Online Colleges in New Jersey

Advantages of Online Education for Students in New Jersey

Online learning may be a great alternative for those who don't have the time or ability to attend traditional courses at brick-and-mortar schools. Thanks to online education, working professionals can possibly earn a higher degree without sacrificing their work or family commitments. Busy parents may also find the flexible nature of online learning to be very helpful, allowing them to complete class work while their kids are asleep or otherwise occupied. Additionally, students who live far from a college campus, as well as those with learning challenges or mobility issues, might be able to complete their degree more easily when the classroom comes to them via their computer.

Many online programs also offer proficiency in various online applications, as students are often required to use chat programs, message boards and various Internet programs to communicate with peers and teachers. These skills might help bolster a resume, especially when applying at a company with a strong global presence. In addition to emphasizing telecommunication skills, online degree programs may give students the opportunity to work with instructors and classmates from around the globe.

Trends in Online Education: Public and Private Online Schools in New Jersey

New Jersey is home to 13 public four-year universities and 19 public two-year institutions of higher learning, according to "Leaders & Laggards." Many of these colleges now offer online options for students who want to pursue their degree from a distance.

For example, Rutgers University, one of the largest institutions in the state, offers both online courses and full degree programs in nursing, education, business and the arts. Montclair State University features master's degrees in child advocacy and policy, and educational leadership, as well as several individual courses for credit. Thomas Edison State College has also embraced online learning with dozens of program offerings, including an associate degree in business administration, bachelor's degree in psychology and master's degree in liberal studies.

Along with these schools, many national online universities offer degree programs to students in New Jersey. Some, such as University of Phoenix and ITT Technical Institute, even have campus locations in the state which may allow students to supplement online coursework with hands-on training sessions. Other national colleges serving New Jersey students include Berkeley College and DeVry University.

There are several resources available to those in New Jersey seeking additional information about online programs. The New Jersey Virtual Community College Consortium outlines online courses and programs at two-year colleges throughout the state, while the New Jersey Department of Education provides a searchable library of over 100 online degree programs from 22 institutions (as of February 2013).

Entry Requirements and Application Process for New Jersey Online Colleges

As with traditional degree programs, the application process varies from school to school. Prospective students should contact an admissions counselor for details on a specific online program and its entry requirements. To take the next step, request information from one of the colleges listed below.

Sources:
Leaders & Laggards
Lumina Foundation
Montclair State University
New Jersey Key Industry Cluster Fact Sheet, Department of Labor and Workforce Development
New Jersey Virtual Community College Consortium
NJ.com
Rutgers University
State of New Jersey Higher Education
Thomas Edison State College