To encourage more residents to take advantage of higher education opportunities in New Jersey, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) and the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) have launched a year-long statewide campaign. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the affordability, accessibility, and value of earning a college degree in New Jersey.
The campaign highlights the benefits of postsecondary education, including 53% higher median wages for New Jerseyans with bachelor's degrees. It aims to inform residents about financial aid and state support available for college students, made possible by investments from the Murphy Administration. The campaign encourages prospective students who are aid-eligible, including adults considering postsecondary education for the first time or returning to complete their degrees, to submit financial aid applications and explore available options.
Governor Phil Murphy emphasized his commitment to making higher education accessible: "I firmly believe a college degree is a worthwhile pursuit that can help individuals achieve their career goals and broaden their horizons," he said. "That is why I made it a top priority to put a higher education within reach for more students across New Jersey."
New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges noted the importance of higher education for social mobility: "A college degree remains one of the most powerful tools for achieving upward social mobility, particularly for those historically left on the margins," he said.
HESAA Executive Director Margo Chaly highlighted New Jersey's generous financial aid programs: "Thanks to Governor Murphy's leadership, financial aid eligibility was expanded to help more residents afford college and, for eligible students, to earn their degree tuition-free."
The digital-first campaign features real New Jersey students in various media formats and provides resources in English and Spanish. Its goal is to guide residents towards pursuing a degree by visiting CollegeForYou.NJ.Gov. This website serves as an information hub where users can find statistics about earning potential, maps of aid-eligible colleges and universities, directories of degree programs, information on state aid access, FAQs, downloadable resources detailing the college process, and messages from current students.
Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole expressed satisfaction with collaborative efforts: "The Office of Innovation has been pleased to work with Secretary Brian K. Bridges [and] Executive Director Margo Chaly...to bring this campaign to life."
Since Governor Murphy took office, several initiatives have been introduced or expanded:
- The creation of the New Jersey College Promise.
- Expansion of state aid eligibility.
- Increased investment in Educational Opportunity Fund.
- Outreach grants helping re-enroll residents with some college but no degree.
- Frequent increases in Tuition Aid Grant amounts.
- Initiatives incentivizing participation in career-specific educational programs.
- Expanded access to paid internship opportunities.
- Provision of mental health resources and services addressing basic needs.
For further details on affordable postsecondary education options in New Jersey or to watch the campaign commercial on YouTube, visit CollegeForYou.NJ.Gov.
