INFORMATION FOR
William Paterson University’s Cotsakos College of Business— one of an elite group of business colleges to achieve international accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)—offers a variety of challenging and rewarding degree paths to prepare you to excel in today’s global business environment.
Located in the state-of-the-art building at 1600 Valley Road, the College offers undergraduate programs in accounting, finance, financial planning and wealth management, global business, management, marketing, professional sales, and economics. Graduate students can pursue the master of business administration (MBA) with a choice of on-campus general MBA, finance concentration, or applied business analytics concentration; or our 100% online MBA with concentrations in accounting, applied business analytics, entrepreneurship, environmental and social governance, finance, general, healthcare economics and management, human resource management, marketing, and sales strategy. A variety of accelerated 4+1 combined business programs are also available to help you achieve your MBA in a shorter time and with significant cost savings.
In the Cotsakos College of Business, you will study in small classes, taught by faculty who are recognized experts in their fields—often with significant industry experience. Gain real-world experience through internships, credit-earning practica, job shadowing, and mentoring programs—all designed to prepare you for a meaningful and productive career upon graduation.
You can also benefit from the College’s sophisticated resources including the Global Financial Learning Center, an active trading room that brings the world financial markets to campus, and the Russ Berrie Institute for Professional Sales with its Professional Sales Laboratory.
Dean, Cotsakos College of Business
EMAIL: bowrina@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-2964
OFFICE: VR 4056
Associate Dean
EMAIL: gritschm@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-2977
Director of Graduate Programs
EMAIL: grzymkowskiB@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-3745
Passaic County, through its Impact Passaic initiative, and William Paterson University’s Cotsakos College of Business have partnered to launch the AI Innovation Business Challenge Hackathon, inviting students to develop AI-enabled solutions to pressing local issues – including homelessness, food access, and public assistance – while emphasizing the responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies.
The initiative is funded in part by a gift from the Lenahan Family. Kevin Lenahan, a member of William Paterson University’s Board of Trustees and an alumnus of the institution, has supported efforts to expand student innovation and experiential learning opportunities.
The Hackathon challenges William Paterson students to address three priority issues identified by Impact Passaic:
“This collaboration reflects Passaic County’s commitment to innovation that serves people,” says Passaic County Commissioner Rodney De Vore. “By partnering with William Paterson University, we are giving students the opportunity to apply their skills to real challenges facing our communities while exploring how emerging technologies like AI can be used responsibly and ethically to improve public services.”
“This partnership demonstrates how higher education and public institutions can work together to prepare students for the workforce while addressing complex community challenges,” adds Anthony “Tony” Bowrin, Dean of William Paterson’s Cotsakos College of Business.
The Hackathon will culminate in a public showcase at William Paterson University on April 23, during which student teams will present their solutions to County leaders, University representatives, and community partners.
Promising concepts may advance to further development, helping translate student ideas into real-world community solutions.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to fostering students’ innovation and critical-thinking skills while using AI thoughtfully to address real-world challenges,” says Sarbjeet Singh Rayat, Director of the Center for Socially Responsible Entrepreneurship and Innovation at William Paterson University.
Highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the collaboration, Rayat also noted the instrumental role of Professor Balmurli Natrajan, in the University’s Department of Community and Social Justice Studies. Natrajan’s prior research and grant-funded work with Passaic County on human services needs assessments and program evaluation helped lay the groundwork and spark the relationship for this initiative.
The initiative is supported by the Passaic County Board of County Commissioners and leadership within the Department of Human Services, under the direction of Dr. Arti Kakkar, Executive Director; Francine Vince, Deputy Director; and Catherine McGowan, who coordinates the Impact Passaic project.
It is implemented through collaboration among William Paterson University’s Center for Socially Responsible Entrepreneurship and Innovation, its Russ Berrie Institute for Professional Sales, under the direction of Michael Gatlin, and its Global Business and Financial Institute, under the direction of Peter Caiazzo.
"Being part of the Costakos College of Business allowed me to immerse myself in the world of accounting and finance through rigorous courses, research opportunities, and support from faculty members. I completed my business honors thesis and learned valuable communication skills that helped me receive two exceptional internships. William Paterson University has given me the tools to jumpstart my career."
Gianna Coscia Double major in accounting and finance, assurance associate, CohnReznick, LLP | Class of 2022
“William Paterson has given me limitless opportunities to expand my leadership capabilities and career readiness, such as helping me perfect my resume, hone my interview skills, and expand my professional network.”
Jay Dhar Professional sales major, accounting minor, business development specialis, Gartner | Class of 2023
