Best Online Colleges in New Jersey
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New Jersey is home to dozens of colleges and universities, most of which are strategically located near major metropolitan centers like New York. And with many of these New Jersey colleges offering online programs, you can tap into an exceptional education regardless of your location.
Whether you're looking to enroll in a bachelor's or master's program or are interested in earning your associate degree at an online community college, there are many online colleges in New Jersey you can choose from.
So why earn your degree online? For one, online degrees are typically the more affordable option. In addition, the flexibility of completing a degree program on your own time and terms can be beneficial if you have work or other personal obligations.
Keep reading to learn about the best online colleges in New Jersey.
The Best Online Colleges in New Jersey
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that's best for you.
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com 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.
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Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $564-$577
Undergrad, out of state | $564-$577
Graduate, in state | $923-$1,288
Graduate, out of state | $923-$1,288
One of the top colleges in New Jersey, New Brunswick-based Rutgers offers online programs through its continuing education department. Remote learners can access virtual computer labs along with online tutoring, study groups, and academic coaching.
Rutgers offers online bachelor's degrees in business administration, labor and employment relations, and nursing. Master's degree fields include business, education, liberal studies, and social work.
Applicants submit an online application and a self-reported academic record. Specific programs may set their own requirements.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ - 4 years
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $399-$450
Undergrad, out of state | $519-$550
Graduate, in state | $668-$905
Graduate, out of state | $668-$905
TESU's many online programs lead to degrees and certificates at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Areas of study include arts, business, and humanities. Students can also choose programs in fields like computer science, engineering, and healthcare.
Most courses take place in 12-week terms with no required on-campus attendance. Students interact through discussion boards and forums. TESU's Student Success Center offers help with advising, registration, and technology.
Applicants submit an online application and transcripts. Some students may need to provide further information to meet program admission requirements.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $400-$915
Undergrad, out of state | $400-$915
Graduate, in state | $685-$852
Graduate, out of state | $685-$852
Rowan's global learning and partnerships division offers online programs together with the university's six colleges. Many programs cater to learners who need to complete their bachelor's degrees. Others admit master's and doctoral candidates. Fields of study include arts administration, construction management, and education.
Prospective students submit their applications online. Distance learners can connect with other students through discussion boards and affinity groups. They can also access advising and library services, writing center support, and financial aid information.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $564-$577
Undergrad, out of state | $564-$577
Graduate, in state | $923-$1,288
Graduate, out of state | $923-$2,054
Online programs at RU-N include bachelor's degrees in marketing and public and nonprofit administration. The university offers online master's degrees in areas like digital marketing, governmental accounting, supply-chain management, and taxation. Some programs require periodic on-campus residencies.
Master of public administration enrollees can concentrate in budgeting and financial management, healthcare administration, leadership of public organizations, or nonprofit management.
Prospective students submit an application and self-reported academic record. Remote learners can access library databases, technology help, and tutoring.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Rutgers University-Camden
Camden, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $564-$577
Undergrad, out of state | $564-$577
Graduate, in state | $923-$1,288
Graduate, out of state | $923-$1,288
Rutgers-Camden offers remote learning options for graduate and undergraduate students. Graduate-level offerings include an MBA and a master's in liberal studies. Online bachelor's degrees include a degree completion program in business administration (BBA) and an RN-to-BSN nursing bridge program. BBA enrollees can specialize in corporate finance, data analytics, digital marketing, or strategic human resources.
BBA applicants need 18 college credits with a C or better. The RN-to-BSN requires a registered nursing license, associate degree in nursing, and a 2.7 GPA. Master's in liberal studies admission prefers an undergraduate 3.0 GPA.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Rider University
Lawrenceville, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $600
Undergrad, out of state | $600
Graduate, in state | $830-$1,300
Graduate, out of state | $830-$1,300
Undergraduate and graduate learners can earn degrees 100% online from Rider's colleges of the arts, business, education and human services, and liberal arts and sciences. Students take part in online discussions and complete solo and group projects. Instruction support includes free tutoring, career advising, and IT help.
Undergraduates apply to the continuing education division with an online application and transcripts. Registered nurses pursuing a bachelor's in nursing need a current nursing license. Graduate admission requirements are program-specific.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Georgian Court University
Lakewood, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $773
Undergrad, out of state | $773
Graduate, in state | $733-$759
Graduate, out of state | $733-$759
Most online courses at GCU follow an asynchronous format. Enrollees enjoy access to virtual library resources and academic advising. Admission requires an application, transcripts, and any program-directed criteria.
Online degrees include a bachelor's completion track in business administration. This program enrolls students with 60 college credits. Enrollees can choose an optional concentration in healthcare administration or sports management.
Graduate students can earn master's degrees and graduate certificates in fields like education, integrative health, technology, and theology.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Kean University
Union, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $389
Undergrad, out of state | $389
Graduate, in state | $784
Graduate, out of state | $784
Kean's distance learning division, Kean Online, offers bachelor's and master's degrees and post-master's certificates. Fields of study include accounting, management, criminal justice, and educational administration. Undecided first-year students can enroll in general studies online.
Learning is asynchronous with 24/7 tutoring, advising, and career services. Applicants can attend a virtual information session and meet with an online admissions counselor. Applicants submit an online application and self-reported academic record. Kean accepts up to 92 transfer credits.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Caldwell University
Caldwell, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Graduate, in state | $500-$725
Graduate, out of state | $500-$725
Caldwell University's accelerated, self-paced online programs include master's degrees in accounting, business, and education. The school's online nursing master's focuses on population health. Certification preparation programs include a post-baccalaureate English as a second language and post-master's principal and supervisor.
Student support includes advising, tutoring, financial aid, and online library resources.
Most programs require an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 GPA. Education administration requires teaching experience and certification. Nursing students need a current nursing license.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
How Much Is Online College in New Jersey?
Online college programs are usually cheaper than on-campus programs. The average tuition in New Jersey for public four-year colleges was about $14,000 in 2021. For private colleges, tuition and fees jump to around $38,500.
That means over four years, you could spend anywhere from $55,000 to $155,000 earning your undergraduate degree. Keep in mind there are other costs besides tuition and fees, including living expenses, books, and transportation.
As shown below, the costs for online college can be even more expensive for out-of-state students as some schools charge higher rates for non-New Jersey residents. Be sure to check the policies for each college you're considering — some waive out-of-state fees for online students.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public, Four-Year (In-state) | $14,184 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) | $28,682 |
| Private, Four-Year | $38,586 |
Top 5 Most Popular Bachelor's Degrees in New Jersey
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the most popular bachelor's degrees in New Jersey include business, psychology, and the humanities. Some of these are also among the most popular majors nationwide.
Note: We excluded Other Fields
from consideration, as NCES reports more than 25 different degrees and fields within this category.
1. Business
There were 9,404 business degrees conferred in 2021 by New Jersey colleges, making it the most popular degree in the state. According to the NCES, the field of business includes business management, marketing, related support services, and personal and culinary services.
Business programs teach fundamental business principles and practices to efficiently prepare graduates to run companies. Earning a degree in business administration can open many lucrative career opportunities, from financial consulting to business management or entrepreneurship.
2. Humanities
In 2021, New Jersey universities conferred 6,707 humanities degrees. The humanities is a broad field encompassing many degrees, including gender studies, English, liberal arts and sciences, general studies, and religious studies.
A humanities degree can qualify you for a variety of diverse careers, including teaching, writing, and even graphic design. The most popular online humanities degrees include philosophy, art history, foreign languages, English, and religious studies.
3. Natural Sciences and Mathematics
The natural sciences and mathematics fields include biological and biomedical sciences, physical sciences, science technologies, technicians, mathematics, and statistics. In 2021, New Jersey's four-year schools conferred 4,667 biological sciences and mathematics degrees.
If you're planning to pursue a career in a STEM-related field, you may consider earning your undergraduate degree in mathematics or the natural sciences. With an advanced degree in these fields, you could pursue a career as a biologist, mathematician, statistician, or data scientist.
4. Health and Healthcare Professions
New Jersey universities conferred 4,516 degrees in health professions and related programs in 2021, making it the fourth most popular degree conferred. Popular online healthcare degrees include nursing, public health, and health informatics.
Careers in healthcare also include physician's assistants, healthcare administration, public health, sports medicine, and dentistry. You can also pursue a master's in healthcare or continue medical school to further your career.
5. Psychology
New Jersey's four-year colleges and universities conferred 3,604 psychology degrees in 2021. Psychology studies the human mind and behavior as applied to various fields, from education to business and marketing.
Online psychology degrees can lead to careers in various fields, from jobs in social work and counseling to roles in business and marketing. Other jobs you can get with a psychology degree include case worker, market research analyst, public relations manager, real estate agent, community worker, and research assistant.
10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in New Jersey That Require a Bachelor's Degree
New Jersey's growing labor market makes it a fine state to start your career in. The ten fastest-growing jobs that require a bachelor's degree range from software developers and quality assurance analysts to architects and convention planners.
Earning a degree, especially in fields with strong demand, can set you for a career with a stable income and opportunities for growth. Median salaries for these fast-growing careers in New Jersey range from $49,710 for mental health counselors to $124,200 for software developers.
Note: This table only includes occupations that require a bachelor's degree and had estimated employment numbers of at least 1,500 positions in 2020.
| Job | Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Median Annual Wage (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analysts | 22.4% | $112,000 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 21.1% | $85,720 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | 19.1% | $68,230 |
| Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors | 18.3% | $49,710 |
| Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers | 16.6% | $124,200 |
| Coaches and Scouts | 14.1% | $44,890 |
| Management Analysts | 12.7% | $95,290 |
| Registered Nurses | 11.3% | $81,220 |
| Architects | 11.2% | $82,840 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners | 11% | $52,560 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in New Jersey
What is the easiest online college to get into in New Jersey?
The easiest public college in New Jersey to get into is William Paterson University of New Jersey, which has a 92% admission rate. It offers various 100% online undergraduate and graduate degrees from accounting to UX research.
The easiest private college to get into is Centenary University, which has a 97% admission rate.
Do I need to live in New Jersey to attend an online college in New Jersey?
No, you don't need to live in New Jersey to attend an online college in New Jersey. However, some colleges charge online out-of-state students more than in-state students. Be sure to check each of your prospective online colleges, as you may have to pay an additional out-of-state fee.
What is the cheapest online college in New Jersey?
Kean University and William Paterson University of New Jersey are the cheapest online colleges in New Jersey, with a student population of at least 1,000. Kean University's annual net price is $10,747, or $512 per credit for part-time students.
William Paterson University of New Jersey has an annual net price of $12,967, or $360 per credit, making it an attractive option for part-time students.
