Best Universities in New Jersey
Top 10 Universities in New Jersey
New Jersey boasts several renowned universities offering a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students. Here are the top 10 universities in New Jersey, along with their overviews, rankings, key statistics, popular extracurricular activities, famous alumni, and top hiring companies.
Princeton University
Princeton University, located in Princeton, New Jersey, is a prestigious Ivy League research university renowned for its academic excellence and historic campus. Founded in 1746, Princeton offers undergraduate and graduate programs in arts and sciences, engineering, public affairs, and more. With a commitment to teaching, research, and service, Princeton provides students with a rigorous yet supportive learning environment. The university’s picturesque campus, renowned faculty, and strong sense of community make it a top choice for students seeking a world-class education.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 1st in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 8,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various fields including arts and sciences, engineering, public affairs, and architecture.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 6%.
Average SAT Score:
1470-1570 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Student Government and Leadership Organizations
- Performing Arts Groups and Cultural Clubs
- Research and Academic Societies
Famous Alumni:
- Woodrow Wilson – Former President of the United States
- Michelle Obama – Former First Lady of the United States
- Jeff Bezos – Founder of Amazon
- Sonia Sotomayor – Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court
- James Madison – Former President of the United States
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Goldman Sachs
- McKinsey & Company
- JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Microsoft
Rutgers University – New Brunswick
Rutgers University – New Brunswick, located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a public research university and the flagship institution of the Rutgers University system. Established in 1766, Rutgers offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in arts and sciences, business, engineering, and more. With a diverse student body, world-class faculty, and vibrant campus life, Rutgers provides students with opportunities for academic excellence, research, and community engagement. The university’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and social impact prepares students to become leaders and change-makers in their fields.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 63rd in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 50,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in various fields including arts and sciences, business, engineering, and public affairs.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 60%.
Average SAT Score:
1230-1430 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
- Greek Life and Social Organizations
- Community Service and Volunteer Projects
Famous Alumni:
- Milton Friedman – Nobel Prize-winning economist
- James Gandolfini – Actor
- Queen Latifah – Actress and musician
- Mario Batali – Celebrity chef
- Paul Robeson – Actor and civil rights activist
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Johnson & Johnson
- Bristol Myers Squibb
- Prudential Financial
- Rutgers University
- Verizon Communications
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stevens Institute of Technology, located in Hoboken, New Jersey, is a private research university specializing in engineering, science, and technology. Founded in 1870, Stevens offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, computer science, business, and the arts. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Stevens provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and industry partnerships. The university’s proximity to New York City, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry connections make it a hub for technological innovation and academic excellence.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 66th in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 7,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering, computer science, business, and the arts.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 44%.
Average SAT Score:
1380-1530 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Engineering and Technical Clubs
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation Competitions
- Performing Arts Groups and Cultural Organizations
Famous Alumni:
- Edwin Armstrong – Inventor of FM radio
- Frederick Winslow Taylor – Father of scientific management
- Tim Ferriss – Author and entrepreneur
- Richard Reeves – Co-founder of D.E. Shaw & Co.
- Charles Stewart Mott – Industrialist and philanthropist
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- IBM
- Lockheed Martin
- JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Amazon
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)
New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), located in Newark, New Jersey, is a public research university specializing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Established in 1881, NJIT offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, architecture, computing, and business. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning, NJIT prepares students to tackle real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to society. The university’s strong industry partnerships, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse student body create a dynamic learning environment for students to thrive.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 118th in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 12,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering, architecture, computing, business, and the sciences.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 73%.
Average SAT Score:
1200-1380 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Engineering and Technical Clubs
- Research and Academic Societies
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programs
Famous Alumni:
- John T. Chambers – Former CEO of Cisco Systems
- Victor J. Boschini Jr. – Chancellor of Texas Christian University
- Charles J. Pellerin – Former NASA scientist
- Van T. Barfoot – Medal of Honor recipient
- Geraldine Ferraro – Former U.S. Representative and Vice Presidential candidate
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Verizon Communications
- Johnson & Johnson
Rutgers University – Newark
Rutgers University – Newark, located in Newark, New Jersey, is a diverse public research university and a part of the Rutgers University system. Established in 1908, Rutgers Newark offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as arts and sciences, business, law, and public affairs. With a commitment to social justice, community engagement, and academic excellence, Rutgers Newark provides students with opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, research, and leadership development. The university’s urban campus, vibrant culture, and strong ties to industry and government make it a hub for innovation and social change in the region.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 112th in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 13,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as arts and sciences, business, law, public affairs, and criminal justice.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 71%.
Average SAT Score:
1080-1280 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Community Service and Volunteer Organizations
- Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
- Cultural and Diversity Clubs
Famous Alumni:
- Philip Roth – Pulitzer Prize-winning author
- Cory Booker – U.S. Senator
- Raymond Brown – Civil rights attorney
- Mario Batali – Celebrity chef
- Paul Sarbanes – Former U.S. Senator
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Prudential Financial
- PSEG
- RWJBarnabas Health
- Rutgers University
- Panasonic Corporation
Seton Hall University
Seton Hall University, located in South Orange, New Jersey, is a private Catholic university known for its strong programs in business, law, healthcare, and the arts. Founded in 1856, Seton Hall offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business administration, nursing, law, and diplomacy. With a focus on servant leadership, academic excellence, and ethical decision-making, Seton Hall prepares students to become ethical leaders and global citizens. The university’s vibrant campus community, rigorous curriculum, and strong alumni network create opportunities for students to excel academically and professionally.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 140th in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 10,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as business administration, nursing, law, diplomacy, and the arts.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 65%.
Average SAT Score:
1140-1310 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Campus Ministry and Service Projects
- Student Government and Leadership Organizations
- Performing Arts Groups and Cultural Clubs
Famous Alumni:
- Rick Pitino – Basketball coach
- Samuel Alito – Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court
- Tim Howard – Soccer player
- John Delaney – Former U.S. Representative
- Bob Ley – Sports journalist
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Hackensack Meridian Health
- Prudential Financial
- RWJBarnabas Health
- Seton Hall University
- Deloitte
Montclair State University
Montclair State University, located in Montclair, New Jersey, is a public research university known for its strong programs in education, business, the arts, and sciences. Established in 1908, Montclair State offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as teacher education, business administration, music, and psychology. With a commitment to excellence, diversity, and community engagement, Montclair State provides students with opportunities for academic and personal growth. The university’s suburban campus, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant student life contribute to a dynamic learning environment for students to thrive.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 187th in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 21,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as education, business administration, music, psychology, and the sciences.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 71%.
Average SAT Score:
1080-1260 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
- Performing Arts Groups and Cultural Clubs
- Community Service and Volunteer Projects
Famous Alumni:
- Richard Meier – Pritzker Prize-winning architect
- Bill Parcells – Former NFL coach
- Connie Chung – Journalist
- Martha MacCallum – News anchor
- Jason Biggs – Actor
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Hackensack Meridian Health
- Prudential Financial
- RWJBarnabas Health
- Montclair State University
- Valley National Bank
Rowan University
Rowan University, located in Glassboro, New Jersey, is a public research university with a strong emphasis on engineering, health sciences, business, and the arts. Established in 1923, Rowan offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, education, business administration, and music. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and student success, Rowan provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and professional development. The university’s modern campus, collaborative community, and strong industry partnerships prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 166th in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 20,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering, education, business administration, and the arts.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 73%.
Average SAT Score:
1100-1270 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Student Government and Leadership Organizations
- Research and Academic Societies
- Performing Arts Groups and Cultural Clubs
Famous Alumni:
- Patti Smith – Singer-songwriter
- Jim Florio – Former Governor of New Jersey
- Wendy Williams – Television host
- Rob Andrews – Former U.S. Representative
- Todd McFarlane – Comic book artist and entrepreneur
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Inspira Health Network
- Rowan University
- Lockheed Martin
- Virtua Health
- Amazon
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), with campuses in Teaneck and Madison, New Jersey, is a private university offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Established in 1942, FDU is known for its global perspective, innovative curriculum, and commitment to preparing students for success in an interconnected world. The university offers programs in fields such as business, liberal arts, sciences, healthcare, and engineering. With a focus on experiential learning, research, and community engagement, FDU provides students with opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen careers.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 153rd in National Universities (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 12,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields such as business, liberal arts, sciences, healthcare, and engineering.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 87%.
Average SAT Score:
1080-1260 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Student Government and Leadership Opportunities
- International and Cultural Clubs
- Professional and Academic Organizations
Famous Alumni:
- Patti Smith – Singer-songwriter
- Steve Forbes – Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media
- Richard Grasso – Former Chairman and CEO of the New York Stock Exchange
- Michael Aron – Journalist and political commentator
- Robert Barchi – Former President of Rutgers University
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- Hackensack Meridian Health
- Prudential Financial
- RWJBarnabas Health
- Fairleigh Dickinson University
- Valley National Bank
Seton Hall University School of Law
Seton Hall University School of Law, located in Newark, New Jersey, is a prominent law school known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social justice. Founded in 1951, Seton Hall Law offers Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and other specialized degree programs. With a focus on experiential learning, legal scholarship, and professional development, Seton Hall Law prepares students to become ethical and effective advocates for justice. The law school’s location in the heart of the legal profession in Newark provides students with unique opportunities for internships, externships, and networking with legal professionals.
U.S. News Ranking:
Ranked 68th in Best Law Schools (2022).
Number of Students:
Approximately 1,000 students.
Degrees Offered:
Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), and other specialized degree programs.
Acceptance Rate:
Around 55%.
Average LSAT Score:
154-160 (middle 50%).
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities:
- Moot Court and Trial Advocacy Competitions
- Legal Clinics and Pro Bono Projects
- Law Journals and Student Organizations
Famous Alumni:
- Christopher Christie – Former Governor of New Jersey
- Paul Fishman – Former U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey
- Kevin O’Connor – CEO of BridgeTower Media
- Anne Milgram – Former Attorney General of New Jersey
- Fred Scalera – Former New Jersey Assemblyman
Top Hiring Companies/Organizations:
- McCarter & English, LLP
- Gibbons P.C.
- Seton Hall University School of Law
- Prudential Financial
- McCusker, Anselmi, Rosen & Carvelli