Top 3 Machine Learning Programs in New Jersey 2025
Princeton University
201 machine learning graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
Stevens Institute of Technology
233 machine learning graduates annually, 74% graduation rate
Rowan University
62 machine learning graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
- 1.New Jersey offers 14+ accredited machine learning programs across public and private universities
- 2.Princeton University leads with 96% graduation rate
- 3.New Jersey software developers earn median $122,800 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Jersey City, Newark, Princeton
- 5.Cost of living index: 114.5% of US average (above average)
Machine Learning Education in New Jersey: Overview
New Jersey offers 14 accredited machine learning programs, producing approximately 655 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Jersey City, Newark, Princeton, with major employers including Johnson & Johnson, Prudential, Merck.
With a median software developer salary of $122,800 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 114.5% compared to the US average, New Jersey offers competitive salaries that offset the higher cost of living.
The top machine learning programs in the state are led by Princeton University, Stevens Institute of Technology, Rowan University, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 14 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Machine Learning degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
New Jersey-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
New Jersey Machine Learning Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Princeton University | Princeton, NJ | Private | $59,710 | 96% | 97.1 |
| 2 | Stevens Institute of Technology | Hoboken, NJ | Private | $58,680 | 74% | 85.9 |
| 3 | Rowan University | Glassboro, NJ | Public | $11,250 | 97% | 66.7 |
| 4 | Drew University | Madison, NJ | Private | $44,260 | 92% | 55.7 |
| 5 | Seton Hall University | South Orange, NJ | Private | $48,670 | 93% | 50.3 |
| 6 | Stockton University | Galloway, NJ | Public | $12,996 | โ | 47 |
| 7 | New Jersey Institute of Technology | Newark, NJ | Public | $15,616 | 66% | 45.9 |
| 8 | Felician University | Lodi, NJ | Private | $35,180 | 88% | 45.7 |
| 9 | Caldwell University | Caldwell, NJ | Private | $37,352 | โ | 44.6 |
| 10 | Montclair State University | Montclair, NJ | Public | $13,710 | 75% | 44.2 |
| 11 | Rider University | Lawrenceville, NJ | Private | $37,700 | โ | 43.5 |
| 12 | Bloomfield College | Bloomfield, NJ | Private | $30,680 | โ | 42 |
| 13 | Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus | Madison, NJ | Private | $37,346 | โ | 39.8 |
| 14 | Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus | Teaneck, NJ | Private | $36,526 | โ | 38.7 |
Top 5 Machine Learning Programs in New Jersey: Side-by-Side
| School | Princeton | Stevens Institute of... | Rowan | Drew | Seton Hall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $59,710 | $58,680 | $11,250 | $44,260 | $48,670 |
| Graduation Rate | 96% | 74% | 97% | 92% | 93% |
| Annual Graduates | 201 | 233 | 62 | 18 | 7 |
| Acceptance Rate | 4% | 43% | 78% | 69% | 79% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Private | Private |
| Score | 97.1/100 | 85.9/100 | 66.7/100 | 55.7/100 | 50.3/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Machine Learning in New Jersey
New Jersey offers 10 bachelor's-level machine learning programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Princeton University, Stevens Institute of Technology, Drew University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $85,960 in the New Jersey market.
A bachelor's in machine learning typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Machine Learning Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Machine Learning Bachelor's Programs in New Jersey
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Princeton | $59,710 | 96% | 201 | 97.1 |
| #2 Stevens Institute of... | $58,680 | 74% | 233 | 85.9 |
| #3 Drew | $44,260 | 92% | 18 | 55.7 |
Top Machine Learning Schools for Master's Degrees in New Jersey
For graduate study, New Jersey offers 8 master's-level machine learning programs. Leading institutions include Stevens Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Rowan University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in New Jersey reaching $159,640 or more.
Top 3 Machine Learning Master's Programs in New Jersey
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Stevens Institute of... | $58,680 | 74% | 821 | 85.9 |
| #2 Princeton | $59,710 | 96% | 83 | 74.7 |
| #3 Rowan | $11,250 | 97% | 62 | 66.7 |
Most Affordable Machine Learning Colleges in New Jersey
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable machine learning programs in New Jersey are at Rowan University ($11,250/year), Stockton University ($12,996/year), Montclair State University ($13,710/year). These programs offer strong ROI given New Jersey's competitive tech salaries.
At Rowan University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $45,000 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $85,960, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.9 years. See our Most Affordable Machine Learning Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Machine Learning Programs in New Jersey (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Rowan | $11,250 | $45,000 | 0.9 years | Public |
| #2 Stockton | $12,996 | $51,984 | 1 years | Public |
| #3 Montclair State | $13,710 | $54,840 | 1.1 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Machine Learning Schools in New Jersey
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 machine learning programs in New Jersey, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Princeton University
Princeton, NJ โข Private
Program Highlights
- โข Annual Tuition: $59,710 (in-state)
- โข Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- โข Machine Learning Graduates: 201 annually
- โข Acceptance Rate: 4%
- โข Ranking Score: 97.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 201 machine learning graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 97.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (201 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,800), and selectivity (4% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Princeton offers both undergraduate concentrations in Data and Information with machine learning courses and a graduate certificate program through the Center for Statistics and Machine Learning. The program balances technical rigor with curricular flexibility and requires rigorous research components for advanced students.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- โขhigh-school mathematics through calculus
- โขhigh-school physics
- โขhigh-school chemistry
Admissions
- Min GPA: B+ (3.3) or better for certificate coursework
Program Details
- Credits: 36 courses for four-year BSE program, 28 courses for three-year advanced standing
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, NJ โข Private
Program Highlights
- โข Annual Tuition: $58,680 (in-state)
- โข Graduation Rate: 74% (IPEDS 2023)
- โข Machine Learning Graduates: 233 annually
- โข Acceptance Rate: 43%
- โข Ranking Score: 85.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 74% graduation rate
- 233 machine learning graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 85.9 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (74%), program size (233 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,800), and selectivity (43% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Stevens offers both undergraduate AI and graduate machine learning programs with hands-on learning experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional career outcomes including $121,000 average salary for machine learning graduates. The programs combine strong theoretical foundations with practical applications and real-world capstone projects.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.000
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $121,000
- Job Placement: over 97% within six months of graduation
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ โข Public
Program Highlights
- โข Annual Tuition: $11,250 (in-state)
- โข Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- โข Machine Learning Graduates: 62 annually
- โข Acceptance Rate: 78%
- โข Ranking Score: 66.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 62 machine learning graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.7 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (62 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,800), and selectivity (78% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Rowan University offers multiple machine learning pathways including a comprehensive M.S. in Data Science with strong foundations in data mining, modeling, statistical and machine learning, plus an undergraduate certificate in Applied Machine Learning that provides practical hands-on experience through project components and real-world clinic experiences.
Admission Prerequisites
- โขCalculus II
- โขProbability and Statistical Inference for Computing Systems
- โขLinear Algebra
- โขIntroduction to Object-Oriented Programming or Computer Science and Programming
- โขData Structures and Algorithms or Data Structures for Engineers
Program Details
- Credits: 30 graduate semester hours
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Drew University
Madison, NJ โข Private
Program Highlights
- โข Annual Tuition: $44,260 (in-state)
- โข Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- โข Machine Learning Graduates: 18 annually
- โข Acceptance Rate: 69%
- โข Ranking Score: 55.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 18 machine learning graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 55.7 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (18 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,800), and selectivity (69% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ โข Private
Program Highlights
- โข Annual Tuition: $48,670 (in-state)
- โข Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- โข Machine Learning Graduates: 7 annually
- โข Acceptance Rate: 79%
- โข Ranking Score: 50.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 7 machine learning graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 50.3 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (7 graduates), state salary outcomes ($122,800), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Seton Hall offers a comprehensive 35-credit program combining financial technology with machine learning and AI applications. The program features specialized tracks in data science or business analytics with practical courses in algorithmic trading, blockchain, and financial AI.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- โขCalculus 1
- โขLinear Algebra
- โขStatistics
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.2
Program Details
- Credits: 35 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Jersey with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Jersey with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Jersey with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Jersey with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Jersey with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Jersey City, Newark, Princeton
- You're seeking competitive salaries ($122,800 median)
- You want to work at companies like Johnson & Johnson or Prudential
- You prefer New Jersey's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs New Jersey's 14)
- You're looking for lower cost of living (consider TX, NC, GA)
Other Tech Degree Programs in New Jersey
Explore other technology degree programs available in New Jersey:
- Best Computer Science Programs in New Jersey
- Best Artificial Intelligence Programs in New Jersey
- Best Data Science Programs in New Jersey
- Best Data Analytics Programs in New Jersey
- Best Cybersecurity Programs in New Jersey
- Best Information Security Programs in New Jersey
- Best Software Engineering Programs in New Jersey
- Best Computer Engineering Programs in New Jersey
- Best Information Technology Programs in New Jersey
- Best Information Systems Programs in New Jersey
Machine Learning Programs in Other States
Compare machine learning programs across different states:
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Arizona
- Best Machine Learning Programs in California
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Colorado
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Florida
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Georgia
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Illinois
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Massachusetts
- Best Machine Learning Programs in Michigan
- Best Machine Learning Programs in New York
- Best Machine Learning Programs in North Carolina
Machine Learning in New Jersey FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - New Jersey salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.
