Governor Christie has signed legislation that will restructure New Jersey’s system of higher education. He traveled to Rutgers campuses in Newark, New Brunswick, and Camden to discuss the plan.

The restructuring that will be finalized by July of next year merges most of the assets of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey into Rutgers.

Governor Christie says a stronger Rutgers will be better able to compete for the best students and obtain more federal grant money.

 “Rutgers was already an outstanding institution. Now it’s going to become a powerhouse.”

The legislation also makes Rowan a research university and fosters collaboration between Rowan and Rutgers on medical sciences.

New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education Rochelle Hendricks says the plan makes higher education a priority after decades of neglect.

“The creation of regional centers of excellence will aid New Jersey’s comeback by making it easier for our higher institutions to create partnerships with business and industry to help drive innovation and economic growth in our state.”        

It’s not clear just how much the restructuring will cost. The governor says money to pay for it could come from $540 million in previously authorized borrowing for higher education that was not used.

A $750 million bond issue to pay for higher education is also on the November ballot.