Rutgers is a top college, despite the fact that, for some reason, the people of New Jersey think that it is somehow inferior. For what its worth (which, TBH, isn’t much), USNews ranks it as #40, between Boston College (#39), and Tufts (#41).
So it is a T-50, it is a state flagship, and it has worldwide recognition. It is also a Colonial College, meaning that it was established before 1776, so it one of the oldest (founded before Dartmouth), as well. It is an EXCELLENT option for studying anything you want.
If, however, you cannot afford Rutgers, attending a CC and transferring is also a great way to go. Many of my kid’s classmates went that route to save money.
In any case, good luck!