Bloomfield College of Montclair State University: A New Chapter in Higher Education
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University represents a significant development in higher education in New Jersey. Formed through a merger, this institution combines the strengths of Bloomfield College and Montclair State University, aiming to provide a distinctive and transformative educational experience, especially for students from diverse backgrounds.
Historical Roots and Evolution
Bloomfield College has a rich history dating back to 1868 when it was established by the Presbyterian Church as the German Theological Seminary of Newark, New Jersey. Its original mission was to train German-speaking ministers. Over the years, the institution evolved, changing its name to Bloomfield College and Seminary in 1913 and later simply to Bloomfield College. Throughout its history, the college has been chartered by the State of New Jersey and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring academic quality and standards.
Merger with Montclair State University
In March 2022, Montclair State University announced its commitment to financially support Bloomfield College, paving the way for a merger. This decision was driven by Bloomfield College's financial challenges, which were exacerbated by the pandemic. The merger was finalized to ensure the continuation of Bloomfield’s mission and provide its students access to broader resources and opportunities. Governor Phil Murphy signed enabling legislation on June 30, solidifying the partnership.
The merger aimed to create a new national model for how institutions can come together to better serve their communities. Montclair State University offered employment opportunities to nearly 90% of Bloomfield faculty and staff, ensuring continuity and stability. President Marcheta P. Evans continues to provide leadership as Chancellor of Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, working closely with Montclair State University President Jonathan Koppell.
Academic Programs and Student Profile
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University primarily offers undergraduate studies. However, it has expanded its offerings to include master's programs in Accounting, Fine Arts, and Education. The institution serves a diverse student body, with approximately 1,598 students. A significant portion of the students are commuters (about 65%). The gender composition is 63 percent female and 37 percent male. The racial and ethnic composition is diverse: 48 percent black, 33 percent Hispanic, 9 percent white, and 2 percent Asian. A high percentage (78%) of the students were eligible for low-income Pell Grants, highlighting the college's role in serving students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The college has a graduation rate of 33 percent. Median salary after attending ranged from $18,548 (BA, Visual and Performing Arts) to $77,966 (BS, Nursing). Median student debt ranged from $26,000 to $33,912.
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Athletics: Transition to USCAA Division I
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University athletic teams previously competed in the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Division II, as members of the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC). Men's sports included baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer, tennis, and track and field; while women's sports included basketball, bowling, cross country, soccer, softball, track and field, and volleyball.
However, significant changes are underway. Beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year, the Bears will transition out of NCAA Division II and compete in Division I of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) as part of the North American Conference for Intercollegiate Athletics (NACIA), a USCAA Division I league. This transition is a multi-year process aimed at elevating its athletic programs.
Rankings and Recognition
Bloomfield College has received recognition for its commitment to social mobility and supporting students from low-income backgrounds. U.S. News & World Report has acknowledged the college's efforts in this area. Bloomfield College is the only New Jersey institution to be recognized as a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI) and Hispanic Serving Institution, and is also a Minority serving Institution. More than half of our students identify themselves as first-generation and are the first in their families to enroll in college. The College has also held the highest success rate among all New Jersey liberal arts colleges and universities in moving students forward in economic standing, according to a study by the Equality of Opportunity Project published in The New York Times.
Montclair State University, with which Bloomfield College has merged, has also achieved significant rankings. U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges ranks Montclair No. 9 nationally in Top Performers on Social Mobility, No. 84 in Top Public Schools and No. 1 in New Jersey among public universities. In addition, U.S. News & World Report also ranked five of Montclair’s online programs in 2023 in the following categories: No. 10 in Best Online Master’s in Education Programs; No. 38 in Best Online Master’s in Business Programs; No. 53 in Best Online Master’s in Computer Information Technology Programs; No. 85 in Best Online MBA Programs; and No. 104 in Best Online Bachelor's Programs. Princeton Review in 2023 named Montclair’s Feliciano School of Business among the top business schools in the country and ranked its online MBA program No. 24 in the nation on its list of top online colleges. Newsweek ranked Montclair No. 41 in the nation on its list of top online colleges. The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education designates Montclair State University as an R2 - Doctoral University - High Research Activity. Fortune in 2022-23 ranks Montclair’s Feliciano School of Business No. 71 in the nation. U.S. News & World Report 2023-24 Best Graduate Schools ranked two of the University’s programs among the best in the nation, including the education program (No.2 in New Jersey and No. 83 nationally) and the master’s in Public Health (No. 2 in New Jersey and No. 104 nationally). Washington Monthly ranked Montclair No. 64 nationally and No. 1 in New Jersey among public universities. Montclair was named one of “America’s Best Bang for the Buck Colleges” by Washington Monthly’s 2023 College Guide. Named a 2025-2026 Military Friendly® School by G.I. Jobs.
Campus Life
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University is located in a suburban community and is primarily a commuter campus. The institution aims to provide a supportive academic environment where students can thrive. The merger with Montclair State University is expected to enhance campus life and provide additional resources for students.
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A Focus on Social Mobility
Both Bloomfield College and Montclair State University share a commitment to driving social mobility for their students. The institutions aim to provide access to high-quality education and create opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to succeed. The merger is expected to strengthen this commitment and create a more robust and supportive environment for students.
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