Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at The College of New Jersey

Engineering programs in New Jersey typically launch graduates into solid-paying careers, but The College of New Jersey's electrical engineering outcomes suggest this program underperforms its state peers. With first-year earnings around $73,500, graduates here earn roughly $6,000 less than the state median and trail notably behind New Jersey heavyweights like Stevens ($90,000) and Rutgers-New Brunswick ($82,600). While the estimated debt burden of $23,700—based on comparable programs at TCNJ—is manageable at 32% of first-year salary, similar programs across New Jersey typically produce stronger initial earning power.

The gap persists even four years out, when earnings reach approximately $82,600. That 12% growth is respectable, but peers in the state appear to start higher and maintain their advantage. For a field where engineering talent commands premium compensation, landing below the 40th percentile statewide raises questions about industry connections, curriculum focus, or the types of employers recruiting here versus at NJIT or Rutgers.

If your child is choosing between TCNJ and other New Jersey engineering schools with stronger outcomes data, the $10,000-plus annual earnings difference—compounded over a career—matters more than any tuition gap is likely to offset. TCNJ might offer other benefits worth considering, but purely on electrical engineering career returns, the numbers suggest looking closely at alternatives within the state system.