Is Rutgers a Military School?
The University of Rutgers, commonly known as Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, is a public research university located in New Jersey, United States. One common question that arises when researching Rutgers is whether it is a military school. This article will provide a detailed answer to this question, exploring the university’s history, academic programs, and military affiliation.
Is Rutgers a Military School?
To answer the question directly: Rutgers is not a military school. It is a civilian university with no formal military affiliation. The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is not accredited by the United States Armed Forces’ accreditation bodies, such as the Army or Navy’s Military Education Systems Accreditation Board.
A Brief History of Rutgers University
Founded in 1766 as Queen’s College, Rutgers is one of the oldest universities in the United States. The university was named after Queen Anne of Great Britain and has since undergone several name changes and expansions. Rutgers is comprised of three campuses: the New Brunswick campus, which is the largest and main campus; the Camden campus; and the Newark campus.
Academic Programs at Rutgers
Rutgers University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across its three campuses. The university has a strong reputation in the fields of engineering, medicine, and business. In addition, Rutgers is classified as a "High Research Activity" institution by the Carnegie Foundation, with faculty and researchers conducting cutting-edge research in various disciplines.
No Military ROTC Program at Rutgers
One key distinction between a civilian university and a military school is the presence of a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program. Rutgers does not have a ROTC program on any of its campuses, which further solidifies its status as a civilian institution.
Other Colleges with Military ROTC Programs at Rutgers
While Rutgers University itself does not have a ROTC program, other colleges within the university do have agreements with military service academies to host ROTC programs. These colleges include:
| College | ROTC Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Rutgers College-Newark | Army ROTC | yes |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | Army ROTC | yes |
| Rutgers University-Camden | Navy ROTC | yes |
Student Veterans and Military Services at Rutgers
Despite not being a military school, Rutgers has a strong commitment to supporting student veterans and military-connected individuals. The university’s Student Veterans of America chapter and the Military and Veterans Program Office offer resources, mentorship, and advocacy services to these students. Rutgers also participates in the GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program and offers veterans’ discounts for tuition.
In Summary
Rutgers University is a civilian university that does not have a formal military affiliation or a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program. While it does have colleges with ROTC programs through agreements with military service academies, the university as a whole is not a military school. If you are looking for a civilian institution with a strong focus on academics and research, Rutgers University may be a great option for you.
Key Takeaways:
• Rutgers University is a civilian university and not a military school.
• The university does not have a ROTC program, but other colleges within Rutgers do have agreements with military service academies to host ROTC programs.
• Rutgers has a strong commitment to supporting student veterans and military-connected individuals.
• The university participates in the GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program and offers veterans’ discounts for tuition.
