Unemployment in New Jersey is on the decline. In June 2018, the rate dropped to 4.3%, marking the lowest statewide rate in over a decade. It’s also worth pointing out that the state is one of the wealthiest in the nation; home to a wide range of job prospects and a world-class selection of colleges and universities that attract students from all over the US and the world.

Other fields leading the way do actually employ a significant number of workers. Unlike some states, New Jersey’s job market is quite diverse. In some states, the lion’s share of the growth is within the healthcare space. Now, healthcare, whether you opt for a nursing degree or plan on pursuing medical school, is almost always a good bet. But, it’s safe to say these professions aren’t for everyone.

New Jersey has seen growth in areas like human resources, marketing, logistics, finance, and social services. As it stands, most New Jersey residents are employed in sectors like trade, transportation, and utilities.

Here, we’ll look at the full picture of what the New Jersey higher education system has to offer.

New Jersey is home to several schools, from the Ivy League, Princeton to an array of private colleges, and public universities. Princeton and the massive public university, Rutgers, are among the oldest institutions in the US. Both are well-known research universities that offer world-class resources for STEM students. Drew University and Monmouth University are smaller, liberal arts colleges that offer a different pace than a school like Rutgers.

State residents have more options available than many other states and as such, should be able to find an option that works with their budget, aid package, and interests.

new_jersey_map_university

How Much Can You Make by Earning a Degree in New Jersey?


Earning a college degree in New Jersey can significantly boost your earning potential. The Garden State offers competitive salaries for graduates across various fields. Bachelor's degree holders in New Jersey earn 76% more in median earnings than those with only a high school diploma.

Your specific salary will depend on factors like your chosen major and industry. Engineering graduates tend to command the highest starting salaries, with average earnings of $76,740 per year. Other lucrative fields in New Jersey include technology, healthcare, and finance.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for workers with a bachelor's degree is around $75,000, compared to approximately $36,000 for those with only a high school diploma. Advanced degrees, such as master's or doctoral degrees, can lead to even greater earning potential, with many professionals in fields like law, medicine, and business earning six-figure salaries.

Education Level & National Average Median Compensation

NO FORMAL EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA ASSOCIATE DEGREE BACHELOR’S DEGREE MASTER’S DEGREE DOCTORAL DEGREE
$36,816* $46,748* $55,016* $77,636* $90,324* $109,668*

Featured Online Programs

Top 20 Best Associate Degree Programs in New Jersey


1

Berkeley College-Woodland Park

Score: 78.34

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $28,600
    • Out-of-State:$28,600
  • Net Price: $17,068
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,078
  • Undergrad Students: 1,944
  • Graduate Students: 134
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Berkeley College-Woodland Park
2

Middlesex College

Score: 76.49

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,068
    • Out-of-State:$7,068
  • Net Price: $6,358
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 27%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,736
  • Undergrad Students: 9,736
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Middlesex College
3

Warren County Community College

Score: 67.79

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,610
    • Out-of-State:$5,910
  • Net Price: $3,290
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Graduation Rate: 31%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,386
  • Undergrad Students: 3,386
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $38,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Warren County Community College
4

Salem Community College

Score: 67.6

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,140
    • Out-of-State:$9,900
  • Net Price: $10,154
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 40%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,111
  • Undergrad Students: 1,111
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $36,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Salem Community College
5

County College of Morris

Score: 65.32

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,530
    • Out-of-State:$14,310
  • Net Price: $8,534
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 33%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,838
  • Undergrad Students: 5,838
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $39,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • County College of Morris
6

Raritan Valley Community College

Score: 63

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,440
    • Out-of-State:$7,440
  • Net Price: $6,715
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 32%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,321
  • Undergrad Students: 6,321
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $34,700
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Raritan Valley Community College
7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,056
    • Out-of-State:$9,806
  • Net Price: $8,962
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 29%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,896
  • Undergrad Students: 9,896
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $41,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Brookdale Community College
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
8

Camden County College

Score: 62.07

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $4,056
    • Out-of-State:$4,056
  • Net Price: $2,957
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 22%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,770
  • Undergrad Students: 7,770
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $38,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 23:1
  • Camden County College
9

Bergen Community College

Score: 60.5

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,613
    • Out-of-State:$9,005
  • Net Price: $9,085
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 25%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,192
  • Undergrad Students: 11,192
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $43,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Bergen Community College
10

Rowan College at Burlington County

Score: 60.22

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,376
    • Out-of-State:$6,936
  • Net Price: $6,650
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 29%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,180
  • Undergrad Students: 6,180
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $31,100
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Rowan College at Burlington County
11

Sussex County Community College

Score: 59.71

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,272
    • Out-of-State:$9,024
  • Net Price: $10,423
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Graduation Rate: 33%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,181
  • Undergrad Students: 2,181
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $34,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Sussex County Community College
12

Mercer County Community College

Score: 59.51

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,433
    • Out-of-State:$8,942
  • Net Price: $5,680
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 66%
  • Graduation Rate: 17%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,821
  • Undergrad Students: 5,821
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $39,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Mercer County Community College
13

Ocean County College

Score: 57.77

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,122
    • Out-of-State:$6,850
  • Net Price: $11,676
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Graduation Rate: 40%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,186
  • Undergrad Students: 7,186
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $25,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Ocean County College
14

Atlantic Cape Community College

Score: 55.92

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,063
    • Out-of-State:$7,263
  • Net Price: $10,465
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 23%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,278
  • Undergrad Students: 4,278
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $33,450
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Atlantic Cape Community College
15

Hudson County Community College

Score: 53.63

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,740
    • Out-of-State:$12,280
  • Net Price: $5,377
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Graduation Rate: 17%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,683
  • Undergrad Students: 6,683
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $33,700
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • Hudson County Community College
16

Passaic County Community College

Score: 51.88

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,590
    • Out-of-State:$9,690
  • Net Price: $6,811
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 13%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,119
  • Undergrad Students: 5,119
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $30,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Passaic County Community College
17

Essex County College

Score: 50.36

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,318
    • Out-of-State:$9,318
  • Net Price: $4,999
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Graduation Rate: 17%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,466
  • Undergrad Students: 6,466
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $29,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • Essex County College
18
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,638
    • Out-of-State:$8,598
  • Net Price: N/A
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: N/A
  • Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Total Enrollment: 8,248
  • Undergrad Students: 7,358
  • Graduate Students: 890
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Thomas Edison State University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
19

Union County College

Score: 45.34

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,500
    • Out-of-State:$9,500
  • Net Price: $7,399
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 35%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,796
  • Undergrad Students: 7,796
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: N/A
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • Union County College
20

Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester

Score: 43.54

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,820
    • Out-of-State:$5,820
  • Net Price: $6,939
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 32%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,441
  • Undergrad Students: 5,441
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: N/A
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • Rowan College of South Jersey Gloucester

Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in New Jersey


1
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $59,710
    • Out-of-State:$59,710
  • Net Price: $18,698
  • Acceptance Rate: 6%
  • Retention Rate: 97%
  • Graduation Rate: 97%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,842
  • Undergrad Students: 5,604
  • Graduate Students: 3,238
  • Grads Salary: $103,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 5:1
  • Princeton University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,239
    • Out-of-State:$36,001
  • Net Price: $17,535
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 92%
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 50,637
  • Undergrad Students: 36,344
  • Graduate Students: 14,293
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Rutgers University-New Brunswick
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $19,022
    • Out-of-State:$35,934
  • Net Price: $17,762
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,332
  • Undergrad Students: 9,019
  • Graduate Students: 3,313
  • Grads Salary: $88,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,952
    • Out-of-State:$60,952
  • Net Price: $41,689
  • Acceptance Rate: 46%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,314
  • Undergrad Students: 4,070
  • Graduate Students: 5,244
  • Grads Salary: $101,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Stevens Institute of Technology
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
5
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $18,685
    • Out-of-State:$24,568
  • Net Price: $22,273
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 86%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,629
  • Undergrad Students: 7,039
  • Graduate Students: 590
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • The College of New Jersey
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $41,054
    • Out-of-State:$41,054
  • Net Price: $11,996
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 60%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,430
  • Undergrad Students: 2,071
  • Graduate Students: 1,359
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Saint Peter's University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,586
    • Out-of-State:$35,348
  • Net Price: $16,578
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,017
  • Undergrad Students: 7,511
  • Graduate Students: 3,506
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Rutgers University-Newark
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,978
    • Out-of-State:$26,388
  • Net Price: $16,262
  • Acceptance Rate: 70%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,478
  • Undergrad Students: 4,932
  • Graduate Students: 546
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Ramapo College of New Jersey
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,079
    • Out-of-State:$35,841
  • Net Price: $14,151
  • Acceptance Rate: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,966
  • Undergrad Students: 4,185
  • Graduate Students: 1,781
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Rutgers University-Camden
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,766
    • Out-of-State:$24,126
  • Net Price: $13,742
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 21,784
  • Undergrad Students: 17,290
  • Graduate Students: 4,494
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Montclair State University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
11

Drew University

Score: 69.68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $45,360
    • Out-of-State:$45,360
  • Net Price: $28,183
  • Acceptance Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 88%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,092
  • Undergrad Students: 1,513
  • Graduate Students: 579
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Drew University
12
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,822
    • Out-of-State:$35,822
  • Net Price: $16,030
  • Acceptance Rate: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 51%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,285
  • Undergrad Students: 5,380
  • Graduate Students: 1,905
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
13

Felician University

Score: 68.81

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,830
    • Out-of-State:$37,830
  • Net Price: $15,743
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,148
  • Undergrad Students: 1,746
  • Graduate Students: 402
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Felician University
14

Rowan University

Score: 68.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,700
    • Out-of-State:$25,564
  • Net Price: $20,963
  • Acceptance Rate: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 19,535
  • Undergrad Students: 15,231
  • Graduate Students: 4,304
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Rowan University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
15

Rider University

Score: 68.11

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $38,900
    • Out-of-State:$38,900
  • Net Price: $26,388
  • Acceptance Rate: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,054
  • Undergrad Students: 3,169
  • Graduate Students: 885
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Rider University
16
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,150
    • Out-of-State:$24,464
  • Net Price: $12,967
  • Acceptance Rate: 92%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,070
  • Undergrad Students: 6,604
  • Graduate Students: 2,466
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • William Paterson University of New Jersey
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
17

Kean University

Score: 67.4

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,426
    • Out-of-State:$21,076
  • Net Price: $10,747
  • Acceptance Rate: 83%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 51%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,884
  • Undergrad Students: 10,845
  • Graduate Students: 2,039
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Kean University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
18
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,370
    • Out-of-State:$51,370
  • Net Price: $33,472
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,623
  • Undergrad Students: 6,012
  • Graduate Students: 3,611
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Seton Hall University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
19

Centenary University

Score: 67

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,732
    • Out-of-State:$37,732
  • Net Price: $21,935
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 62%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,498
  • Undergrad Students: 1,026
  • Graduate Students: 472
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Centenary University
20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,822
    • Out-of-State:$35,822
  • Net Price: $21,408
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,823
  • Undergrad Students: 2,053
  • Graduate Students: 770
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
21

DeVry University-New Jersey

Score: 66.27

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,488
    • Out-of-State:$17,488
  • Net Price: $23,383
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 95
  • Undergrad Students: 88
  • Graduate Students: 7
  • Grads Salary: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 4:1
  • DeVry University-New Jersey
22
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $44,850
    • Out-of-State:$44,850
  • Net Price: $31,416
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,027
  • Undergrad Students: 3,811
  • Graduate Students: 1,216
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Monmouth University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
23

Georgian Court University

Score: 63.61

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,110
    • Out-of-State:$37,110
  • Net Price: $18,187
  • Acceptance Rate: 76%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,962
  • Undergrad Students: 1,471
  • Graduate Students: 491
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Georgian Court University
24

Saint Elizabeth University

Score: 62.72

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,942
    • Out-of-State:$35,942
  • Net Price: $21,689
  • Acceptance Rate: 72%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,122
  • Undergrad Students: 737
  • Graduate Students: 385
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Saint Elizabeth University
25

Caldwell University

Score: 62.57

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $39,450
    • Out-of-State:$39,450
  • Net Price: $20,612
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,028
  • Undergrad Students: 1,605
  • Graduate Students: 423
  • Grads Salary: $57,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Caldwell University

Top 25 Best Master's Programs in New Jersey


1
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $59,710
    • Out-of-State:$59,710
  • Net Price: $18,698
  • Acceptance Rate: 6%
  • Retention Rate: 97%
  • Graduation Rate: 97%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,842
  • Undergrad Students: 5,604
  • Graduate Students: 3,238
  • Grads Salary: $103,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 5:1
  • Princeton University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,239
    • Out-of-State:$36,001
  • Net Price: $17,535
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 92%
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 50,637
  • Undergrad Students: 36,344
  • Graduate Students: 14,293
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Rutgers University-New Brunswick
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $19,022
    • Out-of-State:$35,934
  • Net Price: $17,762
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,332
  • Undergrad Students: 9,019
  • Graduate Students: 3,313
  • Grads Salary: $88,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,952
    • Out-of-State:$60,952
  • Net Price: $41,689
  • Acceptance Rate: 46%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,314
  • Undergrad Students: 4,070
  • Graduate Students: 5,244
  • Grads Salary: $101,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Stevens Institute of Technology
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
5
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $18,685
    • Out-of-State:$24,568
  • Net Price: $22,273
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 86%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,629
  • Undergrad Students: 7,039
  • Graduate Students: 590
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • The College of New Jersey
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $41,054
    • Out-of-State:$41,054
  • Net Price: $11,996
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 60%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,430
  • Undergrad Students: 2,071
  • Graduate Students: 1,359
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Saint Peter's University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,586
    • Out-of-State:$35,348
  • Net Price: $16,578
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,017
  • Undergrad Students: 7,511
  • Graduate Students: 3,506
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Rutgers University-Newark
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,978
    • Out-of-State:$26,388
  • Net Price: $16,262
  • Acceptance Rate: 70%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,478
  • Undergrad Students: 4,932
  • Graduate Students: 546
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Ramapo College of New Jersey
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,079
    • Out-of-State:$35,841
  • Net Price: $14,151
  • Acceptance Rate: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,966
  • Undergrad Students: 4,185
  • Graduate Students: 1,781
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Rutgers University-Camden
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,766
    • Out-of-State:$24,126
  • Net Price: $13,742
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 21,784
  • Undergrad Students: 17,290
  • Graduate Students: 4,494
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Montclair State University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
11

Drew University

Score: 69.68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $45,360
    • Out-of-State:$45,360
  • Net Price: $28,183
  • Acceptance Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 88%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,092
  • Undergrad Students: 1,513
  • Graduate Students: 579
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Drew University
12
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,822
    • Out-of-State:$35,822
  • Net Price: $16,030
  • Acceptance Rate: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 51%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,285
  • Undergrad Students: 5,380
  • Graduate Students: 1,905
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
13

Felician University

Score: 68.81

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,830
    • Out-of-State:$37,830
  • Net Price: $15,743
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,148
  • Undergrad Students: 1,746
  • Graduate Students: 402
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Felician University
14

Rowan University

Score: 68.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,700
    • Out-of-State:$25,564
  • Net Price: $20,963
  • Acceptance Rate: 77%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 19,535
  • Undergrad Students: 15,231
  • Graduate Students: 4,304
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Rowan University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
15

Rider University

Score: 68.11

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $38,900
    • Out-of-State:$38,900
  • Net Price: $26,388
  • Acceptance Rate: 84%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,054
  • Undergrad Students: 3,169
  • Graduate Students: 885
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Rider University
16
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,150
    • Out-of-State:$24,464
  • Net Price: $12,967
  • Acceptance Rate: 92%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,070
  • Undergrad Students: 6,604
  • Graduate Students: 2,466
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • William Paterson University of New Jersey
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
17

Kean University

Score: 67.4

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,426
    • Out-of-State:$21,076
  • Net Price: $10,747
  • Acceptance Rate: 83%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 51%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,884
  • Undergrad Students: 10,845
  • Graduate Students: 2,039
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Kean University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
18
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,370
    • Out-of-State:$51,370
  • Net Price: $33,472
  • Acceptance Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,623
  • Undergrad Students: 6,012
  • Graduate Students: 3,611
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Seton Hall University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
19

Centenary University

Score: 67

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,732
    • Out-of-State:$37,732
  • Net Price: $21,935
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 62%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,498
  • Undergrad Students: 1,026
  • Graduate Students: 472
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Centenary University
20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,822
    • Out-of-State:$35,822
  • Net Price: $21,408
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,823
  • Undergrad Students: 2,053
  • Graduate Students: 770
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
21

DeVry University-New Jersey

Score: 66.27

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,488
    • Out-of-State:$17,488
  • Net Price: $23,383
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 37%
  • Total Enrollment: 95
  • Undergrad Students: 88
  • Graduate Students: 7
  • Grads Salary: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 4:1
  • DeVry University-New Jersey
22
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $44,850
    • Out-of-State:$44,850
  • Net Price: $31,416
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,027
  • Undergrad Students: 3,811
  • Graduate Students: 1,216
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Monmouth University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
23

Georgian Court University

Score: 63.61

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,110
    • Out-of-State:$37,110
  • Net Price: $18,187
  • Acceptance Rate: 76%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,962
  • Undergrad Students: 1,471
  • Graduate Students: 491
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Georgian Court University
24

Saint Elizabeth University

Score: 62.72

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,942
    • Out-of-State:$35,942
  • Net Price: $21,689
  • Acceptance Rate: 72%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,122
  • Undergrad Students: 737
  • Graduate Students: 385
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Saint Elizabeth University
25

Caldwell University

Score: 62.57

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $39,450
    • Out-of-State:$39,450
  • Net Price: $20,612
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,028
  • Undergrad Students: 1,605
  • Graduate Students: 423
  • Grads Salary: $57,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Caldwell University
Learn about MBA's in New Jersey

Cost of New Jersey College Education & Salaries


New Jersey students looking at their options for higher education have many factors to consider. If you’re paying out of pocket or taking out loans, then the state’s public universities will provide the most affordable path toward earning a degree. Before taking out loans or shelling out for tuition, students should look a few things. Graduation rates are at the top of the list, as this metric indicates whether a school is doing a good job supporting their students.

Looking for the best value school can be one of the biggest challenges when it comes to selecting where you’ll spend the next four years. However, value is determined by several factors that extend beyond a school’s reputation and price tag. Evaluating tuition, plus room and board, books, and supplies is an excellent place to start. Other markers of quality education are less objective. You’ll need to consider things like:

  • Internships
  • Networking opportunities
  • Scholarships and financial aid
  • Job placement rate and assistance
  • Average starting salary
  • Class size
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Degree programs

Look at these factors and assess how they play into your goals. What are your priorities? Do you value a school that offers a specialized degree program? Is your goal to land a prestigious internship? Maybe the main concern is finding a school that provides the biggest financial aid package or a wide selection of online courses.

Finally, earning potential also depends on your field of study. Those who choose a path such as nursing, engineering, computer science, or another technical area may have an easier time locking down a job after graduating college. Liberal arts grads can land all kinds of jobs, so there’s a lot more variation in how you can apply that degree; it could be education, writing, marketing, or a long career in academia, so earning potential isn’t a sure thing.

Search Programs Offering New Jersey Majors

Tuition Cost Analysis - In-state vs. National


Average Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools

In-State Tuition - $13,963

National Average – $9,580

Out-of-State Tuition – $28,669

National Average – $27,437

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid

The state of New Jersey is one of a handful of states in the country that has not joined an interstate student exchange effort like the New England Board of Higher Education’s Tuition Break program. Because the state has not signed on to participate, students can't attend schools in several states while enjoying reduced non-resident rates.

As far as assistance goes, New Jersey ranks fifth in the nation. The average student receives $11,391 in federal aid, which is slightly higher than the national average. That said, it’s important to understand that not every student qualifies for federal assistance. To qualify, you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The acceptance rate for federal aid in NJ is about 68%, which is higher than the national average. Those who need more assistance after aid checks come in should also apply for grants and scholarships to avoid having to take out significant loans to pay for school.

Financial Aid New Jersey Nationally
Received Federal Grants 68% 37.7%
Average $ per Recipient $11,391 $10,927

* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Scholarships for New Jersey College Students


While New Jersey students receive more federal assistance than their counterparts in most other states, college tuition rates have risen in recent years, leaving many students on the hook for paying back student loans. As such, investing the time into applying for scholarships and grants is bound to pay off.

New Jersey students can apply to a wide range of scholarships and grants. Some are merit-based and go to top performers, while others seek out aspiring nurses, accountants, or visual artists. Those from low-income backgrounds have several options for filling the gaps between government aid and remaining tuition costs. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some standout scholarships, though, keep in mind, a little research will reveal that there’s a lot more where that came from.

MCS_logo

MCS

Meredith Corporation Scholarship

https://scholarships.nywici.org/sponsored-scholarships
Amounts: $5,000
Deadline: Varies
This $5,000 scholarship is awarded by New York Women in Communications to one female communications or journalism major. Applicants must be enrolled as an undergraduate and have a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher. They must also be available to participate in an internship at Meredith Corporation’s NYC headquarters. The scholarship is non-renewable.

EOF_logo

EOF

New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund

https://www.nj.gov/highereducation/EOF/EOF_Eligibility.shtml
Amounts: $200-$2,600
Deadline: FAFSA Deadline
This grant is offered to low-income NJ students who want to earn a degree but may be ill-prepared for the rigors of college-level work. Eligible students can receive up to $2,500 in annual funding and will gain access to a campus-based outreach and support service there to help them succeed. To qualify, students must come from a low-income background and demonstrate an educational disadvantage.

GUSP

Governor’s Urban Scholarship Program

https://www.nj4dreamers.com/governors-urban-scholarship-faqs/
Amounts: Varies
Deadline: Students must be nominated by their school
This scholarship was launched by Chris Christie back in 2012 as a way to provide aid to high-achieving students living in New Jersey’s urban areas. To qualify for the merit-based award students must rank in the top 5% of their graduating class, enroll in a New Jersey college, and come from one of 14-economically challenged urban areas. The scholarship could cover up to 10 semesters of tuition.

MFNS

Meland Foundation Nursing Scholarships

http://melandfoundation.org/nursing-scholarships-2/nursing-scholarships/
Amounts: $2,000-$5,000
Deadline: N/A – Rolling Application
This award ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 and is awarded to aspiring Air Force Base Hospital nurses. To apply, students must submit a resume, along with a recent transcript, a 500-word personal statement outlining career goals, and a letter of recommendation from the dean. Students must be residents of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, or Connecticut.

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