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. 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.

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.

Featured Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

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.

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.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Featured Online Master’s Degree Programs

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.

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.

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.

Featured Online Associate Degree Programs

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.

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 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.

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 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.

Source: Distance Education State Almanac, National Center for Education Statistics, Babson Survey Research Group

Featured Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

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.