New Jersey’s thriving tech sector offers diverse machine learning engineering opportunities across finance, telecommunications, healthcare, defense, and emerging AI companies. The state is transforming into an AI hub by leveraging its strategic location, world-class research institutions, and significant government investment in cutting-edge infrastructure.
Just a few of the examples include:
- The state launched a $500 million Next New Jersey Program providing tax credits to businesses investing in large-scale AI data centers
- Nebius Group is building a 300 MW data center in Northern New Jersey specifically designed for AI workloads
- The NJ AI Hub, a partnership between Princeton University, Microsoft, CoreWeave, and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, represents over $72 million in combined investment to advance ethical AI research and innovation
The state’s AI Task Force emphasized the need for workforce transformation and AI-integrated skill development to address concerns around job displacement and the growing demand for AI expertise.
A dedicated master’s in machine learning offers the specialized training needed to fill these critical roles in New Jersey’s expanding AI economy.
2026 Best Schools for Masters in Machine Learning Degrees in New Jersey
Rutgers University-Camden
Camden, NJ - Public 4-Year - camden.rutgers.edu
Master's - Data Science (M.S.)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Camden's Master of Science in Data Science is an on-campus program focused on equipping students with essential skills in Python, R, SQL, and GIS for careers in data science. The 30-credit curriculum includes data visualization, project management, and applied research, with opportunities for real-world applications in healthcare, education, and social services. It can be completed in 4-5 semesters full-time or part-time, and admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement. No GRE is required for entry, enhancing accessibility.
- 30 credits required.
- On-campus format.
- 4-5 semesters duration.
- Partial funding available.
- No GRE required.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Two recommendation letters.
- Personal statement needed.
- Master Python, R, SQL.
- Learn data visualization.
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - newark.rutgers.edu
Master's - Computer Science (machine learning)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rutgers University-Newark's Computer Science program features a machine learning concentration, preparing students for advanced tech roles through a blend of theory and hands-on application. The campus-based MS and PhD options include capstone projects or a thesis, with PhD candidates engaging in innovative research. Admission requires GRE scores, unofficial transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and TOEFL/IELTS for international applicants, ensuring a rigorous selection process. This collaborative environment emphasizes state-of-the-art techniques and specialized coursework for career advancement.
- Concentration in machine learning
- Campus-based program
- MS and PhD options
- GRE scores required
- TOEFL/IELTS for international students
- Unofficial transcripts needed
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Capstone projects available
- MS thesis option
- Innovative PhD research
Centenary University
Hackettstown, NJ - Private 4-year - centenaryuniversity.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Computer Science (Machine Learning)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Centenary University's Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Machine Learning provides specialized training in AI, neural networks, and deep learning through hands-on labs and state-of-the-art tools. The campus-based program in Hackettstown, NJ, includes practical projects, internships, and preparation for certifications like Certified AI Specialist, equipping students for high-demand tech roles. Admission requires a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is specified, but applicants should verify current requirements.
- Concentration in Machine Learning.
- Hands-on learning with labs.
- Prepares for AI certifications.
- Campus-based program in NJ.
- Includes practical projects.
- Internship opportunities available.
- Focus on neural networks.
- Deep learning curriculum.
- State-of-the-art tools access.
- Industry-standard software used.
2026 Lowest Cost Programs in NJ
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Rutgers University-Camden |
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| Rutgers University-Newark |
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| Centenary University |
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Schools by City
Camden, NJ
Rutgers University-Camden
- Master's - Data Science (M.S.)
Campus Based - Website
- 30 credits required.
- On-campus format.
- 4-5 semesters duration.
- Partial funding available.
- No GRE required.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Two recommendation letters.
- Personal statement needed.
Hackettstown, NJ
Centenary University
- Master's - Master of Science in Computer Science
Concentration: Machine Learning - Campus Based - Website
- Concentration in Machine Learning.
- Hands-on learning with labs.
- Prepares for AI certifications.
- Campus-based program in NJ.
- Includes practical projects.
- Internship opportunities available.
- Focus on neural networks.
- Deep learning curriculum.
Newark, NJ
Rutgers University-Newark
- Master's - Computer Science
Concentration: machine learning - Campus Based - Website
- Concentration in machine learning
- Campus-based program
- MS and PhD options
- GRE scores required
- TOEFL/IELTS for international students
- Unofficial transcripts needed
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Capstone projects available
Which School Should You Choose?
This analysis of 3 New Jersey programs examines different approaches to machine learning education, from data science applications to traditional computer science frameworks, helping you select the optimal program based on cost, specialization, and career goals.
Key Decision Factors
Program Focus & Approach
- Data Science Emphasis: Rutgers Camden focuses on practical data science applications
- Computer Science Foundation: Rutgers Newark and Centenary provide traditional CS with ML concentration
- Industry Applications: All programs emphasize real-world problem solving
Geographic & Network Advantages
- Camden: Access to Philadelphia metro area opportunities
- Newark: Proximity to New York City financial and tech sectors
- Hackettstown: Smaller town environment with focused academic experience
Cost Analysis & Value Proposition
Most Affordable Option
- Centenary University: $15,500-$23,200 (private competitive pricing)
- Rutgers Newark: $17,900-$26,800 (in-state), $29,000-$43,500 (out-of-state)
- Rutgers Camden: $18,000-$27,000 (in-state), $28,300-$42,400 (out-of-state)
Best Value Analysis
- Centenary: Surprisingly competitive private tuition with hands-on focus
- Rutgers Camden: No GRE requirement reduces admission barriers and costs
- Rutgers Newark: MS/PhD options provide academic pathway flexibility
Program Structure & Requirements
Rutgers Camden (Data Science Focus)
- Credits: 30 credits required
- Duration: 4-5 semesters completion
- Prerequisites: 3.0 GPA, no GRE required, 2 recommendation letters
- Technical Skills: Python, R, SQL, GIS proficiency
- Funding: Partial funding options available
Rutgers Newark (Computer Science ML)
- Options: MS and PhD tracks available
- Flexibility: Capstone projects or thesis options for MS students
- Prerequisites: GRE scores required, 3 recommendation letters
- International: TOEFL/IELTS required for international students
- Research: PhD option for advanced research careers
Centenary University (Practical Focus)
- Format: Campus-based with hands-on labs
- Industry Prep: Prepares for AI certifications (Certified AI Specialist)
- Experience: Practical projects and internship opportunities
- Technology: Access to state-of-the-art tools and industry software
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree, no entrance exam mentioned
Specialized Focus Areas
Data Science Applications (Rutgers Camden)
- Healthcare Applications: Program specifically mentions healthcare focus
- Social Services: Community-oriented data science projects
- Education: Educational data analysis and research
- Visualization: Strong emphasis on data visualization skills
- GIS Integration: Geographic information systems component
Traditional ML Foundation (Rutgers Newark)
- Theoretical Depth: Strong computer science theoretical foundations
- Research Opportunities: Both MS thesis and PhD research options
- Advanced Coursework: State-of-the-art techniques and methods
- Academic Pipeline: Clear pathway from MS to PhD studies
Industry-Ready Skills (Centenary)
- Neural Networks: Deep focus on neural network architectures
- Deep Learning: Comprehensive deep learning curriculum
- AI Certifications: Preparation for industry-standard certifications
- Hands-On Labs: Extensive laboratory and practical experience
Career Preparation & Outcomes
Industry Readiness
- Technical Skills: All programs emphasize current programming languages and tools
- Practical Experience: Internships and project-based learning across programs
- Certification Prep: Centenary specifically prepares for AI certifications
- Research Skills: Rutgers Newark offers strong research preparation
Geographic Career Advantages
- NYC Access: Proximity to major financial and tech companies
- Philadelphia Region: Growing tech scene and established corporations
- Pharmaceutical Industry: New Jersey’s concentration of pharma companies
- Government Contracts: Federal and state agency opportunities
Decision Framework
For Career Changers
Top Choice: Rutgers Camden
- No GRE requirement eliminates testing barrier
- Data science focus provides broad applicability
- Partial funding reduces financial risk
- 3.0 GPA requirement more accessible than higher standards
- Interdisciplinary approach welcomes diverse backgrounds
For Traditional Computer Science Path
Top Choice: Rutgers Newark
- Strong CS theoretical foundations
- MS/PhD pathway flexibility
- Research opportunities for academic careers
- Traditional CS curriculum with ML specialization
- Access to both capstone projects and thesis options
For Hands-On Industry Preparation
Top Choice: Centenary University
- Most affordable option with competitive private pricing
- Extensive hands-on lab experience
- Industry certification preparation
- Internship opportunities integrated into program
- State-of-the-art tools and industry software access
For Budget Optimization
Clear Winner: Centenary University
- Lowest overall cost at $15,500-$23,200
- Private institution with small class sizes
- No mention of additional fees or requirements
- Strong industry focus provides clear ROI path
Technology Focus & Resources
Technical Skills Development
- Programming: Python, R, SQL emphasized across programs
- Specialized Tools: GIS (Camden), neural networks (Centenary)
- Industry Software: Access to current professional tools
- Research Methods: Strong emphasis on applied research across programs
Unique Program Resources
- Rutgers Camden: GIS integration unique among NJ programs
- Rutgers Newark: PhD research opportunities rare in regional programs
- Centenary: Industry certification preparation provides career advantage
Red Flags to Consider
- Limited program options in New Jersey may require compromise on specific specializations
- Smaller programs may have fewer elective options than larger universities
- Industry connections may be more limited than programs in major tech hubs
- Research opportunities vary significantly between programs
Unique Program Advantages
Rutgers Camden
- Only program with no GRE requirement
- Strong data science focus with healthcare applications
- GIS integration provides unique specialization
- Partial funding options reduce financial burden
Rutgers Newark
- MS/PhD pathway flexibility
- Strong theoretical computer science foundation
- Research opportunities with thesis option
- Access to larger Rutgers university resources
Centenary University
- Most affordable option with quality private education
- Extensive hands-on laboratory experience
- Industry certification preparation
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
Final Recommendation
For Accessibility: Choose Rutgers Camden for no GRE requirement and partial funding options.
For Academic Advancement: Select Rutgers Newark for research opportunities and PhD pathway.
For Industry Preparation: Centenary provides the best hands-on experience and certification preparation.
For Budget Optimization: Centenary offers surprising value for private education quality.
New Jersey’s machine learning programs provide solid education with unique geographic advantages. While options are limited compared to major tech hubs, proximity to NYC and Philadelphia creates substantial career opportunities. Consider your budget, career goals, and learning preferences when choosing between data science applications (Camden), traditional CS approach (Newark), or hands-on industry preparation (Centenary).
Local Market Analysis for ML Grads
Based on current job postings from major employers, here’s what organizations are seeking in ML engineers and what they’re willing to pay.
New Jersey’s ML engineering market offers diverse pathways for master’s degree holders, from traditional financial services to cutting-edge AI research. The highest-paying positions typically require GenAI expertise, financial domain knowledge, or specialized security clearances, while entry-level opportunities exist across computer vision, data engineering, and traditional ML applications. Success in this market requires combining strong technical foundations with industry-specific knowledge and emerging AI capabilities.
Core Technical Skills in High Demand
Programming Languages and Frameworks
Python dominates the landscape, with virtually every employer requiring proficiency. MUFG ($120K-$150K) seeks Python expertise alongside TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Hugging Face Transformers for their enterprise AI solutions. Verizon ($101K-$194K) emphasizes Python, Scala, and PySpark for large-scale data pipeline development supporting their telecommunications infrastructure.
Wells Fargo ($126K-$263K) requires Java and Python experience for building AI applications using large language models and agentic frameworks in their capital markets technology division. Lockheed Martin ($90K-$159K) values Python, C++, Rust, Java, and MATLAB for defense-related AI research and spectrum systems development.
Cloud Platforms and MLOps
Cloud expertise is universal across employers. Janssen Global Services requires experience with AWS (SageMaker, Argo, Kedro), Docker, and Databricks for healthcare AI solutions. They emphasize CI/CD pipeline management with Docker, Kubernetes, Helm, Jenkins, and GitLab.
S&P Global ($108K-$215K) seeks containerization, cloud platforms, and workflow orchestration skills for their financial analytics platform. Audible/Amazon ($151K-$262K) requires experience with cloud technologies and microservices architecture for content AI applications.
Data Engineering and Big Data
Spark and large-scale data processing appear consistently. Verizon requires Spark/Hive/SQL experience with hands-on pipeline deployment. IEEE ($105K-$130K) emphasizes ETL processes, PySpark, and AWS data warehousing for their publication technology operations.
Photon seeks 4+ years of continuous PySpark experience alongside Databricks proficiency for analytics model development across various business applications.
Specialized AI/ML Competencies
Generative AI and Large Language Models
Cutting-edge GenAI skills command premium salaries. Wells Fargo offers up to $263K for expertise in LLMs, agentic frameworks, prompt engineering, and RAG implementation. MUFG seeks experience with GPT, Claude, and PaLM models for financial services applications.
Wipro ($80K-$158K) requires GenAI, LLM, RAG, Langchain, and Vector DB expertise for enterprise-grade implementations. The European-based role via Goodwin Recruiting (€70-85K+ plus bonuses) specifically targets engineers building LLMs from scratch rather than just fine-tuning pre-trained models.
Computer Vision and Deep Learning
Invonto ($75K-$90K) seeks computer vision specialists with object detection, segmentation, and real-time pattern development experience using PyTorch and TensorFlow. They emphasize production-ready applications rather than research-only experience.
Lockheed Martin focuses on neural networks for digital and RF/analog systems, requiring deep learning expertise for defense applications including parameter estimation and reinforcement learning.
Natural Language Processing
Cross-industry NLP demand spans telecommunications to healthcare. Verizon requires NLP capabilities for business system improvements, while Janssen seeks NLP and neural network expertise for pharmaceutical applications.
Industry-Specific Applications
Financial Services
High-paying financial roles require specialized domain knowledge. Wells Fargo needs 4+ years of capital markets technology experience in trade lifecycle, prime services, or securities clearing. MUFG and S&P Global emphasize financial data analytics and risk management applications.
Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
Janssen Global Services requires healthcare industry AI/ML experience, emphasizing Scientific and Medical Affairs problem-solving in pharmaceutical contexts. They seek PhD-level candidates with quantitative backgrounds.
Defense and Aerospace
Lockheed Martin offers security clearance positions requiring US citizenship, focusing on spectrum systems, electronic warfare, and radar signal processing applications.
Telecommunications
Verizon emphasizes enterprise-scale architecture and real-time/batch AI processors for telecommunications infrastructure optimization.
Educational Requirements and Advanced Degrees
PhD Preferences
Research-intensive roles favor doctoral degrees. Janssen prefers PhD in quantitative disciplines (software engineering, computer science, statistics, biostatistics) or equivalent MS with 3+ years healthcare AI experience.
Goodwin Recruiting requires PhD in AI, ML, or NLP for European LLM development positions. Lockheed Martin accepts PhD, MS, or BS with appropriate experience for research positions.
Master’s Degree Value
Most positions accept MS degrees with relevant experience. IEEE prefers master’s in technical fields, Computer Science, or IT. S&P Global requires bachelor’s minimum but values advanced technical education.
Audible/Amazon prefers bachelor’s in computer science with publication/research contributions, emphasizing practical experience over formal education level.
Salary Ranges and Compensation
Premium Tier ($200K+)
- Wells Fargo: $126K-$263K (Lead AI/ML Engineer, GenAI focus)
- Audible/Amazon: $151K-$262K (Senior AI/ML Engineer, Content AI)
High Tier ($150K-$200K)
- Verizon: $101K-$194K (Senior ML Engineer, Enterprise AI)
- Wipro: $80K-$158K (ML Specialist, GenAI consulting)
Mid Tier ($100K-$150K)
- MUFG: $120K-$150K (Associate VP, Financial ML)
- IEEE: $105K-$130K (Data and ML Engineer)
- S&P Global: $108K-$215K (Lead ML Engineer, wide range based on location/experience)
Specialized/Entry Tier ($75K-$100K)
- Lockheed Martin: $90K-$159K (Research Engineer, security clearance required)
- Invonto: $75K-$90K (Computer Vision Engineer, hybrid/remote)
Cross-Disciplinary Opportunities
Data Science Integration
Many positions blend ML engineering with data science. Photon requires data mining expertise including forecasting, prediction, segmentation, and recommendation systems. S&P Global combines ML engineering with data analytics for financial insights.
Software Engineering Overlap
Strong software development foundations are essential. Audible/Amazon requires 5+ years software development experience alongside ML expertise. Wells Fargo emphasizes full software development lifecycle knowledge.
Research and Development
Academic research experience valued. Lockheed Martin encourages university partnerships and academic research familiarity. Audible/Amazon prefers candidates with ML research publications or significant contributions.
Business Intelligence and Analytics
Business acumen increasingly important. Acadia Technologies ($60K-$80K) emphasizes business context understanding for real-world ML applications. Photon requires expertise in business optimization including promotional planning, dynamic pricing, and labor scheduling.
Emerging Trends and Skills
Responsible AI and Ethics
Growing emphasis on AI governance. Verizon requires Responsible AI knowledge, while Janssen emphasizes model governance and regulatory compliance in healthcare contexts.
Quantum-Enhanced AI
Cutting-edge opportunities emerging. Goodwin Recruiting’s European role offers quantum-inspired AI methods for model compression and acceleration, representing the frontier of ML engineering.
Agentic AI Frameworks
Autonomous AI systems in demand. MUFG seeks Agentic AI framework integration, while Wells Fargo emphasizes agentic frameworks for financial applications.