Best Colleges in New Jersey (2023 Rankings)

New Jersey has a diverse range of universities, and they're all pretty unique in their own way. Some are all about top-notch research, others are all about that artsy vibe, and some have super-specialized programs. 

Basically, the Garden State's got a little something for everyone. So, get ready because in this article, we're diving into the cream of the crop - the best colleges in New Jersey for 2023 (in no particular order).

Princeton University

Princeton University, located in Princeton, New Jersey, is often synonymous with academic excellence. Known for its Ivy League prestige, Princeton boasts a rich history of rigorous education and groundbreaking research. To top it all off, Princeton is ranked as the number eight school in America.

Not only is Princeton extremely selective, with an admission rate of 6%, but it also boasts some of the highest graduation rates, with a 90% four-year graduation rate and a 98% six-year graduation rate.

Princeton offers its 4,700 undergraduates renowned academic programs in Engineering, Social Sciences, and Humanities, with some of their most popular degree programs including Computer Science, Public Policy Analysis, and Economics. The university's student-to-faculty ratio is 5:1, offering students an incredibly personalized teaching setting.

While some universities have a strong Greek presence, Princeton takes a different approach. Greek life is limited, allowing students to explore a wide variety of social and cultural activities beyond the traditional fraternity and sorority scene.

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

As one of the nation's oldest institutions, Rutgers University-New Brunswick combines tradition with innovation. The university's strengths lie in its diverse programs, including Social Work, Business, and the Sciences. 

Situated in New Brunswick, Rutgers enjoys the advantage of being in close proximity to New York City, offering its 36,000 undergraduates the opportunity to experience the rich cultural and intellectual environment of the city.

One of its biggest features is its status as a research university powerhouse. The university is known for its cutting-edge research initiatives across various fields, attracting renowned scholars and contributing to advancements in science, technology, social sciences, and humanities. Some of Rutgers' most notable degrees include Information Science, Psychology, and Biology.

A member of the Big Ten Conference, Rutgers offers interested students a vibrant sports culture and competitive athletic programs.

Stevens Institute of Technology

Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken stands out as a hub of technological innovation and research. With a focus on Engineering, Computer Science, and Business, Stevens prepares students for the demands of today's ever-evolving industries. The campus provides state-of-the-art facilities, including research labs and collaborative spaces. In addition to the campus, the institute's close proximity to New York City enhances opportunities for internships, networking, and cultural experiences.

Stevens is renowned for its strong engineering and technology programs, preparing students for successful careers in STEM fields. Some of the most popular majors include Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science. The institute also offers students cooperative education programs that allow them to gain real-world experience while pursuing their degrees.

Stevens also holds the yearly Duck Derby, a quirky tradition where thousands of rubber ducks race down the Hudson River, raising funds for scholarships.

The College of New Jersey

Located in Ewing, The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is a four-year college that offers a comprehensive Liberal Arts college education with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and engagement.

TCNJ has an undergraduate class of roughly 7,100 students and an acceptance rate of 51%. The 4-year graduation rate is 75%, and the 6-year rate is 86%.

Some of TCNJ's notable degrees include Business, Biology, and Psychology. Their Honors Program offers a rigorous academic experience with specialized courses and close faculty mentorship.

New Jersey Institute of Technology

The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) stands as a leader in STEM education and research. Located in Newark, NJIT offers cutting-edge programs in Engineering, Architecture, and Computing.

The university is at the forefront of research, contributing to advancements in areas like cybersecurity, solar energy, and healthcare technology.

With 9,000 students and an admission rate of 66%. The 4-year graduation rate is 41%, and the 6-year rate is 70%.

Rowan University

Rowan University is a public research university in Glassboro. The university has a medical campus in Stratford and medical and academic campuses in Camden. The university is also in close proximity to Philadelphia, giving the students the benefit of access to the vibrant and historic city.

Rowan is known for its comprehensive approach to education and strong connections to industry. The university boasts 15,000 undergraduates and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1.

The university is unique for its Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, focusing on training physicians with an emphasis on patient-centered care. In addition, the South Jersey Technology Park at Rowan University facilitates collaborations between academia and industry in areas like healthcare and technology.

Rutgers University-Newark

Rutgers University-Newark provides an urban educational experience that reflects the energy of Newark. The university has 9,000 undergraduates and a 74% admission rate.

Rutgers School of Law-Newark is highly regarded and offers various legal clinics for hands-on learning and practical experience.

Students on campus can enjoy arts venues like the Paul Robeson Art Gallery and Express Newark, promoting creativity and community engagement.

Rutgers-Newark offers a global perspective through international programs, research, and a diverse student body.

Montclair State University

Montclair State University offers a vibrant and inclusive learning environment for its 16,000 undergraduates. Known for its arts programs, education, and business offerings, the university encourages students to explore their passions.

Montclair State has a strong arts focus, with a renowned College of the Arts offering programs in Dance, Theater, Music, and Visual Arts. The university is also known for producing top educators through its College of Education and Human Services.

New Jersey City University

New Jersey City University (NJCU) is situated in Jersey City and offers a dynamic education that prepares students for success in a globalized world.

The university's arts programs are notable, with the Margaret Williams Theatre hosting performances and fostering creativity. Another notable bachelor's degree lies within the College of Professional Studies, where programs tailored for career growth and development in various fields are offered.

Drew University

Drew University, located in Madison, is a small private university that has been nicknamed the "University in the Forest" because of its wooded 186-acre campus.

The university stands out for its strong liberal arts foundation and commitment to interdisciplinary education. With a small undergraduate enrollment of only 1,600 students, Drew offers a personalized education experience characterized by its small class sizes, allowing for close interaction with professors and fostering meaningful student-faculty relationships.

Drew Theological School is renowned for its theological education, attracting students pursuing careers in ministry, theology, and ethics. The Center for Global Education provides opportunities for international experiences, cultural immersion, and study abroad programs. The university's Environmental Studies and Sustainability program reflects its dedication to environmental stewardship and education.

Drew also offers a vibrant arts scene with theater productions, art exhibitions, and cultural events through the Dorothy Young Center for the Arts.

Honorable mentions

• Rider University. Notable programs include Business, Education, and Performing Arts. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 4,800.
• Seton Hall University. Notable programs include Law, Business, and Health Sciences. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 6,800.
• William Paterson University of New Jersey. Notable programs include Music, Nursing, and Business. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 9,500.
• Centenary University. Notable programs include Equine Studies, Criminal Justice, and Education. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 1,800.
• The New Jersey Institute of Technology. Notable programs include Engineering, Computing, and Architecture. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 11,000.
• Kean University. Notable programs include Education, Psychology, and Business. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 13,000.
• Fairleigh Dickinson University. Notable programs include Business, Psychology, and Nursing. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 7,000.
• Stockton University. Notable programs include Environmental Studies, Healthcare, and Education. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 7,000.
• Monmouth University. Notable programs include Communication, Business, and Marine Science. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 6,300.
• Ramapo College of New Jersey. Notable programs include Nursing, Business, and Environmental Studies. The number of undergraduate students is approximately 6,000.

Discover your perfect fit among New Jersey's best colleges with College Rover

Whether you're into the Ivy League allure of Princeton, the dynamic offerings at Rutgers, or the intimate atmosphere of The College of New Jersey, the state's got you covered for a top-notch education. 

If you're looking to stay in-state or you're coming from another American city out-of-state, consider spending your first year in college in Caldwell, South Orange, Galloway, Hackettstown, or one of New Jersey's other unique cities. 

If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by all these higher-education choices, fear not! College Rover is your trusty sidekick for diving into the nitty-gritty of schools, programs, extracurricular activities, and everything in between. Ready to explore? Let College Rover be your guide on this exciting academic adventure!

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.