The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) has advanced the merger between Kean University and New Jersey City University (NJCU.
The merger will officially close on July 1, when Kean acquires control of NJCU. At that time, all NJCU employees will become new Kean employees.
Following completion of the U.S. Department of Education’s review in August 2026, the merger will be complete, the Jersey City campus will begin to formally operate as Kean Jersey City and all NJCU students will become Kean students.
“This is a defining moment for Kean University, and for the future of higher education in our state,” said Lamont Repollet, Ed.D., president of Kean University. “With Middle States’ decision, we move forward with purpose and clarity, creating exceptional opportunities for students across New Jersey and beyond.
“This merger strengthens Kean’s ability to deliver an innovative, inclusive and high-quality education while expanding access for those who need it most.”
The decision from the MSCHE follows more than a year of intensive planning and collaboration between the two institutions.
In March 2025, the NJCU board of trustees voted to pursue a merger with Kean following direction from the state. The universities subsequently signed a letter of intent and, later, a definitive merger agreement in October 2025.
“Kean Jersey City will expand opportunities, strengthen academic offerings and carry NJCU’s near-century of impact into a second century with greater reach and renewed purpose,” said Andrés Acebo, J.D., president of NJCU.
“Our rich legacy will endure and expand within a dynamic and unified institution of public higher education that advances student success while remaining anchored in the communities that have defined our purpose and that we have been privileged and entrusted to serve.”
The merger builds on state support, including legislation signed by former Gov. Phil Murphy earlier this year that advanced the partnership and positioned it as a transformative step for higher education in New Jersey.
The combined institution will serve approximately 24,500 students, increasing access to high-quality programs while strengthening pathways for social mobility and public impact across New Jersey and beyond.
With the MSCHE decision secured, Kean and NJCU will continue final preparations for the transition, focusing on academic alignment and student services.