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Georgian Court University Welcomes Arts Students Following Closure of University of the Arts in Philadelphia

GCU Dancers on stage
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On Friday, May 31, the University of the Arts—an institution founded over 150 years ago in Philadelphia—suddenly announced that it would close its doors this week. In light of the recent closing, which may feel overwhelming to the university’s students, Georgian Court extends its support and welcome to aspiring artists and performers who want to continue their pathway to a college degree.

GCU provides a supportive and vibrant environment where students can continue to thrive creatively and have smaller class sizes that allow for personalized attention. We understand the unique needs and aspirations of artists and are here to help University of the Arts students navigate their educational paths during this difficult time.

“We want to extend a warm welcome to students from the University of Arts who are experiencing stress and uncertainty during this transition,” said Priscilla Alicea, Interim Vice President of Enrollment for Georgian Court University. “For anyone interested in pursuing new opportunities in a supportive, vibrant environment, our dedicated transfer counselors are here to ensure a smooth transition.”

Georgian Court offers a variety of undergraduate degree programs tailored to arts students. Students can Major in Dance, Dance Science, Graphic Design & Multimedia, or Visual Art and Minor in Dance, Dance Therapy, Graphic Design, or Studio Art.

Dance students engage in active learning through classroom study, practice in the university’s two state-of-the-art dance studios, and performances under the guidance of world-class master artists. Students can also choreograph their works for their peers to perform on campus and at local venues. 

GCU’s Graphic Design program serves those who are passionate about innovative, creative design. The program keeps students informed on industry trends and technologies, ensuring they are well-prepared for the ever-evolving field of graphic design.

Visual Art students at Georgian Court gain a deep understanding of art theory and history while developing their skills as practicing artists. The program balances classroom instruction with studio time, preparing students for creative careers, including teaching.

Georgian Court is home to hundreds of transfer students who chose the university for its affordable, holistic college experience. It offers a streamlined application process, flexibility with course credits and prerequisites, and accessible transfer counselors who make the admissions process quick and easy. 

GCU’s commitment to transfer students has earned it consistent placement on the Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Honor Roll, recognizing Georgian Court as one of 123 colleges or universities nationwide that provide a smooth transition and proven outcomes for transfer students.

To apply to Georgian Court, interested students submit their college transcripts and a completed GCU App. Applicants can expect a response within one week. GCU’s transfer admissions counselors assist with transferring coursework, securing scholarships, meeting faculty in their chosen majors, and developing pathways to complete their degrees promptly.

For more information or to apply, prospective students can visit georgian.edu/admissions/transfer, call 732-987-2700, or email admissions@georgian.edu.

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About Georgian Court University

Georgian Court University is a leading regional university that provides a transformative education, preparing students for ethical leadership and service in the Catholic Mercy tradition. Founded in 1908 and sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, Georgian Court University is Central and South Jersey’s only Catholic university. The university has a strong liberal arts core and a historic special concern for women.

As a forward-thinking university that supports diversity and academic excellence, GCU is known for expanding possibility for more than 1,900 students of all faiths and backgrounds in 35+ undergraduate majors and 10+ graduate programs. The GCU Lions compete in 16 NCAA Division II sports in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC). In 2020, GCU was named a Best Value College by Money.com and a Best Bang for the Buck (Northeast) by Washington Monthly. High student retention and graduation rates make GCU a Top Performer on Social Mobility on U.S. News & World Reports rankings, and in 2024, GCU was named one of the best Online Master’s Colleges in New Jersey.

The main campus is in Lakewood, New Jersey, on the picturesque former George Jay Gould estate, a National Historic Landmark. Georgian Court, which is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, also serves students through its Center for Professional Studies, and at other locations, including GCU at Brookdale, and through multiple online degree and certificate programs.