Caldwell University Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Caldwell University, established in 1939 by the Sisters of Saint Dominic, is a private Catholic institution located in Caldwell, New Jersey. The university offers a comprehensive liberal arts education, emphasizing intellectual, spiritual, and aesthetic growth. It provides 36 undergraduate and 31 graduate programs, including doctoral degrees, across various disciplines. The campus spans 70 acres in a suburban setting, approximately 20 miles from Manhattan.

Mission and Vision

The university's mission is to promote intellectual, spiritual, and aesthetic growth among a diverse student body, welcoming all cultures and faith traditions. Inspired by St. Dominic de Guzman and its Catholic heritage, Caldwell University aims to prepare students to think critically, pursue truth, and contribute to a just society.

Key Strategic Focus

Academic Programs

Caldwell University offers a diverse range of programs, including:

• Undergraduate Degrees: 36 programs across various fields.

• Graduate Degrees: 31 programs, encompassing master's and doctoral degrees.

• New Programs: Recent additions include Computer Science, eSports Management, Public Health Education, and Healthcare Administration.

Student Demographics

The university serves approximately 2,300 students, with a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, ensuring personalized attention. The student body is diverse, with 16% identifying as Black or African American, 27% as Hispanic, 4% as Asian, and 1% as multiracial. Women comprise 63% of undergraduate students and 81% of graduate students. International students represent 16% of undergraduates, hailing from 40 countries.

Financial Aid

Approximately 95% of full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. The university offers academic scholarships ranging from $8,000 to full tuition, as well as need-based grants up to $25,000 per year.

Financials and Funding

Revenue and Expenses

For the fiscal year, Caldwell University reported revenues of $71,869,036 and expenses totaling $65,945,208.

Grants and Funding

In 2020, the university was awarded two research grants from the National Science Foundation:

• S-STEM Program: A $650,000 grant to support high-achieving, low-income majors in biology, chemistry, or mathematics.

• Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program: A $1.2 million grant to prepare effective secondary educators in STEM fields.

In 2021, Caldwell University received a $4,979,840 grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Hispanic-Serving Institutions STEM and Articulation Program to benefit Hispanic and low-income students pursuing STEM careers.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Academic Innovations

Caldwell University has been a pioneer in various academic fields:

• Art Therapy: In 2000, it became the first institution in New Jersey to offer a specialization in art therapy within the M.A. in Counseling.

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): In 2009, the university introduced the first doctoral program in ABA in New Jersey.

eSports Program

In 2019, Caldwell University launched an eSports program, including a Bachelor of Science in eSports Management and a state-of-the-art eSports arena.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Dr. Jeffrey D. Senese: President of Caldwell University.

• Mark A. Corino: Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics.

• Louie Matsakis: Head Coach of Sprint Football, appointed in February 2024.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Caldwell University operates in a competitive higher education landscape, particularly within New Jersey. The university's emphasis on personalized education, diverse program offerings, and commitment to serving underrepresented communities positions it uniquely in the market.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

• Montclair State University: A public institution located nearby, offering a broader range of programs and a larger student body.

• Felician University: Another private Catholic university in New Jersey, offering similar programs and sharing a commitment to faith-based education.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Academic Partnerships

Caldwell University has established affiliations with other institutions to enhance educational opportunities:

• Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School: A 3+4 program allowing students to complete three years at Caldwell before pursuing a four-year MD degree at Rutgers.

Corporate Partnerships

• Valley Bank: Offers employees, dependents, and spouses a 25% tuition discount and access to over 60 degree programs.

• New York Jets: A multiyear partnership including the development of Jets-themed student programs and branding opportunities.

Operational Insights

Campus Life

The university offers a vibrant campus life with over 40 clubs and organizations, including spiritual and community service clubs, fraternities, and sororities. Approximately half of full-time undergraduate students live on campus, with housing options ranging from single rooms to apartment-style suites.

Athletics

Caldwell University fields NCAA Division II teams in various sports, including baseball, basketball, cross-country, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, track & field, bowling, softball, and volleyball. The university also supports a competitive eSports program.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Program Expansion

The university continues to expand its academic offerings to meet evolving market demands, with recent additions in STEM fields and emerging industries like eSports.

Diversity and Inclusion

As a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, Caldwell University is committed to enhancing support for Hispanic and low-income students, leveraging grants and partnerships to improve educational outcomes.

Technological Integration

Investments in technology, such as the eSports arena and online learning platforms, position the university to attract tech-savvy students and adapt to changing educational landscapes.

Contact Information

Website: www.caldwell.edu

Social Media:

• LinkedIn: Caldwell University

• Facebook: Caldwell University

• Twitter: @CaldwellUniv

• Instagram: @caldwelluniversity

Caldwell University continues to build upon its rich history, embracing innovation and inclusivity to provide a transformative education for its students.