Office of the Secretary of Higher Education – Trenton, NJ

Office of the Secretary of Higher Education

The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) is the lead state agency responsible for planning, policy development, and coordination of New Jersey’s higher education system. Headquartered on the 10th floor of the Department of Labor Building at 1 John Fitch Plaza, OSHE advises the Governor and Legislature on higher education initiatives and oversees the state’s diverse network of public research universities, state colleges, community colleges, and independent institutions. The agency is dedicated to increasing educational attainment, improving student outcomes, and closing equity gaps across the state.

Strategic Initiatives and Oversight

OSHE implements the state’s strategic plan for higher education, focusing on making college more affordable and accessible. The office manages critical regulatory and financial functions essential to the academic landscape.

• Licensure and Accreditation: Authorizing institutions to operate and offer academic degree programs within New Jersey.
• Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF): Administering financial assistance and support services for students from economically and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Capital Funding: Managing bond programs and grants for campus facility improvements and technology upgrades.
• Policy Development: Creating frameworks for credit transfer, dual enrollment, and workforce alignment.

Location and Access

The OSHE offices are located within a secure state government complex. Visitors must enter through the main lobby of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development building, present valid photo identification, and pass through security screening. While the office handles administrative inquiries, student financial aid questions are often directed to the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA).