10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Elizabeth, NJ
These accredited colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, offer a broad selection of educational programs for students to choose from to start their degree today.
Several colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, provide degree programs to help students take the first step toward achieving their academic goals.
Explore the available fields of study with our compilation of the top ten best colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, to select the one that aligns with your interests and start a journey to a rewarding career.
Featured Colleges in Elizabeth, NJ
Many top-rated accredited colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, offer valuable learning experiences for students. See our list below for more information.
1. Kean University
Kean University is a public research institution in Union, NJ, located only two miles from Elizabeth. It offers a world-class education delivered through online learning and traditional in-person classes.
They have several areas of study to choose from, such as:
- early childhood education
- information technology
- criminal justice
- psychology
- political science
- management
- public administration
They provide an inclusive campus environment with a diverse student body, enrolling more than 17,000 undergraduates and graduates.
2. Rutgers University
Rutgers University has several locations, including one in Newark, just six miles from Elizabeth. They offer 40 undergraduate and 50 graduate degree programs to select from.
Areas of study that they offer include:
- health information management
- environmental sciences
- public and nonprofit administration
- management information systems
- criminal justice
- business
- law
This public research university consistently ranks highly among the best schools in the nation. It enrolls more than 13,000 total students.
3. New Jersey Institute of Technology
Located in Newark, the New Jersey Institute of Technology is a leader in STEM education, focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math. Its total student enrollment is over 12,000.
Various majors are available, including the following:
- financial technology
- environmental science
- cybersecurity and privacy
- business
- computer science
- engineering
- chemistry
Its 50 undergraduate and 68 graduate degree programs offer a multidisciplinary curriculum, and it is consistently recognized among the top schools for return on investment.
4. New Jersey City University
New Jersey City University is situated in Jersey City, around 10 miles from Elizabeth. It has 50 undergraduate and 30 graduate degree programs for various majors in emerging and interdisciplinary fields.
Examples of areas of study include the following:
- elementary and secondary education
- multicultural education
- computer science
- biology
- business
- mathematics
- counseling
The university offers rigorous applied learning experiences and consistently ranks highly as a top comprehensive institution in the state.
5. Pillar College
Recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best colleges in the nation, Pillar College in Newark provides students with in-demand skills and valuable learning opportunities.
Their academic programs include areas of study, such as:
- business administration and management
- elementary education
- biblical studies
- applied chemistry
- organizational leadership
- intercultural communication
- psychology and counseling
It is one of the colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, delivering a Christ-centered and bible-based education.
6. Montclair State University
Montclair State University is in Montclair, around 14 miles or 20 minutes from Elizabeth. It is a public research institution offering over 300 educational programs for undergraduates and graduates.
Several areas of study are available, such as:
- business analytics
- communication studies
- information technology
- counseling
- accounting
- criminal justice
- nursing
It has a vibrant campus community featuring cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art facilities, where students can expect personalized attention from expert faculty.
7. Saint Peter's University
Saint Peter's University in Jersey City is a private Jesuit institution offering experiential learning through a Catholic-based education. It ranks highly by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best value schools.
It has over 50 majors to choose from, including:
- environmental studies
- political science
- communication
- finance
- psychology
- business
- nursing
Within six months of graduating, over 90% of its students enter employment or graduate school, and 100% of undergraduates receive financial aid.
8. Felician University
Felician University is a private institution situated around 17 miles, or 30 minutes, from Elizabeth. They deliver more than 60 career-focused undergraduate and graduate programs.
Various areas of study are accessible to students, such as:
- computer science
- communications
- nursing
- finance
- marketing
- psychology
- management
It is a top-ranked university per U.S. News and World Report and among the best colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, providing a valuable education from a Catholic perspective.
9. Wagner College
Just nine miles from Elizabeth is Wagner College, located on Staten Island. Its small campus provides personalized attention and easy access to New York City.
More than 40 areas of study are available, such as:
- environmental studies
- government and politics
- nursing
- sociology
- education
- international affairs
- arts administration
They offer a practical interdisciplinary education in the liberal arts and many opportunities for students to succeed while engaging in internships and research projects.
10. College of Staten Island
The College of Staten Island is located around eight miles from Elizabeth. It is a public university focusing on liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies.
Students can participate in online learning in addition to traditional on-campus classes.
Many areas of study are accessible, including:
- communications
- business
- psychology
- computer science
- international studies
- public administration
- nursing
Several specialized programs and professional certifications in sought-after subjects like early childhood education are also available.
What Is the Biggest School Near Elizabeth, New Jersey?
Among the biggest colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, is Kean University. It is located just two miles away in Union and currently enrolls more than 17,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
Rutgers University also boasts large enrollment numbers, with over 13,000 students at its Newark campus, which is six miles from Elizabeth.
How To Choose the Right College Near Elizabeth, New Jersey
Students considering higher education at colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, must take the time to perform research to choose the right university to meet their needs and goals.
Several important factors, such as location, tuition cost and fees, programs offered, and campus culture, should be evaluated to make an informed decision.
Individuals should also assess financial aid and payment assistance to ensure the program fits within their budget.
Paying for Your Degree Near Elizabeth, New Jersey
Various financing options are available to pursue degrees from colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step of the process.
From student loans to scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, individuals can explore multiple opportunities to help pay for tuition fees, textbooks, and other expenses associated with going to college.
Prospective students need to take time to research and compare different funding sources to find the ones that best suit their financial needs and academic goals.
Start Your Degree Near Elizabeth, New Jersey Today
This list features selected accredited colleges near Elizabeth, New Jersey, that offer a wide range of academic programs, aiding students in earning their degrees to begin fulfilling careers in various fields.