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Rowan College of South Jersey-Gloucester Campus
Sewell, NJPublic
$4,620
Tuition/yr
39%
Grad rate
77.1
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
New Jersey CS graduates earn a $122,800 median salary, ranking among the top 10 highest-paying states for computer science
Proximity to New York City and a heavy concentration of pharma, finance, and tech headquarters drive demand, Goldman Sachs, Prudential, Audible, and Bristol-Myers Squibb all hire in-state
Rutgers University-New Brunswick ranks #1 with an 82% graduation rate, dual CAE-CDE and CAE-R designations, and $13,674/yr in-state tuition
Princeton University (#2, 96% grad rate) is one of the top CS programs nationally, while Stevens Institute of Technology (#3) in Hoboken offers strong industry connections to NYC
Camden County College offers the most affordable associate's CS at $2,856/yr, with 12 two-year programs providing transfer pathways statewide
Hudson County Community College ($7,440/yr) ranks highest among associate's programs and is located directly across the river from Manhattan's tech employers
38 accredited CS institutions make New Jersey one of the most program-dense states, with 13 master's and 4 doctoral programs for advanced study
6 online CS programs provide flexible options, and the state's compact geography means most residents are within commuting distance of multiple campuses
Employer diversity spans pharma (Merck, Bristol-Myers Squibb), finance (Goldman Sachs, Prudential), and tech (Audible, Panasonic, Siemens)
Jersey City, Newark, and the Princeton corridor each offer distinct employer ecosystems, reducing geographic concentration risk for job seekers
Hakia Research 2026
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked New Jersey Computer Science programs
We rank 54 accredited computer science programs in New Jersey using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Science Degree Programs in New Jersey Worth It?
Answer
$122,800
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in New Jersey deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $122,800 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $21,608/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in New Jersey
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in New Jersey by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in New Jersey
4
Programs ranked
$7,685
Avg tuition/yr
38%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New Jersey offers 12 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Hudson County Community C..., Brookdale Community College, Passaic County Community ..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in New Jersey offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $6,400/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $67,540 in New Jersey.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with New Jersey's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Jersey City, Newark, Princeton areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer science schools in New Jersey, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in New Jersey.
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UCNJ Union College of Union County, New Jersey
Cranford, NJPublic
$9,500
Tuition/yr
35%
Grad rate
76.5
Hakia Score
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in New Jersey
10
Programs ranked
$33,495
Avg tuition/yr
67%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New Jersey ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 25 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 12 public and 13 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Rutgers University-New Br..., Princeton, Stevens Institute of Tech..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from New Jersey computer science programs earn a median salary of $104,380, 6% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Jersey City, Newark, Princeton metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $11,135 to $59,710 annually, with an average of $28,416/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to New Jersey's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in New Jersey, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$62,400
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad rate
95.0
Hakia Score
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Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJPrivate nonprofit
Stevens Institute of Technology: Governor Chris Christie Campus Visit Highlights$61,028
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
90.7
Hakia Score
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$16,334
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
83.5
Hakia Score
Show all 10 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Stockton University | Galloway, NJ | Public | $13,606 | 69% | 74.0 |
| #7 | Rider University | Lawrenceville, NJ | Private nonprofit | $39,700 | 61% | 73.9 |
| #8 | Caldwell University | Caldwell, NJ | Private nonprofit | $38,470 | 57% | 73.1 |
| #9 | Bloomfield College of Montclair State University | Bloomfield, NJ | Public | $14,790 | 38% | 66.1 |
| #10 | Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus | Teaneck, NJ | Private nonprofit | $35,830 | 53% | 65.4 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in New Jersey
7
Programs ranked
$37,177
Avg tuition/yr
70%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New Jersey offers 13 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Stevens Institute of Tech..., Princeton, Rutgers University-New Br..., combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in New Jersey earn a median salary of $122,800, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Jersey City, Newark, Princeton creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $29,576/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among New Jersey's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$62,400
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad rate
91.4
Hakia Score
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Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJPrivate nonprofit
Stevens Institute of Technology: Governor Chris Christie Campus Visit Highlights$61,028
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
87.2
Hakia Score
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$16,334
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
78.7
Hakia Score
#4
$11,812
Tuition/yr
67%
Grad rate
76.8
Hakia Score
#5
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Madison, NJPrivate nonprofit
$36,288
Tuition/yr
67%
Grad rate
63.2
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus | Teaneck, NJ | Private nonprofit | $35,830 | 53% | 62.8 |
| #7 | Felician University | Lodi, NJ | Private nonprofit | $36,550 | 47% | 57.0 |
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in New Jersey
2
Programs ranked
$61,714
Avg tuition/yr
93%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
New Jersey is home to 4 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Princeton, Rutgers University-New Br..., New Jersey Institute of T... are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with New Jersey PhD holders earning a median of $153,500, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Jersey City, Newark, Princeton region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across New Jersey programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in New Jersey, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
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Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJPrivate nonprofit
$61,028
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad rate
80.2
Hakia Score
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in New Jersey
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $21,608/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $54,020/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,402/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $129,648 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $32,412 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in New Jersey
State Aid Programs
The Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) is New Jersey's cornerstone state financial aid program, administered by the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA). TAG awards range from $2,176 to $14,404 per academic year based on financial need, institution type, and actual tuition charges (HESAA TAG). To qualify, students must be New Jersey residents for at least 12 consecutive months, maintain full-time enrollment at an approved institution, demonstrate financial need via FAFSA, and maintain satisfactory academic progress. TAG is a grant, not a loan, so it doesn't need to be repaid. Combined with federal Pell Grants of up to $7,395, qualifying students can significantly reduce or eliminate tuition costs at public institutions.
Key Programs & Amounts
Key financial aid programs and deadlines:
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 maximum (apply via FAFSA at studentaid.gov)
- NJ TAG (Tuition Aid Grant): $2,176-$14,404/year based on need and institution type (FAFSA required)
- NJ EOF (Educational Opportunity Fund): Grants and support services for students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds
- NJ STARS: Top 15% of NJ high school graduates receive free community college tuition, and NJ STARS II extends support for transfer to four-year institutions
- FAFSA Priority Deadlines: Submit early. NJ state aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis once funds are allocated
- Institutional Merit Scholarships: Rutgers, NJIT, Stevens, and TCNJ offer significant merit-based awards for strong academic profiles Students who file FAFSA early maximize their state aid eligibility. NJ state aid funds are limited and deplete throughout the cycle (HESAA).
Institutional Scholarships
Institutional and external scholarships provide additional support.
NJIT's computing college offers departmental scholarships for women in computing and underrepresented minorities. Rutgers provides research scholarships and computing-specific awards through the School of Arts and Sciences. Stevens Institute offers substantial merit packages that can reduce the private university cost significantly. The NJEDA's innovation ecosystem creates scholarship and fellowship opportunities through Strategic Innovation Centers. Professional organizations like ACM and IEEE Computer Society offer computing-specific national awards. Apply early, many NJ schools have priority scholarship deadlines in November-December. CS students may also qualify for STEM-specific federal scholarships and private foundation awards. Explore affordable programs for additional cost-saving options.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, New Jersey
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in New Jersey. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1116%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$2,064,777
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$94,118
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,100,185
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (New York City, NY)$160,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.6%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in New Jersey metro areas
Jersey City$135K
Newark$129K
Princeton$123K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Jersey City | $135K |
| Newark | $129K |
| Princeton | $123K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in New Jersey
Find computer science jobs in New Jersey. These major employers across New Jersey metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Jersey City
NJGoldman Sachs
finance
Verisk Analytics
data
Forbes
media
Computer Science Jobs in Newark
NJPrudential Financial
finance
Panasonic
electronics
Audible
tech
Computer Science Jobs in Princeton
NJNRG Energy
energy
Bristol-Myers Squibb
pharma
Siemens
engineering
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in New Jersey
State Transfer System
New Jersey has a comprehensive statewide transfer system connecting its 19 community colleges to four-year public institutions. Under the State-Wide Transfer Agreement, students who complete an Associate in Arts (AA) or Associate in Science (AS) degree at any New Jersey community college receive guaranteed junior standing at all public four-year institutions (NJ Transfer). The NJ Transfer website (njtransfer.org) provides a course equivalency database that lets students verify exactly how each community college course maps to requirements at receiving institutions, preventing the credit loss that plagues transfer students nationally.
How Transfers Work
Guaranteed admission partnerships expand transfer options beyond the state law.
Individual community colleges have negotiated direct admission agreements with four-year schools. NJIT maintains transfer agreements with all 19 community colleges, providing guaranteed admission for students meeting GPA requirements. Mercer County Community College offers a Guaranteed Transfer Admission program with multiple four-year partners. Bergen Community College, the state's largest community college, provides structured 2+2 pathways for CS students transferring to Rutgers, NJIT, and other universities. Hudson County Community College connects students to NJCU through guaranteed admission with scholarships. These partnerships mean students can plan their entire four-year pathway from day one of community college.
Transfer Planning Tips
Strategic transfer planning for CS students:
- 1Complete foundational coursework: Finish calculus, introductory programming (CS I and CS II), discrete mathematics, and physics at community college
- 2Earn the AS degree: Complete the Associate in Science to guarantee junior standing at public universities
- 3Verify equivalencies early: Use NJ Transfer's course equivalency tool to confirm courses count toward your CS major
- 4Maintain strong GPA: Target 3.0+ for competitive admission to Rutgers and NJIT engineering programs
- 5Meet priority deadlines: Most universities have February-March deadlines for fall transfer
- 6Consider structured tracks: Many community colleges offer AS degrees specifically designed for CS transfer Students completing two years at community college save significantly. NJ community college tuition averages approximately $7,618 per year for in-state students versus $19,974 at NJIT or more at Rutgers. Compare options with our most affordable CS programs.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in New Jersey?
Industry & Workforce
New Jersey is rapidly emerging as the East Coast's premier technology corridor, powered by a convergence of AI innovation, data center expansion, and pharmaceutical computing. The state launched the NJ AI Hub at Princeton University in March 2025, with founding partners Microsoft and CoreWeave investing over $72 million alongside up to $25 million from the NJEDA (Princeton NJ AI Hub, NJ Governor Office). New Jersey ranks as a top-5 data center market nationally, with Nebius building a 300 MW facility in Vineland and CoreWeave expanding operations in Kenilworth (JLL NJ Data Center Report). The NJEDA's 12 Strategic Innovation Centers are projected to generate over $17 billion in economic output and support 28,000 jobs over a decade (NJEDA).
Salary Outlook
The salary outlook is exceptionally strong.
Software developers in New Jersey earn a median salary of approximately $127,500 per year, with Glassdoor reporting an average of $141,105 (Glassdoor, BLS OEWS May 2024). Jersey City software engineers average $144,626, reflecting the premium employers pay in the NYC metro corridor. ZipRecruiter data shows the range spanning $113,000 to $146,000 depending on specialization (ZipRecruiter). With the BLS projecting 15% job growth for software developers through 2034, demand far outpaces the national average for all occupations.
Regional Tech Hubs
New Jersey's unique industry mix creates diverse career paths for CS graduates. The state hosts more pharmaceutical headquarters than any other, with Merck, Novartis, Johnson & Johnson, and Novo Nordisk all requiring computing talent for drug discovery, bioinformatics, and clinical data systems. The financial services corridor, anchored by Goldman Sachs, Prudential, and Audible in Jersey City and Newark, drives demand for fintech engineers. Edge Works at SciTech Scity in Jersey City focuses on digital health and medtech startups, while Samsung and Panasonic maintain major technology operations in the state. Compare programs in New York or Pennsylvania, or explore our national CS rankings.
Computer Science Program Availability in New Jersey
38 Programs
New Jersey offers 38 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Jersey City, Newark, Princeton.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in New Jersey
Employment Outlook
New Jersey benefits from the nation's largest metro tech employment market.
The New York-Newark-Jersey City metropolitan area ranks #1 nationally for software developer employment, and New Jersey captures a substantial share of that workforce (BLS OEWS May 2024). Jersey City alone has seen 25% tech job growth in recent years, with over 20,000 tech professionals now working in the city's waterfront office towers. The state's tech sector projects 15% growth through 2034, driven by AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and pharmaceutical technology. Major tech employers including Audible (Amazon), Panasonic, and Samsung maintain significant engineering teams in New Jersey.
Salaries by Metro
Salaries vary by metro area and specialization:
- Jersey City/Newark corridor: Software engineers average $144,626 (Glassdoor), with fintech and AI roles at Goldman Sachs, Audible, and Cognizant commanding premium compensation. Entry-level positions start around $95,000-$110,000.
- Princeton/Route 1 corridor: Technology and pharmaceutical companies including Siemens, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and NRG Energy hire software engineers at $120,000-$150,000 median ranges.
- Central/South Jersey: Growing data center operations from QTS, Equinix, and CoreSite create infrastructure engineering roles, while pharma companies in the I-95 corridor provide computational biology positions. (Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter)
High-Growth Sectors
High-growth sectors shaping New Jersey's tech future include: artificial intelligence (NJ AI Hub at Princeton with $72 million investment), data center infrastructure (top-5 market nationally with Nebius's 300 MW Vineland facility), fintech (NJ FAST at Stevens Institute graduating 13 companies raising $80 million collectively), pharmaceutical computing (NJ has the most pharma HQs in the U.S.), and cybersecurity (32% projected job growth in the NY-NJ metro). The state's graduated income tax of 1.4%-10.75% and proximity to New York City create a cost-benefit balance that attracts both employers and talent. For related career paths, explore our AI degree programs, cybersecurity rankings, or data science programs.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in New Jersey$79,820$178,060
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in New Jersey
Online Programs
6 available in New Jersey
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$19,447/yr$21,608/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 128
- Median Tuition
- $31,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Delaware
- Total Programs
- 6
- Median Tuition
- $13,200
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $40,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Computer Science Degree Programs in New Jersey: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in New Jersey?
The best computer science degree programs in New Jersey based on our methodology are: 1) Rutgers University-New Brunswick (82% graduation rate), 2) Princeton University, and 3) Stevens Institute of Technology. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). New Jersey offers 38 total accredited programs across 24 public and 14 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 25 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in New Jersey?
Computer Science degree program costs in New Jersey vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $21,608/year, while private institutions average $47,538/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,402/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $86,432 at public schools to $190,150 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in New Jersey?
Computer Science professionals in New Jersey earn a median salary of $122,800, which is 6% above the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $79,820, while senior roles exceed $178,060. Salaries vary by metro area: Jersey City ($135,080), Newark ($128,940) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer science degree programs in New Jersey?
Yes, New Jersey offers 6 accredited online Computer Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Monmouth University and Rider University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in New Jersey?
Major Computer Science employers in New Jersey include Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck, Verizon, AT&T. The Jersey City and Newark metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from New Jersey universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. New Jersey's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in New Jersey?
A computer science degree program in New Jersey offers strong ROI with a $122,800 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $21,608/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($138,764), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer science degree programs take in New Jersey?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in New Jersey are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. New Jersey community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a New Jersey university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in New Jersey?
New Jersey computer science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. New Jersey state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by New Jersey's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
New Jersey salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.