Crime Prevention & Campus Safety

Creating a safe campus is a shared responsibility. The Montclair State University Police Department partners with students, employees and visitors to promote crime prevention, traffic safety and personal awareness through education, community programs and proactive policing.

Whether you're walking across campus, driving to class or reporting suspicious activity, the resources below can help you stay safe.

Crime Prevention Programs

The University Police Department provides educational programs and services that help reduce crime and increase awareness throughout the campus community. We attend new student orientation, various residence life programs, provide information for new employees can host crime prevention workshops.

Topics may include:

  • Personal safety
  • Theft prevention
  • Alcohol and drug awareness
  • Sexual assault prevention
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Workplace violence
  • Auto and property theft

Interested in scheduling a program for your class, department or student organization? Contact: msupolice@montclair.edu 

Learn More about Community Programs

Traffic & Transportation Safety

With thousands of students, employees and visitors on campus each day, following traffic laws helps protect everyone.

Speed Limits: Strictly Enforced

  • 25 mph on campus roadways
  • 15 mph on College Avenue
  • 5 mph in parking lots

Safe Passing Law: Required by the State of New Jersey

  • Change lanes when possible, or
  • Slow to 25 mph, allowing at least 4 feet when passing pedestrians, cyclists and others.
student walking on a cross walk

Pedestrian Safety

Drivers should:

  • Slow down and stay alert.
  • Stop for pedestrians at marked crosswalks.
  • Avoid distracted driving.

Pedestrians should:

  • Use designated crosswalks.
  • Stay alert and avoid using phones while crossing streets.
  • Follow directions from crossing guards and police officers.
student walking with a backpack at sunset

Drop-Off & Pick-Up

To help reduce congestion:

  • Use designated drop-off areas whenever possible.
  • Have passengers ready before stopping.
  • Avoid unloading from traffic lanes.

Do not stop or wait in:

  • College Avenue roadway
  • NJ Transit bus stops
  • Lot 31 (School of Business)

Vehicles blocking travel lanes may be directed to move by University Police.

Authorized Vehicles Only

Vehicles are prohibited in designated Authorized Vehicles Only areas unless approved. Unauthorized vehicles may be ticketed or towed.

Campus Crossing Guards

The University Police Department employs student Campus Crossing Guards to improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow across campus.

Apply for the Campus Crossing Guard Program

  • Assist pedestrians crossing roadways safely.
  • Direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
  • Promote safe crossing practices.
  • Warn drivers of traffic hazards.
  • Work up to 20 hours per week.

Applicants must:

  • Be a current undergraduate student.
  • Maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA.
  • Be in good standing with the University.
  • Successfully complete required training.
  • Be willing to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

This is a non-sworn civilian position with no law enforcement authority.

Personal Electric Vehicles

For fire safety reasons, electric bicycles, electric scooters and similar personal electric vehicles may not be stored inside any University-owned or operated building, including residence halls, stairwells, hallways or common areas.

Read the Personal Electric Vehicle Policy

Personal Safety

Many incidents can be prevented through awareness and preparation. Whether you're walking across campus, securing your belongings or traveling at night, small actions can make a big difference.

Safety Tips

  • Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Lock your residence hall room, office and vehicle whenever you leave.
  • Keep backpacks, purses and valuables with you at all times.
  • Walk with a friend or use the campus shuttle when traveling at night.
  • Report suspicious activity immediately, even if it seems minor.
  • If you believe you are being followed, move to a well-lit area and contact University Police.

Report a Crime or Safety Concern

Prompt reporting helps keep our campus safe.

You can submit anonymous tips by:

Calling the TIPS Line: 973-655-8477
Texting E-TIPS followed by your message to 67283
Using the Rave Guardian app

Anonymous tips can be used to report suspicious activity, property damage, bullying, hit-and-run incidents and other public safety concerns.

University Police Department (UPD)

The Montclair State University Police Department provides 24/7 police services, emergency response, crime prevention and public safety programs for the Montclair State community. We aim to keep our campus safe through professional law enforcement, emergency response and community partnerships. Whether you need emergency assistance, want to report suspicious activity or have a question, University Police is available around the clock.