Thomas Edison State University
Out-of-state tuition
$8,856
In-state $6,838
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
6,775
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Peer median 16 : 1
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Thomas Edison State University (TESU) is a public university located in Trenton, New Jersey. Established in 1972, the university is known for its commitment to providing accessible and flexible education to adult learners through innovative programs. One of the unique features of TESU is its focus on online education, allowing students to pursue their degrees from anywhere in the world. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields, including business, healthcare, and technology, catering to the diverse needs of working professionals.
TESU emphasizes a student-centered approach, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. The university's mission is reflected in its motto, "Making Education Work," which underscores its dedication to empowering students through knowledge and skills that are relevant to their careers. The faculty at TESU consists of experienced professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom, enhancing the learning experience. The university also boasts a robust career services department that assists students with job placement and career development, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the job market. With a focus on lifelong learning and personal growth, Thomas Edison State University continues to be a leader in higher education for adult learners seeking to advance their careers.
Analysis of Key Trends at Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University, a public institution, has shown notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, and gender ratios over the years. One significant observation is the steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2023, in-state tuition rose from $5,700 to $7,372, marking a growth of approximately 29%. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition experienced a similar upward trajectory, increasing from $8,395 to $9,556, or about 14%. This rise in tuition can be attributed to various factors, including inflation and increased operational costs, making higher education more financially challenging for students.
In terms of enrollment, the number of undergraduate students peaked at 20,143 in 2015 but has consistently declined, dropping to 7,358 by 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's appeal and recruitment strategies, particularly in an era where many institutions are competing for a shrinking pool of traditional college-age students. The decrease in graduate enrollment is also evident, as numbers fell from 1,281 in 2014 to 890 in 2023, highlighting potential challenges in retaining and attracting graduate students.
Gender ratios among undergraduates have also shifted slightly over the years. In 2013, male undergraduates comprised approximately 54.8% of the student body, while female undergraduates accounted for 45.2%. By 2023, these figures adjusted to 59.7% for males and 40.3% for females. This trend indicates a growing male dominance in enrollment, which contrasts with many other institutions experiencing an increase in female representation.
Overall, the combination of rising tuition, declining enrollment, and shifting gender ratios presents both challenges and opportunities for Thomas Edison State University as it navigates the evolving landscape of higher education. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university's future success and sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Philadelphia, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- TESU, Thomas Edison State University, (old name:Thomas Edison State College), (old abbreviation:TESC)
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Merodie A. Hancock (President)
- Phone
- 6099841100
- City
- Trenton, New Jersey
- Address
- 111 W State St, Trenton, NJ 08608
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's81 (1% international)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other · Master's47 (0% international)
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance · Master's22 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Doctoral15 (0% international)
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other · Master's14 (0% international)
- Information Technology · Master's11 (9% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Thomas Edison State University
The graduation data from Thomas Edison State University for 2023 reveals significant trends across various academic disciplines. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with 290 graduates, followed by Registered Nursing with 108 graduates. These numbers highlight the university's strong emphasis on foundational liberal studies and essential health care education, both of which are critical in today’s job market.
Interestingly, while the bachelor's programs dominate, the master's degrees awarded in the same fields are considerably lower, with only 29 graduates in Nursing Administration and 26 in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies. This points to a potential gap in advanced education uptake in these subjects, possibly reflecting a saturated job market or a preference among graduates to enter the workforce sooner rather than pursuing further education.
International students contributed to the diversity of the graduating cohorts, particularly in the bachelor’s programs, with notable numbers in Liberal Arts and Sciences and Social Sciences. However, the absence of international graduates in the master's and doctorate categories may indicate barriers to entry for these students at advanced levels.
Moreover, fields such as Homeland Security and Business Administration also saw modest graduation numbers, suggesting a steady interest in careers related to safety, governance, and commerce. The presence of graduates in Computer and Information Systems Security, albeit low, hints at the growing importance of cybersecurity in the modern economy.
In conclusion, the data illustrates a diverse educational landscape at Thomas Edison State University, with strong foundations in liberal arts and health sciences, while also highlighting areas for potential growth in advanced education and international student participation. This trend aligns with broader educational and workforce dynamics, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation to meet evolving market demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | $81,113 | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $66,173-$91,916 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $52,391-$55,981 | ||||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $52,391-$55,981 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,034-$83,432 | ||||
| Operations Management and Supervision. | $54,034-$83,432 | ||||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $54,034-$83,432 | ||||
| Accounting. | $64,746 | ||||
| Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services, Other. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $73,792 | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services, Other. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $103,401-$112,265 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $103,401-$112,265 | ||||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $103,401-$112,265 | ||||
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | $76,832 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Technology. | - | ||||
| Computer Science. | - | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | $55,862 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other. | $85,445 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - | ||||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - | ||||
| Terrorism and Counterterrorism Operations. | - | ||||
| Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism. | - | ||||
| Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other. | $64,327 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyber/Electronic Operations and Warfare. | - | ||||
| Military Technologies and Applied Sciences, Other. | $77,933 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nuclear/Nuclear Power Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - | ||||
| Statistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||||
| Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $82,093 | ||||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airline/Commercial/Professional Pilot and Flight Crew. | - | ||||
| Air Traffic Controller. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
Students
7,544 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 61:39
- Continuing undergraduates 4,935
- Graduate students 769
- Transfers and others 1,840
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,775)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Thomas Edison State University in 2023
The demographic data from Thomas Edison State University reveals interesting trends regarding the composition of its student body in 2023. Among the undergraduate students, the population is predominantly male, with new and continuing undergraduates showing male representation at about 59.6% and 60% respectively. This indicates a slight gender imbalance in favor of male students, a trend observed in many universities across the United States.
The graduate student population, however, presents a different picture. Female students constitute a larger portion, making up 57.1% of the graduate demographic. This shift could reflect broader societal trends, as women have increasingly pursued higher education, especially in graduate programs, over the past few decades.
When examining racial and ethnic backgrounds, the majority of the undergraduate students identify as white, making up approximately 46.7% of the total undergraduate body. The data for transfer students and graduate students is not fully disclosed, but the presence of diverse groups is essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment.
The overall percentage of international students in these categories is still unclear, but their inclusion is vital as it enriches the campus culture and promotes global perspectives among all students. As universities continue to strive for diversity, it is crucial for Thomas Edison State University to implement strategies that support underrepresented groups and create a balanced representation across all demographics. This approach will not only enhance the educational experience but also prepare students for a globalized workforce.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Thomas Edison State University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Thomas Edison State University reveals a diverse and mature student body, reflecting a growing trend in higher education where non-traditional students, particularly those aged 25 and older, are pursuing degrees. The majority of undergraduate students are concentrated in the 25-34 age range, with 944 males and 953 females aged 25-29, and 805 males and 953 females aged 30-34. This significant representation indicates that many individuals are seeking to advance their careers or change paths later in life, aligning with national trends where adults are increasingly valuing lifelong learning.
Interestingly, the data shows that the number of graduate male students peaks in the 40-49 age group, with 129 males pursuing further education, highlighting a commitment to professional development among older demographics. Conversely, younger age groups, particularly those aged 18-21, have fewer participants in graduate programs, which could suggest that recent graduates are more inclined to enter the workforce directly rather than continuing their education immediately.
Additionally, the female student population also displays a robust presence, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, where female enrollment is nearly equal to male enrollment. This trend reflects the broader societal shift towards gender equality in educational attainment and the workforce.
Overall, the age composition at Thomas Edison State University underscores the institution's role in providing accessible education to a wide range of students, catering to both traditional and non-traditional learners in a rapidly changing job market.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
92 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016
5 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment Trends at Thomas Edison State University
The data concerning international student enrollment at Thomas Edison State University reveals significant fluctuations over the years. In the early years, such as 2004, the university had a relatively modest number of international undergraduates, comprising 2.77% of the total undergraduate population. However, we notice a gradual decline in the percentage of international undergraduates, falling to 0.75% in 2022, and slightly recovering to 0.82% in 2023. This decline could reflect broader trends in international student mobility, influenced by a variety of factors including immigration policies, economic conditions, and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has drastically affected the higher education landscape.
On the graduate level, while the absolute numbers of international students have remained low, the percentage varies, with notable peaks in specific years. For instance, the percentage rose to 1.14% in 2007 but later diminished, showcasing a similar trend to that of undergraduates. The highest numbers of international graduate students peaked at 12 students in 2013, which may suggest a more competitive market for graduate programs.
Overall, the data indicates a need for Thomas Edison State University to strategize on enhancing its appeal to international students. This could involve bolstering support services, improving outreach, and adapting to the evolving global educational environment. As higher education institutions globally are vying for international talent, maintaining and expanding this demographic will be crucial for the university's growth and diversity.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$14,026
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $8,856
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $6,838
- Room and board
- $5,170
- Graduate tuition
- $12,150
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -2% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -9%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$80.9M
Expenses$75.4M
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 10.6 mi
U.S. News #2
-
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia · 29.2 mi
U.S. News #7
-
Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr · 31.7 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
Haverford CollegeHaverford · 31.9 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
Swarthmore CollegeSwarthmore · 37.9 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 40.4 mi
Liberal Arts #30
-
New York UniversityNew York · 53.7 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNew York · 58.7 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Barnard CollegeNew York · 58.7 mi
Liberal Arts #19
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Thomas Edison State University:
-
Princeton University - Ranked 1st in the 2024 US News rankings, Princeton University is one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions, known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
University of Pennsylvania - This Ivy League university is ranked 6th and is renowned for its diverse programs and research opportunities, particularly in business and law.
-
Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Ranked 40th, Rutgers is the largest institution of higher education in New Jersey, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Drexel University - With a rank of 98, Drexel is known for its cooperative education program, which integrates professional experience with academic studies.
-
Swarthmore College - Ranked 4th, this liberal arts college is recognized for its rigorous academics and commitment to social responsibility.
-
Haverford College - With a rank of 21, Haverford is known for its strong emphasis on community and academic integrity.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and unique educational experiences, making them prominent choices for students in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Thomas Edison State University
The crime data for Thomas Edison State University reveals a rather interesting trend over the years from 2013 to 2023. Notably, there were incidents recorded in 2013, 2020, and 2023, with a total of just 4 incidents reported across a decade. The average crime rate per 1000 students during these years remained relatively low, peaking at 0.24 in 2023.
In 2013, the university recorded a single incident of gun-related arrest, indicating a potential concern for campus safety during that period. However, the subsequent years from 2014 to 2019 showed no reported incidents, suggesting an effective implementation of safety measures or a particularly safe environment for students.
The return of recorded incidents in 2020 and 2023, albeit minimal, raises questions about the fluctuating nature of campus safety. The incidents in these years, although still low, could reflect wider societal issues or challenges faced by students, especially during times of economic and social stress, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected many aspects of university life.
Overall, the data suggests that Thomas Edison State University has maintained a relatively safe campus environment, with very few recorded incidents over the years. However, the occasional spikes in crime rates should be monitored closely to ensure that protective measures remain effective and that students feel secure on campus. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Thomas Edison State University include Bonnie Watson Coleman (US Representative for New Jersey's 12th district), Peter Baldacchino (Catholic Bishop of Las Cruces) and Arthur C. Brooks (Author and academic, Vanderbilt University professor).
-
Bonnie Watson Coleman 1945–
US Representative for New Jersey's 12th district
-
Peter Baldacchino 1960–
Catholic Bishop of Las Cruces
-
Arthur C. Brooks 1964–
Author and academic, Vanderbilt University professor
-
Isaac Wright Jr. 1962–
Attorney, businessman and philanthropist
-
Carolyn Slaughter 1946–
Novelist and psychotherapist
-
Steven L. Herman 1959–
Former VOA White House correspondent and journalism educator
-
Gary Null 1945–
Talk radio host and author
-
Daniel Knudsen 1988–
Film director, actor and producer
-
Kristina Sisco 1982–
Former actress and writer
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Raj Mukherji 1984–
New Jersey state senator
-
Sue Wilson Beffort 1946–
New Mexico state senator from 1997 to 2016
-
David Roberts 1956–
Former mayor of Hoboken, New Jersey
Science and academia
-
Michael D. Reynolds 1954–2019
Astronomy professor and Chabot Space and Science Center director
Arts and media
-
Margaret Clark 1964–
Historian, writer and educator
Sports
-
Mike Davis 1960–
College basketball head coach
-
Fang Mitchell 1948–
Former Coppin State men's basketball coach
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.