Cheapest Accounting and Related Services Colleges in New Jersey

New Jersey City University stands out as the most affordable accounting program in the state at $11,732 net cost, yet its graduates earn $44,666 annually while carrying just $19,375 in debt. The state's 20 accounting programs show a dramatic cost divide, with private institutions like Fairleigh Dickinson charging $35,822 in tuition compared to public options under $18,000. This affordability matters in New Jersey's finance-heavy economy, where major corporations like Johnson & Johnson and Merck create steady demand for accounting professionals. The proximity to New York City's financial district and Philadelphia's business centers opens additional career paths for graduates. Saint Peter's University demonstrates how private schools can deliver value, producing graduates who earn $57,318 despite the program's $12,973 net cost. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with six of the ten cheapest options being state schools that benefit from New Jersey's TAG grant program for residents.

Programs

$11,732 – $41,315

Net Price Range

$53,135

Avg. Program Earnings

60.3%

Avg. Graduation Rate

21 Accounting and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	New Jersey City University Jersey City, New Jersey	$11,732	$13,971	38.7%	90.1%
2	Kean University Union, New Jersey	$12,168	$13,426	43.4%	82.6%
3	Saint Peter's University Jersey City, New Jersey	$12,973	$41,054	63.1%	88.8%
4	Montclair State University Montclair, New Jersey	$14,159	$14,766	64.3%	91.3%
5	Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus Teaneck, New Jersey	$15,266	$35,822	61.7%	84.1%
6	William Paterson University of New Jersey Wayne, New Jersey	$17,764	$15,150	47.7%	91.5%
7	Bloomfield College Bloomfield, New Jersey	$18,778	$30,680	31.1%	78.2%
8	Rutgers University-Camden Camden, New Jersey	$18,803	$17,079	66.4%	76.5%
9	Centenary University Hackettstown, New Jersey	$19,037	$37,732	56.6%	96.5%
10	Rutgers University-Newark Newark, New Jersey	$19,407	$16,586	67.6%	73.9%
11	Georgian Court University Lakewood, New Jersey	$20,218	$37,110	55.1%	75.8%
12	Ramapo College of New Jersey Mahwah, New Jersey	$20,360	$15,978	71.9%	70.5%
13	Berkeley College-Woodland Park Woodland Park, New Jersey	$20,549	$28,600	44.8%
14	Caldwell University Caldwell, New Jersey	$21,188	$39,450	58.7%	66.4%
15	Rowan University Glassboro, New Jersey	$22,185	$15,700	68.3%	76.9%
16	Rutgers University-New Brunswick New Brunswick, New Jersey	$23,519	$17,239	85.0%	66.3%
17	Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus Madison, New Jersey	$24,415	$35,822	72.3%	89.1%
18	Rider University Lawrenceville, New Jersey	$25,287	$38,900	63.3%	84.1%
19	The College of New Jersey Ewing, New Jersey	$25,458	$18,685	85.2%	64.4%
20	Seton Hall University South Orange, New Jersey	$28,921	$51,370	71.5%	75.1%
21	Felician University Lodi, New Jersey	$41,315	$37,830	49.7%	89.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes New Jersey City University the most affordable accounting program?

New Jersey City University offers the lowest net cost at $11,732 with in-state tuition of just $13,971. The school maintains a 90.14% acceptance rate, making it accessible to most applicants. Graduates earn $44,666 annually with manageable debt of $19,375, creating a solid return on investment for budget-conscious students.

How do private school accounting programs compare to public options in cost?

Private schools show dramatic price variations, from Saint Peter's University at $12,973 net cost to some approaching $40,000 in sticker price. However, three private institutions make the top 10 most affordable list through financial aid. Public schools consistently offer lower costs, with all six state universities in the data falling under $23,000 net price.

Is there a connection between program cost and graduate earnings?

The data reveals no clear pattern between cost and earnings potential. Ramapo College graduates earn $59,666 despite a $20,360 net cost, while more expensive programs sometimes produce lower earnings. Both Rutgers campuses generate $58,382 in graduate earnings at different price points, suggesting program quality matters more than cost.

Does graduation rate correlate with program affordability?

Graduation rates vary significantly among affordable programs, ranging from 31.10% at Bloomfield College to 71.90% at Ramapo College. The cheapest option, New Jersey City University, maintains a 38.70% graduation rate. Students should consider completion rates alongside costs, as finishing the degree impacts long-term financial outcomes.

Where do accounting graduates find employment in New Jersey?

New Jersey's economy offers strong opportunities through pharmaceutical giants like Johnson & Johnson and Merck, plus numerous financial services firms. The state's position between New York City and Philadelphia creates access to major corporate headquarters and accounting firms. Local businesses throughout New Jersey's developed corridor also provide entry-level positions for new graduates.

More Accounting and Related Services Rankings

Best Value Accounting and Related Services in New Jersey Accounting and Related Services Under $20,000 in New Jersey

All Accounting and Related Services Programs Best Colleges in New Jersey Best Accounting and Related Services in New Jersey

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.