Whether you’ve always imagined being a tenured professor at an elite university or a respected leader at the top of your field, there are many PhD programs in New Jersey (NJ) can help you achieve your career goals. With more than 50 accredited colleges and universities — some offering top graduate programs — NJ has a school that offers the right PhD for you.
When choosing between PhD programs in New Jersey, there are a number of factors to consider, including how the program aligns with your goals, what your financial situation looks like, how much flexibility you need, and what programs are available. We’ve created this guide to help you find programs that provide a quality education and the support you need to succeed — both in school and beyond.
Top-Rated PhD and Doctoral Programs in New Jersey for 2024
Everyone has a specific idea of what the “best” school entails, and the school you ultimately choose should meet your standards. To help guide you, we’ve spotlighted three quality PhD programs in NJ that offer flexible study options, including in-person, online, hybrid, full time, and part time. If these programs aren’t the right fit, use this data to help clarify what factors are most important to you before conducting your own research on PhD programs in New Jersey.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Rutgers University-New Brunswick offers more than 60 top-ranked graduate programs in New Jersey spanning the humanities, social sciences, life sciences, biomedical sciences, physical and mathematical sciences, and engineering. PhD programs are in-person, with 2023 graduate school fees ranging from about $10,000-$14,000 for NJ residents and $14,000-$20,000 for out-of-state residents (for students pursuing 12 or more credits).
Rutgers doctoral programs are ranked among the highest in the U.S. and provide access to cutting-edge research and resources. The university also offers excellent student support for graduate students, including Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and a graduate writing program. Rutgers also offers numerous funding opportunities — including awards, fellowships, and scholarships — for students attending PhD programs in New Jersey.
Stockton University
Stockton University in Galloway, New Jersey, offers three doctorate degrees: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), and an EdD in Organizational Leadership (EdD). The DPT program is in person, while the DNP and EdD programs are hybrid. Stockton offers outstanding graduate student support services, including student housing, career development, graduate clubs, and the graduate research symposium. There are also opportunities to collaborate with faculty, staff, academic schools, student services, alumni, and university relations.
2023 doctoral tuition rates at Stockton are $6,370/semester for NJ residents and $20,474/semester for out-of-state residents. Stockton offers a variety of financial aid options — including graduate assistantships, scholarships, research fellowship, and need-based financial aid — for students attending one of the school’s PhD programs in NJ.
Princeton University
The Graduate School at Princeton University boasts 43 doctoral departments and programs spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and more. All of Princeton’s graduate programs are taught in person and offer a well-rounded mix of coursework, teaching, and research experience. Graduate students are supported throughout each step of the process, including dissertation and research advising, mentoring, partnerships, health and wellness services, family initiatives, and crisis support.
Doctoral programs require advising milestones, a PhD general examination, and dissertation and oral examination. The cost of attendance for a graduate program is approximately $57,410. Princeton offers different financial support models, including PhD funding and dissertation completion funding. The university also offers traditional support such as scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, employment, and veteran benefits.
Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in New Jersey
Most fields of study — including psychology, engineering, nursing, data science, and everything in between — offer an option to obtain a doctoral degree. Not every school will offer a PhD program in each subject, but there are a wide variety of options for PhD programs in New Jersey. We’ve highlighted some PhD programs in NJ below so you can decide which one might be right for you.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in New Jersey
Many doctoral and PhD programs in NJ are offered full time. Full-time programs are frequently fully funded, meaning the student receives financial compensation while obtaining their degree. The choice between a full- or part-time program will depend largely on each student’s personal and professional commitments and how much time they have to complete the program.
Students enrolled in Seton Hall University’s PhD in health sciences who choose to attend full-time can complete the synchronous online program in three and a half years. Stockton University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice is also offered full- or part-time.
Part-Time Doctoral and PhD Programs in New Jersey
While full-time PhD programs tend to come with more benefits (e.g., being fully funded), part-time PhD programs are a better choice for student who are juggling multiple responsibilities. Most part-time students want to further their education while continuing to work in their field. Montclair State University offers a PhD in counseling where students can enroll part time and continue working. The New Jersey Institute of Technology offers collaborative PhD programs, which are designed for engineers, executives, scientists, military personnel, state and federal government employees, and educators who want to enroll part time while continuing full-time employment.
Fully Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in New Jersey
Most fully funded PhD programs in NJ offer students a stipend to complete their degree, teach, or advance research in their field. This includes Rutgers, where full-time PhD students (enrolled in at least nine credit hours) receive a competitive stipend along with full tuition payment, health insurance, and general fees. Princeton also fully funds every PhD student, offering tailored support across all years of regular program enrollment.
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in New Jersey
While more schools are moving away from requiring exams such as the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), it is still required for some doctoral/PhD programs. However, the weight that admissions offices give to those scores varies from school to school and even program to program. For example, GRE scores are no longer required in applications to Rutgers’ PhD in education and PhD in higher education programs, but it is required in the majority of other programs.
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in New Jersey
Obtaining a PhD or doctoral degree is time consuming and requires a dedication to continuing your education. Some schools offer accelerated doctoral programs in New Jersey for students who want to graduate faster. Monmouth University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice can be completed in 18 months in some cases. Meanwhile, Seton Hall University offers an Executive EdD, K-12 School Administration, which is an accelerated, blended (online/on-campus) cohort doctoral degree designed for certified and practicing K-12 school administrators.
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in New Jersey
The vast majority of doctoral/PhD programs in New Jersey will require a dissertation, which is a chance for a student to present a culmination of everything they’ve learned while obtaining their degree. However, there are some programs that do not require a dissertation. Dissertation requirements vary from program to program, and some, such as a Juris Doctorate, don’t require a dissertation at all. Monmouth University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice does not require a dissertation and offers flexible formats, including part-time online courses. Seton Hall University also offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice that does not require a dissertation and is available online.
Popular Fields to Earn Your PhD and Doctoral Degree in New Jersey
Nursing
A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a doctoral nursing degree for students who have earned their master’s degree in nursing. There is no higher level of education available for practice-based training in nursing, which makes this a terminal degree. Nurses who obtain their DNP have the highest level of nursing expertise and can work in a variety of settings including clinical, research, leadership, or education. Thanks to the various PhD programs in NJ, DNP students can choose from a number of specialties.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Chemistry
A doctorate in chemistry is an obvious choice for chemists who are interested in designing research projects, managing teams, and advancing knowledge in the field. Graduates will have greater opportunities for employment and career advancement and be prepared to work in a wide variety of industries including toxicology, forensics, research, product development, and more. There are a variety of PhD programs in NJ for students who are looking to study chemistry.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Physical Therapy
Physical therapists assist their patients in recovery from injury and illness. They can work in private practices, hospitals, clinics, or physical rehab centers. Anyone wanting to work as a physical therapist in the United States must earn a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree from a physical therapist program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. Students must also pass a state licensure exam after attending PhD programs in NJ.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Educational Leadership
Educators who are interested in advancing their career in a hands-on leadership role in education may be interested in pursuing a doctoral program in educational leadership. This degree will provide educators with the skills necessary to solve problems and effect positive change in various learning environments including pre-K-12 systems and higher education institutions. Some potential career paths include administrator, chief learning officer, and educational research.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
- Rutgers PhD in Education and PhD, Higher Education
- Saint Peter’s University EdD, Educational Leadership (K-12)
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Psychology
A doctoral degree in psychology provides graduates with the opportunity to pursue advanced roles in professional practice, academia, research, and more. PhD degrees are designed for those interested in gaining new knowledge via scientific research and/or gaining teaching experience. Many practicing psychologists have their doctoral degree, so it will help with career advancement and opportunities as well. There are various PhD programs in NJ that focus on psychology.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
- Rutgers PhD in Psychology
- William Paterson University Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
- Montclair State University PhD in Counseling
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Earning Your PhD or Professional Doctorate Online in New Jersey
Most doctoral and PhD programs in New Jersey are in-person, although more and more are offering fully online PhD options. These programs allow students more flexibility to continue working and maintain their personal and professional commitments. Online options typically include courses that allow students to study at their own pace or attend online classes at a certain time. Coursework and tests can be submitted and completed online.
Some PhD programs offer a hybrid format by combining online coursework with in-person meetings or classes. Many PhD and doctoral programs include in-person requirements to complete research, learn certain skills, and interact with faculty and other students.
Seton Hall University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice that is available online. New Jersey City University offers an EdD in educational technology leadership that is offered in a hybrid format. It’s a three-year cohort program where students work alongside leaders and faculty, with all fall and spring courses available fully online and hybrid summer courses including a one-week on-campus summer institute in July.
Get started on your search for the right online doctoral program by browsing our rankings of the best New Jersey colleges below.
Best Online Doctoral Programs in New Jersey for 2024
If you don't want a completely online program but still want more flexibility than you can get in a traditional program, Rutgers University-New Brunswick has an EdD program that's delivered in a hybrid model. As a result, you have the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of an online program while making face-to-face connections with other educators during your in-person meetings. As students work through the curriculum, they meet once a week during the fall and spring semesters and one to two times a week during summer sessions. Coursework focuses on core classes covering leadership, social context, and inquiry. Students are able to choose a concentration, such as special education, educational leadership, and the design of learning environments. In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a dissertation. Students are required to meet with their dissertation groups every other week.
Program Highlights:
Education Doctorate
- Credits: 72
- Length: 5-6 years
- Cost: $9,348/semester in-state; $15,900/semester out-of-state
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
If you're a mid-career professional or executive working in higher education administration, and you're interested in moving up in your career, Saint Peter's University has a degree that can help. The Doctor of Education in educational leadership program, which is offered totally online, prepares students for high leadership roles in different areas of colleges and universities such as student life, research, academics, and administration. The curriculum is designed to build on your existing experience by focusing on critical challenges that require high-level strategic and operational knowledge. From policy to enrollment management to demographic trends, you'll be equipped to tackle issues that regularly come up for administrators through classes that combine educational research and hands-on learning.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership (Higher Education)
- Credits: 48
- Length: 4-5 years
- Cost: $995/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
Seton Hall University offers a selection of online graduate degree and certificate programs for students looking to upgrade their skills to meet the demands of employers while making connections with organizations looking for employees with these enhanced skills. Nurses who are interested in continuing their education to develop advanced clinical and leadership skills can enroll in Seton Hall's Doctor of Nursing Practice program, which is provided 100% online. Students take classes covering topics like evidenced-based nursing practice, population health, and statistics. When they finish their classes, they're then required to complete a final scholarly project that addresses a topic related to improving patient outcomes.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 33
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,431/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
From management to education to engineering, Rowan University has online degree and certificate programs that position students for success while providing the flexibility and affordability people look for in a school. If you're an educator looking for a doctoral-level degree, Rowan University has a Doctor of Education in educational leadership program where students can concentrate on specific segments of the field, such as higher education, P-12, and community college leadership. For example, the community college leadership concentration, which is offered entirely online, uses a cohort model that gives students the chance to connect and learn together throughout the program. Students also have the opportunity to network with professors who are among community college leaders, such as college presidents, researchers, and senior educators.
Program Highlights:
EdD in Educational Leadership
- Credits: 60
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $931.29/year
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
Since its first course sessions were offered in the summer of 1923, Felician University has been dedicated to preparing students for the rigors of the workforce. This commitment continued when the first cohort of nursing students was admitted in 1965, and the tradition goes on to this day with online degree programs. Nurses who want to increase their responsibilities to practice the highest levels of patient care can enroll in Felician's Doctor of Nursing Practice program, which takes two years to finish. During this time, students can choose between the advanced practice program track, which focuses on direct patient care, and the executive leadership program track developed for those who want to make an impact by performing more administrative duties.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Business Administration
- Credits: 70
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $1,025/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,145/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
Monmouth University understands that a quality education doesn't need to be limited to physical boundaries, so its online degree programs are created by the same educators who teach courses on campus. This dedication to providing a flexible education has resulted in an online nursing program where students can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Designed for nurses who have earned a master's degree, Monmouth's DNP program is made up of professionals from diverse areas of the field, from health policy to informatics to nurse practitioner positions. The program welcomes students from all nursing backgrounds and teaches the advanced concepts they need to know to take their careers to the next level. Additionally, the school provides a program advisor so students get guidance on how to get the most out of the experience.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 36
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $1,399/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio12
Ways to Finance Your PhD or Doctoral Degree in New Jersey
As a PhD student in New Jersey, there are numerous options available to help fund or even fully pay for your program including grants, scholarships, and fellowships. These programs will provide funds for partial or full tuition and are awarded based on factors such as financial need, academics, special interests, race, gender, ethnicity, and more. You may also be able to apply for a loan to pay for your program. Many scholarships and other financial assistance for doctoral programs in New Jersey are provided through the school. For example, New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers offer students a wide variety of financial aid options including merit-based aid, scholarships, grants, fellowships, assistantships, and more. You can also find opportunities specific to New Jersey residents such as the Educational Opportunity Fund through the Office of the Secretary of State of New Jersey or the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
Earnings for Doctorate Holders in New Jersey
In general, professionals who have obtained their PhD or a professional doctorate degree can expect to earn more over the course of their career than someone with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people with their PhD earn more and have lower unemployment rates. As of 2024, the average PhD salary in the U.S. was $102,186.
The table below highlights the earning potential for popular careers that require a PhD or doctoral degree. This will provide a general idea of what you may earn in a career field that interests you.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Research Scientist | PhD in Computer Science | $131,440 | $193,210 |
| Economist | PhD in Economics | $95,480 | $133,800 |
| Epidemiologist | PhD in Public Health / Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) | $104,100 | $208,000 |
| Human Resources Executive | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $161,520 | $208,000 |
| Mathematician | PhD in Mathematics | $121,160 | $193,210 |
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice | $129,240 | $163,420 |
| Physicist | PhD in Physics | $136,610 | $208,000 |
| Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) / PhD in Psychology | $98,680 | $127,750 |
| School Principal/Administrator | Doctor of Education (EdD) | $127,490 | $164,730 |
| Speech Language Pathologist | PhD in Applied Language and Speech Science | $98,950 | $152,720 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021