News
Applying Data Science Beyond the Tech World
“I was interested in applying data science to real world problems and was having a hard time finding a program that did that until I came across the MPI program at Bloustein. On a technical level, the MPI taught me how to manipulate data to solve problems. This became very useful for interpreting the administrative data I work with now. On a professional level, it taught me how to discuss and present data in an impactful way, which allows me to better communicate to the administrative staff who use the tools I develop.”
NJSPL Report Release: Advancing Language Equity in Chatbot Design for NJ’s Public Services
This new report examines how chatbots are used to deliver public information, where language equity gaps can occur, and how a prototype chatbot can support more equitable access to New Jersey’s SNAP services for English- and Spanish-speaking households
Curious About Cities, Inspired by Communities
“I was drawn to the fact that the Bloustein School’s MCRP program consistently ranks among the top in the country. I was also impressed by the support I received from Bloustein staff and faculty during the application process. Their willingness to meet with me, answer questions, and establish a strong relationship before I ever even stepped foot in New Jersey was very welcoming. There is much to see in New Jersey, and I love the diversity of history, cities, and communities I can easily access by train and bicycle. It’s been a wonderful experience.”
Networking and Data Analysis Helps Build a Policy Career
“I felt a master’s program in public policy would be the best way to prepare and position myself for where I want to be in the future. Rutgers offers an outstanding program with professors with real-world experience and countless opportunities, along with generous financial aid and scholarship support. The Bloustein School also has an incredible alumni network that extends throughout New Jersey and beyond.”
Translating Health Issues Leads to Breaking Down Administrative Barriers
“Navigating the tension between hands-on patient care and bureaucratic hurdles made it clear to me that better operational systems and technology are needed to absorb administrative friction, allowing professionals to focus on high-stakes human needs. I chose the Bloustein School’s MHA program because of its flexibility, which allows students to work during the day and study in the evening. The connections and opportunities presented to me have been nothing short of exceptional. If I had to choose all over again, I wouldn’t hesitate to make Rutgers my top choice.”
Andrews Testifies on Need for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Investment in New Jersey
Associate Dean for Research Clinton J. Andrews provided invited testimony before the New Jersey Senate Environment and Energy Committee during a hearing at the Lavallette Municipal Building focused on the need for investment in storm-resilient infrastructure across the state.
Most patients view their test results before their doctor, with some reporting low comprehension
More than two-thirds of adults (68.6 percent) reported viewing their test results before hearing from a provider. Those who immediately viewed results were more likely to be older and female, and have a higher income, multiple chronic health conditions, higher digital literacy, and greater use of health-related social media.
Lindenfeld et al. Find Most Patients View Test Results Before the Doctor
Regarding the primary outcome measure, 68.6% of respondents viewed immediately released test results before hearing from their health care practitioner. However 27% only understood the results “fairly well.”
NJSPL: Ryan Lawrence (MCRP ’27) Examines NJ Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Laws
ccessory dwelling units or ADUs can provide an alternative to traditional housing, helping to remediate both the housing shortage and affordability issues while preserving rural land from further development. Several municipalities have passed ADU-related legislation, including Montclair, South Orange, Princeton, and Asbury Park, but a statewide bill on ADUs (Bill A2792) has not yet made it out of the legislature and onto the governor’s desk.
Casino operator liquidated as Chapter 11 bankruptcy ends
“The addition of new casinos in Atlantic City will yield diminishing returns to gross gaming revenues within the city, particularly as new competitors come online in neighboring states. Gross gaming revenue of new casinos in Atlantic City would come largely at the expense of existing venues,” the authors wrote.
Senate Passes Stopgap Funding Bill Blocking OMB Grantmaking Rule
Whether there are hundreds of thousands of comments or tens of thousands of comments for the OMB to review, office staff are facing a daunting challenge, said Stuart Shapiro, dean of the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University, in an interview. “OMB’s never had a rule that had this volume of comments before,” Shapiro said, noting that OMB’s staff are already “very, very busy people.”
Heldrich Center Publishes Legislative Report on New Jersey’s Teacher Workforce
This report provides a high-level overview of New Jersey’s teacher workforce at the state and district levels. While research in this area is progressing, questions remain about the overall supply and demand of the teaching workforce and about the factors that influence teachers’ decisions to enter or remain in teaching positions.