INFORMATION FOR
The College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences is the largest college at William Paterson University, and home to a diverse population of more than 3,000 students. Our programs provide insight into the past and explore solutions for the future, enabling our students to build their careers, pursue advanced academic studies, and empower positive change.
We offer a wide range of outstanding programs in the visual and performing arts, communication arts, and the humanities and social sciences. Students have the opportunity to work closely with a dedicated faculty of teacher-scholars including many Fulbright fellows and others of international prominence who bring real-world experience to the classroom. In our college there are extensive opportunities for artistic creation, performance, scholarship, study abroad, and hands-on learning as a part of your academic experience.
Our internship program is designed to provide career experience that helps you connect your current educational program to your future as a successful professional. Students also benefit from state-of-the-art resources ranging from HD television broadcast studios, animation and game design labs to recording studios and a social media lab, among others. They can also participate in college conferences, academic clubs, and honor societies.
We are home to a number of signature experiences that make us unique in New Jersey and to students around the nation and world, including our internationally renowned—jazz studies program and our award-winning campus radio station, 88.7 WPSC/Brave New Radio (named “College Radio Station of the Year” by the National Association of Broadcasters).
Dean, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
EMAIL: davisw@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-2731
OFFICE: Atrium 260
Associate Dean, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
EMAIL: razzorel@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-3282
EMAIL: hilld@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-3036
The William Paterson University Chamber Winds will present “Symphonic Storytime,” a multimedia, sensory-friendly concert on Saturday, March 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Shea Center for Performing Arts on the campus in Wayne.
“Symphonic Storytime” is a visual and musical experience with projected images and animated video, which also introduces students to the instruments of the band. The concert will feature the soundtrack and animation to the well-loved children’s book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, composed by the British composer Stuart Hancock.
This sensory-friendly family concert is designed to be a welcoming, inclusive, and comfortable musical experience for those on the autism spectrum or with other sensory or cognitive needs. Accommodations include low- to medium-volume and lighting ranges, space for children to move or walk around with a chaperone's supervision, provision of ear plugs, and an adjoining sensory-friendly space for those who need a break from the concert environment (outfitted with sensory manipulatives and carpeting).
The WP Chamber Wind Ensemble is an elite ensemble comprised of 35 of the University’s top woodwind, brass, and percussion student players performing new and standard mixed wind and percussion chamber repertoire, as well as wind ensemble music. While primarily comprised of music majors, the ensemble is open to students from any major across campus and meets as a class twice per week.
The annual “Symphonic Storytime,” concert, now in its third year, provides an opportunity for students, particularly music education majors, to prepare sensory-friendly concert programming as they prepare for careers teaching music in schools to diverse learners
The ensemble is directed by Teresa Purcell-Giles, assistant professor of music and director of bands at William Paterson. Purcell-Giles, who joined the faculty in 2021, is active as a clinician, adjudicator, and guest conductor across the country. She has presented nationally on topics ranging from engaging audiences through interactive performances to wellness and injury prevention for conductors.
General admission tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children ages two to 17. Tickets are free for members of the William Paterson faculty, staff, and students with a valid ID. Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended.
To purchase tickets, or for additional information, call the Shea Center for Performing Arts Box Office at 973-720-2371 or visit wp-presents.org.
The Center for Chinese Art at William Paterson University is dedicated to preserving and sharing the artistic heritage of China and integrating its rich tradition into the University's curriculum. Students will not only have the opportunity to view Chinese art, but draw upon its philosophy and incorporate its techniques in order to participate effectively in the increasingly global world of visual arts.
Combining coursework dedicated to the rigorous investigation of art with a broad spectrum of the most current tools and technology yields artworks that push the limits of the imagination. The activities and technology at the Center for New Art support and supplement the Art Department curriculum while also extending to other departments within the University.
"At William Paterson, I had the opportunity to get research experiences during my undergraduate studies, and that's kind of rare. I also have amazing professors who push you because they want you to be successful. They really want to help--they're not just leaving you out there alone. I really like that and feel supported here."
Sidal Yurt Earned her BA in psychology at WP in 2023 and continuing for her MA and PsyD in clinical psychology International Student from Turkey
"William Paterson was such a great force and inspiration to finding what I want to do in life. It's opened so many doors for me and allowed me to see my potential. Now that I see it, I'm going to run with it."
Justyn Chapman Double Major in Popular Music Studies and Public Relations | Class of 2023
"The resources here are top notch. William Paterson has hidden gems throughout the campus and the classrooms—resources that can really help a person grow and develop, not just in academics but also in their professional life."
Hosanna Nitro Communication/ Public Relations Major | Class of 2023
"The professors here have pushed me to grow as an individual. They encouraged me to take part in class discussions and debates, helping me go from shy and reserved to someone who speaks up and is willing to challenge herself. As a result, I was able to take part in a prestigious internship for a U.S. Congresswoman, where I recruited volunteers, participated in voter turnout events, and learned a great deal about re-election campaigns. I cannot thank my professors enough."
Dhruvisha Patel Political science, litigation paralegal at DiFrancesco, Bateman, Kunzman, Davis, Lehrer & Flaum, PC | Class of 2023
