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William Paterson University has once again been recognized as one of the nation’s top institutions for advancing economic opportunity and student success, according to the newly released 2025 Social Mobility Index (SMI).
The University ranked No. 55 out of 1,398 four-year institutions, placing it in the top 3.9 percent of colleges and universities nationwide – an uptick from its place in the top 4.48 percent last year.
Created by CollegeNET, the Social Mobility Index measures how effectively colleges and universities help students improve their socioeconomic standing. The ranking emphasizes affordability and student outcomes by evaluating how well an institution serves economically disadvantaged students, accounting for factors such as household income, tuition levels, graduation rates, early-career salaries, and student loan burden.
“A college degree is the ultimate engine of social mobility, so we are proud to again be recognized for our success as a ‘Powerhouse of Progress,’ helping more students obtain degrees that empower them to launch successful careers,” says President Richard J. Helldobler. “Our position near the top of the CollegeNET ranking reflects the talents and hard work of our students and the dedication of our faculty and staff, who are focused every day on providing them with a lifechanging educational experience.”
William Paterson’s substantial climb over the past several years underscores its commitment to educational access and economic mobility. Since 2018, the University has risen nearly 60 places in the national rankings, improving from the top 9 percent into the very top tier of four-year institutions nationwide.
This recognition reflects William Paterson’s long-standing strengths, which include:
The University’s continued rise in the Social Mobility Index demonstrates how a public university can meaningfully change lives by reducing barriers and preparing students for lasting economic and professional success.
As a powerhouse for new talent, William Paterson University offers unmatched support and next-level learning experiences. Together, we're reinventing what an excellent education looks like - here's how.
Our classrooms are never confined to four walls. Students work closely with faculty, get firsthand research experience, and discover fields they never knew existed. And because no two learners are alike, we offer flexible degree options, alternate credentials, and liberal transfer credits.
Your Success Is Our Priority
The transition to college can come with many questions, which is why all first-year Pioneers are paired with a Student Success Team.
This tailored team of experts is composed of a professional advisor, financial aid counselor, career coach, and starting sophomore year, a faculty mentor in the student’s major.
Discover What You Will. Power.
The first semester of college can be overwhelming, and Will. Power. 101, our first-year program, is designed to empower students throughout this life transition. In this semester-long course, students will explore what it means to be a powerhouse in academics, campus involvement and personal development, all while becoming more ingrained in the William Paterson community.
Mentorship That Goes Beyond The Classroom
We have exceptional faculty at William Paterson, and in addition to being experts in their fields, our professors strongly emphasize and prioritize mentorship. Here, students refine and grow in their skills while working alongside and building meaningful relationships with faculty.
We equip our students with the skills and resources they need to thrive, as both thoughtful members of society and career-ready graduates. See how you can excel at William Paterson.
