Improving Undergraduate Education at Rutgers

March 7, 2006

Members of the Camden Campus Community:

As you know, the improvement of undergraduate education at Rutgers has been a focus of universitywide attention and discussion on all three campuses. In Camden, undergraduate initiatives have included service-learning internships, undergraduate research grants, and expanded opportunities for study abroad. In Newark, the campus is undergoing a thorough assessment of its undergraduate programs. In New Brunswick/Piscataway, a Task Force on Undergraduate Education last year proposed comprehensive changes to the undergraduate structure, and for the past eight months the community has been discussing its recommendations.

With pride in all our efforts universitywide to improve the undergraduate experience, I am pleased to share with you my recommendations for undergraduate education in New Brunswick/Piscataway. These plans, available in full at http://urwebsrv.rutgers.edu/presidents_plan, will be presented for consideration and approval by the Rutgers University Board of Governors at a special meeting on March 10. Note that these recommendations are specific to the New Brunswick/Piscataway campus, which faces unique challenges rooted in its history and geography which are not inherent on the Camden campus.

The structure of the Camden campus already delivers an excellent undergraduate experience that is serving our students well. In a 2004 survey of students across Rutgers, Camden students reported the highest overall levels of satisfaction with their experience. There are clear areas upon which Rutgers can and will improve, however. Many have voiced their concerns about the quality of such critical facilities as dining and the recreation center. During the coming months, the university will explore opportunities to upgrade those facilities so every aspect of the Camden experience reflects the excellence of our students, faculty, staff, and graduates. Provost Roger Dennis will communicate additional details via email shortly.

Enhancing the undergraduate experience is a continuous process, and Provost Dennis constantly seeks ways to enrich academic programs and student life and expand research and internship opportunities for undergraduates. Please reach out to him at email if you have suggestions for improving education in Camden.

Ensuring that all Rutgers students, no matter where they attend classes, receive a first-rate education is fundamental to our mission. It must remain the guiding principle as we develop learning environments and opportunities that better respond to student needs in the 21st century.

Richard L. McCormick
President
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey