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Public, 4-year

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, New Jersey · www.ramapo.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

70.6%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$27,708

In-state $16,777

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

5,444

Student-faculty ratio 17:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

58.0%

4-year; 6-year rate 69.5%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Ramapo College of New Jersey, located in Mahwah, is a public liberal arts college that emphasizes experiential learning and interdisciplinary education. Founded in 1969, the college is known for its picturesque campus set against the backdrop of the Ramapo Mountains, providing an inspiring environment for academic and personal growth. The college's commitment to sustainability is evident in its green initiatives and environmentally friendly campus design. Ramapo offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong focus on liberal arts education, which encourages students to think critically and engage in community service.

The college prides itself on its vibrant campus culture and strong sense of community. With a student-faculty ratio of 14:1, Ramapo fosters close relationships between students and professors, enhancing the learning experience. The college also offers a variety of student organizations, athletics, and cultural events that promote engagement and leadership among students. Ramapo College's dedication to student success is highlighted by its robust career services and internship opportunities, which prepare graduates for successful careers in various fields. Additionally, the college has notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various sectors, reflecting the strong educational foundation provided by Ramapo. Overall, Ramapo College of New Jersey stands out as a dynamic institution that blends academic rigor with a supportive community environment.

Tuition Trends and Student Dynamics at Ramapo College

The data from Ramapo College of New Jersey reveals significant trends in tuition costs and student demographics over the years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen steadily from $13,388 in 2014 to $15,363 in 2023, an increase of approximately 15%. Out-of-state undergraduate tuition saw an even more pronounced hike, moving from $22,037 to $25,373, which represents a staggering increase of nearly 15.7%. This continuous rise in tuition costs may raise concerns for prospective students and their families regarding the affordability of higher education, especially in the context of student debt and financial aid challenges that many face today.

In parallel, the enrollment numbers for undergraduate and graduate students have shown a downward trend, with undergraduate enrollment decreasing from 5,624 in 2013 to 4,932 in 2023. This decline of about 12.3% may indicate potential issues with student retention or appeal, particularly in light of rising costs. Additionally, the graduation rates have fluctuated slightly but remain relatively stable, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates around 60-62% over the years. This stability in graduation rates could be a positive sign in maintaining educational standards amidst changing enrollment trends.

Moreover, the gender ratios among undergraduate and graduate students have remained fairly consistent, with female students representing a majority in both categories. This trend reflects broader societal shifts towards higher female enrollment in higher education, which is a noteworthy aspect of Ramapo College's demographic landscape.

Together, these elements highlight the challenges and opportunities facing Ramapo College, emphasizing the importance of addressing tuition affordability, student retention, and ongoing demographic shifts in higher education. As institutions continue to adapt to these changes, proactive measures will be crucial in ensuring access and success for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
New York, about 30 mi
Nearest international airport
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 25 mi
Mahwah, New Jersey
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Cindy R. Jebb (President)
Phone
20168475007500
City
Mahwah, New Jersey
Address
505 Ramapo Valley Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430-1680

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
69.8%
Women
71.2%

In 2020: men 67.8%, women 64.3%.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions at Ramapo College of New Jersey

The admissions data from Ramapo College of New Jersey over the years illustrates an evolving landscape for prospective students. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants show a general trend of increasing competitiveness. For instance, the male acceptance rate rose from approximately 51.7% in 2009 to about 70.1% in 2023, while the female acceptance rate increased from 46.6% to 70.7% in the same period.
This significant rise in acceptance rates suggests that the college may have expanded its enrollment capacity or adjusted its admissions criteria to accommodate a larger number of applicants. The total enrollment numbers fluctuated over the years; however, there was a notable peak in 2020 with 1,030 students enrolled. This period also coincides with the pandemic, which led many institutions to adapt their strategies, possibly impacting application dynamics.
The number of denied applications consistently outnumbered those accepted, peaking at 3,366 denials in 2013. This reflects a competitive applicant pool where many qualified candidates are left without admission. Additionally, the number of deferred applications indicates a strategic move by the college to manage enrollment effectively, particularly during times of uncertainty.
Overall, the data indicates both challenges and opportunities for Ramapo College, as it navigates the complexities of higher education admissions in a changing environment. The increases in acceptance rates may reflect a commitment to inclusivity, even as the demand for higher education remains high.

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

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Business School1 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 · 25% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1130–1300Peer median 1080
ACT composite22–30
SAT Reading
580–650
600700800
SAT Math
550–650
600700800
ACT composite
22–30
253036

Data insights

Trends in Standardized Testing at Ramapo College

The data from Ramapo College of New Jersey reveals notable trends in standardized testing scores and submission rates over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores remained consistently high, often above 85%, indicating that standardized tests continue to play a crucial role in the admissions process.

The SAT reading and math scores have shown some fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores gradually increasing from the low 490s in earlier years to around 560 in recent years. This upward trend in the lower quartile suggests that the college is increasingly attracting students who perform better on standardized assessments. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores have also seen a rise, reaching up to 650 in 2023 for SAT reading and math, indicating that high-achieving students are still drawn to the institution.

A significant point of concern is the steep decline in the number of SAT submissions in the most recent years, particularly from 2022 onwards, where the submission dropped to about 30% of the admitted students. This trend may reflect a broader national shift as many colleges are moving towards test-optional admissions policies, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift could alter the future landscape of admissions, as colleges like Ramapo may rely less on standardized test scores and more on holistic evaluations of applicants.

Overall, while Ramapo College has maintained a robust standardized testing culture, the declining submission rates could signify changing attitudes toward standardized testing in higher education. This evolution could offer opportunities for a more diverse range of applicants who may excel in other areas beyond traditional testing metrics.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

8,976 applicants in 2025, 70.6% admitted

6,341 admitted 2,635 not admitted Yield 17.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's1,15912 international (1.0%)
Master's3182 international (0.6%)
Doctoral50 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Nursing Science
119
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
89
Psychology, General
81
Social Sciences, General
80
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
76
Communication and Media Studies, Other
71
Social Work
70
Accounting
70
Finance, General
68
Business/Commerce, General
65

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's84 (0% international)
  • Social Work · Master's75 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's57 (2% international)
  • Accounting · Master's37 (0% international)
  • Nursing Science · Master's22 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's15 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Ramapo College

The data from Ramapo College of New Jersey reveals significant trends in graduation rates across various disciplines for 2023. Notably, the fields of psychology, social work, and business studies seem to be the most popular among students, as reflected by their respective graduation numbers. Psychology led the way with 91 graduates, highlighting the increasing interest in mental health and psychological services. This trend aligns with a broader societal emphasis on mental wellness, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness around mental health issues.

Business-related programs also show strong enrollment, with multiple categories achieving high graduation rates. This pattern suggests a robust interest in practical and versatile career pathways, which is critical in today's job market. Additionally, the presence of international students in these programs, although limited, indicates a growing globalization in education.

In contrast, fields such as nursing and education demonstrate a more varied graduation landscape, particularly at the master's level, where specialized training is essential. The data reflects a significant commitment to advancing professional skills in healthcare and education, areas that have been under considerable strain during recent years.

Interestingly, several disciplines, such as environmental studies and various interdisciplinary studies, show lower graduation numbers. This might suggest either a niche interest or the challenges these fields face in attracting students compared to more traditional areas of study. Overall, the data illustrates a diverse array of student interests, with a pronounced inclination towards psychology and business, which could shape future program offerings at the college.

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

Businesshas 387 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Business/Commerce, General.$44,431
Business Administration and Management, General.$46,908
Accounting.$63,753-$78,421
Finance, General.$48,600
International Business/Trade/Commerce.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$55,142
Educationhas 166 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$78,749
Special Education and Teaching, General.$62,889
Elementary Education and Teaching.$54,799
Education, Other.$71,695
Health professionshas 147 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions, Other.-
Nursing Science.$97,842-$124,991
Nursing Practice.$97,842-$124,991
Public administrationhas 145 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.$42,001-$55,668
Social sciencehas 106 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.$42,642
Economics, General.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.$33,299
Biologyhas 102 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$38,381
Biochemistry.-
Bioinformatics.-
Neuroscience.-
Psychology has 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$39,059
Computer and information sciencehas 78 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Information Science/Studies.$59,806
Communication has 71 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Communication and Media Studies, Other.$37,728
Visual and Performing artshas 67 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Visual and Performing Arts, General.$27,351
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Music, General.$25,547
Music Technology.$25,547
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General.-
International/Globalization Studies.-
Data Science, General.-
History has 24 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.$36,052
Legal professionshas 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Legal Studies.-
Natural resources has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Environmental Studies.$42,597
Environmental Science.$42,597
English has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-
Applied Mathematics, General.-
Physical scienceshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Philosophy.-
Liberal arts has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-

Students

5,981 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 83.6%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (5,444)

White
2,860 · 52.5%
Hispanic
1,392 · 25.6%
Asian
546 · 10.0%
Black
320 · 5.9%
Unknown
271 · 5.0%
International
40 · 0.7%
Two or more races
1 · 0.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
7.1%
18–19
33.9%
20–21
31.7%
22–24
17.7%
25 and over
9.6%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.7%
22–24
43.6%
25–29
24.2%
30–34
12.7%
35 and over
18.8%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Ramapo College in 2023

The student body at Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2023 reflects a diverse and dynamic population. With a total of 850 incoming freshmen, the college has maintained a gender balance, with approximately 39.3% male and 60.7% female students. This trend of higher female enrollment is consistent with national averages in higher education, where women often outnumber men in undergraduate programs.

Among the continuing students, the college has a significant population of 3,395 undergraduates, where the male to female ratio is relatively balanced at 42.5% and 57.5% respectively. For transfer students, the demographics show a near-equal distribution with 366 students, comprising 49.2% males and 50.8% females, indicating an inclusive environment for students transitioning from other institutions.

Graduate students, however, present a stark contrast, as only 546 students are enrolled, with a gender breakdown showing only 25.8% males and a substantial 74.2% females. This large discrepancy may reflect broader trends within graduate education, where fields such as education and social sciences tend to attract more female students.

The data also highlights a commitment to diversity, although specifics on racial and ethnic breakdowns are not fully available. The presence of various demographics within the student population contributes to a rich cultural environment that can enhance the overall academic experience. As colleges continue to navigate post-pandemic challenges, maintaining such diversity will be crucial in fostering an engaging learning atmosphere.

Age Composition of Ramapo College Students in 2023

The age composition data from Ramapo College of New Jersey reveals significant insights into the demographics of its student body in 2023. Notably, the majority of students fall within the traditional undergraduate age range, particularly those aged 18-21, encompassing over 60% of the total enrollment. This aligns with national trends where many students pursue higher education immediately after high school.

Interestingly, the data indicates a striking gender disparity among younger students, with females significantly outnumbering males in the under-18 and 18-19 age groups. In contrast, among older age brackets, particularly those above 30, the numbers reflect a more balanced gender distribution, especially among graduate students. This suggests that while younger individuals may be more inclined to enroll in college shortly after secondary education, older students tend to return for advanced degrees, potentially reflecting changing career paths or the pursuit of lifelong education.

Moreover, the presence of students aged 50 and above, though minimal, highlights the increasing trend of non-traditional students seeking further education, which is becoming more common in today's workforce. As industries evolve, many individuals are choosing to upgrade their skills later in life, making higher education more accessible and appealing for a broader age range.

Overall, these statistics underscore the shifting landscape of higher education, where diversity in age and gender is becoming a vital aspect of the college experience, promoting a richer academic environment.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.7%

40 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 2.0%2018: 2.4%2019: 2.4%2020: 2.1%2021: 1.2%2022: 1.1%2023: 1.0%2024: 1.0%2025: 0.7%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students0.6%

3 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.1%2017: 0.6%2018: 0.8%2019: 0.4%2020: 0.5%2021: 0.5%2022: 0.7%2023: 1.3%2024: 1.2%2025: 0.6%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Ramapo College

The data on international student enrollment at Ramapo College of New Jersey reflects a significant decline over the years, particularly in undergraduate programs. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students has dropped from 3.76% to a mere 1.03% among undergraduates. This downward trend raises concerns about the college's attractiveness to international students, which could be influenced by various factors such as changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the overall perception of the United States as a study destination.

In the graduate sector, the statistics are similarly troubling, with the percentage of international students falling from 4.11% in 2004 to just 1.28% in 2023. Such a decline may indicate broader challenges facing higher education institutions in the U.S., particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped international travel and education. The pandemic has led to travel restrictions, safety concerns, and a shift towards online education, making it difficult for many international students to pursue studies abroad.

Moreover, the data suggests that the college may need to reassess its recruitment strategies and support services for international students to enhance its global appeal. As competition increases from universities in other countries, it is crucial for institutions like Ramapo College to innovate and adapt to changing global trends in higher education. Addressing these issues could help reverse the declining enrollment numbers and re-establish the college's standing as a destination for international scholars.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$44,810

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$27,708
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$16,777
Room and board
$17,102
Graduate tuition
$21,466
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 47%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$198M

Government grants and contracts
$95.7M48.5%
Tuition and fees
$61.1M31.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$28.5M14.4%
Investment return
$8.2M4.2%
Other
$3.9M2.0%

Expenses$186M

Instruction
$79.4M42.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$40.3M21.6%
Institutional support
$30.7M16.4%
Student services
$25.0M13.4%
Academic support
$10.1M5.4%
Scholarships
$512K0.3%
Research
$470K0.3%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$112,516peers $80,690
Professor
$132,699peers $98,841
Associate professor
$112,160peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$90,954peers $74,446
Lecturer
$76,044peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · New Jersey Athletic Conference

New Jersey Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)4131
Track and Field (Outdoor)3529
Soccer3224
Baseball31-
Volleyball1912
Swimming1514
Basketball1810
Cross Country1312
Softball-20
Lacrosse-18
Field Hockey-16
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Indoor)3927
Track and Field (Outdoor)3926
Soccer3320
Baseball33-
Cross Country2013
Basketball1913
Volleyball1517
Swimming1513
Tennis1011
Field Hockey-20
Softball-20
Lacrosse-16
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3422
Track and Field (Indoor)3520
Track and Field (Outdoor)3019
Cross Country2214
Swimming1815
Baseball32-
Basketball1814
Volleyball1316
Field Hockey-28
Lacrosse-21
Tennis910
Softball-18

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Ramapo College of New Jersey:

  1. Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia University is an Ivy League research university located in New York City. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and diverse student body.

  2. Barnard College - As the 11th ranked institution, Barnard College is a prestigious women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University. It offers a strong liberal arts education and is known for its commitment to empowering women.

  3. New York University - Ranked 35th, NYU is a prominent research university located in the heart of Manhattan. It is known for its diverse programs and global perspective, attracting students from all over the world.

  4. Fordham University - With a rank of 89, Fordham is a Jesuit university located in New York City. It offers a comprehensive education with a focus on ethics and social justice, preparing students for a variety of careers.

  5. Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Ranked 40th, Rutgers is the largest university in New Jersey and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.

These institutions provide a variety of academic programs and opportunities, making them excellent choices for students seeking higher education in the area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
208
Drug referrals
64
Stalking
12
Dating violence
10
Residence hall fires
6
Rape
5

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Ramapo College of New Jersey

The data on crime rates at Ramapo College of New Jersey from 2013 to 2023 reflects a significant downward trend in reported offenses per 1,000 students. In 2013, the crime rate was recorded at 23.24 incidents per 1,000 students, peaking in 2016 at 24.03. However, a noticeable decline is observed from 2018 onward, with the rate dropping dramatically to 2.02 in 2021. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including increased campus security measures, community engagement initiatives, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced campus activity and associated interactions.

The most frequently reported incidents during these years were related to gun arrests and drug-related offenses. While the number of such arrests saw fluctuations, the overall trend suggests a move towards a safer campus environment. Specifically, the absence of serious violent crimes like murder or rape in recent years is a positive indicator of campus safety.

The sharp increase in incidents reported in 2022 and 2023, however, warrants attention. This uptick could be linked to a return to normalcy post-pandemic, leading to increased campus activity and interactions, or it may reflect a growing awareness and reporting of incidents. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be crucial in maintaining and further improving campus safety.

For those interested in understanding the calculation of crime rates, more information can be found at: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Ramapo College of New Jersey include Ron Cephas Jones (Actor known for This Is Us, two-time Emmy winner), Grace Helbig (YouTuber, comedian and actress) and Laura-Ann Petitto (Cognitive neuroscientist).

More alumni (2, by field)

Politics and law

Arts and media

  • Mike Roche

    Film, stage and television actor

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.