Jersey City, NJ is a vibrant hub for higher education, offering a mix of public and private colleges and universities. With programs in business, technology, the arts, and healthcare, students in Jersey City have access to quality education in one of the most diverse and fast-growing cities in the Northeast.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Jersey City
New Jersey City University (NJCU) – A leading public institution located in the heart of Jersey City. NJCU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including strong departments in business, education, and the arts. The university is known for promoting diversity, community engagement, and academic excellence.
– This two-year college offers affordable and accessible education in various fields, including allied health, culinary arts, technology, and liberal arts. HCCC is committed to supporting first-generation college students and offers a clear pathway to four-year degrees.
Saint Peter’s University (affiliated but partially public) – While primarily a private Jesuit institution, Saint Peter’s receives public funding and support, making some of its programs accessible to a wider population. It is recognized for its nursing, business, and social justice initiatives in urban communities.
NJ STEP (New Jersey Scholarship and Transformative Education in Prisons) Program – While statewide, NJCU is a major contributor to the NJ STEP program that supports higher education access for incarcerated individuals through partnerships with public institutions, demonstrating public education’s broader community impact in Jersey City.
The University Center at HCCC – This facility supports students by hosting satellite programs from other New Jersey public universities, allowing Jersey City residents to earn bachelor's and even master’s degrees without leaving the city limits.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Jersey City
Saint Peter’s University – A private Jesuit university known for its strong liberal arts programs and commitment to community service. It excels in areas such as business, nursing, and public administration. The university fosters leadership, ethics, and learning in an urban setting.
University of Phoenix – Jersey City Learning Center – Although primarily an online university, this learning center in Jersey City supports adult learners locally with access to courses in business, technology, and healthcare fields. It’s ideal for working professionals seeking flexible higher education options.
Eastern International College – A specialized private college offering programs in healthcare fields like dental hygiene and diagnostic medical sonography. The school is dedicated to hands-on training and job placement support, serving Jersey City’s growing healthcare sector.
Sanford-Brown Institute (formerly in Jersey City) – Though no longer in operation, this private institution once provided key vocational training in allied health programs. It contributed to workforce development in the city for many years.
Hudson Institute of Technology (Private Technical School) – Though smaller in scale, this private technical college provided focused education in IT and network engineering. It played an early role in preparing Jersey City students for technology careers.