Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo College of New Jersey stands as a vibrant public liberal arts institution nestled amidst the picturesque Ramapo Valley in Mahwah. Established in 1969, it offers an engaging educational experience where students can thrive in a close-knit community while benefiting from the resources of a state college. With a current enrollment of 5,732 students, Ramapo College blends academic rigor with a stunning natural environment, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a unique collegiate journey.

The college's foundations are deeply rooted in local history, literally built upon the grand estates of wealthy 19th-century families. The campus occupies what was once the sprawling property of Stephen Birch, president of the Kennecott Copper Company, and before him, Theodore Havemeyer of the American Sugar Company. These historic lands, once a thousand-acre farm, were chosen in 1968 by the New Jersey Department of Higher Education to establish a much-needed state college in Bergen County. The original Havemeyer mansion now serves as the president's residence, while the Birch mansion was thoughtfully renovated to house administrative offices, preserving a tangible link to the past amidst modern academic facilities.

From its inception, Ramapo College was designed with a forward-thinking vision: to provide quality higher education to a diverse student body, including economically deprived students from urban and rural areas, alongside a full spectrum of middle-class families. While specific departmental strengths aren't detailed, its identity as a public liberal arts college underscores a commitment to broad intellectual inquiry, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning. The initial architectural plans for L-shaped, glass-walled academic buildings, designed for departmental focus and rapid expansion, speak to a foundational belief in accessible and evolving academic programs. Students at Ramapo benefit from an environment that champions growth and engagement, set against the backdrop of its beautiful, mountainous surroundings.