Mission

The College of the Arts is a vibrant and inclusive creative community, home to over 2,000 students across three academic units: the Department of Art and Design, the Department of Theatre and Dance, and the John J. Cali School of Music. With more than 40 undergraduate and graduate programs and a faculty of distinguished artists, working professionals, and scholars, the college fosters a culture of artistic excellence, inquiry, innovation, and collaboration.

Our Mission

The College empowers students to lead purposeful, engaged lives through transformative educational opportunities and experiences in the arts. Academic programs provide a distinctive, rigorous, and inclusive learning environment that prepares students to excel in their chosen fields and become intellectually aware and fully capable of adapting and thriving in a complex, global society. Students engage in rigorous training while gaining real-world experience through performances, exhibitions, internships, study abroad programs and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Our Values

Recognized as a New Jersey Center of Excellence in the Arts, the college is deeply committed to public engagement and community impact. Through partnerships with schools, cultural organizations, businesses, and local governments, we offer programs that bring the arts into public life—from bold mural installations to inclusive film festivals to neighborhood outreach initiatives. We welcome new partners who share our belief in the power of the arts to educate, inspire, and strengthen communities.