Founded in 1855, The College of New Jersey. is a Public college. Located in New Jersey, which is a city setting in New Jersey, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 6,787 full time undergraduate students, and 609 full time graduate students.
The The College of New Jersey Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 13:1. There are 355 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at The College of New Jersey include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
48%
Application Deadline
15-Nov
Application Fee
75
SAT Range
1100-1300
ACT Range
25-30
Admissions at TCNJ are considered More Selective, with ,59% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 12 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
99% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 89% were in the top quarter, and 56% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at The College of New Jersey.
6%
“We”re apathetic”
19%
“We know about current events and vote”
63%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
13%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
17%
“Sometimes, but not often”
60%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
21%
“All the time, including weekends”
2%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
44%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
54%
“I feel extremely safe”
51%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
33%
“We bought the gear”
16%
“We live for the big game”
8%
“It”s not really our thing”
15%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
63%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
15%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
54%
“They keep regular office hours”
42%
“They”re always available”
4%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
27%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
63%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
6%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
28%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
53%
“We only party on weekends”
17%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
6%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
71%
“There might be people who do”
19%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
4%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
6%
“We”re apathetic”
19%
“We know about current events and vote”
63%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
13%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
17%
“Sometimes, but not often”
60%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
21%
“All the time, including weekends”
2%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
44%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
54%
“I feel extremely safe”
51%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
33%
“We bought the gear”
16%
“We live for the big game”
8%
“It”s not really our thing”
15%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
63%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
15%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
54%
“They keep regular office hours”
42%
“They”re always available”
4%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
27%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
63%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
6%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
155 Students rated on-campus housing 3.3 stars. 6 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
101 Students rated off-campus housing 3.6 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
161 Students rated campus food 3 stars. 9 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
164 Students rated campus facilities 4 stars. 30 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
164 Students rated class size 4.5 stars. 63 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
164 Students rated school activities 4 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
164 Students rated local services 3.8 stars. 37 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
164 Students rated academics 4.4 stars. 61 % gave the school a 5.0.
The College of New Jersey REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of The College of New Jersey?
50 Students rated The College of New Jersey
Gabriella
12/28/2023
At The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), students engage in a diverse range of activities both on and off campus. On-campus life is enriched by involvement in student organizations, sports, and cultural events. Many students participate in clubs related to many of the students' interest, showcasing a vibrant intellectual community. Similarly, politically inclined students engage through clubs, discussions, and events, reflecting a commitment to civic involvement and dialogue.
In terms of the college's infrastructure, the housing facilities at TCNJ are generally well-regarded. With some negatives, students appreciate the comfortable living spaces and the sense of community within the residence halls. The campus dining experience receives more negative than positive reviews for its variety and quality of food. Although the dining services does an amazing job at accommodating diverse preferences and dietary needs.
Class sizes at TCNJ are often modest, allowing for personalized attention and meaningful interactions with professors. This contributes to a positive academic environment, enhancing the overall learning experience. The college is recognized for its rigorous academic programs, and students often express satisfaction with the quality of education they receive.
Regarding facilities, TCNJ boasts modern and well-maintained buildings, providing students with state-of-the-art resources for learning and research. The commitment to providing excellent facilities enhances the overall academic and extracurricular experience for students.
In summary, TCNJ students are actively engaged in a spectrum of activities, showcasing a strong sense of community. The college receives positive feedback for its housing, dining, class sizes, academics, and facilities, contributing to a favorable overall student experience.
Bruce
11/23/2022
A pretty good school overall and definitely a great value given how expensive 4-year colleges are nowadays. As far as life outside academics, it's the same as any school--you get out of it what you put into it. If you don't get involved in any orgs, it's a pretty boring school in and of itself.
Emma
02/10/2022
As an 8-year-old, setting up a classroom with my dolls as imaginary students, I didn’t realize my affinity for teaching and Social Studies would continue to hold my interest to this day, but it has. From an early age I’ve immersed myself in my academic studies, maintaining a 4.25 GPA, achieving high honor roll distinction as well as involvement in many different honor societies. I plan on continuing these efforts, in addition to my volunteer work throughout my college career.
During research into colleges I was interested in continuing my education with, I was pleased to find that The College of New Jersey has an outstanding Secondary Education program and an extensive amount of Social Studies courses and clubs. Because of this, I believe it is the ideal college to pursue my teaching degree.
In The School of Education, I hope to enroll in the 5-year Secondary Education program. I plan on a dual major in History and Education, with training in both special and general education. The training through field work and interaction with classroom students will provide real-world insight. This experience would enhance my knowledge on pedagogy and how to meet the needs of my future students.
TCNJ offers several history courses that I would love to study, including The Craft of History (HIS 210), which covers all geographic regions and allows students to analyze the methods historians have used over the course of time. As someone who wants to be a History and Education Major, but does not yet know what particular historical time period or geographic region to study, this is a great course to begin with. I’m excited to find out if I prefer to teach World History, American History, the history of a specific region/group of people, or a bit of everything.
Outside of the classroom, I can see myself enthusiastically embracing the Rebel Art Movement (RAM) organization. Art and free expression are great passions of mine and I would love the opportunity to advocate the importance of it in our community. My interests and experience include music, fashion, painting, literature, film, and theater...to name a few. The Student New Jersey Education Association (SNJEA) is another group I’d like to connect with. I see it as an excellent resource for nurturing my professional development, as well as open discussion and the exchange of ideas on how the subject of education can be improved upon moving forward. Becoming affiliated with the NJEA excites the future teacher in me.
My mother often shares stories of her years at Trenton State College, including the lifelong friendships she made on the second floor in Travers Hall. She loved the school so much, she went back for a second degree several years after graduating. During two self-guided tours of the TCNJ campus with my mother, I felt welcomed and embraced by the tight knit community. One full of diversity, enthusiasm and school spirit. I aspire to be the next member of my family to join the TCNJ pride and look forward to the opportunity to become a vital and active member of its community.
Kaitlyn
08/06/2020
I originally chose this school because it is close to home and one of the best teaching schools. I am so happy with the choice I have made! I have made so many great friends and memories, I love the academics, and I can\'t wait to continue my college experience.
emma
06/24/2020
I loved the school. I thought everyone there was friendly and helpful. I never felt not apart of anything. I loved that everyone makes you feel right at home and wants to become part of the community. Overall the school was great and I think everyone should find a school like this one.
Nina
06/10/2020
Courses are challenging yet engaging, and professors are passionate and available to help. I've also made a lot of great friends through extracurricular activities. We also have Campus Town, an area next to the school with off-campus housing, food places, an urgent care, a gym, and a nail salon. Sometimes administration doesn't handle some situations in the best way, such as cancelling afternoon classes on a snow day when commuters have already driven on ice. Overall, it's a good school, and I'm happy I chose it.
Jessica
03/31/2020
I personally love my school. I have met amazing people here and found my passion for a future degree. The campus itself is beautiful, and students are always outside when it is warm out. I have always liked my professors and, for the most part, felt connected to them.
Zoe
03/18/2020
I love The College of New Jersey!
Monique
12/30/2019
I absolutely LOVED The College of New Jersey. I originally didn't want to attend because it was close to my parent's house, however, after attending Welcome Week with the rest of my freshman class and really getting to know the other people on my floor, I couldn't get enough. I've made lifelong friends, received an excellent education, and have memories that will last me a lifetime. I wish we were a little more into sports, and that our homecoming wasn't as structured (fenced in area with a LOT of rules) but other than that, I recommend TCNJ to everyone.
Tim
10/28/2019
TCNJ is a nice college by all means, however, if you're looking for that "college experience" this might not be the place for you. We live smack in the middle of a random suburban town and it gives off the effect that you're living in a fishbowl. To go anywhere, you will need a car, they advertise that there's a bus system that can get you to the mall, but who wants to do that? The closest "chill place" to go to is Princeton, and again that's a 15 - 20 minute drive and you need a car to enjoy the area. Take Rutgers, at least that place is a campus massive enough for you to have those late night walks and places to go bother your friends, TCNJ doesn't have that freedom you may be looking for. If you're looking for a place to do something every night and come home at unreasonable hours TCNJ might not be the school for you, whenever I visit friends in Boston or Philadelphia, it's much more enjoyable because there are places where you can just wander to late at night, even just bike, and it's an enjoyable time.
Now if you're into a school that teaches well and is small and has a tight community, then by all means come on this way. TCNJ is great for that and although there are many cliques, once you get incorporated with one, there's no getting out. You'll have a great time with that small group, and you're sure to find great friends.
Erin
08/14/2019
I picked TCNJ as my school when I was in 6th grade when my older brother took a tour of this school. He ended up attending, and I followed. The classes, even the "useless" ones, have plenty to offer and the professors are amazing. If you show that you're willing to put in the time and effort, your professors will go above and beyond to get you where you want to be. The dorms aren't perfect but they're much better than others that I've seen. I love my school and I wouldn't choose to go anywhere else!
Madison
07/12/2019
I absolutely fell in love with TCNJ as soon as I toured and am extremely happy to say I go there and see a successful future. They are constantly involving everyone and trying to get everyone involved with the campus and activities. I know someone that recently graduated and has already gotten an opportunity at an amazing first job!
Katelyn
05/30/2019
TCNJ is great if you are going for teaching, nursing, or engineering. However, I don't recommend this University for people who are "trying to find their way". There simply are not enough classes to explore. Most people go home on the weekends as there are no events available.
Larisa
05/30/2019
Overall, TCNJ is a great school! In all honesty, my mom had to trick me to visit the campus before applying because I was very anti-TCNJ. Everyone from my high school went there and I was so against it. However, after the tour I completely understood why so many of my friends applied to TCNJ and I was convinced that this was the school for me! I didn't regret my decision to apply early decision for even a minute! Throughout my years at TCNJ my professors were always accessible to talk about professional and personal matters. They also were willing to help with job searches and internships as well. Small class sizes (my largest class only had 31 people in it) allowed me to form relationships with my professors and classmates that I still maintain today. Although TCNJ is not the most diverse campus, I was able to find great friends by participating in a variety of clubs on campus. There are clubs on campus for just about every hobby possible, and if you can't find a club you like, the process of forming a club is easy and encouraged. I also had an amazing opportunity to live with international students in the International House on campus for two years of college. This broadened my world view and opened me up to experiences I could have never anticipated. My years at TCNJ were academically challenging, and fulfilling while also maintaining the full college experience.
Brooke
05/29/2019
I want to go there for college and it is my number one choice. After a few visits and talking to students and alumni I fully understand what this college is all about and I'm excited to be applying and hopefully attend. Everything on campus is there for the students and their well being. There were no cons on my list.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for The College of New Jersey is 48%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Were I given the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, my speech would be something to this effect:
"First of all, relax. There are things you should stress over and things that aren?t within your power to change; know the difference, and don?t sweat the small things. Right now, you've already sent out applications, and you?ll hear back soon, this is when you have to start searching for scholarships; getting accepted to college is not the difficult part, it is paying for it. This summer will be a busy one with all the preparation and packing, enjoy it. Once you get to college, there will be a big transition, but I promise you will love it. The first week or so, you might want to call home every night, don?t. Go and meet people instead. The best things you can do are: smile, be friendly, and be open to new experiences. You?ll meet all sorts of people and form intense relationships with them. You?ll realize once you return home for Thanksgiving how much you?ve grown, and how much you miss your college family.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
attitude of certain members of the staff when you need help- i'm not sure why. some facilities are in need of some fixing up- the college decides to build new buildings instead of fixing the old ones (the old library is used only for storage now...)
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most frustrating thing about TCNJ was on-campus jobs. We were only allowed to work 15 hours, and often times student work hours were limited in their hours because offices didn't want more than 2 student workers at a time. Many students don't have cars, so working on campus was the only chance to earn money.
Anyone should be able to attend TCNJ. It is a public school that is open to anyone and everyone. The type of individual that would be happiest at TCNJ is one who is okay with a small collegiate body and is very goal-oriented. TCNJ makes it very easy to attain the type of hands-on experience that graduate programs and employers look for in college graduates. TCNJ is extremely diverse and is a potentially good fit for all that apply. However, only those that take full advantage of what TCNJ has to offer will be truly happy and successful.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
This school really prides itself on community service and engagement. Also the classes in my major are rather small and theoretically focused, which was looking forward to . And out of the various school I'd visited, the faculty and staff at TCNJ clearly communicated that they expected the best from their students. No other school that I was considering seemed to stress academic excellence as much as TCNJ.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
To tell the truth, there is no way to be completely prepared for college, whether academically or socially. I kind of wish I had known that getting used to college was going to process that was going to be aided by college staff and the ambassadors, instead of a headfirst dive into a new environment. It would have cut my pre- move-in nervousness in half at least. TCNJ does a great job bring together its student body and really takes care of everybody.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
TCNJ is a great school that boasts a friendly environment for students to learn and grow. There is always something to do, with extracurricular activities ranging from club and intramural sports to political and cultural organizations, and everything in between. You will find yourself right at home here.
The space we have. TCNJ is in a suburban area and so, most of the time, it is quiet and serene. During the early days of fall and late days of the spring semester, practically everyone chooses to study outdoors rather than being cooped up in the library.
Everything! I would say this it is most well known for its excellent Education program and Nursing program. However, all of the academic areas are very well known as well.
the best thing is how pretty the campus is, i would change the boy:girl ratio, the school is much too small, people have no f-ing clue what tcnj is and ask if i go to community college, i spend most of my time in my dorm, hanging out with my floormates, there is no college town, just the college campus, tcnjs administration are idiots, the biggest controversy is keeping the crappy cafeteria contract, there is very little school pride, it is unusual how many students are from jersey and live within an hour of the school, i will always remember mural painting on my floor, watching movies all night, tw cafe runs at midnight, people complain it is too small and there is nothing to do
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
students always leave their doors open, athletic events are not very popular- people leave alot on weekends. for girls, the dating scene is no-existent- of the available 30{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} guys, 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} are gay, 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} are taken, and 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} are disgusting/not looking for anything serious. it sucks. i met my closet friends because they lived down the hall. if i am awake at 2am on a tuesday, my roommate and i are watching tv and hanging out, people want to party always, but only do so once a week or so. frats/sororities are not very important and they are all kind of shitty, last weekend i studied, watched movies, went out to dinner, spent alot of time at the library, on a saturday you can watch a movie, go out to eat, study and not drink- you can even go to a frat party and not drink if you chose- i did that once, it is very difficult to get off campus without a car, so you mainly hope you have a friend with a car and go shopping, to the movies, and out to eat
professors always know my name, my favorite class was writing family histories with dan crofts (professor), my least favorite was macroeconomics with professor vandergrift, students study all the time, class participation is part of your grade, tcnj students have lots of intellectual convos outside of class, students are competitive, the most unique class i have taken was writing family histories, my major is marketing, and i love it, i do not spend time with professors outside of class, i think tcnj has silly academic requirements that are very confusing, i think the education is geared toward getting a job more then learning for its own sake. i did absolutely no work freshman year and still pulled off a 3.0
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
I don't know if there is really a stereotype but most people have never even heard of The College of New Jersey. It's sort of off the beaten path so to speak but a great school non the less.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
79% of students attending The College of New Jersey receive some sort of financial aid.
15% were awarded federal grants.52%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.