Founded in 1855, William Paterson is one of nine state colleges and universities in New Jersey. The university offers 44 undergraduate and 21 graduate programs. Spread over 370 acres, the university has nearly 11,000 students, about 85% undergraduates and 15% graduate students. Although most students commute to class, there are 10 dormitories on campus with room for some 2,600 students.

Annual tuition is $10,838 for full time students who are New Jersey residents, and $17,592 for non-resident students. Financial aid is available through a number of loans, scholarships, grants and work-study programs.