Montclair State University has been recognized by The Wall Street Journal in their annual Best Colleges in the United States rankings, sitting at No.104 overall.

Among other top colleges across the nation, the ranking is determined by research and different components.

Kevin McAllister, rankings reporter at The Wall Street Journal, explained the breakdown of the rankings list.

“A college education is a huge investment, and the rankings are designed to reflect that,” McAllister said. “They’re a resource for students and families to understand what each college can offer them. The elements with the heaviest weightings within the ranking are focused on the extent to which each college improves the salary prospects of its graduates and how effective the colleges are at ensuring students graduate on time.”

McAllister also shared how the rankings are determined by how much effort is put in to each university and its students. Universities that serve their students can also allow prospective students to attend the school, current students to appreciate it, and alumni to have something to discuss with future employers.

“We put a huge emphasis on those student outcomes and put colleges on a more-level playing field to do so: We weren’t analyzing historical reputations or measuring the wealth of universities; instead, we looked at the results that colleges are actually delivering for their students and graduates,” McAllister said. “The rankings benefit prospective students, current students and graduates because they have that focus on outcomes and highlight the universities that are doing the most for their…