Montclair State University

Montclair, NJ

publicgraduate

Find Scholarships Here

Quick Facts

17,677

Total Students

$15K

Tuition (In-State)

$24K

Tuition (Out-State)

$14K

Avg Net Price

87%

Acceptance Rate

64%

Graduation Rate

6-year

80%

Retention Rate

Doctoral Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Montclair State University

Montclair State: A dynamic R2 research university with 300+ programs and NYC access.

Nestled in Montclair, New Jersey, Montclair State University stands as a vibrant public research institution, earning the prestigious "R2: Doctoral Universities – High Research Activity" classification. With a sprawling 252-acre campus that extends into neighboring towns, Montclair State offers an expansive academic landscape with over 300 majors, minors, and concentrations, catering to a diverse student body of over 22,500.

From its origins as the New Jersey State Normal School at Montclair in 1908, the university has continuously evolved, pioneering educational programs such as the nation's first four-year Bachelor of Arts in pedagogy in 1927. Through strategic mergers and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, it transformed into Montclair State University in 1994. Its history is marked by significant milestones, including the introduction of master's programs in 1932 and doctoral degrees in 1998, cementing its status as a comprehensive institution.

Academically, Montclair State is distinguished by its robust graduate offerings and specialized colleges and schools. The John J. Cali School of Music, Feliciano School of Business, and the state-of-the-art School of Nursing are just a few examples of its commitment to professional development. The university's dedication to research is evident in its R2 classification, fostering an environment where both undergraduate and graduate students can engage in high-level inquiry and discovery. Modern facilities, including cutting-edge simulation labs for nursing and a new home for communication and media studies, underscore its investment in student success.

Beyond academics, Montclair State provides a dynamic student experience. Its designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) reflects a rich, inclusive community. A unique on-campus NJ Transit station, built in 2004, offers students direct, convenient access to the cultural and professional opportunities of New York City, blending the suburban campus feel with metropolitan connectivity. This blend of strong academics, historical significance, and a student-centric environment makes Montclair State an engaging choice for prospective students and their families.

Key Highlights

✦Designated an "R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity," placing it among top research institutions.
✦Offers over 300 distinct majors, minors, and concentrations, providing vast academic opportunities.
✦Serves a diverse student body of 22,570, including 18,062 undergraduates and 4,508 graduate students (as of June 2024).
✦Features a dedicated NJ Transit train station on campus, offering direct access to New York City.
✦Recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education in 2016.
✦Boasts a robust $112.5 million endowment (2024), supporting its mission and growth.
✦Pioneered higher education by becoming the first U.S. institute to offer a four-year Bachelor of Arts program in pedagogy in 1927.

Timeline

1903

Plans for the State Normal School were initiated.

1908

Established as 'New Jersey State Normal School at Montclair'.

1927

Became 'Montclair State Teachers College' and developed the first four-year BA in pedagogy.

1932

Began offering Master of Arts programs.

1958

Merged with Panzer College of Physical Education and Hygiene to become 'Montclair State College'.

1994

Designated a teaching university and renamed 'Montclair State University'.

1998

Began granting doctoral degrees (Doctor of Education).

2004

NJ Transit opened the Montclair State University station, connecting campus to New York City.

2016

Designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI); classification changed to Doctoral Research University.

2019

Classification updated to 'R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity'.

Schools & Colleges

5 notable schools within Montclair State University

🎭

College of the Arts

Comprises various academic units dedicated to the arts, fostering creativity and performance across disciplines.

🏫

John J. Cali School of Music

Part of the College of the Arts, it offers comprehensive study and performance opportunities for classical and jazz, including professional certifications and artist diplomas, featuring resident ensembles like the Harlem Quartet.

💼

Feliciano School of Business

Offers undergraduate and MBA programs (including an online MBA), and post-MBA certificate programs, housed in a modern building opened in 2015.

💉

School of Nursing

Launched in 2016, providing RN-to-BSN and four-year BSN programs in a state-of-the-art facility equipped with advanced simulation rooms and laboratories.

🎓

The Graduate School

Manages master's degrees (offered since 1932) and doctoral degrees (since 1998), supporting approximately 300 doctoral students across various programs.

Find Scholarships at Montclair State University

Start Your Free Search