New Jersey City University
The Vibe Check
New Jersey City University feels like a dynamic urban campus where students are deeply connected to the real world. The atmosphere is practical and ambitious, with a diverse student body that commutes from across the region. It's a place where you work hard, but you're also right in the middle of one of the country's most exciting metro areas.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1015
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
NJCU has strong academic programs in business, criminal justice, and the visual and performing arts, often leveraging its proximity to New York City for unique opportunities. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills, with teaching that focuses on real-world application. While it may not have the massive research output of larger state schools, students can find solid research opportunities, especially in the sciences.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Jersey City
Life in Jersey City means you have incredible access to NYC for entertainment, internships, and culture, just a PATH train ride away. On campus and locally, students enjoy the vibrant waterfront, diverse restaurants, and local arts scene. You can also catch a ferry to Manhattan for a day of exploring or catch a game at MetLife Stadium nearby.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($52,745):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban environment, so students should be aware of their surroundings and use campus safety services. NJCU has its own police department and offers resources like a campus escort service.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Proximity to New York City provides unmatched access to internships, jobs, and cultural experiences.
- ✓ Relatively affordable in-state tuition and a low average net price make it a financially accessible option.
- ✓ Strong, practical programs in high-demand fields like Business, Criminal Justice, and Health Professions.
- ✓ A highly diverse student body creates a rich and inclusive learning environment.
Cons
- ✗ The 38.7% graduation rate is significantly below the national average, which can be a concern for student success.
- ✗ As a commuter-heavy campus, the traditional 'college town' social experience may be less pronounced.
- ✗ The urban setting requires students to be proactive about personal safety and navigating the surrounding area.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
NJCU is known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Criminal Justice, and Visual & Performing Arts. It is also recognized for its commitment to providing access to higher education for a diverse student population, particularly from the urban areas of New Jersey and the New York metropolitan area.
No, New Jersey City University has a high acceptance rate of 89.18%, making it generally accessible to applicants. While admission is not highly selective, a solid academic record, including a good GPA and completion of college prep courses, will strengthen your application and eligibility for scholarships.
Campus life at NJCU is active but reflects its nature as a commuter school with a significant portion of students living off-campus. There are over 70 student clubs and organizations, and NCAA Division II athletics provide opportunities for school spirit. The campus itself is compact and located in an urban setting, encouraging students to engage with both the campus and the broader Jersey City and NYC areas.
For many students, particularly New Jersey residents, NJCU offers a strong value proposition. The in-state tuition and low average net price are affordable compared to many other options, and the 10-year median earnings of $52,744 provide a reasonable return on investment. The worth is significantly enhanced for students who leverage the location to secure internships and jobs in the New York City metro area.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 5,445
- In-State Tuition $13,971
- Out-of-State $24,888
- Zip Code 07305
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $11,732 and relatively low in-state tuition, NJCU offers a solid value, especially for New Jersey residents. The 10-year median earnings of $52,745 provide a decent return on investment, particularly for graduates in fields like business and health professions. For many students, the combination of affordability and access to the NYC job market makes this a financially sound choice.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.