New Partnership Eases Path from Brookdale To Monmouth

Monmouth University and Brookdale Community College Join Forces to Make it Easier and More Affordable for Students to Complete Their Degrees

Monmouth University and Brookdale Community College have entered into a transfer agreement to streamline the path for Brookdale students to complete bachelor’s degrees at Monmouth University. Monmouth County officials joined trustees and leadership from both institutions for a ceremonial signing on the Brookdale campus on May 28.

The agreement makes it easier and more affordable for Brookdale Community College students to complete their bachelor’s degrees at Monmouth University. Brookdale students who transfer to Monmouth University will benefit from expanded scholarship and grant opportunities, including funds reserved specifically for them. A dedicated counselor will work with Brookdale transfer students to maximize credit transferability into specific degree pathways. Key financial benefits for students include:

• Brookdale-to-Monmouth Soar Grant: Allocates up to $500,000 in additional scholarship funds specifically for Brookdale transfers.
• Brookdale Achievement Grant: Provides an additional $2,000 annually to students who complete their associate degree before transferring.
• Brookdale Promise Scholarship: Covers full annual tuition and fees ($48,140 for 2025-26) for eligible students who are full Pell and TAG recipients, or who have an adjusted gross income under $65,000 with partial Pell and TAG eligibility, when combined with the maximum Federal Direct Subsidized Loan amount for which the student qualifies.
• Monmouth County Commissioners’ Scholarship: All Brookdale transfers are evaluated for a $5,000 per year scholarship.

“It makes so much sense for the two higher education institutions in this county to have the highest possible level of partnership,” said Monmouth University President Patrick F. Leahy. “This is a major advancement in removing barriers and creating greater access to an excellent private education for the citizens of Monmouth County.”

The agreement also provides for a reverse credit transfer policy to support students who transfer before completing their associate degree to apply earned credits toward the completion of their Brookdale degree.

“At Brookdale, we are deeply committed to removing barriers and building bridges for our students,” said Brookdale Community College President David M. Stout, Ph.D. “This partnership with Monmouth University is about more than just affordability, it’s about empowering students with opportunity. By working together, we’re creating a seamless, supportive pathway that helps our graduates achieve their academic and professional goals without leaving Monmouth County.”

Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone lauded the agreement stating: “On behalf of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, I extend congratulations to Monmouth University and Brookdale Community College, two of the nation’s finest institutions of higher learning, on the launch of the Brookdale Promise. This enhanced partnership is a shining example of what can be accomplished when great institutions come together with a shared commitment to student success and access to opportunity.”