At $14,159/yr net price, Montclair State University graduates earn $61,415/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $27,415/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,159 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $56,636 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $61,415/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$27,415/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 64.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,482/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,729/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,990/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,259/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,607/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $88,971 | $37,409 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $73,737 | |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $70,456 | $27,500 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Master | $66,069 | |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Certificate | $61,020 | |
| Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. | Master | $57,318 | $44,000 |
| Special Education and Teaching. | Master | $56,157 | |
| Education, General. | Master | $54,996 | $28,660 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | Master | $54,322 | $25,784 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $52,107 | $21,500 |
The Risk Factor
64.3% of students at Montclair State University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 36% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Montclair State University delivers solid financial returns for a public institution, with graduates earning a median $61,415 annually while carrying relatively low debt loads of $22,000. Your return on investment depends heavily on your major choice at this New Jersey school.
Business Administration graduates command the highest salaries at nearly $89,000, though they also carry the steepest debt burden at $37,409. Accounting majors earn $66,069 with more manageable debt levels, making this program one of the strongest financial bets. Education-focused graduate programs also pay well, with administration roles reaching $73,737 annually.
The school's 64% graduation rate poses a significant financial risk. If you struggle academically or lack clear career direction, you could end up with debt but no degree. The 80% retention rate suggests many students who start here do continue, but finishing remains a challenge for over one-third of students.
Montclair State works best financially for motivated students pursuing business, education, or other professional programs who can benefit from the school's proximity to New York City job markets. The relatively low net price of $14,159 makes it accessible, and less than half of students need financial aid.
Skip this school if you're considering lower-earning majors without clear career paths, as the modest earnings potential won't justify even this affordable cost. Students who need extensive academic support should also consider alternatives given the graduation rate concerns. For career-focused students in strong programs, Montclair State offers decent value in an expensive region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montclair State University worth the cost?
Montclair State offers reasonable value with a low net price of $14,159 per year and median debt of $22,000. The 10-year earnings average of $61,415 provides a decent return, though the 64% graduation rate means many students don't finish their degrees.
What are the highest paying majors at Montclair State University?
Business Administration leads with nearly $89,000 in median earnings, followed by Educational Administration at $73,737. These programs significantly outperform the school average and justify the investment.
How much debt do Montclair State University graduates typically have?
Graduates carry a median debt load of $22,000, which is manageable given the relatively low cost of attendance. This debt level is reasonable compared to national averages for public universities.
Does Montclair State University have good job prospects after graduation?
Job outcomes vary widely by major, with business and education programs showing strong earning potential above $60,000. However, the 91% acceptance rate and 1075 average SAT suggest less selective admissions, which can impact post-graduation opportunities in competitive fields.