Overview
Founded in 1855 as the New Jersey State Normal School to train teachers, TCNJ has evolved into a highly selective public liberal arts college recognized as a national model for combining liberal arts education with professional preparation. It is consistently ranked among the top public colleges in the Northeast and is known for its rigorous academics, particularly in education, engineering, business, and the sciences. The college transitioned its name and mission in 1996 to reflect its broadened scope beyond teacher preparation.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Ewing Township, New Jersey |
| Founded | 1855 |
| Total students | 6,800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 12:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 54% |
| Graduation rate | 84% |
| Average starting salary | $62,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $18,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $28,000 |
| Room & board | $13,500 |
| Average financial aid | $12,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1180-1360 |
| ACT range | 25-30 |
| Average GPA | 3.7 |
| Regular deadline | February 15 |
Top Programs
- Elementary Education
- Nursing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Computer Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.