Cost and Value | Undergraduate Admissions - TCNJ

Undergraduate Costs (2024–25)

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) has specific language requirements for both undergraduate and graduate international students. Here's a breakdown of the language requirements for non-native English speakers:

Undergraduate Students:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

   • Minimum scores required:
     • Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): 79 overall, with minimum subscores of:
       • Reading: 19
       • Listening: 17
       • Speaking: 20
       • Writing: 19
   • TCNJ may also accept the TOEFL ITP or other versions in some cases.

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

   • Minimum overall score: 6.5
   • There are no specific minimum subscore requirements for IELTS, but TCNJ recommends higher scores in individual sections.

3. Duolingo English Test (Accepted temporarily as of recent years)

   • Minimum score: 105
   • TCNJ has started accepting Duolingo as an alternative to TOEFL or IELTS.

4. Cambridge English

   • C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Minimum score of 180 or higher.

5. English Proficiency Waiver:
   If a student has completed at least two years of full-time education in an English-speaking institution, they may be exempt from the English language proficiency requirement.

Graduate Students:

Graduate students are also required to submit evidence of English proficiency unless they have completed a degree in an English-speaking country or institution. The TOEFL or IELTS scores are commonly used for graduate admissions.

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

   • iBT: A minimum score of 80 overall is typically required for graduate programs.

2. IELTS

   • Minimum overall score of 6.5 to 7.0, depending on the program.

3. Waiver Options

   • Some graduate programs may waive the language requirement if the applicant has earned a degree from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction, or they have worked in an English-speaking environment for a significant amount of time.

Other Notes:

• Conditional Admission: Students who do not meet the language requirements may be offered conditional admission, where they must complete an English language program before beginning their degree program at TCNJ.
• Minimum Scores for Specific Programs: Some graduate programs (e.g., in the School of Engineering or Business programs) may have higher English proficiency standards, so it’s advisable for applicants to check the specific program’s requirements on the TCNJ website.

Applications | TCNJ - Undergraduate Admissions

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) offers a range of academic programs across various disciplines, and it is particularly known for its strong liberal arts education combined with professional preparation. TCNJ is highly regarded for its commitment to providing high-quality education and offering specialized programs in several areas. Below are some of the key areas of specialization:

1. Arts and Communication

• The Arts: TCNJ has a strong arts program, offering degrees in Art and Art History, Graphic Design, and Theatre. The Art and Art History program is known for its emphasis on both traditional and contemporary forms of visual expression, and the Graphic Design program is particularly recognized for its focus on combining design principles with digital media.
• Communication Studies: TCNJ offers a Communication Studies major, which allows students to specialize in areas such as public relations, media production, and journalism. The program has a strong focus on practical experience, providing opportunities for internships and hands-on projects.

2. Business

• Business Administration: TCNJ's School of Business is one of the strongest programs at the college. It offers degrees in Management, Marketing, Accounting, Finance, and International Business. The program is highly respected for its rigor and focus on providing a broad understanding of business practices, alongside specific, specialized knowledge in the chosen field.
• Economics: The Economics program at TCNJ is also well-regarded, providing students with a deep understanding of economic principles and their applications in various business and policy contexts.

3. Education and Health

• Teacher Education: TCNJ is known for its strong Teacher Education programs, particularly in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Special Education, and Secondary Education. The programs are designed to prepare students to become highly effective educators, and TCNJ's School of Education is highly ranked in New Jersey.
• Nursing: TCNJ's Nursing Program is highly competitive and provides students with hands-on training and clinical experience in healthcare settings. The program prepares students for the Registered Nurse (RN) licensure exam and is well-respected for its focus on compassionate care and professional development.
• Public Health: The Public Health program at TCNJ offers specializations in areas like health policy, community health, and global health, preparing students for careers in public health practice, policy, and research.

4. Sciences and Technology

• Biology: TCNJ offers a comprehensive Biology program, with opportunities for students to specialize in fields such as biomedical science, ecology, and genetics. The program is well-equipped with research opportunities and state-of-the-art laboratories.
• Chemistry: The Chemistry department at TCNJ offers courses in organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry, with strong opportunities for undergraduate research.
• Physics: The Physics program at TCNJ offers students opportunities to engage in experimental and theoretical physics, with a focus on applied physics in fields like engineering and medicine.
• Computer Science and Engineering: The Computer Science and Electrical Engineering programs at TCNJ emphasize both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of computing and engineering, preparing students for careers in technology and innovation.
• Environmental Studies: TCNJ offers a strong Environmental Studies program, which combines interdisciplinary study of the environment with practical applications related to sustainability, conservation, and environmental policy.

5. Social Sciences and Humanities

• Psychology: The Psychology program at TCNJ is one of the most popular majors and provides students with a strong foundation in both experimental and applied psychology, with opportunities for research and fieldwork.
• Sociology and Anthropology: The Sociology program offers students an understanding of social behavior, social structures, and inequality, while the Anthropology program explores cultural, biological, and archaeological dimensions of humanity.
• Political Science: The Political Science program is designed to give students a deep understanding of governmental systems, political behavior, international relations, and policy-making. It also offers concentrations in areas like American politics, international relations, and political theory.

6. Engineering

• Engineering: TCNJ offers a highly regarded Engineering program that provides students with strong theoretical foundations and practical experience in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. The program is designed to develop problem-solving skills and prepare students for the workforce or advanced study in engineering.

7. Humanities and Languages

• English: The English department at TCNJ offers a variety of specializations, including literature, creative writing, and professional writing. The program is designed to develop strong communication skills and a deep understanding of literature and writing.
• World Languages and Cultures: TCNJ offers programs in languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, and Chinese, focusing on both language proficiency and cultural understanding.

8. Interdisciplinary Programs

• TCNJ offers interdisciplinary programs that allow students to combine courses from different disciplines to pursue their interests in fields such as environmental science, global studies, and gender and sexuality studies.

Summary of TCNJ's Specialties:

• Strong Teacher Education and Nursing Programs.
• Business and Economics with emphasis on real-world application.
• Health Sciences (Nursing, Public Health).
• Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics).
• Engineering and Technology (Computer Science, Electrical Engineering).
• Arts and Humanities with a particular focus on Communication and Creative Writing.
• Interdisciplinary Programs catering to diverse academic interests.

TCNJ is known for its strong liberal arts foundation, dedicated faculty, and a commitment to hands-on, experiential learning. These specializations offer students a wide range of opportunities to develop in their field of interest while maintaining a well-rounded education.

Research | School of Science

Programs

Scholarships

International student help

Careers @ TCNJ

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is known for having a dedicated and talented faculty, but it does not have widely recognized Nobel Prize winners or internationally famous professors in the same way that larger research universities might. However, TCNJ’s professors are highly regarded in their respective fields, with many known for their commitment to teaching, research, and mentorship of students.

Some of the professors who have earned recognition at TCNJ include:

1. Dr. M. B. Ozer (Professor of Engineering)

• Known for his contributions to engineering education and research in areas such as materials science and nanotechnology.
• Dr. Ozer is particularly recognized for his ability to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications in his courses.

2. Dr. J. H. Liu (Professor of Economics)

• Specializes in econometrics and development economics.
• His research is recognized for advancing our understanding of macroeconomic theory and international trade, particularly in emerging markets.

3. Dr. Janet J. Schofield (Professor of Psychology)

• Dr. Schofield has gained recognition for her research on psychology and education, particularly in areas involving learning and cognitive development.
• Her work has had significant impact in educational psychology, where she explores how psychological principles can be applied to improve educational practices.

4. Dr. Thomas L. Walsh (Professor of History)

• A highly respected figure in the department of history, with a focus on American history and social movements.
• Dr. Walsh is known for his commitment to student-centered teaching and for providing valuable insights into historical context, especially regarding civil rights and political movements in the U.S.

5. Dr. Mariana L. G. Mazzucato (Professor of Economics - Previously associated)

• Though not currently at TCNJ, Dr. Mazzucato, a professor who has spent time teaching at various universities, has contributed to the academic and policy-making fields with her work on innovation economics and the role of government in fostering innovation.

6. Dr. Michael J. Palumbo (Professor of Chemistry)

• Known for his research in organic chemistry and biochemistry, particularly in areas related to drug design and enzyme function.

Recognition for Teaching:

• Many TCNJ professors are recognized not only for their research achievements but also for their teaching excellence. TCNJ has consistently been ranked as one of the top institutions for undergraduate teaching in the United States, with faculty members often receiving awards for their outstanding commitment to student success.
• The college also fosters a culture where professors play an active role in advising and mentoring students, helping them with academic and career guidance.

While Nobel Prize-winning professors are not currently a hallmark of TCNJ, the college is known for the high quality of its faculty and their dedication to providing a top-notch educational experience for students. Many professors at TCNJ have earned distinctions and recognition in their fields for both their teaching and scholarly contributions.

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) does not have any Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty or alumni. While TCNJ is highly respected for its academic programs, particularly in education, nursing, and business, it is not known for producing Nobel Prize winners.

However, the college’s focus on undergraduate education and research excellence, particularly in areas like education and the sciences, means that many of its graduates go on to successful careers in academia, government, and industry, contributing to their fields in significant ways. Though the institution may not have Nobel Prize laureates at this time, it provides students with strong educational foundations that can lead to distinguished careers in various fields.

If you're interested in schools with Nobel Prize-winning alumni or faculty, universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Princeton (located nearby) have a longer history of Nobel Prize recipients.