Passaic Today

Montclair State University has been recognized as the top public institution in New Jersey and one of the leading public universities in the United States, according to The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings.

For the first time, Montclair State University is listed among the Top 30 public institutions nationwide. Its overall ranking climbed to No. 67 out of 584 colleges and universities evaluated by The Wall Street Journal and College Pulse.

The rankings take into account factors such as graduation rates, diversity, learning environment, and particularly how well a university prepares students for financial success after graduation. According to the report, graduates from Montclair can expect an average salary increase of $34,013 compared to what they might earn if they attended another institution. This salary boost allows typical graduates to recoup their educational investment in just one year and seven months.

In addition to being named No. 1 among public institutions in New Jersey, Montclair also ranks No. 29 among all public universities nationally and holds the top spot in New Jersey for social mobility (No. 14 overall in the country). The university's overall position places it ahead of schools such as Duke University, the University of Florida, and UCLA.

“Montclair State University is redefining what it means to be a top-tier public university,” says Montclair President Jonathan Koppell. “To be ranked among the Wall Street Journal’s top 30 public institutions in the nation — and first in New Jersey — is a powerful affirmation of our mission: providing an excellent, accessible education that delivers real results for our students. Our graduates are earning more, giving back more and proving that a university focused on inclusion can also lead in excellence.”

Prospective students or parents interested in learning more about Montclair State University are encouraged to plan a campus visit or explore application opportunities.