Navigating William Paterson University: A Guide to Student Resources
William Paterson University (WPUNJ) offers a comprehensive array of resources designed to support students throughout their academic journey, from enrollment to graduation and beyond. These resources cater to a diverse range of needs, encompassing academic support, financial assistance, health and wellness services, and specialized programs for specific student populations. This article provides an overview of the key resources available to William Paterson University students.
Enrollment and Financial Services
Student Enrollment Services (SES)
Student Enrollment Services serves as a central hub for students seeking assistance with various administrative processes. The office addresses questions related to billing, payments, financial aid, and student records. SES is currently open for walk-ins Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with extended hours on Wednesdays until 6:00 pm. Students can also utilize AskPio, a chat button located on the right side of the university website, for quick answers to common questions. SES partners with the Offices of Financial Aid, Student Accounts, and Registrar to provide solutions for complex issues.
Financial Aid
Recognizing that education is a significant investment, William Paterson University is committed to helping students secure available sources of financial aid. The Financial Aid staff offers personalized service and resources to make education as affordable as possible. Dedicated Financial Aid Counselors are available within WP Online Student Support to guide students through the financial aid process. Students should use the William Paterson Federal School Code (002625) when completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once admitted, students should monitor WPConnect to view their financial aid package and any required follow-up items.
Student Accounts
It is important to proactively manage your student account. Bills for the fall semester are typically due in the summer, and registration holds for unpaid balances are usually placed in October. Students should regularly review their billing and payment portal on WPConnect to confirm their balance and due dates, which are located on the billing statement.
Academic Support and Enrichment
Academic Success Center
The Academic Success Center provides comprehensive academic support services, including one-on-one tutoring for lower-level and upper-level courses, as well as developmental skills for math and reading. Workshops are designed to help students develop effective study skills and utilize effective strategies. The center also offers access to network computer facilities.
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The Writing Center
The William Paterson University Writing Center offers personalized tutoring sessions for all members of the university community working on any type of writing, at any stage of the writing process. During these sessions, which typically last thirty minutes to an hour, tutors work with students on various aspects of writing, including outlining, thesis clarification, organization, style, transitions, citation, and grammar. The Writing Center also helps students learn how to edit and proofread their own work.
The Science Enrichment Center (SEC)
The Science Enrichment Center is a "student-centered environment" that empowers students with diverse needs to achieve high levels of intellectual and personal growth. The SEC challenges students to develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of the sciences, enabling professors to maintain high academic standards.
Advisement Center
The Advisement Center is committed to ensuring the success and welfare of all students. Faculty and staff provide academic advising to assist students in attaining educational excellence and developing abilities for lifelong independent learning.
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program
The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program is committed to excellence and access, making a college education possible for students who require academic and financial support. The program strives to create a community of learners in a climate and environment that enhances the intellectual and cultural experience of its students. EOF provides referrals for tutorial assistance in Basic Skills coursework, General Education subjects, and major courses. EOF students may be eligible for a book deferment program or the EOF library’s book loan program. The book deferment program allows students with a credit in their University account to utilize that credit at the University Bookstore for the purchase of books. The EOF Academic Coaching program supports students on academic recovery, helping them identify their study strengths and needs. Academic coaches provide semester-long academic support in areas such as time management, procrastination, test preparation, and note-taking and reading strategies.
Summer Bridge Program
The university offers a five-week residential Summer Bridge Program required for all incoming first-time freshmen. The program aims to prepare students for the realities and personal requirements of the college experience. Students earn degree credits (if not enrolled in developmental courses), strengthen their academic skills, and become prepared for life as a successful WPUNJ student.
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Resources for Specific Student Populations
Veteran and Military Affairs
The Office of Veteran and Military Affairs supports veterans, active-duty service members, and military families by administering services that assist with the transition from military service member to college student. The office answers questions about educational benefits, entitlements, counseling and advocacy resources, and other assistance needed to pursue academic and civilian careers.
Accessibility Resource Center (ARC)
The Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) assists students with documented disabilities by providing reasonable accommodations and services that ensures equal access to all programs, activities, and related benefits of the University’s educational and professional programs. ARC works in collaboration with students to determine appropriate accommodations based upon their individual needs. The center acts as a resource and works in cooperation with faculty and other university departments.
WP Child Development Center
The WP Child Development Center offers weekly tours (by appointment), monthly workshops, and childcare support for Pell-eligible student-parents.
Health and Wellness
Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center (CHWC)
The Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center (CHWC) provides clinical, educational, and outreach services to enrolled students who live or have a temporary residence in New Jersey. Out-of-state residents can contact the CHWC for consultation and referral to local service providers. Students can schedule appointments via their Student Health Portal on WPConnect or by calling 973-720-2360.
Technology and Library Services
Information Technology (IT)
Information Technology at William Paterson University strives to provide state-of-the-art technology solutions that meet the needs of the university community. User Services consists of the Help Desk, Field Services, Enterprise Desktop Support, and Technology Consultants. They triage technology-related requests, resolve technical problems, and develop technology infrastructure.
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David and Lorraine Cheng Library
The David and Lorraine Cheng Library offers online students access to a vast collection of multimedia resources, citations and databases, research materials, and more. Librarians provide guidance through resources, information retrieval strategies, and information management techniques. Students can call 973-720-2663 or fill out a Schedule Research Help form for assistance. The library also participates in an Interlibrary Loan program and the VALE Reciprocal Borrowing program. The phone number is 973-720-2116.
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