NEW JERSEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, NEWARK, NJ
Located in the University Heights neighborhood of Newark, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is a public polytechnic university known for its strong engineering, computer science, and architecture programs yet offers so much more. The urban campus is a short train ride from New York City, offering students access to a wide range of professional, cultural, and social opportunities. NJIT emphasizes innovation, research, and experiential learning.
QUICK STATS
• Public
• Undergraduate enrollment: ~8,500
• Admit rate: ~66%
• Financial Aid forms required: FAFSA
• Retention rate: 89%
• Average class size: 20
• Student to faculty ratio: 15:1
CURRICULUM
• Popular majors include: Engineering (mechanical, civil, electrical, biomedical), Computer Science, Architecture and Design (requires a portfolio), Business, and Data Science
• Among specialty major offerings is Concrete Industry Management, Cybersecurity and Theater (Sets, Writing, HIstory, Lighting Design, and Sound Design)
• Students apply directly into a specific college/major; competitive majors like Computer Science and Architecture have higher admission standards
Barch program offers 4 and 5 year options – portfolio requirements include 10-15 pieces that are representative of the student’s “creative mind”
• Offers accelerated programs – Law 3+3, Medical 3+4
• To be considered for the honors college you must submit test scores – current SAT average is in the 1500s – and submit additional essay and LOR
• All STEM majors are expected to complete at least Pre-Calculus in high school
• Co-op and internship experiences built into many programs
NJIT curriculum is structured – particularly for engineering and technical majors, though minors and certificates allow some flexibility
• All students can audition for theater productions
• Music department works with Rutgers-Newark music and dance
• Cross over schools include: Rutgers–New Brunswick, Stevens Institute of Technology, Virginia Tech, The College of New Jersey
STUDENT BODY
• Seek hands-on, tech-minded, motivated problem-solvers, career-focused and eager for internship/research opportunities
• Many students commute, but residence life is growing with 7 residence halls and 12 on-campus dining options
University Heights is in walking distance of New Jersey Performing ARts Center, Prudential Center and Red Bull Arena with easy access to Hoboken and NYC for other off-campus activities
• Boasts 19 DI sports teams – soccer and basketball among the most attended
• Theater, music and E-sports and Yugiyo Club are also very popular
• Primarily New Jersey residents, but representation from all 50 states and 70+ countries
• Most students participate in study abroad programs – both short and longer term
• Greek Life is present, but not dominant – about 6% of students participate
ADMISSIONS PROCESS
• Read holistically, with emphasis on academic rigor, GPA, and math/science coursework
• Students are admitted to one of the 6 colleges and fit to major is considered – especially for more competitive majors like Computer Science and Architecture
• Offers instant decision days at local community colleges
• Demonstrated Interest is not formally considered, but engagement with the university is encouraged
FINANCIALS
• Offers both need-based and merit-based awards – from $1k to full tuition
photo courtesy New Jersey Institute of Technology
