This School has Been Named the Worst College in New Jersey

New Jersey boasts several esteemed colleges and universities like Princeton, Rutgers, and Stevens. However, not all institutions in the Garden State enjoy the same level of prestige. One school that has garnered attention for its unfavorable rankings is Bloomfield College. But is this small, private liberal arts college truly deserving of such criticism? Let’s delve deeper into the data to understand the situation.

Why Bloomfield College Got Ranked as the Worst:

Bloomfield College, situated in Bloomfield, Essex County, was established in 1868 by the Presbyterian Church. With approximately 1,600 students, predominantly comprising minority and first-generation students, it offers over 60 majors and minors, primarily focusing on arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Despite its long-standing history and diverse academic offerings, Bloomfield College has been labeled the worst college in New Jersey by various sources. For instance, ALOT.com cited its low graduation rate, high student debt, and limited earnings potential. Similarly, Niche.com graded Bloomfield College with a C-, citing reasons such as a low acceptance rate, poor retention, low alumni earnings, and low student satisfaction.

Challenges Faced by Bloomfield College:

Bloomfield College faces several challenges, including:

Low Graduation Rate: Only 30% of students who began at Bloomfield College in 2013 graduated within six years, compared to the national average of 62%. This suggests significant dropout or transfer rates, possibly due to dissatisfaction or financial constraints.

High Student Debt: Graduates of Bloomfield College carry an average debt of $31,000, surpassing the national average. Moreover, a higher percentage of borrowers default on loans within three years post-graduation, indicating financial strain among alumni.

Limited Earnings Potential: Median earnings of Bloomfield College graduates a decade after enrollment are $38,300, lower than the national median. This signifies challenges in securing well-paying jobs post-graduation, potentially hindering career growth.

Opportunities for Improvement:

Despite its challenges, Bloomfield College has several opportunities to enhance its standing, such as:

Diverse and Supportive Community: With a focus on diversity and inclusion, Bloomfield College supports a significant number of minority and first-generation students from low-income backgrounds. The institution offers various support services, including tutoring, mentoring, counseling, and scholarships, to foster academic and personal success.

Innovative Curriculum: Bloomfield College aims to provide a rigorous and contemporary curriculum aligned with the demands of the 21st century. Emphasizing experiential learning through internships, research, and study abroad programs, the institution enhances students’ skills and knowledge in various fields such as creative arts and technology, nursing, education, and business.

Strategic Location and Partnerships: Situated in a vibrant town with access to cultural and recreational opportunities, Bloomfield College benefits from its proximity to New York City and Newark. Collaborations with organizations like the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, the United Nations, and Montclair State University further enrich its resources and networks.

Conclusion:

Bloomfield College may have received unfavorable rankings, but it is not beyond redemption. While it grapples with challenges like low graduation rates and high student debt, the institution possesses strengths such as its supportive community, innovative curriculum, and strategic alliances. With concerted efforts towards improvement, Bloomfield College has the potential to overcome its shortcomings and emerge as a beacon of higher education in New Jersey.

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