POPULATION (2021): 9.3 million
CAPITAL: Trenton
LARGEST PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN NEW JERSEY: Rutgers University
LARGEST PRIVATE UNIVERSITY IN NEW JERSEY: Fairleigh Dickinson University
New Jersey is located on the Atlantic Coast, and stretches from just south of New York City to just north of Philadelphia, with several colleges in the “Jersey Burbs” of these cities, as well as many other throughout the state. Most of the entertainment, especially for young people, is enjoyed in the coastal cities, with each having a different vibe, but all offering the relaxation of the ocean.
The proximity to many East Coast cities also gives students in The Garden State a lot of opportunities for internships and, ultimately jobs. Here is a look at the colleges and universities in New Jersey.
Universities in New Jersey – 4-Year Colleges and Online
As one of the original colonies, New Jersey has some colleges that are older than the United States, including the prominent public university, Rutgers, which was founded in 1766. There are also many private New Jersey universities that offer 4-year degrees, too.
Public Universities in New Jersey
In addition to Rutgers, there are 10 other public universities that offer 4-year degrees to students. Here they are:
- Montclair State University
- Rowan University
- Kean University
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Thomas Edison State University
- William Paterson University
- New Jersey City University
- Stockton University
- The College of New Jersey
- Ramapo College
Private Universities in New Jersey
There are also 14 private universities in New Jersey with 4-year degree programs. Here is a list of those colleges:
- Fairleigh Dickinson University
- Seton Hall University
- Princeton University
- Monmouth University
- Rider University
- Stevens Institute of Technology
- Centenary University
- St. Peter’s University
- Drew University
- Caldwell University
- Bloomfield College
- Saint Elizabeth University
- Felician University
- Georgian Court University
Community Colleges in New Jersey
New Jersey is also committed to providing its citizens with affordable alternatives for certifications and 2-year associate degree programs. The state has a system of 18 community colleges throughout the state, with 1 community college in every county except 3 (students in these counties are close to a community college in a neighboring county).
Prominent Online Colleges in New Jersey
Several of the prestigious colleges in New Jersey offer full online programs, including Rutgers on the public university side and Princeton and Monmouth as far as private universities. All of the state schools in New Jersey offer at least some form of online college options for New Jersey residents.
Universities in Jersey City
Jersey City is a large metropolitan area in the northern part of the state, across the Hudson River from New York City. Though there is all of the fun of NYC a short ride away, Jersey City residents have plenty to enjoy in their own city, with a mix of cultures giving way to a great array of food, entertainment, and art.
Additionally, there are several 4-year universities in Jersey City:
- Eastern International College
- New Jersey City University
- Saint Peter’s University
- University of Phoenix-New Jersey
Universities in Newark
Newark is another New Jersey city located across a waterway from New York City, and has a similar feel to Jersey City, as well as a similar number of 4-year universities and colleges:
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Pillar College
- Rutgers University-Newark
Get to Know New Jersey
Residents of New Jersey who live near New York City or Philadelphia have many different experiences than those in the middle of the state, which is mostly wooded areas and waterways with a lot of options for camping and hiking. Near the cities, nightlife and entertainment are in much higher supply, and no matter where you go to college in the state, the beaches aren’t very far!