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Centenary University

Hackettstown, NJ

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

934
Total Students
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
97%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
6-year
75%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Centenary University

Centenary University: Historic New Jersey gem, evolving since 1867 for true learning.

Centenary University, nestled in Hackettstown, New Jersey, offers a vibrant private university experience rooted in a rich history dating back to 1867. Established by the Newark Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church as Centenary Collegiate Institute, the university's journey mirrors the evolution of higher education itself. From its early days as a preparatory school, it gracefully transformed into a junior college for women, eventually embracing a coeducational model and achieving university status in 2016. This deep heritage, marked by its commitment to "True Learning," provides a unique foundation for today's students.

Situated on a picturesque suburban campus spanning 41 acres, with an additional 36-acre Equestrian Center, Centenary provides an idyllic learning environment just 52 miles west of the bustling energy of New York City. Students pursuing associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees benefit from a supportive academic community. The iconic Edward W. Seay Administration Building, a Renaissance Beaux Arts masterpiece listed on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to the university's enduring legacy, housing main offices, classrooms, and even a Starbucks cafe.

Life at Centenary extends beyond the classroom with a dynamic array of experiences. Students can engage with the professional Centenary Stage Company, explore their creativity through the student-run internet radio station WNTI.org, or cheer on the Cyclones in NCAA Division III athletics. The university is continuously innovating, as demonstrated by its School of Professional Studies and a groundbreaking 2024 collaboration with the Ideal Institute of Technology, offering work-based college programs and vocational training to serve local communities. This blend of historical charm and forward-thinking initiatives truly defines the Centenary student experience.

Key Highlights

  • Established March 6, 1867, transitioning from a preparatory school to a coeducational university by 2016.
  • Offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, serving 936 undergraduates and 462 postgraduates.
  • Located on a suburban 41-acre main campus in Hackettstown, NJ, featuring an additional 36-acre Equestrian Center.
  • The Edward W. Seay Administration Building, a Renaissance Beaux Arts landmark, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Hosts the Centenary Stage Company, a professional Equity theater, and a student-run internet radio station (WNTI.org).
  • Affiliated with the United Methodist Church and competes in NCAA Division III athletics as the Centenary Cyclones.
  • Partnered with the Ideal Institute of Technology in 2024 to offer work-based college programs and vocational training.

Timeline

1867
Founded as Centenary Collegiate Institute by the Methodist Episcopal Church.
1899
The original five-story Centenary Collegiate Institute building was destroyed by fire.
1901
The new 'Old Main' building, now known as the Seay Building, was constructed.
1940
Became Centenary Junior College.
1957
Student-run college radio station WNTI began broadcasting on campus.
1976
Renamed Centenary College, allowing men to pursue degrees in night courses.
1988
Men were permitted to attend full-time, making it fully coeducational.
1995
Master's degree programs were introduced.
2016
Granted University status by the New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education.
2024
Collaborated with the Ideal Institute of Technology to offer vocational training.

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Centenary University

🏫

School of Professional Studies

Originally founded in 1999 as the Center for Adult and Professional Studies program, renamed in 2011 to offer flexible programs for adult learners.

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