Which university or college in New Jersey has the highest enrollment?

Overview of New Jersey colleges and universities

New Jersey is home to a diverse range of colleges and universities, from small liberal arts schools to large research institutions. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are over 70 degree-granting institutions in the state, including public, private, and for-profit schools. In this article, we will take a closer look at which universities in New Jersey have the highest enrollment.

Top 5 largest universities in New Jersey by student enrollment

Here are the top 5 universities in New Jersey by student enrollment, as reported by the National Center for Education Statistics:

Rutgers University-New Brunswick: 50,254 students
New Jersey Institute of Technology: 11,628 students

Montclair State University: 11,341 students
Rowan University: 10,371 students
Kean University: 9,461 students

It is worth noting that these numbers reflect undergraduate and graduate enrollment combined, and may include students pursuing online degrees or taking classes part-time.

Rutgers University-New Brunswick: Largest student body in NJ

Rutgers University, which has several campuses throughout the state, has the highest enrollment of any university in New Jersey. With over 50,000 students, Rutgers is also one of the largest public universities in the country. The school offers a wide range of academic programs, including business, engineering, and the arts, and is known for its research initiatives and athletic programs.

New Jersey Institute of Technology: 2nd highest enrollment

With just over 11,000 students, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is the second-largest university in the state. NJIT is a public research institution located in Newark, and focuses on fields such as engineering, computer science, and architecture. The school also offers a number of online and hybrid programs, allowing students to pursue their degrees from anywhere in the world.

Montclair State University: 3rd largest student population

Located in Montclair, New Jersey, Montclair State University is the third-largest university in the state, with over 11,000 students. The school offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including teacher education, business, and the arts. In recent years, Montclair State has invested heavily in new facilities and resources, including a state-of-the-art science center.

Rowan University: 4th highest enrollment in NJ

Rowan University, located in Glassboro, New Jersey, is the fourth-largest university in the state, with just over 10,000 students. The school offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including engineering, education, and the arts. Rowan is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the renowned Rowan Institute for Public Policy & Citizenship.

Kean University: 5th largest student body in New Jersey

Rounding out the top 5 largest universities in New Jersey is Kean University, located in Union, New Jersey. With just under 10,000 students, Kean offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, and the arts. The school also has a number of satellite campuses throughout the state, allowing students to study in a variety of locations.

Stevens Institute of Technology: A notable mention

While not one of the top 5 largest universities in New Jersey, Stevens Institute of Technology is worth mentioning due to its unique focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, Stevens has just over 7,000 students, but is renowned for its research and innovation in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy.

Smaller colleges vs. larger universities in New Jersey

While the universities listed above have the highest enrollment in New Jersey, it is worth noting that there are many smaller colleges and universities in the state that offer excellent academic programs and resources. These schools may be a better fit for students who prefer a more intimate learning environment or a particular area of study.

Factors affecting student enrollment in NJ colleges

A number of factors can influence a student’s decision to enroll in a particular college or university in New Jersey. These may include the school’s academic reputation, location, cost, and available resources. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on enrollment numbers at many universities, with some students choosing to delay their college plans or pursue online degrees.

Conclusion: Is enrollment size the most important factor?

While student enrollment is certainly an important factor to consider when choosing a college or university in New Jersey, it is by no means the only factor. Students should also consider factors such as academic reputation, location, available resources, and cost when making their decision. Ultimately, the best school for a particular student will depend on their individual needs and goals.