Montclair State University has made waves by being ranked among the top colleges in the nation by The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse in their 2026 Best Colleges list. This year marks a significant achievement as Montclair has landed in the Top 30 public universities in the U.S. It’s also proud to be the highest-ranked public institution in New Jersey, coming in at No. 67 overall out of 584 colleges.
These rankings aren’t just numbers; they reflect essential factors like graduation rates, diversity, and how well colleges prepare students for financial success. Montclair excels in helping graduates increase their earnings, with an average salary bump of $34,013. Remarkably, graduates can recoup their tuition costs in just one year and seven months based on these earnings.
- No. 67 overall
- No. 29 among public institutions
- No. 1 public institution in New Jersey (second overall in the state, after Princeton)
- No. 1 in New Jersey for social mobility (14th nationwide)
- Outranked notable institutions like Duke, the University of Florida, and UCLA
President Jonathan Koppell emphasizes the university’s commitment to providing quality education while ensuring accessibility. “This recognition shows that a university dedicated to inclusion can also lead in excellence,” he states. Montclair graduates are not just earning more but are also making significant contributions back to their communities.
Recent statistics support this trend. According to a study by the College Board, graduates from well-ranked institutions like Montclair are increasingly finding jobs in high-demand fields, creating a ripple effect that enhances both their careers and local economies.
In today’s competitive world, choosing a school that offers real financial returns can make a lasting difference. Montclair State University continues to prove that with the right support and opportunities, students can thrive both academically and financially.
