2024 Best Colleges for Physics in New Jersey

• Princeton, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  464 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, my experience at Princeton was really amazing. There were so many opportunities to become involved on campus, especially in the many music groups (accapella, synphohnia, etc.). There are also so many opportunities to become involved in service through the Pace Center for Civic engagement. The one issue I have is that there are too many things to do and not enough time! The courses here are no joke, and they take up a huge chunk of your time, so I would definitely prepare to be spending a lot of time studying and working on assignments. The academic semesters here are also relatively short (12 weeks), which sometimes makes it difficult to keep up with work. That being said, I am spending my summer on campus and having an incredible time. Finally, I think the accessibility of professors at Princeton is really amazing. They are always willing to meet one-on-one, and they have many office hours (especially in intro-level courses) to help students prepare for exams.... Read 464 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 4%

• Net price $20,908

• SAT range 1460-1570

• Piscataway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  6,020 reviews

Junior: Rutgers University is a transformative institution that offers a world-class education. The faculty's expertise and dedication to student success are remarkable. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing an excellent environment for learning and growth. Rutgers fosters a vibrant and diverse community, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. The university's emphasis on research and innovation opens doors to exciting opportunities. With extensive extracurricular offerings and a robust alumni network, Rutgers, particularly the Business School, prepares students for rewarding careers. Proud to be a Scarlet Knight!... Read 6,020 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Hoboken, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  719 reviews

Freshman: I loved Stevens Institute of Technology. I was first introduced to this college through my friends and family and fell in love with it at first sight! Now, I always enjoy studying with friends both old and new who are just as engaged in their academics as I am. To add on, I love the increased proximity to the city compared to where I reside at home. In this campus, I constantly have a view of New York, and I love visiting there all of the time with my friends. One of my favorite parts of Stevens was the dining experience. There was always a large amount of areas we can eat from, as well as many outside areas we could use our GrubHub Bucks on. I was always in a good mood due to the fact that I could order whatever I wanted, practically whenever I wanted. To conclude, the close parts and small amount of students allowed me to participate in classes that held a relatively small amount of students. The buildings on the campus were all very close to each other. I loved Stevens!... Read 719 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,828

• SAT range 1370-1510

• South Orange, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,145 reviews

Junior: I have loved my time here at Seton Hall! Since my first tour, I felt welcomed and a part of the campus community immediately. The sense of community at SHU is genuinely a game changer- I have met so many people from different majors, states, and even countries! One of my favorite things about Seton Hall is the academics here. Aside from having excellent and strong academic programs, the smaller class sizes and personalized attention have helped me grow and succeed as a student both in class and on campus. I have gotten to know exceptional faculty, and that personalized attention has helped me develop a strong bond with many of my professors! As a big school-spirit person, the events, Christmas tree lighting, and basketball games are so fun! It also is helpful being right outside NYC- a 30-minute train ride for internship opportunities, jobs, and entertainment is hard to beat!... Read 2,145 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $33,177

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Ewing, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,477 reviews

Alum: I had a wonderful experience at TCNJ! I was a Psychology major and Communication Studies minor. I took part in extracurricular activities which ultimately shaped my career path. Through this experience, I was able to apply what I was learning in the classroom to my work outside of the classroom. The faculty and staff truly care about their students and you get such a personalized experience. If it was not for meaningful conversations and experiences, I would not be where I am today. I was successful because of people who also cared about my success. In addition to my co-curricular experiences, I also made a lot of life long friends that I still have today because of TCNJ.... Read 1,477 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $13,269

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Galloway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,575 reviews

Other: Stockton was the first university that I attended. I had no friends from high school or my community college that were going to Stockton, and it was an hour away from my home, so I was traveling twice a week to come to my classes. Stockton has so much to offer, and I saw immense opportunity for personal growth. Being a young black female in that space was very hard, but no one ever made me feel like I was less then. The school is huge and always clean and organized and the amount of support that the school offers for the students is relieving. They also have incredible communication; the school keeps you updated with EVERY LITTLE DETAIL! There is almost nothing to go unsaid. All of my professors were incredible and took pride in their work, and held students accountable, but also showed compassion and care. I did unfortunately have to drop out I would return to Stockton in a heartbeat. I loved the atmosphere and would love to be more involved in the school.... Read 1,575 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $19,581

• SAT range 1050-1250

• Glassboro, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,826 reviews

Senior: When I first came to Rowan University, it was amidst 2020 and the COVID lockdowns. Expectedly, Rowan University didn't handle this well, but what school did? My first year was absolutely atrocious, it genuinely felt as though I was imprisoned. All classes were online, no activities were schedule across campus in hopes of reducing the spread of the illness, and the food was bad. However, I truly got to see what this University had in store once these restrictions were lightened and eventually lifted. The professors are extremely welcoming and conversive, activities galore, and overall it became the college experience that I assume everyone would imagine. The only issue that I see is that commuters may have an issue with the school as parking can be limited at the time. If Rowan University fixed that issue then it would be perfect as in every other way they are always working towards their improvement!... Read 1,826 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,425

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  571 reviews

Junior: I love Drew! The campus is in a great, safe town! I’ve always felt safe walking around at night. The community here is amazing as well! I often find myself surrounded by so many friendly faces, big smiles, and people who are eager to help me in any way! Whether that be through my academic work, mental/physical health, or starting up my career. The campus really brings out the best in people and makes the experience overall amazing. I’ve even grown to love the workers who clean up campus at the crack of dawn haha. In the academics department, we have so many accredited professors. Lots of my professors have worked with professionals within my field, some even being awarded with prestigious prizes. Through them I have had the opportunity to speak to people of my interest and network. The student to faculty ratio at Drew University makes it very easy to find comfort and mentorship within your professors. overall, Drew is an amazing school! I have so much fun all the time! let’s go DREW!... Read 571 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $17,033

• SAT range 1030-1250

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,023 reviews

Freshman: The college overall was an excellent experience. The program I was a part of, however, was new and undeveloped. I felt as though I wasn't given a path that made me feel confident in following. The offices responded in a timely manner and were always willing to help. All of the professors that I encountered in my time at this college were very pleasant. This college sold me when I saw their housing, commitment to their students' safety, diversity, and welcoming community. The small campus allows for a close community between students and professors, and aids in lessening confusion as you learn to navigate campus. This college provides unlimited extracurricular opportunities and hosts a multitude of events weekly! I was also surprised to find that the TWO dinning halls were always preparing amazing food. Both the atrium and standard dinning hall offered excellent, diverse, options; this includes those who are vegetarian and vegan. They also have Dunkin' and Starbucks as great options!... Read 1,023 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Montclair, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  3,121 reviews

Freshman: As someone who is freshly graduated from high school, I was really anxious and scared about going to college. Thankfully everyone at Montclair was super helpful, kind, and patient with me. The actual campus itself is gorgeous, and at least gets me a bit of exercise every time I have class since it's on a hill. There are so many amenities on the grounds and after a few months, everything become relatively close and easy to find. Overall, I've really enjoyed my freshman year at Montclair, and hope to have an even better Sophomore year!... Read 3,121 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $12,026

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,241 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at NJIT has been rewarding, both academically and socially. The courses are challenging but fulfilling, each offering unique material that has helped me grow. Professors are approachable and dedicated, adding value to the educational experience. On the social front, I've met incredible friends and peers who have become an integral part of my daily life. We've formed a close-knit community that enriches my overall well-being. However, there's room for improvement. I'd recommend adding diverse food options like Chinese cuisine to the commuter's lounge. Also, bringing back the couches in the basement would enhance the student experience by providing a comfortable space for relaxation and socializing.... Read 1,241 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $16,878

• SAT range 1180-1430

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,201 reviews

Junior: I give 5 stars based on programs that help with tuition. I was told I was eligible so when fall starts, I should be covered. However, I do think as a state school, the cost of tuition should drop. Additionally, if it stays at the cost now, there should be significant upgrades and renovations. The bathrooms are total crap, they smell like urine and all the stall hinges are broken. Just leave the door open because it won’t close. Wave when someone walks past. There are roaches crawling in hill hall in real-time. Printers always breaking. Computer labs are old. Chairs have stains. Teachers barley have supplies! my god, the amount of times my professor had to beg his colleague for chalk or a marker. Projectors never work. I could go on, but it’ll put you to sleep. Overall, 16k, I should have pride in my school. (Sometimes I tell people I go to New Brunswick because of the stare a get when I say Newark ). I could use that MacBook though. I need a computer for fall ! Help me out! :)... Read 1,201 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,364

• SAT range 1030-1270

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  760 reviews

Sophomore: I really have enjoyed my experience so far at NJCU. They are extremely welcoming and I really felt comfortable with all of my professors. They are understanding and will work with you through everything. Overall, the campus and people are so nice. The school feels like home and not like a huge campus where you can sometimes feel like a small fish in a sea. There are so many opportunities and clubs here that they offer. It is an amazing university!... Read 760 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $13,756

• SAT range 890-1140

• Camden, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  830 reviews

Sophomore: Faculty: The university boasts a dedicated and accomplished faculty comprising experienced professors and researchers who are often recognized for their contributions to their respective fields. Many faculty members are actively engaged in research and scholarship, providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning and collaboration. Civic Engagement: Rutgers University–Camden emphasizes civic engagement and community service. It encourages students to actively participate in service-learning initiatives, internships, and community-based research projects to make a positive impact in the local community and beyond. Campus Life: The university provides a vibrant campus life with a range of student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular. Location: Being located in Camden, the university benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia, one of the major cities in the United States.... Read 830 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,104

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.42 out of 5  715 reviews

Senior: I have been at Saint Peters for the last 3 years and I am currently going into my senior year. I've had many good memories and experiences. What I loved the most was the small campus. I am able to make many friends. Saint Peter also allows me to be able to have a connection with my professors and advisers. Since classes are small I am able to get the need I need with my education. I also love how many of my textbooks are for free if needed since I am in the STEM apartment. But there are changes I would love to see. Since it is very small it can get very boring. I would also love to see many of the building updated. Even though they are currently making changes for better it would still be nice to see it faster. Overall, Saint Peters has the resources I need to get my degree.... Read 715 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $12,937

• SAT range 970-1150

• Lakewood, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  348 reviews

Graduate Student: I attend GCU as a transfer student from Ocean County College. While I was nervous as it is a bigger campus and a 4-year university, I assimilated quickly as the student community was strong. There were many activities to be involved in, strong athletics teams, and students met for study groups often. I was an education and psychology major, and both programs were rigorous. Tutoring was available and professors were ready and willing to assist when needed. The library was equipped with resources and technology and the classroom technology was high-tech. I really enjoyed my years here and are sad they are behind me!... Read 348 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $20,448

• SAT range 980-1160