UCNJ Campuses

The Cranford Campus of Union County College serves as the flagship location, offering a comprehensive array of associate degree and certificate programs designed to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions or direct entry into the workforce. This campus emphasizes foundational education in liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies, fostering critical thinking and practical skills essential for modern careers.

• Liberal Arts and Humanities: Courses in English literature, history, philosophy, and foreign languages provide a broad cultural foundation. Students explore American history from colonial times to contemporary issues, analyze philosophical texts by thinkers like Plato and Kant, and develop language proficiency in Spanish, French, and ESL programs tailored for diverse learners.
• Business Administration: The program covers accounting principles, marketing strategies, management theories, and entrepreneurship. Hands-on courses include financial accounting using QuickBooks, business law, and e-commerce, preparing students for roles in corporate finance, retail management, and small business ownership.
• Health Sciences: Pre-nursing, medical assisting, and health information technology tracks are prominent. Anatomy and physiology labs, microbiology, and patient care simulations equip students for healthcare professions, with pathways to RN licensure and allied health certifications.
• STEM Fields: Mathematics, computer science, and engineering science courses build technical expertise. Calculus sequences, programming in Java and Python, and introductory physics with lab components support transfers to engineering and IT programs at universities.
• Social Sciences: Psychology, sociology, and criminal justice offerings delve into human behavior, social structures, and legal systems. Courses like abnormal psychology and criminology theories prepare students for counseling, law enforcement, or social work careers.
• Education and Early Childhood: Teacher preparation includes child development, curriculum design, and classroom management, with field experiences in local schools for aspiring educators.

Additionally, the campus hosts continuing education workshops in digital media, graphic design, and cybersecurity, enhancing lifelong learning. With state-of-the-art facilities like science labs and a media center, Cranford ensures interactive, student-centered learning. Programs align with industry needs, boasting high transfer rates and employment outcomes. Extracurricular ties to community service integrate real-world application, making this campus a hub for holistic education. (Word count: 312)

The Elizabeth Campus focuses on accessible education for urban communities, specializing in career-oriented programs that address local workforce demands in healthcare, technology, and business. It offers flexible scheduling, including evening and online options, to accommodate working adults and diverse populations seeking associate degrees and certifications.

• Healthcare and Allied Health: This campus excels in nursing, radiologic technology, and emergency medical services. Core courses include pharmacology, clinical nursing practices, and diagnostic imaging techniques, with clinical rotations at nearby hospitals like Trinitas Regional Medical Center for practical experience.
• Information Technology: Programs in cybersecurity, network administration, and web development teach skills in Cisco networking, ethical hacking, and HTML/CSS/JavaScript. Students gain certifications like CompTIA A+ and Security+, preparing for IT support and analyst roles in the growing tech sector.
• Business and Culinary Arts: Accounting, office administration, and hospitality management are key. Culinary courses cover food safety, baking techniques, and international cuisines, with a commercial kitchen for hands-on training leading to chef or management positions in Elizabeth's vibrant dining scene.
• Liberal Arts Transfer: General education in communications, psychology, and sociology supports seamless transfer to bachelor's programs. Speech communication and cultural anthropology courses enhance interpersonal and global awareness skills.
• Public Safety and Criminal Justice: Law enforcement training, homeland security, and forensic science introduce criminal procedures, terrorism studies, and evidence collection, aligning with careers in policing and emergency response.
• English as a Second Language (ESL) and Adult Basic Education: Tailored courses improve language proficiency and literacy, bridging gaps for non-native speakers entering college-level studies.

The campus's urban location facilitates partnerships with local industries for internships and job placement. Facilities include simulation labs for healthcare and computer centers for tech training. Emphasis on equity ensures inclusive access, with high success rates in credential attainment. Community events and tutoring services round out a supportive learning environment. (Word count: 298)

The Plainfield Campus caters to the needs of central New Jersey residents, emphasizing community-focused education with strong programs in social services, education, and technical trades. It provides a welcoming environment for first-generation college students, offering associate degrees, certificates, and developmental courses to build academic foundations.

• Early Childhood Education: Courses in child psychology, inclusive education, and program administration prepare students for roles as teachers or directors in daycare and preschool settings. Practical components include observation hours and curriculum planning projects.
• Social Work and Human Services: Human services tracks cover case management, counseling techniques, and social policy. Students study family dynamics, addiction recovery, and community outreach, gaining skills for nonprofit and welfare agency positions.
• Automotive Technology and Trades: Hands-on training in engine repair, electrical systems, and welding uses industry-standard tools. ASE certification prep courses focus on diagnostics and safety protocols for mechanic and technician careers.
• General Studies and Transfer Programs: Broad offerings in biology, chemistry, and mathematics support STEM transfers. Lab-based environmental science and algebra courses develop analytical abilities for further study.
• Business and Entrepreneurship: Small business management, retail operations, and economics introduce market analysis and financial planning. Local business simulations encourage innovation for aspiring entrepreneurs in Plainfield's economy.
• Arts and Communication: Graphic design, journalism, and theater arts foster creativity. Digital art software training and public speaking classes enhance portfolios for media and performing arts pathways.

With a commitment to affordability, the campus offers scholarships and work-study opportunities. Modern classrooms and a resource center support personalized learning. Partnerships with local schools and employers provide internships, boosting employability. Cultural programs and counseling services promote student well-being and retention. This campus stands as a vital educational anchor, empowering residents toward economic mobility and personal growth. (Word count: 305)