Does New Jersey Have an HBCU? Predominantly Black Institution Alternatives

1. Bloomfield College

Bloomfield College is a public school located in Bloomfield. In 2023, it merged with Montclair State University, but it maintains operations as a separate college under its parent institution.

The school was initially established in 1868 and was affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. It currently sits on a 12-acre campus and enrolls around 1,600 students.

Bloomfield College is the only school on this list officially identified as a Predominantly Black Institution.

The school offers dozens of degree programs in various fields including:

• Business
• Humanities
• Natural Science and Mathematics
• Creative Arts and Technology
• Nursing

Both graduate and undergraduate degrees are available, as well as short-term certificates and minors.

2. Essex County College

Essex County College is a community college with locations in Newark and Caldwell. It is a public school that was founded in 1966.

This school provides a racially diverse culture, with a student body representing more than 50 countries and backgrounds.

Associate degrees and certificate programs are available in over 70 areas of study. Some of the degree programs include:

• Architectural Technology
• Civil Engineering Technology
• Health Science
• Liberal Arts
• Paralegal Studies

Many courses are available online, allowing students to complete their program in a flexible hybrid format if desired.

3. Pillar College

Pillar College is a private school headquartered in Newark. It has additional locations in Patterson, Jersey City, Plainfield, and Somerset.

Formerly known as Somerset Christian College, this school traces its roots to 1908 and was founded by Pillar of Fire International, an evangelical Christian organization.

This school offers various degree programs in a range of fields. Some programs are designed for those interested in pursuing careers in ministry, but traditional career fields are also available.

Some of the degree programs include:

• Psychology and Counseling
• Intercultural Communication
• Elementary Education
• Biblical Studies
• Occupational Leadership

Associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs are all available. One master's degree program can be completed online, and several of the programs offer accelerated options to help you get your degree quickly.

4. Saint Elizabeth University

Saint Elizabeth University, formerly known as the College of Saint Elizabeth, is located in Morris Township. The school was founded in 1899 and is named for Elizabeth Ann Seton.

The Catholic school is affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth. It sits on a 200-acre suburban campus and enrolls fewer than 1,200 students.

Many degree programs are available at this school, including:

• Food and Nutrition
• Computer Software Engineering
• English
• Mathematics
• Social Work

Graduate and undergraduate degrees are both available, along with a variety of minors. Many degree programs offer concentrations, allowing students to further personalize their studies to their professional goals and interests.

5. Union College

Union College is one of the oldest public community colleges in New Jersey, having been founded in 1933. It consists of four campuses throughout Union County.

The school offers lots of associate degree and certificate programs. Some of the many options include:

• Sport Management
• Cyber Forensics
• Medicinal Plant Chemistry
• Journalism and Public Relations
• Education

Many of the programs can be completed entirely online or in a flexible hybrid format.

Benefits of Attending a Predominantly Black Institution

Predominantly Black Institutions and Historically Black Colleges and Universities offer a nurturing, supportive environment for historically underprivileged students and those who may be the first in their family to attend college.

Students of color often find that attending PBIs and HBCUs have a more welcoming, comfortable environment that makes it easier for them to focus on their studies.

What's more, PBIs and HBCUs are known for providing more affordable tuition rates and fees, making college more affordable and accessible for a larger number of students.

Tips on Choosing the Right College Program

Struggling to figure out what to major in? Spend some time thinking about your interests and long-term career goals.

If you have a specific career in mind, find out which degrees or certificate programs best lend themselves to that career.

If you're not sure yet, it's okay to choose a broader program, such as liberal arts or general studies.

Some degrees, such as communications or computer science, can lead to a variety of career options within specific industries.

If you have a general idea of what field you want to work in but would like to have a variety of options to choose from, consider one of these broad degrees.

Finally, if you want to start working quickly and find a high-paying job without spending years in school, consider pursuing a short-term certificate program.

These often prepare you for work in high-demand industries in less than a year.

If you're still not sure about your future goals, consider job shadowing or volunteering in any industry you're curious about.

These opportunities can help you learn more about the work involved and decide whether you want to commit to a particular career or industry.

What Is the Difference Between an HBCU and a PBI?

Historically Black Colleges and Universities are schools that were founded before 1964 for the express purpose of providing expanded educational opportunities to students of color.

Predominantly Black Institutions are schools that were either founded after 1964 or were not specifically founded to serve Black students, but which enroll a large population of students within this demographic.

Both HBCUs and PBIs aim to serve the needs of historically disadvantaged students and contain a large percentage of African American students and other students of color.

Find a Historically Black College or University Near You

Though there are no HBCUs in New Jersey, and only one formally recognized PBI, each of the schools on this list is known for enrolling large percentages of Black and colored students.