
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 49%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$216M
Expenses$208M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · New Jersey Athletic Conference
New Jersey Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 91 | - |
| Soccer | 28 | 24 |
| Basketball | 16 | 18 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Swimming | 15 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 13 |
| Golf | 12 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | - | 12 |
| Tennis | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 78 | - |
| Soccer | 24 | 23 |
| Basketball | 16 | 19 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Swimming | 12 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Tennis | - | 17 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 73 | - |
| Soccer | 27 | 28 |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Softball | - | 22 |
| Field Hockey | - | 14 |
| Swimming | - | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 12 | - |
| Tennis | - | 9 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 15.5 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 15.6 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 16.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
New York UniversityNew York · 18.3 mi
U.S. News #31
-
The United States Military Academy at West PointWest Point · 33.2 mi
Liberal Arts #9
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 33.4 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 47.7 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Vassar CollegePoughkeepsie · 53.6 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 55.4 mi
Liberal Arts #30
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions surrounding William Paterson University of New Jersey:
-
Montclair State University - Ranked 163 in the 2024 US News rankings, Montclair State University is a comprehensive university that offers a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
New Jersey Institute of Technology - With a rank of 87, NJIT is known for its focus on engineering, technology, and architecture, providing students with cutting-edge education and research opportunities.
-
Seton Hall University - Ranked 154, Seton Hall is a Catholic university that emphasizes liberal arts education, preparing students for a variety of professional fields.
-
Rutgers University-Newark - This campus of Rutgers University is ranked 81 and offers a strong urban education experience with a commitment to diversity and social justice.
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - As one of the Ivy League schools, Columbia is ranked 11 and is renowned for its academic excellence and influential research.
-
New York University - Ranked 34, NYU is a prestigious institution known for its global presence and diverse academic programs, particularly in the arts and sciences.
These universities offer a range of programs and opportunities for collaboration, making the area around William Paterson University a hub for higher education.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at William Paterson University
The crime data from William Paterson University showcases a significant decline in criminal incidents over the past decade. The data indicates a sharp decrease in the average number of recorded offenses per 1,000 students, dropping from 16.32 in 2013 to just 4.56 in 2023. This trend is encouraging and suggests that the university has been successful in implementing measures to enhance campus safety.
Notably, the most common category of offense reported was related to gun arrests, with variations observed over the years. For instance, there were a few notable spikes in gun-related arrests, but the overall trend shows a decrease in such incidents. The decline in drug and alcohol-related arrests is also a positive sign, reflecting perhaps an increased awareness and preventive measures taken by the university and local authorities.
The alarming rates of violence, including domestic violence and sexual assault, have been of great concern nationwide in recent years. While William Paterson University has seen a reduction in overall crime rates, it remains crucial for the institution to continue focusing on awareness and preventive programs to combat these issues effectively.
In summary, the data indicates a promising trend towards safer campus environments at William Paterson University. Continuous efforts from both administration and students are vital to maintaining and further improving these statistics. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.