Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Rutgers University-New Brunswick is a public university in New Brunswick, NJ ranked #128 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A, enrolling about 37,751 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 58.1%. Students most often pursue Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering and Computer and Information Sciences.
Academically, students benefit from a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, 93.0% first-year retention, and 83.6% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $24,406, about $7,408 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -37.2%, roughly 122.5 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $61,263. That's about $17,575 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Rutgers University-New Brunswick Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates 83.6% of students within six years and keeps 93.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Rutgers University-New Brunswick's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $17,929 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,418 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $15,714 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,458 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $36,993 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 27.9% of Rutgers University-New Brunswick students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $16,343 to $35,016 depending on family income. Use Rutgers University-New Brunswick's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $25,106/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $35,016/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $61,263
- 10-Year Median Earnings $61,263
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $19,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 69.7%
- Employment Rate 85.4%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Rutgers University-New Brunswick's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Rutgers University-New Brunswick's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates earn $61,263 median, the -37.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 650-730
- SAT Math 660-770
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 28-33
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 37,751
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 93.0%
- Graduation Rate 83.6%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 16:1
How to Get Into Rutgers University-New Brunswick
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Rutgers University-New Brunswick requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 58.1%, Rutgers University-New Brunswick is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 58.1% acceptance rate, Rutgers University-New Brunswick is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1310 and 1500 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Rutgers University-New Brunswick undergraduates. Computer and Information Sciences, General, Human Resources Management and Services, and Psychology, General draw the most students.
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 6.4%
- Human Resources Management and Services 6.1%
- Psychology, General 5.9%
- Biology, General 4.9%
- Information Science/Studies 4.6%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 4.3%
See more majors
- Public Health 4.3%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 4.0%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $132,440
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $131,153
- 3. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $118,513
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Engineering Science $113,516
- 5. Finance and Financial Management Services $101,309
- 6. Chemical Engineering $97,993
- 7. Information Science/Studies $97,712
- 8. Mathematics $97,521
- 9. Management Information Systems and Services $96,718
- 10. Mechanical Engineering $94,837
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $239,923
- 2. Medical Illustration and Informatics (Doctoral Degree) $156,890
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $155,687
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Dentistry (First Professional Degree) $147,256
- 5. Biological and Physical Sciences (Master's Degree) $142,232
- 6. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $138,979
- 7. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $138,311
- 8. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Doctoral Degree) $132,633
- 9. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Master's Degree) $131,662
- 10. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $131,054
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering grads earn $132,440—40% more than Mechanical Engineering ($94,837). Graduate: Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences programs lead with $239,923 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 572 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 521 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 436 graduates)
- Information Science/Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 409 graduates)
- Public Health (Bachelor's Degree, 386 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (84 programs)â–¼
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Psychology, General
- Biology, General
- Information Science/Studies
- Public Health
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Economics
- Communication and Media Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Political Science and Government
- Mechanical Engineering
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Journalism
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mathematics
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- English Language and Literature, General
- Marketing
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- History
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Social Work
- Animal Sciences
- Nutrition Sciences
- Industrial Engineering
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Music
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Statistics
- Engineering Science
- Physics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Sociology
- Social Sciences, Other
- Philosophy
- Genetics
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Dance
- Ceramic Sciences and Engineering
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Food Science and Technology
- Chemistry
- Cognitive Science
- Biotechnology
- Anthropology
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Public Policy Analysis
- Landscape Architecture
- Design and Applied Arts
- Agricultural Engineering
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Area Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Plant Sciences
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Agriculture, General
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Environmental Design
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Medieval and Renaissance Studies
- African Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Online Master's Degrees (76 programs)â–¼
- Biology, General
- Public Health
- Statistics
- Information Science/Studies
- Special Education and Teaching
- Sustainability Studies
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Chemical Engineering
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Mathematics
- Political Science and Government
- Mechanical Engineering
- Public Policy Analysis
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Industrial Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Ceramic Sciences and Engineering
- Genetics
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Sociology
- Landscape Architecture
- History
- English Language and Literature, General
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Food Science and Technology
- Chemistry
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Education, General
- Physics
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Nutrition Sciences
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Geography and Cartography
- Economics
- Dance
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Agricultural Engineering
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Operations Research
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Anthropology
- Animal Sciences
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Systems Engineering
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Philosophy
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Dental Support Services and Allied Professions
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Design and Applied Arts
Online Doctoral Degrees (71 programs)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Psychology, General
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Biology, General
- Library Science and Administration
- Social Work
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Physics
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Economics
- Chemistry
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- English Language and Literature, General
- Education, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Public Health
- Political Science and Government
- Music
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- History
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Philosophy
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Genetics
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Civil Engineering
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Chemical Engineering
- Statistics
- Nutrition Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Industrial Engineering
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Ceramic Sciences and Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Anthropology
- Animal Sciences
- Operations Research
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Biological and Physical Sciences
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Special Education and Teaching
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Information Science/Studies
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (11 programs)â–¼
- Public Health
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (5 programs)â–¼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Dental Support Services and Allied Professions
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
Online First Professional Degrees (7 programs)â–¼
- Medicine
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Dentistry
- Music
- Social Work
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Public Health
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 37,751
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 49.9%
- Female Students 50.1%
- Caucasian 29.9%
- Asian 33.6%
- Hispanic 15.9%
- Black 7.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 27.9%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Rutgers University-New Brunswick's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Rutgers University-New Brunswick's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Rutgers University-New Brunswick support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Rutgers University-New Brunswick has a diverse student body, with 29.9% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Rutgers University-New Brunswick support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Rutgers University-New Brunswick serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #128 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $24,406 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $61,263 median earnings. The 83.6% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 93.0% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Rutgers University-New Brunswick's Strengths
Ranked #128 with a A grade, Rutgers University-New Brunswick prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Rutgers University-New Brunswick excel at providing affordable education ($24,406 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Rutgers University-New Brunswick's 93.0% retention and 83.6% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($61,263 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Rutgers University-New Brunswick and $24,406 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 83.6% six-year graduation rate sits 21.1 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 93.0% first-year retention is 16.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -37.2% return on investment is 122.5 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $61,263 run about 40% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $24,406 is roughly $4,388 higher than the national median of $20,018.
Helpfulness for Students
- 16:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 93.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 85.4% employment rate within three years sits 17.2 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $24,406 is about $4,388 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 27.9% trails the national share by 6.4 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in New Brunswick, NJ, Rutgers University-New Brunswick operates as a public university and receives a A from EDsmart. It appears at #128 in EDsmart's national list Grades by category break down as Completion A, Support B+, Career Outcomes A-, and Affordability C+.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
93.0% of learners come back after year one while 83.6% complete the degree within six years. Return on investment currently measures -37.2% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $24,406 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $36,993.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $12,587 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $19,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 27.9% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $61,263 six years after enrollment. Compared with the national median, that's 40% higher.
Employment outcomes report about 85.4% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -37.2%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
58.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Rutgers University-New Brunswick admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1281
- Website newbrunswick.rutgers.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationMiddle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
- Endowment$1.56B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate8.4%