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2026 Best jmcomicÂþ»­s in New Jersey

By Bailey Fletcher • Updated 6/24/2024

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New Jersey's online degrees span numerous fields and cater to all education levels, from associate degrees to doctoral programs. For example, prominent institutions such as Rutgers University and New Jersey Institute of Technology are delivering high-quality online education. Online students benefit from the state's robust tech infrastructure and support services tailored for online learners. 

Key Takeaways: 

  • New Jersey schools with high Salary Scores have graduate median earnings well above $53,000, with some surpassing $98,000.
  • Affordable online schools in New Jersey have tuition costs among the lowest 30% when compared to other institutions across the country. 
  • The highest-rated schools by students have student recommendation rates from 80-96%.

Our methodology involves organizing colleges according to key categories — Salary Score, affordability, student ratings, and Honorable Mentions. Our Honorable Mentions list exhibits unique attributes that make them worth your consideration. This approach allows you to assess institutions based on factors most relevant to your educational goals, eschewing traditional rankings in favor of comprehensive evaluations.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Featured Popular jmcomicÂþ»­s

Best by Salary Score

Salary Score assists prospective students in assessing which online schools in New Jersey provide the best financial return on investment for their chosen field of study. This score is calculated by comparing the earnings of graduates from each program to the salaries of graduates from similar programs at other institutions nationwide. Although high earnings are not guaranteed, we've highlighted a handful of New Jersey schools that are worth considering, with median earnings starting at $98,521.

Stevens Institute of Technology

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A+
  • Median Earning: $98,521

Why We Like Them:

Stevens has an A+ Salary Score is the 99th percentile across U.S. institutions nationwide. This is due to the remarkable median earnings among its graduates, which stands at $98,521. To put this into perspective, this score places the institution in the top 1% for graduate salaries, indicating a substantial return on investment for your education. Stevens' online offerings are extensive, including over 20 online master’s degrees. These programs are led by the same distinguished faculty who teach on-campus, ensuring that you receive a high-quality education. We also want to mention that Stevens has the best retention and graduation rates of any college on our list and in the top 5% nationwide — at 88% and 93%, respectively.

What Students Say:

"College is small and community-style. Hands-on attention from professors. Social life is small but living in Hoboken makes socializing fun. Academics are rigorous but rewarding. Career services are exceptional."

Anonymous, Graduated 2016

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A
  • Median Earning: $81,045

Why We Like Them:

NJIT has impressive earnings among its graduates, with a median salary of $81,045. This places NJIT in the top 7% of programs nationally based on graduate earnings, a clear indicator of the university's strong return on investment. Complementing this, the retention rate of 89% situates NJIT in the top 9%, showing that the majority of students are satisfied enough to continue their studies. NJIT's commitment to online education is evident from its extensive offerings, including 14 online master's programs and 21 graduate certificate programs. These programs cover various disciplines within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

What Students Say:

"I am a distance learning (eLearning) student based out of Sioux Falls, SD...With a great staff of professionals in the field, I have had all the resources and interaction with the professors I feel I could need...Each lesson has been interesting and meaningful for each semester I have currently taken."

Daniel Aalderks, Graduated 2014

Seton Hall University

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A
  • Median Earning: $77,027

Why We Like Them:

Seton Hall's graduates earn a median salary of $77,027, which gives the school an A-grade in terms of Salary Score, placing it in the top 10% of institutions for alumni earnings. Seton Hall has diverse online programs, ranging from business administration to nursing. We also appreciate that the university offers comprehensive career services, advisement, financial aid, and library resources — all accessible online, enriching your educational journey. The convenience of accessing courses from any internet-enabled device and the dynamic multimedia tools used by faculty members further enhance the online learning environment.

What Students Say:

"If you are looking for a program that has a feeling of community where deans and professors know your first and last name instead of your student ID number...you definitely want to visit Seton Hall. My MBA Sport management program was recently rated as one of the best top fifty programs in the world! I never looked back and thought to myself that I should have invested my money into another program."

Martina Kompanova, Graduated 2013

Felician University

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A
  • Median Earning: $71,835

Why We Like Them:

Felician excels in delivering graduates with high post-graduate earnings. Currently, they have a median salary of $71,835, placing the university among the top 14% of institutions for this metric. Additionally, we like to see that Felician offers substantial financial support, demonstrated by an average financial aid package of $32,536. Students can also benefit from a favorable 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention. The university has three online master's programs, including a master's in counseling psychology as well as two master's degrees in nursing with either a focus on becoming either and FNP or AGPCNP.

What Students Say:

"Despite initial apprehensions, after attending orientation and being informed of all the wonderful opportunities Felician has to offer, I became wildly optimistic and excited. Professors are beyond exceptional and make it very easy for students to apply for the program and financial aide."

Brittany Perri, Graduated 2016

Saint Elizabeth University

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A-
  • Median Earning: $64,640

Why We Like Them:

Saint Elizabeth's graduates earn a yearly median salary of $64,640, placing it among the top 23% of institutions nationwide. We believe this level of income post-graduation suggests a strong return on investment. We believe this is partially due to its low student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, which bolsters personalized attention and extra support, critical factors in online education. Adding to these significant benefits, almost all (99%) of its students receive financial aid, with an average package of $29,905. Saint Elizabeth University offers various online programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees in disciplines like business administration, psychology, and education.

St. Peter's University

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A-
  • Median Earning: $64,297

Why We Like Them:

St. Peter's has an A- Salary Score, demonstrating above-average median earnings of $64,297 among graduates. This indicates that graduates from St. Peter's are likely to achieve financial success just four years after graduation. We are also impressed by the school's average financial aid package of $35,256, the highest on our entire list of New Jersey colleges. St. Peter's offers a solid selection of online graduate degrees, including an MBA, MS in Business Analytics, and MS in Data Science. The university leverages modern technology and industry best practices to deliver these programs through its Blackboard learning management system.

What Students Say:

"This school has honest and hardworking people that do their best for the student body. Professors work hard to provide their students with a quality education. Most professors post office hours that they are actually present for, and urge students to visit and seek extra help if necessary... Most of the financial aid department seems to really care about getting students all the financial aid they can get, and are truly helpful to students."

Socks, Graduated 2019

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A-
  • Median Earning: $63,497

Why We Like Them:

FDU has median earnings of $63,497, placing it in the top 24% of institutions nationwide with an A- Salary Score. And if cost is a concern, FDU has a generous average financial aid package that's worth mentioning at $30,059. This places it among the top 7% of schools for financial support. It's also a military-friendly school, with over 150 military students enrolled. We also like that FDU offers a wide array of online programs, including 16 in-demand fields such as liberal arts, higher education, animation, public health, and digital marketing.

What Students Say:

"The school has amazing programs. The professors are pretty awesome. The workload may be heavy but it prepares you for the outside world. The Veteran Services department is really great, assisting veterans with their questions and providing resources."

Joyce Gonzalez, Graduated 2019

Best by Affordability

Identifying affordable online colleges in New Jersey requires manually evaluating institutions based on the tuition costs of their online programs. We focus on schools with low annual tuition rates, ensuring that students looking for online education have access to budget-friendly options. Tuitions on our list start out as low as $8,598 annually.

Thomas Edison State University

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $8,598

Why We Like Them:

TESU is notable for its affordability. With a tuition of $8,598, it's an excellent choice if you are budget-conscious. Complementing this affordability, the university is among the top 13% of institutions in median earnings, with graduates earning a median salary of $73,358. We also have to mention that TESU is the most popular online school on our list, with over 7,000 online students taking classes here. We believe this reflects its vast digital footprint and ability to deliver quality higher education online. As for their online offerings, the university features a diverse array of disciplines at all levels, ranging from nuclear engineering to finance. For example, it offers 13 online associate degrees, over 30 online bachelor's programs, and dozens of online graduate degrees as well as certificates.

What Students Say:

"... My experience has been good, it's like any other online school... TESC really will help you, they're there to help you succeed. You getting a degree helps them look better... The work is on you though."

Workerbee, Graduated 2016

Rowan University

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $13,218

Why We Like Them:

Rowan's tuition of $13,218 places it in the top 27% of schools with the lowest tuitions in the nation offering online degrees. its exceptional value. Additionally, with a retention rate of 85% placing it in the top 14% and an 82% recommendation rate among students, Rowan illustrates both student satisfaction and academic achievement. The school also provides a strong online presence with 1,313 distance learners. Rowan offers eight online bachelor's programs, including a few options in the healthcare sector, and over a dozen online master's program options, with many choices in the education field. Rowan even has four online doctoral programs that emphasize leadership in these disciplines.

What Students Say:

"This college has a wonderful and supportive staff that helps students throughout the process of obtaining their degree... You will receive a great education."

Jamie Longacre, Graduated 2016

New Jersey City University

Key Metrics:

  • Annual Tuition: $13,786

Why We Like Them:

NJCU offers tuition at $13,786, making it an accessible choice for many students. Additionally, 97% of students receive financial aid, further reducing the financial burden on you. The school's commitment to affordability is bolstered by the average financial aid package of $12,877. We also like to see that the overall review rating (3.82 out of 5) and recommendation rate (75%) reflect student satisfaction. NJCU provides various online graduate and undergraduate programs, such as an online Master of Science in National Security Studies and an online Bachelor of Science in Fire Science. These fully online programs cater to a wide range of professionals aiming to advance their careers.

What Students Say:

"I know the professors are caring and are available to talk whether it is personal or for class purposes...your emails do get addressed right away...school has been around for many years and was where my old teachers received their education from."

Tashieka Jackson, Graduated 2015

Highest Rated by Students

Alumni reviews are incredibly helpful when choosing a college. These firsthand account can help you gauge student satisfaction at a given school, spotlighting institutions that consistently receive positive feedback from their graduates. Below, you'll find recommendation rates as high as 96% as well as student review rating as high as 3.91 out of 5. 

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Key Metrics:

  • Overall Rating: 3.96/5
  • Number of Reviews: 28
  • Recommend Rate: 86%

Why We Like Them:

The overall review rating of Ramapo is 3.91 out of 5 total, reflecting the positive experiences of current and former students, both online and in-person. Pairing this with a robust retention rate of 84%, which places Ramapo in the top 15% of colleges, it's clear that most students are satisfied enough to continue their education journey here after their first year. Additionally, the college's median earnings for graduates are $59,385, positioning it in the top 31% among peer institutions. Ramapo’s online offerings are extensive and varied, with undergraduate and graduate programs delivered asynchronously or in a hybrid learning model.

What Students Say:

"Attending Ramapo College of NJ was one of the best decisions I've ever made... Your education is top of the line as well... I wouldn't have wanted to go anywhere else!"

Sara Klenofsky, Graduated 2018

Rutgers University

Key Metrics:

  • Overall Rating: 3.84/5
  • Number of Reviews: 434
  • Recommend Rate: 91%

Why We Like Them:

Rutgers has an overall review rating of 3.78 out of 5, and its recommendation rate soars with 90% of students endorsing the school. Complementing this is its remarkable retention rate of 92%, placing it within the top 5% of institutions nationally. You can also expect solid career outcomes, as the median earnings of graduates stand at $75,528, situating them in the top 11% for earning potential. Rutgers' online offerings span a wide variety of programs, including online undergraduate degrees in business administration, economics, and nursing, as well as online master's programs ranging from public administration to health informatics.

What Students Say:

"Rutgers University provides excellent classes with many different class options to choose from... There are many research opportunities and hands-on laboratory experiences available. The professors are very knowledgeable in their fields and provide support to each of their students."

Sjuhye Chung, Graduated 2019

Rider University

Key Metrics:

  • Overall Rating: 3.79/5
  • Number of Reviews: 44
  • Recommend Rate: 93%

Why We Like Them:

Rider has a high level of student satisfaction, as indicated by both its 96% recommendation rate as well as its overall review rating of 3.78 out of 5. Additionally, the university stands out with a commendable graduation rate in the top 20%, reflecting the institution's effectiveness in helping students complete their degrees. Another aspect we highly value is the university's strong student-faculty ratio, which, at 10:1, ensures that you receive plenty of individual support. Rider’s online offerings include six online bachelor's programs in disciplines like health, business, psychology, and the liberal arts. It has almost double the amount of online graduate programs, spanning even more disciplines that include music, pedagogy, accountancy, nursing, and more.

What Students Say:

"My program had been amazing thus far. The people and professors are so dedicated to helping their students reach their goals... They are constantly working toward helping you better your education and skills both in and out of the classroom."

Tiffanie Rosati, Graduated 2018

Montclair State University

Key Metrics:

  • Overall Rating: 3.82/5
  • Number of Reviews: 148
  • Recommend Rate: 91%

Why We Like Them:

MSU distinguishes itself with a higher-than-average review rating of 3.77 out of 5. This commendable rating reflects significant student satisfaction. Additionally, the university’s high recommendation rate of 93% underscores the positive experiences of graduates and their willingness to advocate for their alma mater. MSU offers a variety of fully online degrees and certificates, structured to fit the busy schedules of adult learners, with most students taking one course at a time over two semesters, ensuring a manageable pace while balancing other responsibilities. The programs are designed for both asynchronous and synchronous learning, maximizing flexibility and convenience for students.

What Students Say:

"Montclair State is a widely acclaimed university...Each student is treated as an individual with specific needs. Counselors and advisers are always available and eager to help. It truly feels like a community."

Johanna Zuleta, Graduated 2020

Monmouth University

Key Metrics:

  • Overall Rating: 3.76/5
  • Number of Reviews: 57
  • Recommend Rate: 95%

Why We Like Them:

With a review rating of 3.71 out of 5, Monmouth exhibits a high degree of student satisfaction that speaks volumes about the quality of its online education. Pair this with a recommendation rate of 92%, and it's clear that Monmouth's students highly value their experiences here. Financial aid is also a significant advantage, with an average package of $28,366, reflecting Monmouth's strong commitment to making higher education accessible. Monmouth offers over 50 online classes each semester at both undergraduate and graduate levels. It also has specialized online graduate programs like a master’s in autism/applied behavior analysis and a doctorate in nursing. These programs incorporate cutting-edge technology, ensuring interactive online learning experiences.

What Students Say:

"Monmouth is a great school! Not only is it on a beautiful campus and minutes from the beach, but the academic programs are fantastic, and many of the teachers are skilled and extremely helpful!"

Anonymous, Graduated 2015

Honorable Mention

Still looking for the perfect match? Our Honorable Mention category showcases six additional New Jersey colleges online that you should consider. We have hand-selected these based on the schools' unique attributes, ranging from popular online schools with thousands enrolled remotely to those with average financial aid packages as high as $29,162 to help with costs. 

William Paterson University of New Jersey

Key Metrics:

  • Online Students: 3,400

Why We Like Them:

WP is a four-year, public institution located in Wayne, NJ. With over 3,000 students enrolled online, WP has an established distance learning program that offers 100% online degrees, which students can earn in 7-week sessions. The average financial aid package is well above the national average at $10,919, as are the median earnings you can expect after graduation at $55,042. WP provides fully online programs at undergraduate and graduate levels with traditional 15-week semesters in an asynchronous format, available during fall and spring semesters, plus summer sessions. For those preferring a blend of online and in-person learning, WP also has hybrid online programs.

What Students Say:

"William Paterson has a top-rated MBA program, with exceptional advantages in the sales and marketing sections."

Joseph DeMarco, Graduated 2016

Kean University

Key Metrics:

  • Online Students: 1,292

Why We Like Them:

Kean excels in online enrollment with 1,292 students participating in its virtual programs. This strong online presence guarantees you will join a large community of distance learners. Another compelling metric is the average financial aid package of $13,123, situating Kean in the top 30% nationwide for financial support, crucial if affordability is a key concern for you. Kean offers a variety of online programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including notable options like the MA in Educational Administration. Additionally, Kean boasts state-of-the-art technology and flexible learning options, supporting 24/7 asynchronous courses that can be accessed anytime, anywhere.

What Students Say:

"Kean University is a wonderful mid-sized school that offers individuals exceptional education. The class sizes are perfect for students who want to work closely with their professor. The career development resources are also amazing. At Kean, as long as you're willing to work hard, you will do great!"

Xirena W., Graduated 2014

Georgian Court University

Key Metrics:

  • Online Students: 342

Why We Like Them:

GCU hosts hundreds of students who are engaged in online learning. If we were to compare GCU's student-to-faculty ratio with that of other universities, GCU stands among the top 17% with a ratio of 10:1. This means you are more likely to receive one-on-one mentoring and more support in general as an online learner. Furthermore, the university supports students financially with 100% receiving financial aid, and an average aid package of $29,162, situating GCU in the top 8% for financial support. Additionally, GCU offers a diverse array of online degrees at various levels, including bachelor's completion programs like the BS in Business Administration and master's degrees in fields such as administration and digital marketing.

What Students Say:

"Georgian Court is a GREAT school with amazing professors and staff in general. They want you to do well and do whatever they can to help. The con is the cost... it really is worth every penny."

Jessica Voss, Graduated 2014

Centenary University

Key Metrics:

  • Online Students: 185

Why We Like Them:

Centenary has over a hundred online students. Overall, its graduates enjoy higher-than-average median earnings at $63,983, which place them in the top 28% nationally. Furthermore, students benefit from an average financial aid package of $27,592. Centenary offers a variety of online programs tailored to meet diverse educational and professional needs. You can pursue undergraduate degrees like the BS in Business Administration with six different concentrations, such as Accounting and Social Media Marketing, or the RN to BSN program, designed explicitly for nurses. At the graduate level, programs like the online MA in Organizational Leadership and the groundbreaking online MA in Happiness Studies offer advanced learning opportunities in unique fields.

Bloomfield College

Key Metrics:

  • Online Students: 126

Why We Like Them:

Bloomfield provides a solid choice for online learners with 126 students currently enrolled in remote programs. Though the online enrollment number is modest and the median earnings among graduates are lower than we like to see, the school excels in making education financially accessible, with virtually all students (99%) receiving financial aid. Combining this with a strong average financial aid package of $23,850, places it in the top 16% for financial aid on a national scale. Bloomfield offers mainly undergraduate programs online, which cover diverse fields such as nursing, business, and information technology, indicative of its aim to provide practical, career-oriented education.

Caldwell University

Key Metrics:

  • Online Students: 24

Why We Like Them:

Caldwell has just 24 students enrolled online, but it has some other noteworthy features. For example, Caldwell's average financial aid package is among the top 7% nationally, at an impressive $30,231. Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1 indicates a more personalized online education experience. The graduation rate at Caldwell is commendable, placing it in the top 18% nationally at 68%, showcasing the effectiveness of its academic programs. Moreover, an impressive 93% of students recommend Caldwell, validating the school's focus on quality education and student satisfaction. Caldwell University offers a range of online graduate programs, including an MA in Higher Education, MBA, and MSN in Population Health, enabling you to pursue advanced degrees across various disciplines.

What Students Say:

"Caldwell University is a great institution. The small campus makes it feel like home for the four years you are there. The professors all get to know you due to the small class sizes...have many sources to help you succeed, such as the writing center and tutors. I truly enjoyed my four years there. If you like a small school with a "homey" environment then Caldwell is right for you."

Jordalis Marte, Graduated 2016

Featured Popular jmcomicÂþ»­s

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Higher Education in New Jersey

New Jersey is home to that confer associate, bachelor's, and graduate degrees. These include everything from public community colleges in New Jersey to the private Ivy League Princeton University. Thirty-two New Jersey colleges are publicly funded, and most of the rest are private nonprofit schools.

High school graduates in New Jersey are out of state than attend an in-state college. Possible reasons may be the relatively high cost of college in New Jersey and the appeal of good schools close by in New England, Pennsylvania, and New York. New Jersey also to fill positions in healthcare, software development, and health service management despite having one of the nation's most well-educated workforces.

You can find online degree programs at several New Jersey colleges and universities. There are programs at all levels of education at both public and private institutions. Most online degrees feature asynchronous classes with no set meeting times that offer great flexibility for students with jobs and families.

You can browse our list of online Master of Social Work programs in New Jersey and online nursing programs in New Jersey if those fields interest you.

FAQs About jmcomicÂþ»­s in New Jersey

How Many Colleges Are in New Jersey?


New Jersey has 87 degree-granting colleges on its soil. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) classifies five of these schools as rural. Most of the rest are in suburbs and some are in urban areas. 

Is College Free in New Jersey?


New Jersey provides four years of free college to qualifying students through a combination of the and the . The grant lets students complete two cost-free years at a New Jersey community college, and the guarantee qualifies them for two more free years at a public New Jersey college or university. To be eligible, students must live in households with adjusted gross income under $65,000.

How Many Public Colleges Are in New Jersey?


The Garden State hosts 32 public colleges. Nineteen of these are community colleges with certificate and associate degree programs. The public four-year schools include Rutgers University, which is one of the nation's largest postsecondary schools.

How Much Is College in New Jersey?


Tuition and fees differ at all New Jersey colleges. However, the NCES crunched the for New Jersey colleges in the 2022-2023 school year. 

We've listed the average New Jersey college costs below:

  • Public four-year college, in-state resident: $29,392
  • Public four-year college, out-of-state resident: $30,271
  • Private four-year college: $40,366
  • Public two-year college, in-state resident: $4,981
  • Public two-year college, out-of-state resident: $8,558

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