Monmouth University
U.S. News National 2027
#169
Acceptance rate
89.0%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$46,552
$64,250 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,710
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
60.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 68.2%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Monmouth University, located in West Long Branch, New Jersey, is a vibrant institution known for its strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Founded in 1933, the university has grown into a comprehensive educational hub, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. One of the university’s key features is its commitment to a personalized education experience; smaller class sizes allow for more direct interaction between students and faculty, fostering a supportive learning environment. The university's motto, “Learn, Lead, Serve,” reflects its dedication to preparing students not only academically but also as future leaders in their fields and communities.
The campus itself is a beautiful blend of historic and modern architecture, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities. The recent addition of the Monmouth University Center, which includes a dining hall, fitness center, and collaborative spaces, enhances student life by providing areas for socialization and wellness. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with various sports teams competing at the NCAA Division I level, encouraging school spirit and camaraderie among students. Notable alumni include famous figures in politics, arts, and business, showcasing the university's ability to nurture talent that makes a significant impact in society. Monmouth University continues to be a place where students are encouraged to thrive academically and personally, making it a cherished institution in New Jersey.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
Over the past decade, Monmouth University has witnessed a significant increase in tuition fees for both undergraduate and graduate students. The cost of in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from approximately $31,018 in 2014 to around $44,850 in 2024, reflecting a nearly 44% increase. Similarly, out-of-state undergraduate tuition has followed suit, indicating a broader trend in higher education where institutions are continuously raising tuition to cover operational costs amidst shrinking state funding and rising expenses.
In contrast to the rising tuition, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have shown a positive trend, climbing from about 36% in 2013 to approximately 64% in 2023 for on-time graduation. This upward trajectory in graduation rates suggests that the university may be enhancing its support systems and academic resources, thereby improving student success and retention.
Retention rates have also remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 78.6% and 83.8% over the years. This stability indicates that despite the challenges associated with rising costs, students are choosing to remain enrolled at the university, which is a positive sign of student satisfaction and engagement.
Moreover, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has gradually shifted, with the percentage of female students increasing from about 59% in 2013 to 63% in 2023. This shift reflects broader societal changes towards gender equity in higher education and may also influence campus culture and diversity.
In summary, while tuition costs at Monmouth University have steadily increased, the institution appears to be successfully enhancing its graduation and retention rates, alongside adapting to changing demographics in its student population. These factors are crucial for prospective students and their families to consider when evaluating the affordability and value of a college education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- New York, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 30 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Patrick F. Leahy (President (Dr.))
- Phone
- 7325713400
- Address
- 400 Cedar Ave, West Long Branch, NJ 07764-1898
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 72.3%, women 79.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Monmouth University Admission Trends
The admission data for Monmouth University over the years highlights significant trends in both enrollment and acceptance rates. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate was around 55.6%, while the female acceptance rate was slightly higher at 57.2%. As the years progressed, there was a notable increase in both rates, particularly for females, reaching 93.1% by 2023. This substantial rise may reflect the university's broader commitment to gender inclusivity and its strategic initiatives aimed at attracting a more diverse student body.
Enrollment numbers have also seen fluctuations, with the highest enrollment recorded at 1,089 students in 2017. However, the most recent year, 2023, shows a decrease in enrollment to 896, despite a record low of denied applications at 721. This could indicate a shift in applicant preferences or a potential impact from external factors such as economic conditions or changing perceptions of higher education value.
Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions has remained relatively high, particularly in recent years, suggesting that prospective students are increasingly considering their options before committing to enroll. This trend might be influenced by the competitive landscape of higher education, as students assess other institutions alongside Monmouth.
Overall, the data signifies both challenges and opportunities for Monmouth University. As it navigates these trends, the institution may need to adapt its recruitment strategies to maintain its appeal among prospective students in a highly competitive environment.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty2 programs—
Business School4 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 18% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Monmouth University
The admission data from Monmouth University over the years reveals notable trends in SAT and ACT scores among applicants. A consistent decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores is evident, dropping from 96% in 2007 to only 23% in 2023. This significant decrease may reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a reduced emphasis on standardized testing.
The SAT scores themselves have shown some fluctuations, with the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores generally remaining within a range that suggests a competitive applicant pool. For instance, the SAT Reading scores have ranged from a low of 470 to a high of 560 in the 25th percentile, while the upper end has reached up to 660. This range indicates that, even as the number of students submitting scores decreases, the students who do apply tend to have strong academic backgrounds.
On the ACT front, although specific data points weren't detailed for every year, the overall trend suggests a similar narrative where a more selective applicant pool is emerging. The ACT scores also reflect a robust performance among students, aligning with the SAT trends observed.
Overall, Monmouth University seems to be navigating a changing landscape in college admissions, as fewer students submit standardized test scores while still maintaining high academic standards for those who do. This shift highlights the evolving nature of admissions criteria, which increasingly prioritize holistic evaluations of prospective students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
9,321 applicants in 2025, 89.0% admitted
8,298 admitted 1,023 not admitted Yield 10.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's80 (6% international)
- Social Work · Master's62 (2% international)
- Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's46 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's37 (0% international)
- Physician Assistant · Master's30 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's29 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data from Monmouth University
The graduation data from Monmouth University for 2023 reveals intriguing trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Health Services and related fields demonstrate a significant number of graduates, particularly at the master's level. For example, the field of Speech-Language Pathology produced 43 master's degree holders, while the Mental Health Counseling program graduated 32 individuals. This reflects a growing emphasis on health-related professions, likely influenced by the ongoing global focus on health and wellness post-pandemic.
Interestingly, the data also indicates a strong output in the Business Administration sector at the bachelor’s level, with 80 graduates. This highlights the enduring popularity and perceived value of business education in today’s job market. Furthermore, the absence of bachelor’s degree graduates in many fields, such as Special Education and various health-related programs, suggests a potential gap in undergraduate offerings or student interest in these areas.
Another noteworthy observation is the low representation of international students across various programs, particularly at the bachelor’s level. This could indicate barriers to entry or a need for improved recruitment strategies to attract a more diverse student body.
Moreover, the data shows that while some areas, like Education, have a healthy number of master's graduates, they lack bachelor’s degree graduates, which may highlight a trend of professionals seeking advanced qualifications directly after completing their undergraduate studies elsewhere.
This analysis underscores the evolving landscape of higher education, where certain fields are experiencing growth, particularly in health sciences, while others may require attention to ensure they remain competitive and relevant.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,621-$73,754 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $32,040 | ||||
| Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist. | - | ||||
| Physician Assistant. | $119,751 | ||||
| Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | $54,850 | ||||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $92,918-$119,341 | ||||
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. | $92,918-$119,341 | ||||
| Nursing Science. | $92,918-$119,341 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $56,836-$65,426 | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $93,730 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $64,864 | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $60,242 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $56,474-$61,999 | ||||
| Reading Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $54,814 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $40,968-$58,810 | ||||
| Homeland Security. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $40,748-$67,995 | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $32,793 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $46,705 | ||||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $35,920 | ||||
| Environmental Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropology, General. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $43,471 | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $73,288 | ||||
| Computer/Information Technology Services Administration and Management, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | $45,028 | ||||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | $28,818 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $46,495 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $34,917 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Software Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History and Political Science. | - | ||||
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
4,767 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 79.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,668
- First-year undergraduates 827
- Graduate students 1,057
- Transfers and others 215
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,710)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Monmouth University in 2023
The student demographics at Monmouth University for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and dynamic campus community. The freshman class comprises a total of 896 students, with a notable gender distribution where 34.5% are male and 65.5% are female, indicating a strong representation of women among new entrants. This trend is consistent across the undergraduate population, as evidenced by the 2,721 continuing undergraduate students, where males account for 37.3% and females for 62.7%.
In terms of transfer students, the 182 individuals represent a slightly higher male percentage at 42.9%, suggesting that men are more likely to transfer compared to their female counterparts. Graduate students, totaling 1,216, display a significant gender imbalance with only 24.3% male representation, highlighting a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees.
The breakdown of ethnic diversity within these groups underscores the importance of inclusive representation. For freshmen, the largest subgroup consists of white students, followed by other ethnic groups. Although specific numbers for continuing and transfer students are not available, the overall demographic trends reflect a commitment to fostering a multicultural environment.
As higher education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for Monmouth University to sustain its focus on diversity and inclusion, particularly in male-dominated fields, and to support underrepresented groups in all categories. These trends are reflective of broader societal changes and the increasing emphasis on promoting equity in education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Monmouth University (2023)
The age composition data from Monmouth University reveals insightful trends about its student body. A significant proportion of undergraduates falls into the 18-19 age category, comprising 78.6% of male undergraduates and 98.9% of female undergraduates. This highlights the university's strong appeal to traditional college-age students.
As we move into the 20-21 age group, the numbers remain substantial, with nearly equal representation between genders. However, there is a noticeable shift as we examine the 22-24 age range, where the number of graduate students begins to increase, indicating that many students transition to higher education after completing their undergraduate studies.
The data also shows a decline in enrollment for ages 25 and above, suggesting that Monmouth University may attract fewer non-traditional students. Only 13.1% of the total student body is aged 25 or older, which might reflect broader trends in higher education where younger students are more likely to pursue degrees immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the presence of students aged 30 and above is minimal, with only a handful in the 30-34 and 35-39 age brackets. This could imply that older students face barriers that discourage their enrollment or that they are opting for alternative educational paths.
Overall, Monmouth University’s age demographic leans heavily towards younger students, particularly those in their late teens and early twenties, which aligns with national trends in higher education. This composition may influence campus culture, support services, and academic programming aimed at engaging a younger audience.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
65 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
39 in 2025 · 5.7% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Monmouth University
The data regarding international student enrollment at Monmouth University reveals some intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally increased, culminating in a peak of 1.50% in 2022. This growth suggests a gradual enhancement of the university's appeal to foreign students, possibly driven by globalization and the increasing desirability of American education. The rise in international undergraduates could indicate successful recruitment strategies or enhanced programs that cater to global students.
In contrast, the proportion of international graduate students has been relatively low and has shown a declining trend, dropping to 2.38% in 2023. This discrepancy may reflect a broader trend seen across many U.S. universities, where graduate programs struggle to attract international applicants due to various factors, including visa policies and competition from foreign institutions.
The overall numbers, while modest, indicate that Monmouth University has made strides in attracting international students, particularly at the undergraduate level. However, the drop in graduate enrollments highlights a challenge that the university might need to address, perhaps by enhancing support services for international graduate students or expanding program offerings that appeal to this demographic.
Overall, as the global landscape of education continues to evolve, Monmouth University will face the imperative to adapt its strategies to maintain and grow its international student population, ensuring that it remains an attractive destination for students from around the world.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$64,250
- Undergraduate tuition
- $46,552
- Room and board
- $17,698
- Graduate tuition
- $26,918
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 38% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 42%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$207M
Expenses$177M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Colonial Athletic Association
Colonial Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 157 | 130 |
| Football | 121 | - |
| Lacrosse | 54 | 30 |
| Soccer | 27 | 26 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Swimming | 21 | 20 |
| Rowing | - | 40 |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| Bowling | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 137 | 118 |
| Football | 118 | - |
| Lacrosse | 53 | 29 |
| Soccer | 25 | 28 |
| Swimming | 22 | 21 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 19 | 16 |
| Rowing | - | 33 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 10 | 8 |
| Golf | 7 | 7 |
| Bowling | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division I-FCS | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 140 | 109 |
| Football | 127 | - |
| Lacrosse | 47 | 33 |
| Soccer | 28 | 30 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Swimming | 17 | 22 |
| Basketball | 14 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 26 |
| Rowing | - | 20 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 11 | 8 |
| Golf | 7 | 9 |
| Bowling | - | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Rutgers University-New BrunswickNew Brunswick · 27.6 mi
U.S. News #44
-
New York UniversityNew York · 31.1 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Stevens Institute of TechnologyHoboken · 32.1 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Rutgers University-NewarkNewark · 32.9 mi
U.S. News #73
-
New Jersey Institute of TechnologyNewark · 33.2 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 34.7 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 36.6 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 36.7 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
Fordham UniversityBronx · 40.5 mi
U.S. News #85
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Monmouth University:
-
Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Ranked 40th in the US News 2024 rankings, Rutgers is a comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and strong research initiatives.
-
New York University - With a ranking of 35, NYU is a prestigious institution located in the heart of New York City, offering a wide range of programs and renowned faculty.
-
Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th, Columbia is an Ivy League university recognized for its academic excellence and influential research.
-
Princeton University - As the top-ranked university in the US (ranked 1st), Princeton is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology - This university is ranked 76th and is particularly well-regarded for its engineering and technology programs.
-
The New School - With a ranking of 201, The New School offers a unique approach to education, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and social engagement.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Campus Crime at Monmouth University
The data from Monmouth University reveals a declining trend in the average crime rate per 1,000 students over the past decade. In 2013, the crime rate was notably high at 15.08, while by 2023, this number has dropped significantly to 4.14. This decline suggests a positive shift in campus safety and crime prevention measures, which can be attributed to various factors such as increased security measures, community engagement initiatives, and educational programs aimed at reducing crime.
Among the specific types of offenses recorded, there is a notable decrease in serious incidents, especially in categories like assault and drug-related arrests. For instance, the rate of assaults has been consistently low in the last few years, indicating that the university environment is becoming safer for students. The data also suggests that measures taken by the university to address issues like domestic violence and stalking are making a difference, as these numbers appear to have stabilized or declined.
However, it is essential to remain vigilant and continue these efforts to ensure a safe and supportive campus environment. The decrease in crime rates is encouraging, but it is crucial for both the university administration and students to work together to maintain this progress. Overall, the trend presents a hopeful outlook for Monmouth University, reflecting a community committed to safety and well-being.
For further insights on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Monmouth University include Christie Pearce (Former captain of the US women's national soccer team), Matt Morgan (Retired professional wrestler and mayor) and Wendy Boglioli (Olympic champion swimmer and former world record-holder).
-
Christie Pearce 1975–
Former captain of the US women's national soccer team
-
Matt Morgan 1976–
Retired professional wrestler and mayor
-
Wendy Boglioli 1955–
Olympic champion swimmer and former world record-holder
-
Michael Sorrentino 1981–
Reality television personality on Jersey Shore
-
Justin Robinson 1995–
Professional basketball player
-
Chris Hogan 1987–
Former NFL wide receiver
-
Linda Deutsch 1943–2024
Associated Press court reporter
-
Corey Albano 1975–
American-Italian former professional basketball player
-
Alpha Bangura 1980–
Libyan former professional basketball player
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.