Why does a college transition to a university? In the case of Rochester University, the recent evolution to a new name reflects the institution’s expansion of programs, the opening of a $5.3-million sports complex, and the launch of a $10-million capital campaign.
In the last few years, the university, founded in 1959 and nestled on 83 acres near downtown Rochester, added a nursing program (100 percent of graduates are employed); introduced new degree programs in early childhood studies, social entrepreneurship, and musical theater; and raised $4.5 million in scholarships. Its business and mass communication offerings have also been expanded.
The institution says its capital campaign will boost annual enrollment to 1,600 students, from around 1,200 students today.
The name change also settles, once and for all, the question of whether the Christian school offers four-year degree programs. Many people had believed that, as a college, the school only offered two-year programs.
“Our vision for the future includes more improvements to the campus, increased academic offerings and programs, the growth of our athletic program, and greater opportunities for student leadership and service learning,” says Brian Stogner, president of Rochester University.
To that end, the school says it will improve its internship programs so students can acquire firsthand knowledge of professional workplaces, provide more connections to area businesses, and help students gain a greater understanding of changing trends within multiple industries.
