Kean University Enrollment Climbs to Nearly 19,000 Worldwide in 2025
Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, has reached a historic milestone with nearly 19,000 students enrolled worldwide for the Fall 2025 semester, the largest student body in the University’s history.
Kean received more than 20,000 applications for this academic year, demonstrating the University's growing reputation as a newly designated R2 research university. Students hail from 36 states and 69 countries.
“Kean University’s continued growth in both size and reputation reflects our commitment to serving as a premier research university,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “Students choose Kean because they see the opportunities, innovation and excellence that define our community, and they know they will leave here prepared for career success.”
The student body comprises approximately 4,100 new students, including 2,000 freshmen, 1,450 new transfer students and 670 new graduate students.
The University experienced record enrollment in several undergraduate programs, including psychology, biological sciences, accounting, criminal justice, marketing and early childhood education.
The Department of Health and Human Performance alone soared to more than 800 students, up from 276 students four years ago.
Kean has steadily expanded its enrollment in recent years by focusing on student access, affordability and support, while also enhancing academic programs and global opportunities.
This Fall, Kean will launch New Jersey’s first Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence program, one of only a few such programs nationwide. The University is also introducing a Ph.D. in computer science and establishing a new Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence, reinforcing its role as a leader in preparing students for the future of work.
“These new programs reflect Kean’s innovative spirit and our drive to stay ahead of the curve in meeting student and workforce needs,” said Michael Salvatore, Ph.D., executive vice president for academic and administrative operations. “We are constantly expanding opportunities in high-demand fields, so our graduates are ready to lead in the global economy.”
Kean’s student population includes approximately 5,000 students at Wenzhou-Kean University and reflects growth at Kean Online and Kean Ocean in Toms River.
“The growth in our student body reflects the trust that students and families place in Kean’s ability to deliver on our promise of academic excellence and social mobility,” said LaToro Yates, Ph.D., vice president for enrollment services. “We are committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has the resources and support to succeed at Kean and beyond.”
The diverse incoming class embodies Kean’s mission to create a world-class, innovative and inclusive society through equity and excellence in teaching, learning, global research and impactful public engagement.