Rowan University’s entrepreneurship program has once again secured the top spot in New Jersey, according to The Princeton Review’s annual rankings. This prestigious recognition marks the second consecutive year that Rowan’s program has been named the best in the Garden State. Nationally, the program has also seen significant growth, climbing 13 spots in the rankings over the past four years to reach the impressive position of #37.
The entrepreneurship program at Rowan University is housed within the Rohrer College of Business (RCB) and is known for its dynamic and innovative approach to fostering entrepreneurial skills in students. The School of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SIE) at RCB offers a range of degree options, including two undergraduate entrepreneurship majors – a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship and a B.S. in Engineering Entrepreneurship. In addition to these majors, students can pursue an entrepreneurship minor or interdisciplinary Certificates of Undergraduate Study (CUGS) in various fields.
One of the key strengths of Rowan’s entrepreneurship program is its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. The university has established partnerships with other colleges and schools, such as the College of Performing Arts, the Ric Edelman College of Communication & Creative Arts, the Shreiber School of Veterinary Medicine, and the School of Earth & Environment. These partnerships provide students with unique opportunities to explore entrepreneurship in diverse fields and industries.
The growth and popularity of Rowan’s entrepreneurship program are evident in the increasing enrollment numbers. In the 2023-24 academic year, there were 459 students enrolled in SIE’s entrepreneurship offerings, a significant increase from the previous year. Additionally, nearly ten percent of all undergraduate students at Rowan have taken at least one entrepreneurship course in the past year, highlighting the program’s broad appeal and impact.
Rowan University’s commitment to entrepreneurship extends beyond the classroom. The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (RCIE) hosts over 120 programs annually to support aspiring entrepreneurs. These programs include the Think Like an Entrepreneur summer academy for high school students, the Idea Challenge competition in partnership with the Rowan Innovation Venture Fund, and the New Venture Expo and Rohrer New Venture Competition, which awards $30,000 to the most promising new business venture.
In recent years, RCIE has engaged with over 550 students who have developed actionable plans to launch a business, and the center has awarded over $50,900 in cash prizes to student startups. These initiatives not only provide students with valuable hands-on experience but also equip them with the tools and confidence to succeed in the entrepreneurial world.
Overall, Rowan University’s entrepreneurship program stands out for its innovative approach, strong interdisciplinary focus, and commitment to empowering students to think and act entrepreneurially. The program’s consistent top rankings and impressive growth reflect the university’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across all its schools, colleges, and campuses. By providing students with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the ever-evolving business landscape, Rowan University is shaping the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders.
