INFORMATION FOR
William Paterson University’s Cotsakos College of Business— one of an elite group of business colleges to achieve international accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)—offers a variety of challenging and rewarding degree paths to prepare you to excel in today’s global business environment.
Located in the state-of-the-art building at 1600 Valley Road, the College offers undergraduate programs in accounting, finance, financial planning and wealth management, global business, management, marketing, professional sales, and economics. Graduate students can pursue the master of business administration (MBA) with a choice of on-campus general MBA, finance concentration, or applied business analytics concentration; or our 100% online MBA with concentrations in accounting, applied business analytics, entrepreneurship, environmental and social governance, finance, general, healthcare economics and management, human resource management, marketing, and sales strategy. A variety of accelerated 4+1 combined business programs are also available to help you achieve your MBA in a shorter time and with significant cost savings.
In the Cotsakos College of Business, you will study in small classes, taught by faculty who are recognized experts in their fields—often with significant industry experience. Gain real-world experience through internships, credit-earning practica, job shadowing, and mentoring programs—all designed to prepare you for a meaningful and productive career upon graduation.
You can also benefit from the College’s sophisticated resources including the Global Financial Learning Center, an active trading room that brings the world financial markets to campus, and the Russ Berrie Institute for Professional Sales with its Professional Sales Laboratory.
Dean, Cotsakos College of Business
EMAIL: bowrina@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-2964
OFFICE: VR 4056
Associate Dean
EMAIL: gritschm@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-2977
Director of Graduate Programs
EMAIL: grzymkowskiB@wpunj.edu
PHONE: 973-720-3745
Every month during the academic year, we will spotlight a different member of the WP faculty or staff who plays a powerful role in student success.
Name: Alexandros Panayides
Title: Professor of Finance and Economics
Years at WP: 25
Tell us about yourself: Born on the island of Cyprus, I was a first‑generation college student who entered higher education after completing my military service—a path that has shaped a career spanning several decades. I began my studies in Mathematics, earning a Diplom‑Volkswirt (equivalent to an MS in Mathematics) from the University of Frankfurt, in Germany. I later continued my graduate education in the United States, completing an MA in Economics at SUNY Buffalo and a PhD in Economics at SUNY Binghamton. On a personal note, I am married and the proud father of three daughters, ages 26, 24, and 22.
Describe your role on campus: I currently serve as a Professor of Finance and Economics and have played a long-standing leadership role on campus: From 2005 to 2024, I served as Chairperson of the Department of Economics, Finance, and Global Business, helping to guide the department’s growth and academic direction. During my tenure, I played an instrumental role in achieving the Cotsakos College of Business’s initial AACSB accreditation and have remained actively involved in maintaining and advancing accreditation standards. Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to academic program development. I have led the creation and expansion of numerous undergraduate and graduate programs, including the BS in Finance, Financial Planning, and Global Business; the BA in Economics; the MBA with a concentration in Finance; the MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Economics and Management; the MBA STEM in Finance; and the MS in Finance and Financial Planning. In addition, I have developed and taught a wide range of courses in economics and finance at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, contributing to curriculum innovation and student success. Beyond the classroom and administrative leadership, I have served on numerous department, college, and University committees, supporting institutional governance and strategic initiatives.
A defining moment at WP: Over the years, in my roles as both Chair and faculty member, I have often been contacted by parents expressing their gratitude for the guidance and mentorship I provided to their children throughout their studies.
Favorite part about your job: Working directly with students and watching them grow intellectually while gaining confidence. The blend of teaching, mentorship, intellectual exploration, and making a meaningful impact on students’ lives is what makes my role especially rewarding. In addition, another major highlight of my job is the freedom to explore ideas. I enjoy teaching subjects I am passionate about while also conducting research, writing, and contributing to my field.
Fun fact: I play tennis regularly, enjoy hiking, and I’m a passionate soccer fan—especially of Bayern Munich and Manchester United. I also speak three languages: Greek, English and German.
Finish this sentence: "WP is a powerhouse of opportunity." We empower students to transform their futures through professional preparation and real-world impact. Through applied education students do not just earn credits rather they build portfolios, engage in research, and work directly with industry partners.
"Being part of the Costakos College of Business allowed me to immerse myself in the world of accounting and finance through rigorous courses, research opportunities, and support from faculty members. I completed my business honors thesis and learned valuable communication skills that helped me receive two exceptional internships. William Paterson University has given me the tools to jumpstart my career."
Gianna Coscia Double major in accounting and finance, assurance associate, CohnReznick, LLP | Class of 2022
“William Paterson has given me limitless opportunities to expand my leadership capabilities and career readiness, such as helping me perfect my resume, hone my interview skills, and expand my professional network.”
Jay Dhar Professional sales major, accounting minor, business development specialis, Gartner | Class of 2023
