Academic Master Plan Impact Report

Since its launch in 2022, the Academic Master Plan has guided university efforts to enhance academic excellence, improve student outcomes, and sharpen research innovation. That work has delivered measurable results and helped position Rutgers for continued progress in the years ahead.

From the Chancellor

Rutgers–New Brunswick Chancellor Francine Conway

Rutgers–New Brunswick is moving into its next chapter with real momentum and a clear sense of purpose.

We see progress across the university, thanks to the dedication of students, faculty, staff, and partners working together toward common goals that benefit everyone.

The Academic Master Plan has been instrumental in aligning our efforts, giving us a shared roadmap that involves everyone in strengthening our academic mission and making a difference.

Building on this foundation, we are focused on how to extend and deepen this work—continuing to translate our collective expertise and creativity into action across our schools and units, while sharpening our focus on the areas where we can make the greatest difference.

As our university continues to evolve, so does this work. Together, we are charting the course for Rutgers–New Brunswick's next chapter, building on our momentum to amplify our impact for the future.

Francine Conway, Chancellor
Rutgers–New Brunswick

Anchored in Excellence

Four pillars support the Academic Master Plan, the comprehensive blueprint guiding the university’s continued pursuit of academic and research excellence. Explore the resulting programs, innovative research, inclusive pedagogy, and examples of how Rutgers is improving lives in New Jersey and beyond.

Scholarly Leadership

Through the Scholarly Leadership pillar, we are strengthening faculty excellence and expanding expertise in fields critical to the future.

Innovative Research

Through the Innovative Research pillar, we are advancing collaborative, cross-disciplinary research to address society's most pressing challenges.

Student Success

Through the Student Success pillar, we are creating the conditions for every student to thrive, persist, and graduate prepared for lifelong success.

Researcher and community member discussing flood damage.

Community Engagement

Through the Community Engagement pillar, we are deepening partnerships that connect the university's teaching, research, and service with the communities we serve.

Catalysts for Change

Our aspirations are grounded in real, demonstrated gains. Together, these indicators point to an institution that knows how to turn planning into performance.

$324.2 million

Rutgers–New Brunswick sponsored award expenditures
(FY2025)

International agreements signed (2022-2025)

20+

Point increase in Top Public Universities rankings

U.S. News & World Report (2022-2025)

84%

Six-year graduation rate
(2025)

85+

Community partnerships established across New Jersey
(2022-2026)

Measure Our Progress

People-Powered Progress

Five years after the launch of the Academic Master Plan, Rutgers faculty, students, staff, and partners are advancing life-saving medical research, conducting first-of-its-kind climate observations, expanding wellness education, and driving meaningful change across research, education, and public service.