NJIT Social, Economic and Environmental Sustainability Impacts Ranked Globally
New Jersey Institute of Technology has earned global recognition from the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking for the university’s pursuit of and progress toward targets set forth by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), earning No. 90 globally and No. 2 nationally in two key areas.
In its third year, the THE Impact Ranking is a global assessment of the commitments universities make in their communities and abroad that align with the U.N.’s SDGs. The 17 different SDGs represent altruistic themes ranging from eliminating poverty and ensuring access to clean and reliable energy, to addressing inequality and supporting environmental and economic uplift.
“We are gratified that our commitment to sustainability as demonstrated through performance in the research we conduct, the curriculum we deliver, and the manner we engage our community has earned NJIT a top spot in this prestigious ranking," said Fadi P. Deek, provost and senior executive vice president. "We have made a strong commitment to sustainability, setting it as one of four guiding themes for NJIT’s strategic plan, Building on a Strong Foundation—NJIT 2025, in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals of addressing challenges facing our planet and creating a safer and sustainable world for all.”
#2 Nationally for Decent Work and Economic Growth, #90 Globally for Affordable and Clean Energy
In the 2021 report, NJIT was second among U.S. institutions within the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal that promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. NJIT has long been recognized as a leader in economic development, especially for underserved communities, as noted by its No. 1 ranking for upward economic mobility.
According to Princeton Review, NJIT ranked No. 39 as a Best Value College and No. 10 for Best Career Placement among public colleges and universities nationwide.
"An education from NJIT offers an excellent return on investment and provides a pathway to career success,” said NJIT President Joel S. Bloom. “NJIT is ranked No. 1 nationally by Forbes for the upward mobility of students from the lowest income brackets. Our students have an average of approximately three job offers in hand during their senior year and attain starting salaries almost 20% above their peers across the country. And we are ranked among the top 2% out of more than 4,000 colleges and universities for alumni mid-career earnings.”
NJIT was also ranked No. 90 globally for Affordable and Clean Energy, which looks to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. This type of work is exemplified by NJIT’s Center for Resilient Design and its microgrid resiliency initiative that educates and informs communities on the value and feasibility of microgrid development.
"We are very proud of NJIT's performance in the overall ranking, moving back into the top 300 institutions worldwide despite a 46% increase in the number of universities participating,” added Deek. “As New Jersey's public STEM institution, we celebrate the recognition of our commitment to Affordable and Clean Energy, the sustainable development goal in which we ranked 90th globally. But perhaps most rewarding is our status as 2nd among U.S. institutions in the area of Decent Work and Economic Growth."
The THE Impact Rankings are the only global assessment of universities against the U.N.’s SDGs. THE uses carefully calibrated indicators to provide comprehensive and balanced comparisons across four broad areas: research, stewardship, outreach and teaching. For more information on the rankings and methodology, visit timeshighereducation.com/impactrankings.
