New Jersey has long been familiar with online education opportunities. Rutgers' Center for Online and Hybrid Learning began providing online degree program options as far back as 1996. The Department of Higher Education supports the advancement of online education and encourages students to refer to their website when selecting a program or course of study.
Since 1996, institutions like the The New Jersey Virtual Academy Charter School and the New Jersey Virtual School have been providing K-12 students the option to take courses or recover credits through distance education. As of 2013, more than 618,000 students were enrolled in New Jersey's 162 post secondary schools.
Similar to many states, New Jersey has undergone an increase in both tuition and enrollment in recent years. New Jersey saw a tuition increase of 29% and an enrollment rate increase of 16.7% within just five years. Unfortunately for students, total state appropriations have only increased a meager 1.2% during the same timespan, indicating an increased need for financial aid and loan options. Despite this growing financial hardship, first year retention rate for New Jersey is 84.3% and the graduation rate is 67%.
Explore our comprehensive database to find out more about online degree programs offered through New Jersey's higher education institutions and check out the State Fact page to learn about scholarship, financial aid and loan options to help alleviate the cost of your post secondary education.
Featured Online Programs
54 Colleges in New Jersey
Additional Resources
Official State Links
College Savings
- New Jersey Best Savings Plan: This 529 plan is open only to investors or beneficiaries who live in New Jersey. The program is managed and invested by Franklin Templeton Distributors, with a $25 minimum investment required to start. Contributions may be made until account balance reaches $305,000.
- Franklin Templeton 529 savings Plan: This plan is available from a financial advisor only. The program and investment are managed by Franklin Templeton Distributors. Individuals, trusts, and corporations may invest in the plan; a $250 initial contribution is required to open the account.
Education Nonprofits
- New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund: This organization supports opportunities for college admission and financing for the economically and educationally disadvantaged. They provide a comprehensive approach that includes financial assistance for ancillary expenses and campus-based outreach and support.
- New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESSA): The HESSA offers information about, and assistance with, financial aid and scholarships. It targets assistance to New Jersey students and families.
Higher Education News
- State of New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education: Right on the homepage, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education provides links to the latest news for higher ed in the state.
- NJ.com: A news roundup from the entire state of New Jersey, curated for education issues.