Rutgers University-Camden
The Vibe Check
Rutgers-Camden has the feel of a tight-knit, commuter-school community where students are focused and pragmatic. There's a palpable sense of grit and resilience, with a campus that feels like an urban oasis right in the heart of the city. You'll find a diverse, non-traditional student body that's serious about using education as a tool for upward mobility.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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Academics & Majors
The academic strengths here are directly tied to urban needs, with standout programs in Health Professions, Business, and Public Administration. Class sizes are generally smaller than at the larger Rutgers campuses, allowing for more direct interaction with professors who are often engaged in applied research. Students benefit from the university's deep connections to the Philadelphia and South Jersey professional networks for internships and practical experience.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Camden
Student life is heavily influenced by its location; many students commute and head home after classes, but there are opportunities to engage with the city. For fun, students often explore nearby Philadelphia, which is just across the river, or check out local spots like the Waterfront Technology Center or the nearby Rutgers-Camden Center for the Arts. On campus, student organizations and athletics provide a core community for those who get involved.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($74,479):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is a well-lit, enclosed urban campus with its own police force, but it is situated in the city of Camden, which has a high crime rate. Students are advised to be aware of their surroundings, use campus safety escorts at night, and stick to well-traveled paths.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong regional reputation in high-demand fields like nursing, business, and criminal justice.
- ✓ Significantly more affordable for in-state students compared to private universities in the Philadelphia area.
- ✓ Small class sizes foster closer relationships with professors and a more personalized education.
- ✓ Prime location for internships and jobs in the Philadelphia-Camden metro area.
Cons
- ✗ The urban setting of Camden presents safety concerns that require student vigilance.
- ✗ Campus life can feel limited, as it's primarily a commuter school with less of a traditional 'college town' atmosphere.
- ✗ The graduation rate of 65.7% is lower than the national average for public universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Rutgers-Camden is particularly known for its strong, career-oriented programs in Health Professions, Business & Marketing, and Criminal Justice. It has a deep commitment to civic engagement and serves as a vital educational hub for the South Jersey and Philadelphia region, offering an accessible and practical urban education.
No, Rutgers-Camden is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 77.75%, it is generally accessible to a broad range of applicants. While the average SAT score is around 1118, the university uses a holistic review process and considers factors like GPA, course rigor, and personal essays.
Campus life at Rutgers-Camden is more focused and less traditional than at residential colleges, as it is a commuter-heavy campus. Students are actively involved in clubs, Division III athletics, and campus events, but many social activities are centered around academics and professional development. The campus provides a supportive community feel within the larger, dynamic city environment.
For in-state students, Rutgers-Camden offers a strong return on investment. With a net price under $19,000 and median mid-career earnings exceeding $74,000, the degree provides excellent value, especially in high-demand fields. For out-of-state students, the value is still competitive, particularly when compared to private universities in the region with much higher price tags.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1926
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,787
- In-State Tuition $17,079
- Out-of-State $35,841
- Zip Code 08102
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the value proposition is strong, with a net price of $18,803 and median earnings of $74,479 ten years after enrollment. The significant Pell Grant rate of 44.3% indicates a strong commitment to serving low-income students with financial aid. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition requires more careful consideration, but the ROI in fields like health professions and business can still make it a worthwhile investment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.