Online Schools and Colleges in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to some of the country’s most prestigious schools. Recently these institutions have begun making way for evolving learning options; the U.S. Department of Education reports that more than 45,000 students enrolled in New Jersey’s colleges and universities are pursuing their degree online./p>
With online course catalogs growing, both residents and students from out-of-state are considering New Jersey colleges as a viable option. Read on to learn about the colleges that provide the best online education in New Jersey, and get answers to questions on transfer credits, paying for an online degree and more.
Best Online Colleges in New Jersey
As distance education enrollment continues to rise, learners across the country benefit from assistance and resources on finding affordable online programs. Many colleges and universities in the Garden State offer online learning options. Distance education can be an accessible, convenient option for busy students with personal and professional obligations.
This guide provides information for students considering online schools and colleges in New Jersey. The following sections explore the state’s average tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, accreditation, and initiatives that support New Jersey learners.
Online Associate Colleges in New Jersey
Ocean County College
Toms River, NJ- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Online enrollees often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. Program participants can conduct original research and pursue internships to gain practical experience. Learners can take advantage of institutional resources, such as career services, to prepare to secure professional roles in their field.
If they demonstrate financial need, degree-seekers may qualify for federal scholarships, grants, and loans. Financial aid officers provide information about options students can use to fund their education, such as scholarships and fellowships. At the school, 59% of enrollees obtain financial aid to help cover the cost of earning a degree.
- In-State$4,170
- Out-of-state$6,750
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College at Burlington County
- Mount Laurel, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students attending Rowan College at Burlington County can choose from online and in-person academic programs. Degree-seekers can pursue in-person programs in Mount Laurel or enroll in one of the public school's two online options. The institution enrolls learners in its online programs and delivers virtual resources to foster their academic success.
Distance learners connect with fellow colleagues, faculty members, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. Along with completing field-specific classes, learners take general education courses to gain broad, transferable knowledge. Before registering for classes, students consult with academic advisors to identify course options aligning with their goals. Enrollees can also collaborate with faculty members on research projects and independently pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities relevant to their studies.
Applicants should contact the financial aid office to receive information about potential costs and funding options. Potential funding options for students include federal financial aid, institutional awards, and private scholarships.
- In-State$3,806
- Out-of-state$5,548
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,439
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Camden County College
- Blackwood, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A leader in online education, Camden County College delivers options for remote students. The school's 2,635 online enrollees can pursue two program options in a distance format. Online programs offer flexible scheduling options, which can be ideal for working professionals and other busy learners.
Through chat, email, and discussion forums, online students receive opportunities to discuss course material and connect with peers. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, help learners bolster their resume and prepare for the workforce. Career counselors connect enrollees with resources such as job boards and resume assistance. Career workshops provide opportunities for students to explore their job prospects before graduation.
Applicants who need help understanding various funding options can receive help from the institution's dedicated financial aid counselors. Enrollees often receive institutional and external funding, including scholarships and federal financial aid. Of the school's student body, 68% of degree-seekers qualify for some form of financial aid.
- In-State$3,330
- Out-of-state$3,330
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,735
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Atlantic Cape Community College
- Mays Landing, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Atlantic Cape Community College delivers high-quality, flexible online programs. Students in many fields of study can find suitable options in the school's six online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 2,087 study in an online format.
Online students can work with peers on group projects. With virtual communication tools, such as videoconferencing and chat, participants can develop their network and connect with classmates. Online students can pursue internship opportunities at facilities near their home. Institutional resources including online academic advising to help distance learners select classes that match their professional goals. Job fairs provide opportunities for enrollees to explore professional options and meet prospective employers.
Students can pursue financial aid to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Learners can also apply for merit-based scholarships and fellowships from private organizations. The institution reports that 73% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
- In-State$5,796
- Out-of-state$7,296
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,048
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Brookdale Community College
- Lincroft, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
With exceptional flexibility for busy learners, Brookdale Community College's online programs are ideal for working professionals. With a main campus in Lincroft, the school's academic offerings include two online programs. The institution's student body includes 2,018 online enrollees.
Learners benefit from a supportive online learning community. While earning their degree, participants can use virtual communication tools to network with classmates. Students can pursue internships and research projects to enhance their resume while completing their program. The institution provides virtual resources, such as academic advising, tutoring, and digital library materials. Enrollees can participate in mock interviews to prepare for the job application process.
Students with financial need often qualify for federal funding. In addition to need-based funding, learners can apply for merit-based awards from the school and third-party organizations. To defray the cost of their education, 47% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.
- In-State$7,605
- Out-of-state$8,355
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,489
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I’m Looking for in New Jersey?
With so many online schools and colleges in New Jersey, researching program options can feel overwhelming. Prospective learners should select their field of study and then narrow down prospective institutions based on criteria including costs and program availability.
Learners can use online resources to locate online programs that meet their needs. You can click the icon below to learn about online schools and colleges in New Jersey.
How Much More Do College Grads in New Jersey Make?
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the U.S. Census Bureau indicate a strong correlation between educational attainment and earning power. The table below shows that nationwide median annual salaries increase with each level of education. Figures compiled by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development illustrate the same trend for professionals in the state.
| Less Than a High School Diploma | High School Diploma | Associate Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
| Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree | Doctoral Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Paying for Online College in New Jersey: Tuition and Financial Aid
As the tables below indicate, average tuition rates in New Jersey exceed the national averages for both public colleges and private universities. Learners interested in attending online schools and colleges in New Jersey can reduce the financial burden of earning a degree by applying for scholarships and grants.
This section examines several cost considerations specific to online learners and explores funding opportunities for New Jersey students.
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $13,633 | $28,649 | $9,037 (In-State), $25,657 (Out-of-State) |
| Tuition | Out-of-State-Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $36,589 | N/A | $30,731 |
Cost Considerations for Online Students in New Jersey
The figures above do not include expenses such as room and board, transportation, and program fees. Below are additional costs learners should consider when budgeting to attend online schools and colleges in New Jersey.
- 1
Technology Fees
Most schools charge distance students per-semester or per-course technology fees, which cover costs such as technical support and online learning platforms.
- 2
Required Travel
Some online programs include on-campus requirements, such as orientation sessions. To fulfill these requirements, students may incur costs associated with transportation and housing.
- 3
Accelerated Course Rates
Many online learners enroll in intensive or accelerated courses, which can reduce degree completion time but often cost higher tuition rates.
- 4
Books and Course Materials
Online students must typically purchase digital or physical textbooks and access to additional course materials.
- 5
Out-of-State Tuition Agreements
Many schools maintain tuition agreements that can defray tuition costs for qualifying out-of-state learners. Prospective students should research these options before choosing a school.
Qualifying for In-State Tuition in New Jersey
Most online schools and colleges in New Jersey adhere to the New Jersey Administrative Code, which stipulates that in order to qualify as a resident, degree-seekers must be domiciled within the state for at least one year prior to enrollment.
The requirements to qualify for in-state tuition rates vary by state and institution, and some institutions charge all online learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency. Learners should consult prospective schools to determine whether they will qualify for in-state tuition rates.
Paying for College in New Jersey: Scholarships and Financial Aid
Students attending online schools and colleges in New Jersey can apply for scholarships and grants to fund their education. The opportunities below are available to New Jersey residents who meet eligibility criteria. Learners can also apply for aid from their institution.
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in New Jersey
Accreditation is an independent process that demonstrates that a higher education institution or program meets set standards of quality and excellence. Attending an accredited school ensures that employers and other institutions will recognize your degree.
Learners should ensure that each prospective institution holds proper accreditation. The sections below explore the types of accreditation in the United States and methods for determining whether online schools and colleges in New Jersey possess accreditation.
Regional and National Accreditation
Independent bodies formally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) administer regional and national accreditation in the United States. Regional accreditation, the more rigorous and reputable form, is typically reserved for nonprofit, academic-oriented institutions. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education administers regional accreditation throughout New Jersey.
Technical, vocational, and for-profit institutions generally receive national accreditation. Credits and degrees earned from nationally accredited schools do not typically transfer to regionally accredited institutions.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Subject-specific or programmatic accreditation provides additional credentialing for programs offered by institutions that hold regional or national accreditation. Subject-specific accreditation demonstrates that a program prepares learners to succeed in the field. Programmatic accrediting agencies include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, and the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Learners should carefully research the accreditation status of each prospective school. Typically, accredited online schools and colleges in New Jersey prominently display their accreditation credentials on their website. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education maintains a comprehensive directory of regionally accredited schools in the state. Students can also search the ED database and the CHEA directory, which include all recognized national and programmatic accreditation agencies.
Online College and Adult Education in New Jersey
Online schools and colleges in New Jersey offer flexible learning options that can help adult learners pursue their degree. This section explores online education in the Garden State and discusses programs and initiatives for adult learners.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in New Jersey
In 2015, about 20% of New Jersey students were enrolled in at least one online class.
Online enrollment continues to rise. Online enrollment increased 33% from 2016 to 2017.
According to a 2018 report, more than half of all students pursuing online education reside in the same state as their institution.
Source: Distance Education State Almanac, National Center for Education Statistics, Babson Survey Research Group
Adult Education Programs for New Jersey Students
NJ Transfer
This program helps learners transfer community college credits to four-year institutions in New Jersey. Learners can attend transfer events and access course-equivalency guides.New Jersey Career Connections
Sponsored in part by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, this program helps graduates transition to the workforce.New Jersey Adult Education
This program offers education preparation resources to adult learners throughout New Jersey. Residents can access GED preparation courses and practice tests.
Online College Resources for New Jersey Students
Students in online schools and colleges in New Jersey can take advantage of online tools and resources. The resources below provide information for distance learners and help prepare students to succeed in the workforce.
New Jersey Center for Teaching and Learning
Based in Mahwah, New Jersey, this organization supports learners and educators in STEM fields. NJCTL aggregates news, disseminates research, and promotes innovative teaching methods.NJ Edge
This nonprofit technology partner offers innovative, adaptive networking and information technology solutions. Edge hosts events, offers employment resources, and connects online students with learning tools.Virtual Academic Library Environment of New Jersey
This consortium connects university libraries throughout the state. VALE maintains media libraries and open education resources for distance learners.New Jersey Next Stop
This resource helps learners prepare for career success through professional development opportunities. Participants can attend skills clinics and job fairs.New Jersey Higher Education Partnership for Sustainability
NJHEPS promotes sustainability in higher education through advocacy, activism, and community development. The organization hosts local events, offers a newsletter, and engages in education-related projects.
