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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.
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What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in New Jersey?
Popular bachelor’s degrees vary by institutions, but across the board, we found that students tend to gravitate toward a handful of majors that attract students from all over the country. Popular majors in New Jersey include health professions like nursing or pre-med, social sciences, and business. Communications and engineering are other popular choices, too.
But, then there are some outliers. Schools like Seton Hall and Montclair State enroll a large number of visual and performing arts students. Rutgers is one of a handful of the state’s institutions where education is a top major. While it was hard to narrow our list—here are some of the more popular bachelor’s degree offerings from Princeton to Ramapo to Stevens Institute of Technology.
Read More- Business Administration
A bachelor’s in business administration will give students a background in accounting, marketing, human resources, management, and finance. This degree is both versatile and practical. Graduates can work in a range of fields from advertising to finance. While business administration is a somewhat general major, students will develop leadership skills that can set the tone for a career as a manager or executive.
- Biology
Biology majors look at the principles that inform life’s processes; molecular, cellular, ecological, and so on. Students might study evolution, genetics, or human development along with chemistry, calculus, and statistics. At the bachelor’s level, the focus is on learning to analyze scientific literature and how to conduct lab research. They’ll learn to generate hypotheses and design an experiment, as well as how to collect and analyze data. Those who wish to study biology should be prepared to attend graduate school where they’ll narrow their focus. Most jobs within the sciences or healthcare fields require an advanced degree.
- Engineering
Engineering combines math, science, and technology to solve real-world problems. Engineering spans a range of specializations such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, or aerospace engineering, among others. There’s a great deal of overlap between specialties and, whatever students choose, they can expect to earn a good salary upon graduation.
- Healthcare
Okay, healthcare is a broad category, but this area spans several career paths and majors on the rise in New Jersey and the country as a whole. Within the practical healthcare space, students can choose to become doctors, nurses, or physician assistants. To become a registered nurse, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree and obtain licensing. Those who wish to increase earning potential can go on to earn a master’s degree to become an advanced practice nurse like a nurse educator, nurse practitioner, or administrator.
Aspiring physicians must first earn a bachelor’s degree before going to medical school.
Very few colleges provide a dedicated pre-med program, but many offer an advising program for prospective doctors. - Social Sciences
Social sciences include majors like political science, psychology, sociology, economics, social work, and public policy. While there is a diverse range of majors that fall into this category, the social sciences look at human behavior and its impact on our economy, environment, and institutions. Career options include social worker, public relations professional, market researcher, psychologist, consulting, economist, even data scientist. The through line here is, social scientists of all stripes are curious, analytical thinkers that are well-positioned to enter the workforce or go onto go into law or academia.
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* |
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Most Popular Degrees and Careers in New Jersey
Top Business Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Accountant | 39,820 | $51,600 |
Aerospace Engineer | 2,100 | $84,600 |
Chemical Engineer | 1,350 | $75,500 |
Civil Engineer | 7,420 | $67,200 |
Financial Advisor | 4,480 | $59,700 |
Management Consultant | 15,250 | $87,800 |
Marketing Manager | 11,220 | $66,000 |
- Accounting
- Aerospace Engineer
- Business
- Business Administrator
- Business Manager
- Chemical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Economist
- Entrepreneur
- Financial advisor
- Financial Analyst
- Hospitality Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- International Business Manager
- Management consultant
- Marketing Manager
- Operations Manager
- Organizational Leader
- Project Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
Top Computers Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Software Engineer | 50,320 | $86,700 |
- Computer Engineer
- Computer Information Technologist
- Computer Programmer
- Computer Scientist
- Cybersecurity
- Database Administrator
- Database Management
- Software Engineer
- Web Development
Top Education Careers and Salaries
- Early Childhood Administrator
- Early Childhood Education Teacher
- General Education Teacher
- Secondary School Teacher
Top Healthcare Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Biochemist | 7,280 | $62,200 |
Biological Technician | 1,130 | $38,500 |
Genetic Counselor | 80 | $73,600 |
Health Services Manager | 12,620 | $70,400 |
Home Health Aide | 57,060 | $29,700 |
Medical Assistant | 19,120 | $34,300 |
Pharmaceutical sales | 4,680 | $85,300 |
Physician | 16,650 | $152,300 |
Registered Nurse | 80,140 | $65,500 |
- Biochemist
- Biological Technician
- Genetic Counselor
- Gerontology Nurse or Physician
- Health Services Manager
- Healthcare Administrator
- Healthcare Manager
- Home Health Aide
- Medical Assistant
- Nurse
- Pharmaceutical Sales Rep
- Physician
- Registered Nurse
Top Legal Careers and Salaries
Top 20 Best Associate Degree Programs in New Jersey
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
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
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
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
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
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
Brookdale Community College
Score: 62.75
- 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Thomas Edison State University
Score: 49.5
- 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
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
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
Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in New Jersey
Princeton University
Score: 95.71
- 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
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Score: 79.34
- 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
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Score: 79.07
- 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
Stevens Institute of Technology
Score: 78.13
- 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
The College of New Jersey
Score: 76.18
- 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
Saint Peter's University
Score: 74.53
- 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
Rutgers University-Newark
Score: 74.39
- 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
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Score: 72.87
- 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
Rutgers University-Camden
Score: 72.14
- 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
Montclair State University
Score: 69.7
- 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
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
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan
Score: 69.66
- 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
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
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
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
William Paterson University of New Jersey
Score: 67.75
- 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
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
Seton Hall University
Score: 67.27
- 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
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
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham
Score: 66.81
- 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
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
Monmouth University
Score: 64.32
- 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
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
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
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
Top 25 Best Master's Programs in New Jersey
Princeton University
Score: 95.71
- 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
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Score: 79.34
- 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
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Score: 79.07
- 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
Stevens Institute of Technology
Score: 78.13
- 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
The College of New Jersey
Score: 76.18
- 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
Saint Peter's University
Score: 74.53
- 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
Rutgers University-Newark
Score: 74.39
- 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
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Score: 72.87
- 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
Rutgers University-Camden
Score: 72.14
- 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
Montclair State University
Score: 69.7
- 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
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
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan
Score: 69.66
- 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
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
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
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
William Paterson University of New Jersey
Score: 67.75
- 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
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
Seton Hall University
Score: 67.27
- 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
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
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham
Score: 66.81
- 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
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
Monmouth University
Score: 64.32
- 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
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
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
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
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.
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College Cost Analysis - New Jersey vs National
Average New Jersey 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
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
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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