Please help me map out a good degree path and navigate fin aid.

[teerockus]

TESU's IT degree is not going to work, it's very expensive - their only option for someone wanting an inexpensive degree is the CompSci degree.

WGU's IT degrees are a much better option, especially for someone without a lot of GE credits coming in, and a bunch of certs.  Or if you want a bunch of certs, then WGU is definitely the way to go.

UMPI does not have an IT degree, and their BLS with MIS minor is not a great option, so I wouldn't do that.

The only other option is the Purdue Global IT degree.  If you want to get a job that pays for it, you could get a job at Papa John's - they pay 100% tuition at that school, up front, so you're not out of pocket a single dollar (although I don't think you can do ExcelTrack, only the "regular" courses, but it's still worth it).  Their ExcelTrack program is the CBE option similar to WGU.  But with a lot more writing and a lot fewer certs.

If I were you, I'd do WGU.  Lots of great options besides just the straight IT degree.  Can be done with Pell Grants.

As for prestige, there is not much of a difference I don't think.  None is "prestigious." None is "infamous" either, which you'd want to avoid.

Thanks! Your response cut straight to the meat of what I was asking. 

Regarding TESU: I read on this forum that there was a special program for NJ residents which makes tuition essentially free?

WGU looks like a good option that is tech focused, however, I am still going to need to bring in lots of required classes/electives from other sources just like TESU, right?

And then there is the fact that WGU is test heavy, while TESU is a combo of both or at least seems to have the most flexibility in that regard. 

I am split as to which path to take still and would appreciate any other considerations esp weighing in cost/grants and speed of the degree.

Thanks for the responses so far guys!