Bloomfield, NJpublicwww.bloomfield.edu/
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, now merged with Montclair State, is a small, diverse liberal arts institution with a 67-70% acceptance rate and a focus on serving underrepresented populations. Known for its strong nursing program and interdisciplinary approach, it offers a tight-knit campus vibe with outcomes that punch above its weight for graduates.
With an Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. hovering between 67-70%, Bloomfield College is somewhat selective—admitting about two-thirds of applicants. The school doesn't emphasize standardized tests (Montclair State was New Jersey's first public university to adopt Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. policies in 2015), instead focusing on Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone.. About 16% of admitted students have GPAs of 3.75+, while 8% fall in the 3.50-3.74 range. The regular application deadline is May 1, offering flexibility for late deciders.
Bloomfield shines in nursing (with a 90%+ NCLEX pass rate) and , but its most popular majors are surprisingly arts-heavy: Visual and Performing Arts (52 graduates), Business (50), and Psychology (39) lead the pack. The college was recently ranked #42 among national liberal arts institutions by U.S. News. Unique offerings include a BA in Applied Studies tailored for adult learners balancing work and school. As New Jersey's only four-year Predominantly Black and Hispanic-Serving Institution, it emphasizes accessible, interdisciplinary education.
The Bloomfield campus buzzes with diverse cultural energy—think religion-in-America seminars alongside game design labs. Instagram showcases students exploring global stories and ideas during summer sessions. Daily campus tours led by "Storyteller Ambassadors" highlight the intimate, community-driven vibe. While specifics about clubs aren't detailed in sources, the merger with Montclair State likely expands access to Division III athletics and broader university events.
Graduates see a $37,430 median salary one year post-graduation, with 60% borrowing loans (average debt: $38,289). The four-year graduation rate sits at 46%, though 59.4% of full-time students persist from freshman to sophomore year—a strong showing for its demographic focus. Montclair State reports a $34,013 average salary boost for alumni, suggesting the merger may enhance career trajectories.
Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculators help estimate costs after aid, which includes Montclair State's grants, work-study, and loans. While exact figures aren't provided in sources, the emphasis on serving low-income students suggests robust aid packages. The sticker price is typical for New Jersey publics, but the college's dual status as PBI and HSI unlocks additional funding streams for eligible students.
Bloomfield carves a unique niche as both a liberal arts college and an engine of mobility for underrepresented students. Its nursing program rivals larger universities, while the merger with Montclair State amplifies resources without diluting its intimate, culturally vibrant identity. For students seeking small classes with big-university perks—and faculty who prioritize access over prestige—it’s a compelling hybrid.