Georgian Court University

Lakewood, NJ

private nonprofitgraduate

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Quick Facts

“Belong. Believe. Become.”

1908

Founded

Private university

Type

1,174

Total Students

1,491

Undergrad

399

Graduate

$53M

Endowment

(2024)

$37K

Tuition (In-State)

$37K

Tuition (Out-State)

$20K

Avg Net Price

71%

Acceptance Rate

55%

Graduation Rate

6-year

76%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

President: Eugene J. Cornacchia (interim)

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

About Georgian Court University

Experience a historic campus, a vibrant community, and a legacy of Mercy at GCU.

Georgian Court University offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in a rich history and a profound commitment to its Catholic, Mercy mission. Established in 1908 by the Sisters of Mercy as Mount Saint Mary College, GCU transformed over a century later into the vibrant, coeducational university it is today. Nestled on the former summer estate of millionaire George Jay Gould in Lakewood Township, New Jersey, the university's stunning 155.9-acre campus, a National Historic Landmark, provides a unique backdrop for learning and growth.

At the heart of Georgian Court is the guiding principle of Mercy, emphasizing respect, justice, integrity, compassion, and service. This mission permeates the academic programs and student life, fostering an environment where students from all faiths are welcomed to "Belong. Believe. Become." As the only Catholic college or university in Central or South New Jersey, GCU plays a vital role in its region, drawing a diverse student body eager to engage with its liberal arts foundation and values-based education.

Prospective students and their families will find a dynamic community committed to modernizing its facilities while preserving its historic charm. With plans underway for a new nursing and health sciences center, a reimagined student center in the iconic Casino building, and updated student housing, GCU is investing in an enhanced student experience. This blend of historic beauty, modern innovation, and a supportive, values-driven community makes Georgian Court University a truly special place to pursue higher education.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1908 by the Sisters of Mercy with a strong Catholic, Mercy mission.
✦Located on a stunning, 155.9-acre campus that is a U.S. National Historic Landmark, formerly the estate of George Jay Gould.
✦The only Catholic college or university in Central or South New Jersey, serving 1,890 students.
✦Emphasizes its motto: "Belong. Believe. Become.", guiding students in a values-based education focused on respect, justice, integrity, compassion, and service.
✦Undergoing significant campus modernization, including a new center for nursing and health sciences and a modern student center.
✦Achieved university status in 2004, having been led by Sisters of Mercy for over a century.
✦A fully coeducational institution since Fall 2013, welcoming students of all faiths.

Timeline

1908

Founded as Mount Saint Mary College by the Sisters of Mercy in North Plainfield, NJ.

1924

College moved to the Georgian Court estate in Lakewood and renamed Georgian Court College.

1978

Lakewood campus added to the National Register of Historic Places.

1985

Campus designated a National Historic Landmark District.

1994

Began admitting male students.

2004

Granted university status and renamed Georgian Court University.

2013

Completed full transition to a coeducational institution, admitting men into all academic programs.

2022

Announced plans to sell land to fund major campus modernizations, including a new health sciences center.

🏛️

118 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Eugene J. Cornacchia (interim)

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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