Agreements between universities, including Kean and Rowan, establish academic partnerships, strengthening research capabilities between institutions

DUBAI — As part of New Jersey’s economic mission to the Gulf Arab States, Choose New Jersey today facilitated the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between Kean University and the University of Dubai, American University in Dubai (AUD) and University of Wollongong in Dubai; and Rowan University and the University of Ras Al Khaimah. 

“New Jersey’s education ecosystem is strengthened by our international academic partnerships,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Research and development are essential for innovation, and the collaborations between Kean, Rowan, and these leading global research universities benefit students and key industries in both regions. Not only will this collaboration and partnership bolster New Jersey’s future workforce, but it will also strengthen our economy by ensuring New Jersey continues to be a leader in emerging industries.”

Kean University entered into MOUs with three universities, each a collaboration between research students and faculty members in academic areas of mutual interest, including opportunities for faculty and student exchange. The MOUs aim to create opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to study, conduct, and present research with the partner university.

“These new partnerships reinforce Kean University’s role as a global academic leader,” said Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., President of Kean University. “Collaborating with premier institutions such as the University of Dubai, American University in Dubai, and the University of Wollongong in Dubai creates powerful opportunities for our students and faculty to engage in cross-cultural research and innovation. These agreements strengthen our commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and inclusive learning while preparing the next generation of leaders to thrive in an interconnected world.” 

In addition to research and development, the Rowan University and American University of Ras Al Khaimah MOU will focus on strengthening cross-cultural ties between New Jersey and the UAE through student and faculty exchange programs and joint educational programs.

“Much of the research being conducted at Rowan has global implications,” said Ali A. Houshmand, President, Rowan University. “Partnering with other universities benefits our institutions, our students, and our regions. This exchange provides students with broader perspectives, ultimately creating better business opportunities, attracting more people and improving our respective economies.” 

“Investment in higher education partnerships strengthens New Jersey’s talent pipeline, fostering a skilled workforce leading innovative research in life sciences, technology, clean energy, and other key industries that bolster our state’s economy,” said Wesley Mathews, President and CEO of Choose New Jersey. “These MOUs reaffirm a commitment to academic excellence and a limitless pursuit of knowledge in collaboration with our international partners.”

To read this press release in Arabic, click here.

To read the full MOU between Kean University and University of Dubai, click here.

To read the full MOU between Kean University and American University in Dubai, click here.

To read the full MOU between Kean University and University of Wollongong in Dubai, click here.

To view the full MOU between Rowan University and University of Ras Al Khaimah, click here.

Reporters interested in more information on the New Jersey Gulf Arab States economic mission may contact Natalie Hamilton (Natalie.Hamilton@nj.gov), Ingrid Austin (iaustin@choosenj.com), Ariella Steinreich (asteinreich@scompr.com), or visit choosenj.com/GulfArabMission for additional details.

About Choose New Jersey
Choose New Jersey is the state’s leading non-profit business attraction organization. We harness the collective power of New Jersey’s business, government, labor, and academic sectors to expand New Jersey’s economy. We work globally, using our marketing expertise, concierge business development services, deep knowledge of the state, and convening power, in collaboration with state government, to empower businesses, entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators to make New Jersey their home. Learn more at choosenj.com.

About Kean University
Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Designated an R2 research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, Kean ranks among the top eight percent of U.S. universities for research and doctorate production. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. 

About University of Dubai
Established in 1997, the University of Dubai (UD) is an accredited academic institution committed to providing world-class education in the heart of the United Arab Emirates. UD offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, law, engineering, and information technology through its AACSB- and ABET-accredited colleges. Backed by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the University is recognized for its focus on innovation, research, and strong ties to the public and private sectors. UD plays a vital role in shaping the future workforce of the region and serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration.

About American University in Dubai
Founded in 1995 as the first private institution of higher learning in Dubai, AUD is one of the most recognized universities in the UAE – with Ministry of Education licensure and US accreditation (SACSCOC) for the institution, as well as the most prominent US-based professional accreditations for its academic programs: ABET (Engineering), AACSB (Business), NAAB (Architecture), NASAD (Visual Communication and Interior Design), CIDA (Interior Design) and ACEJMC (Communications and Information Studies).

AUD, a university known for its emphasis on effective teaching and the high rate of employability of its graduates, is pleased to be classified as Group II ("Very Good") among research universities according to the UAE Ministry Classification of Higher Education Institutions. AUD has excelled in many areas over the years and has secured the top spot in Student Diversity & Employment Outcomes in Dubai for 2 consecutive years, according to QS Rankings. AUD has also received the "Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year" award by Times Higher Education MENA 2023. The precedent coupled with AUD's high employability rate (90%+) explains why students from all around the globe with diverse educational backgrounds choose AUD as their destination for higher education.

About University of Wollongong in Dubai
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) was established in 1993 by one of the world's top-ranking universities - University of Wollongong, Australia. The University of Wollongong in Australia is a modern, research-intensive university with an outstanding reputation for its approach to teaching across a diverse range of academic disciplines. Internationally renowned, University of Wollongong retains a position as one of the top 1% universities in the world, illustrated by its consistent performance in the prestigious QS World University Rankings. UOWD is a branch campus of the University of Wollongong’s international network of learning centres, which deliver the academic excellence of a leading Australian university to strategic locations across the globe.

About Rowan University
Rowan University is ranked among the top 100 public research universities in the United States and is also the third fastest-growing. Known for its innovation in education and dedication to student success, Rowan University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet the needs of the future global workforce.

American University of Ras Al Khaimah
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), located in the United Arab Emirates, is a non-profit, public university that offers a comprehensive set of accredited and internationally recognized undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With a focus on holistic education and practical knowledge, AURAK prepares students to become global citizens who are innovators in their respective fields. Through partnerships with top global universities and organizations, AURAK provides students unparalleled opportunities to gain international exposure and experience.