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Montclair State University

Montclair, NJ

publicgraduate

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 connectivity.

Nestled in Montclair, New Jersey, Montclair State University stands as a vibrant public research institution classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity." With over 22,570 students exploring more than 300 majors, minors, and concentrations, Montclair State offers a robust academic environment designed to foster innovation and prepare students for impactful careers. Its unique location provides a suburban campus feel with direct train access to the bustling opportunities of New York City, making it an ideal choice for ambitious learners.

The university's rich history began in 1908 as the New Jersey State Normal School at Montclair. It pioneered educational advancements, becoming the first US institute to offer a four-year Bachelor of Arts program in pedagogy in 1927, and later, the first teachers college accredited by the Middle States Association. Evolving through significant mergers and expansions, including with Panzer College, Montclair State transformed from a focused teaching college into a comprehensive university, officially gaining its university status in 1994 and its R2 research classification in 2019. This legacy of progressive growth underscores its commitment to academic excellence and broad-based learning.

Academically, Montclair State shines with its high research activity, offering diverse master's and doctoral programs in fields ranging from environmental science to psychology. The university is home to specialized professional schools, including the acclaimed John J. Cali School of Music, the innovative Feliciano School of Business, and the state-of-the-art School of Nursing. Its designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) further highlights its commitment to a diverse and inclusive student body, fostering an environment where all students can thrive.

Prospective students and families will find a campus that blends historical charm with modern amenities, including newly built facilities like the Feliciano School of Business and the Center for Environmental and Life Sciences. The convenience of the Montclair State University station, opened in 2004, provides unparalleled access to cultural, internship, and career opportunities in New York City, truly embodying its Latin motto, "Carpe Diem" – Seize the Day.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
  • Offers an extensive range of over 300 majors, minors, and concentrations across its colleges and schools.
  • Home to a vibrant student body of 22,570, with 18,062 undergraduate and 4,508 graduate students.
  • Recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education since 2016.
  • Features modern, state-of-the-art facilities including the Feliciano School of Business, Center for Environmental and Life Sciences, and School of Nursing.
  • Provides convenient direct train access to New York City via the Montclair State University station.
  • Boasts an endowment of $112.5 million (2024), supporting its mission and growth.

Timeline

1903
Plans for the State Normal school initiated.
1908
Established as 'New Jersey State Normal School at Montclair'.
1927
Became 'Montclair State Teachers College,' pioneering the four-year Bachelor of Arts in pedagogy.
1937
Achieved accreditation by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, a first for a teachers college.
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.
2004
NJ Transit opened the Montclair State University station, linking the campus to NYC.
2016
Designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education.
2019
Classified as an 'R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity'.

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Montclair State University

🏫

John J. Cali School of Music

Part of the College of the Arts, the Cali School provides extensive study and performance opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, professional certification in Music Education, and Artist's Diploma/Performer's Certificate degrees in classical and jazz. It also champions the Cali Pathways Project, a scholarship program for talented students from underrepresented backgrounds.

💼

Feliciano School of Business

Offers comprehensive undergraduate and MBA programs, including a fully online MBA format, alongside post-MBA certificate programs. The school is housed in a modern, dedicated building opened in 2015.

💉

School of Nursing

Launched in 2016, offering RN-to-BSN and four-year BSN programs. It is housed in a state-of-the-art facility featuring mediated classrooms, computer study areas, a nursing skills laboratory, anatomy laboratory, and high-fidelity and home care simulation rooms.

🎓

The Graduate School

Oversees the university's master's degree programs, which began in 1932, and doctoral degrees, initiated in 1998. As of Fall 2019, the university hosted approximately 300 doctoral students across eight programs.

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