The dream of “going away” to college doesn’t have to mean leaving the state or sacrificing quality. At Ramapo College of New Jersey, Bergen County families find an exceptional college experience close to home—world-class academics, a beautiful campus, and a community that feels like home. Ranked among America’s 50 Most Beautiful Campuses by Condé Nast Traveler, Ramapo offers the full college experience: top-ranked residence halls, vibrant campus life, and easy access to internships and culture in nearby New York City.
Choosing a college close to home can be one of the smartest decisions a family makes. Students enjoy the best of both worlds—staying connected to family and community while gaining independence through a true residential experience. Parents take comfort knowing their students are thriving in New Jersey’s #1 residence halls (top 1% nationally, according to Niche) and learning in a safe, peaceful environment surrounded by the natural beauty of Mahwah. Whether living on campus or commuting, Ramapo students find a supportive community that fosters growth, confidence, and connection. At Ramapo, proximity doesn’t limit opportunity—it expands it.
The Value of a Ramapo Education
When families invest in a college education, they’re looking for more than a degree—they’re seeking transformation and results. Ramapo delivers both. With a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, small, discussion-based classes, and professors who know their students by name, learning is personal and powerful. Students are encouraged to think creatively, communicate clearly, and solve problems collaboratively—skills that define successful leaders in every field.
Ramapo consistently ranks among New Jersey’s top colleges for return on investment and maintains one of the lowest student debt ratios in the state. Its 88% first-year retention rate, well above the national average, reflects strong academic support and a close-knit community. Through a combination of merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and generous support from the Ramapo College Foundation, students have access to an affordable, high-impact education. A new $2 million Susan and Nick Vallario Endowment for Presidential Scholarships further expands opportunities for high-achieving New Jersey students.
At Ramapo, families find not only academic excellence but a shared commitment to every student’s success.
The Power of a Liberal Arts Education
A liberal arts education is more than a set of courses—it’s an approach that prepares students to adapt, communicate, and lead in an ever-changing world. At Ramapo, students connect ideas across disciplines, bridging technology with ethics, science with society, and innovation with purpose. Whether majoring in business, nursing, or computer science, or filmmaking, Ramapo graduates leave with the critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills employers value most.
With 40+ majors, minors, and graduate programs, students have the flexibility to explore their interests and shape their own paths. They can double major, study abroad, or even fast-track their future through Ramapo’s 4+1 programs, earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. Through the Pathways Program, students begin career exploration as early as freshman year—building resumes, completing internships, and developing the confidence to launch meaningful careers or pursue graduate study.
Innovation in Action: Business, STEM, and Nursing
Ramapo prepares students for leadership across today’s most in-demand fields.
The Anisfield School of Business, accredited by AACSB, blends academic rigor with real-world experience. Students gain hands-on training in Ramapo’s state-of-the-art trading lab, manage a live investment fund through the Roadrunner Financial Group, and apply entrepreneurial thinking to community impact through Enactus at Ramapo. Graduates emerge with the insight, professionalism, and ethical grounding to lead in boardrooms and beyond.
In STEM, students explore the intersections of science, technology, and innovation. Programs in Cybersecurity, Data Science, Computer Science, Biology, Biochemistry, and Engineering Physics equip students with technical skills and research experience. Hands-on projects and faculty mentorship empower students to tackle real-world challenges—from sustainability to data privacy. Ramapo’s Master of Science in Data Science was named one of the Best in the Nation by Fortune in 2025—the only New Jersey public college to earn that honor.
Ramapo’s Nursing program, one of the state’s most selective, continues to set the bar for excellence. Nursing students are admitted from day one, learning in cutting-edge simulation labs and completing clinical experiences at top hospitals including Valley Health System, Hackensack University Medical Center, and Morristown Medical Center. The program’s 100% NCLEX pass rate for the Classes of 2023 and 2024 speaks to its quality and rigor. New pathways, including an Accelerated BSN and Doctor of Nursing Practice, reflect Ramapo’s commitment to innovation and New Jersey’s healthcare future.
A Community That Inspires
Ramapo is more than a nearby option—it’s a place where students discover who they are, what they love, and where they’re headed next. With more than 100 clubs and organizations, students can explore new interests, build leadership skills, and make lifelong friends. From service and sustainability to athletics and the arts, there’s a place for everyone to grow and belong.
Athletes compete proudly on 18 NCAA Division III teams, while club and intramural sports offer opportunities to stay active and connected. On this stunning campus at the foot of the Ramapo Mountains, Bergen County’s future leaders, innovators, and changemakers begin their journey—close to home, yet fully prepared for the world.
Campus Visits Monday-Friday at 10am and 1pm
Select Saturdays at 10am and 11am
Open Houses Offered in Fall and Spring
QR code to visit page: https://www.ramapo.edu/visit/
Application Deadlines:
November 1 - Early Decision (ED)
December 15 - Early Action (EA)
February 1 - Regular Decision (RD)
QR Code to Admissions: ramapo.edu/admissions/
Contact us:
admissions@ramapo.edu
201-684-7300
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