Online Univerisites and College Classes in New Jersey
A report from the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce projects increasing educational requirements for jobs in New Jersey, with an anticipated 68% of jobs requiring some postsecondary education by 2020. Data from the 2017 American Community Survey shows that 61% of New Jersey residents hold some level of higher education. Prospective students, both in state and out of state, should consider online universities in New Jersey. The state offers a variety of top online programs; this guide includes a ranking of the most affordable online colleges in New Jersey.
To find the best accredited online colleges in New Jersey we used a variety of metrics. Some of the factors we analyzed include program offerings, reputation, and cost of attendance. Use this guide to help find the right school for you.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Featured Online Programs
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New Jersey's Top Affordable Online Colleges
#1 Online Colleges In New Jersey
Rutgers University–New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A New Jersey-based school, Rutgers University–New Brunswick offers many virtual program options for degree-seekers nationwide. Distance learners can enroll in liberal arts and professional studies programs offered at the nonprofit school. Online learning allows working professionals to conveniently earn accredited degrees while they continue their careers.
Undergraduates complete a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in four years on average. Graduate students complete a master’s degree in about two years. Enrollees conveniently complete their degree with live and recorded classes. Many programs blend classroom instruction and experiential learning, such as internships or practicums. Working professionals submit assignments on schedule.
The school offers certificates or associate degrees for beginning students. Learners at the school can use online support services, such as tutoring and career advising. At Rutgers University–New Brunswick, degree-seekers pay affordable online tuition. The average total aid per enrollee is $14,168. Prospective applicants can expect a 61% admission rate. Rutgers University–New Brunswick is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Online Colleges In New Jersey
Rowan University
- Glassboro, NJ
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Rowan University is a four-year public college located in New Jersey. The school offers on-campus and online undergraduate and graduate programs. Degree-seekers choose from a catalog of 127 virtual program. The degrees provide a strong liberal arts and professional education. Students complete degrees in various disciplines.
Faculty blend classroom theory and practical experience through internships and field experience. Some online programs require limited in-person requirements such as residencies. Most online degrees require no in-person requirements. Faculty bring real-world experience to the classroom. Remote enrollees receive assistance, such as tutoring in various subjects.
The admission rate at Rowan University is 74%. Degree-seekers help pay for their education with competitive tuition rates and financial aid. Students pay the same tuition regardless of in-state or out-of-state residency. Prospective applicants can expect an average total aid of $9,955 per enrollee. Rowan University has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Online Colleges In New Jersey
Thomas Edison State University
- Trenton, NJ
- 4 years
- Online
Located in Trenton, New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University offers on-campus and online degrees as a public institution. The school's virtual programs enroll 10,227 students from all across the country. Remote degrees in top fields like business, STEM, and healthcare help the college meet the needs of graduates with diverse career goals. Degree-seekers choose from 20 bachelor's options.
The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs for its distance learners. General education classes impart foundational knowledge to undergraduate degree-seekers. Enrollees attend more in-depth classes for the major, as well. By participating in seminars and online courses, graduate learners develop advanced skills.
To learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates, prospective students can reach out to the school. The accredited institution helps enrollees find opportunities for financial aid. Applicants should contact the financial aid office to see if they qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or grants.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Top Online Teaching and Education Programs
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Why Choose New Jersey for Online Higher Education?
Although one of the smallest states, New Jersey offers a variety of top distance learning options. There are 88 fully online programs in New Jersey, with 14,242 undergraduate; 8,003 graduate; and 139 international students enrolled. These online classes provide opportunities for many demographic groups, including single parents, full-time workers, underserved populations, and those working in shrinking labor industries.
- Number of Programs Offered Completely Online in New Jersey: 88
- Undergraduate Students Enrolled Exclusively Online in New Jersey: 14,242
- Graduate Students Enrolled Exclusively Online in New Jersey: 8,003
- Total International Students Enrolled Exclusively Online in New Jersey: 139
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Cost of Attending an Online College in New Jersey
The cost of attending one of the best online colleges in New Jersey varies. In-state students pay cheaper tuition than nonresidents. This usually proves true for online and on-campus students in the state. However, out-of-state students in some neighboring states qualify for reduced tuition rates due to reciprocity agreements. To qualify for in-state tuition, students must reside in New Jersey for one year prior to enrollment and show proof of residency. This includes a certified New Jersey resident income tax return, a lease or deed to a New Jersey home, or a New Jersey driver's license. The data below includes a comparison of in-state and out-of-state New Jersey tuition rates.
In-State Tuition
Public, four-year institution: $13,021
Public, two-year institution: $4,223
Out-of-state tuition
Public, four-year institution: $27,358
Public, two-year institution: $7,462
Source: National Center for Education Statistics,
Students in New Jersey pay more than the national average for higher education, particularly for in-state tuition at four-year public institutions.
On-campus and online programs in New Jersey typically offer similar tuition rates, but rates vary by school. The following information includes some sample online costs per credit for three types of online schools in New Jersey.
Considering a New Jersey School as an Out-of-State Student
Nonresident students considering one of the online colleges in New Jersey should consider the number of exclusively online students in New Jersey, the existence of reciprocity or good neighbor discounts, and state agreements or attendance restrictions for online learners.
Out-of-State Undergraduate Students Studying Exclusively Online in New Jersey: 6,552
Out-of-State Graduate Students Studying Exclusively Online in New Jersey: 761
Tuition Discounts
While many states hold membership in regional interstate compacts, which help students in qualifying neighboring states afford the cost of out-of-state tuition, New Jersey does not participate in any regional interstate compacts.
State Authorizations for Online Learning
New Jersey does participate in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) through the New England Board of Higher Education. SARA establishes national standards for postsecondary distance education programs that member states agree to follow. SARA makes it easier for students to take online courses offered by schools in other states. Not all states belong to SARA, and membership is voluntary. Prospective out-of-state students who live in a state that participates in SARA can take online courses from New Jersey schools.
Check with an admissions or financial officer. Tuition rates are ultimately program- and institution-based. Ask someone from a prospective program about what rates apply to you specifically as a potential member of a specific program.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey's Online Schools
This FAQ answers some common questions about New Jersey's online programs and schools. Use these resources to help you choose an online college in New Jersey.
Do Online Credits Cost More or Less in New Jersey?
The cost of online credits can vary, but students taking online classes in New Jersey typically pay the same cost per credit as on-campus learners. However, in-state and out-of-state students may pay different tuition rates.
Which New Jersey Schools Accept the Most Transfer Credits?
Most online New Jersey schools accept transfer credits from regionally accredited colleges. The amount of transfer credits accepted varies by school. To find out how many credits will transfer and to learn about course equivalencies, students can contact schools' offices of admissions. Another good resource for transfer students is NJ Transfer. There, students can learn about the process of transferring from a state community college to a four-year institution in the state.
Will Any Online Colleges in New Jersey Accept a GED?
Most New Jersey online colleges accept applicants that hold a GED. The more competitive universities may prefer students with traditional high school diplomas, however. Some of the online colleges in New Jersey that accept students with GEDs include Rutgers, Rowan College at Burlington County, Mercer County Community College, and Thomas Edison State College.
How many academic terms per year do online colleges in New Jersey offer?
Most online colleges in New Jersey follow the same academic calendar as their on-campus programs, with start times each semester. Some online universities in New Jersey that offer more frequent start times include Walden University, Purdue University Global, and Southern New Hampshire University. Depending on the program, these schools may offer start times as frequently as once a month.
Which Online Colleges in New Jersey Will Accept the FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps the government determine student eligibility for federal financial aid. This includes things like grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. Individual universities use students' FAFSA information to determine their financial aid packages. Most accredited nonprofit colleges in New Jersey accept the FAFSA.
Are There Any Free Online Classes I Can Take From New Jersey Colleges?
A variety of colleges in New Jersey offer free online classes to anyone with an internet connection. Some free online courses allow students to earn certificates of completion. Many learners find it helpful to take free distance courses to see if they like the learning format before committing to pursuing an entire degree online. Rutgers University offers numerous free online courses in topics like supply chain management, social media data analytics, and revolutionary ideas.
How Can I Find the Online Program Options at New Jersey Colleges?
Prospective students can find online program options at New Jersey colleges by looking at the State of New Jersey's Office of the Secretary of Higher Education website, which includes a list of all the colleges and universities in the state. This website also includes an inventory of program offerings in the state.
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