Universities and colleges in New Jersey are among the oldest and most prestigious in the United States. Their curriculum, access to state of the art technology, and close proximity to school districts and cities such as Philadelphia and New York make them extremely attractive to many. However, cost is also important, and below is a list of the top institutions of higher learning which also happens to be the most affordable.
Stockton University
This public university is located in Galloway, New Jersey and is highly regarded for its science facilities. In particular, its Hearing Clinic and Health Sciences Center are considered one of the top training programs in the state for those who intend to embark on a career in speech pathology. Other impressive programs include Marine Science as well as the Center for Coastal Research, which gives students many hands on lessons. This university also plans to add a new green house, laboratory, and vivarium.
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Located in Newark, NJIT has frequently been cited as a top center for technological learning and development, with a tuition cost that is much more affordable than the nearby MIT in Massachusetts. NJIT graduates have been found to maintain high incomes and due to the low ratio of students to faculty members, those who enroll in this college will work more closely with faculty than is the case at most institutions of higher learning.
Rutgers University at Camden
This institution is the result of a merger that occurred between South Jersey College and the Law School of South Jersey, and has morphed into an institution which has surpassed them both. This university has a Law program which is highly respected, but its Civic Engagement Office is its crown jewel, as it puts both students and faculty members in contact and collaboration with nonprofit organizations and governmental institutions, which opens up many opportunities.
Princeton University
The addition of Princeton on its list might surprise some, given its age and the fact that it’s an Ivy League institution. However, among the East Coast Ivy League colleges it is the most affordable, and has continued to maintain its prestige. Since 1746, when it received its charter, this university has remained at the forefront of research and to this day has one of the top graduate and undergraduate programs in the country. Although it is affordable cost wise, Princeton is still notoriously difficult to get into, with an acceptance rate of only 7 percent.
Ramapo College
Founded in Mahwah, Ramapo College is one of the best on this list for veterans of the military. This is due to its scheduling flexibility, policies regarding credit transfer for military instruction, and its relationships with veteran associations. It has an extensive study abroad system, as well as student exchange, and it has the feel of a private college with its emphasis on experimental, international and interdisciplinary educational process.
