Rowan University Student Demographics: A Comprehensive Overview
Rowan University, a public research university located in Glassboro, New Jersey, has evolved significantly since its establishment in 1923. Originally founded as Glassboro Normal School, it has transformed into a comprehensive university with a diverse student body. This article delves into the demographic composition of Rowan University's student population, examining aspects such as geographic diversity, age distribution, and enrollment statistics.
Historical Context
Established on September 24, 1923, Rowan University has undergone several name changes, reflecting its growth and evolution. It was initially known as Glassboro Normal School (1923-1937), then New Jersey State Teachers College at Glassboro (1937-1958), followed by Glassboro State College (1958-1992), and Rowan College of New Jersey (1992-1997). The institution gained university status in 1997, marking a significant milestone in its history.
In the early 20th century, New Jersey faced a shortage of adequately trained teachers. To address this issue, the decision was made to establish a two-year Normal school in the southern part of the state. Glassboro was chosen due to its accessibility via passenger rail and the donation of 25 acres of land by 107 residents. The Glassboro Normal School opened in 1923 with 236 students, including 226 women and 10 men. The college pioneered programs for teachers focusing on reading disabilities and physical therapy in 1935 and 1944, respectively, earning a reputation as a leader in special education.
A pivotal moment in the university's history occurred in 1992 when industrialist Henry M. Rowan, Jr., and his wife donated $100 million. This donation led to the establishment of the College of Engineering and the subsequent change of the institution's name to Rowan College of New Jersey. The university achieved full university status in 1997, based on its doctoral degree program (Ed.D.).
Overall Enrollment
As of the fall semester of 2017, Rowan University's enrollment included 15,401 undergraduates and 2,045 graduate students. These students come from 38 states and 34 countries, indicating a broad geographic reach. The university's overall admission rate is 53.0%.
Read also: Rowan's Tuition Guide
Geographic Diversity
Rowan University's student body exhibits a moderate level of geographic diversity. According to available data, Rowan ranks 1,723 out of 2,183 institutions in terms of geographic diversity. A small percentage of Rowan students come from out of state (3.02%), while an even smaller fraction comes from out of the country (0.66%). The undergraduate student body represents 15 states, which may include Washington D.C. The university's Student Location Diversity score is 21 out of 100.
Age Diversity
Rowan University demonstrates a strong ability to attract students of various ages. The age diversity score for the university is 74.39 out of 100, suggesting that it effectively caters to both traditional and non-traditional students. A traditional college student is typically defined as being between the ages of 18 and 21.
Academic Profile
Undergraduates submitting statistics for a data set in 2017 achieved scores of 530 at the 25th percentile and 630 at the 75th percentile in SAT critical reading. In SAT Math, the scores were 510 at the 25th percentile and 620 at the 75th percentile.
Student Life and Activities
Rowan University offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of activities and organizations. The university has 18 sports teams (8 men's and 10 women's) that compete in the NCAA Division III and the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC).
The Chamberlain Student Center serves as the main dining hub on campus, offering a variety of dining options, including the Owl's Nest restaurant, Saxby's, Grill Nation, Jersey Mike's Subs, and Freshens.
Read also: The Evolution of Rowan's Brand
Rowan University also hosts Rowan Radio 89.7 WGLS-FM, an award-winning radio station that began in 1964. The Rowan Television Network (RTN) is a student-run television station providing 24-hour content to the university community. The Whit, the campus newspaper since 1938, covers school news, student life, sports, and entertainment. Other campus publications include Avant, a student-led literary magazine, Image, the annual Rowan yearbook, Halftone, an online magazine focusing on entertainment and pop culture, and At My Whit's End, a zine published by the Writing Arts Club.
Rowan University provides housing for over 6,500 students in 13 University-owned housing complexes and 5 affiliated housing units. Full-time, non-commuter students are required to live on campus until the completion of their sophomore year, with guaranteed on-campus housing during this period.
Campus Safety and Security
In response to past incidents, Rowan University has implemented several campus security initiatives. Following a murder on campus in 2007, a 14-point plan was proposed by the President to enhance security measures.
Expansion and Development
Rowan University has undertaken significant expansion and development projects in recent years. The South Jersey Technology Park (SJTP) was established to foster collaboration between science and technology companies and academics. The university also partnered with Cooper University Hospital to create a four-year medical school in Camden. Additionally, Rowan acquired the University of Medicine and Dentistry's (UMDNJ) Stratford-based School of Osteopathic Medicine.
Read also: Learn about Section Tally
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