2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in New Jersey

• Piscataway, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  6,039 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 6,039 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $11,803

• SAT range 1240-1470

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  573 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 573 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $17,033

• SAT range 1030-1250

• Lawrenceville, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,255 reviews

Alum: I had a great undergraduate experience. I found great professors and staff who were willing to help not only with on-campus opportunities but also when it comes to getting work experiences and a job. The campus is getting better and better each year, nice to see continuous investments being made. Grateful for all the wonderful people I met here!... Read 1,255 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $23,781

• SAT range 1050-1270

• Madison, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  851 reviews

Senior: FDU is a great University. I had a ton of fun learning and growing as a person. I made friends along the way and faced challenges I never knew I could overcome. However, tuition is by far the most evil. FDU is a private University, and even with a scholarship, life in FDU is costly. Just don’t slack off in College and be sure you can get a return on investment! Good luck!... Read 851 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $15,810

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Montclair, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  3,138 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 3,138 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $12,026

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Mahwah, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  1,027 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 1,027 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,251

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Union, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,578 reviews

Junior: All of the students and faculty are extremely kind and considerate. The professors give a stimulating amount of work and will accommodate to your needs so long as you tell them your situation. Something that I would change is the advertising of clubs and organizations on campus to make them more well known, my first year I wasn’t a part of any organizations because I didn’t know what the university offered. Now I am a member of a club and an officer of an organization and I love it! The head of student affairs is incredibly generous, and the others officers and I work well together. Something else I love is the use of student input in classroom and university in its entirety. Students can take surveys received in emails to evaluate their class, campus, and university. Also, many courses of all subjects have had open discussions about material where students options matter. More than this, my campus feels very inclusive and this makes me feel safe while learning in the classroom.... Read 1,578 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $18,078

• SAT range 920-1120

• Camden, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  836 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 836 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,104

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,212 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 1,212 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,364

• SAT range 1030-1270

• Glassboro, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,838 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 1,838 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,425

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Newark, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  1,246 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 1,246 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $16,878

• SAT range 1180-1430

• South Orange, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,151 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 2,151 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $33,177

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Jersey City, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  762 reviews

Sophomore: I really like the school and am very grateful for the opportunities I have received there. The English department is fantastic! I love my professors and the classes are always well taught, structured and most importantly of all: interesting. Definitely a great academic experience.... Read 762 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $13,756

• SAT range 890-1140

• Toms River, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  693 reviews

Sophomore: It's not the most enjoyable experience to attend a community college, especially when you watch all of your friends at colleges having a good time, making new friends, partying, joining sororities, and doing other things you might be losing out on. Since I was unable to have the same experience that I watched everyone else having, I began to feel really upset and lonely. I didn't start to really appreciate it until the beginning of spring semester at Ocean County College. In the English class I was enrolled in, I met someone. Due to the fact that we were in a comparable situation, we quickly became the best of friends. She had a significant influence on my life and encouraged me to see the good in everything. I am quite happy that I went to community college because I know I would have never met her otherwise.... Read 693 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,765

• SAT range —

• Branchburg, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  673 reviews

Alum: Small college, friendly students and staff, several clubs free to join any time, after a couple semesters you feel like family with the community. The food in the cafeteria not the greatest and also expensive in my opinion for it's quality. Shoprite is walking distance to college. Tuition costs are lower than four year college. Free parking! I had a great experience, very recommended.... Read 673 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,412

• SAT range —

• West Windsor, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  400 reviews

Other: During my Mercer County Community College tour, I had a fantastic experience that left a lasting impression. The campus was very easy to navigate through and showed a healthy learning environment. The tour guide was knowledgeable and provided detailed information about the various academic programs and support services available. I had the opportunity to visit the athletic department which was my favorite part of the tour. What stood out the most was the warm and inclusive community atmosphere. Overall, the tour showcased a college that values student success and offers a nurturing environment for personal and academic growth, leaving me excited and confident about the prospects of joining Mercer County Community College.... Read 400 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,477

• SAT range —

• Lakewood, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  350 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 350 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $20,448

• SAT range 980-1160

• Vineland, NJ•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  224 reviews

Freshman: Rowan College of South Jersey is an exceptional school that offers flexible schedules that work with their students who may also have to juggle other responsibilities in their lives. They give the life-changing opportunity of education to many individuals who are underprivileged, such as myself, giving them hope for a brighter tomorrow. It is the most convenient and cost-effective school in South Jersey for students pursuing radiography and other allied healthcare professions, as they offer a wide range of courses and degrees. Resources and campus tolerance for autistic and neurodivergent students leave much to be desired. Speaking as an autistic person who wasn't diagnosed until 18, I had a few negative experiences that ultimately led to me becoming academically suspended, which could have been avoided if there were more services to ensure the success of students with disabilities and/or facing hardship while attending school.... Read 224 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,014

• SAT range —