Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in New Jersey, also known as second degree BSN pathways, provide a rigorous, fast-track option for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and wish to transition into nursing. These programs are designed to address the state's increasing demand for highly skilled registered nurses, particularly as hospitals and health systems like Hackensack Meridian Health and RWJBarnabas Health continue to expand their services. By compressing essential nursing coursework and clinical training into an intensive format, ABSN programs prepare graduates to enter the workforce quickly and contribute to critical patient care needs across New Jersey's diverse healthcare landscape.

2025 Best ABSN Programs in New Jersey

Registered Nursing dot org is proud to present our comprehensive ranking of the Best ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) Programs in New Jersey. These top-tier programs offer aspiring nurses an efficient pathway to enter the healthcare profession, transforming passionate individuals into skilled registered nurses in an accelerated timeframe. Our expert team has carefully evaluated each program based on crucial factors like academic rigor, clinical experience opportunities, faculty credentials, student support services, and graduate success rates. Whether you're a career changer or recent college graduate looking to quickly transition into nursing, these New Jersey ABSN programs provide exceptional educational experiences that prepare students for dynamic healthcare careers. See our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Rutgers University-Camden

Camden, NJ - Public 4-Year - camden.rutgers.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rutgers University-Camden's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing transforms professionals with existing bachelor's degrees into skilled nurses through an intensive 15-month program. Designed for career changers, the curriculum blends comprehensive theoretical education with extensive clinical training across diverse healthcare settings. Students must complete prerequisite coursework in chemistry, anatomy, and microbiology before admission. The campus-based learning model provides direct interaction with experienced nursing faculty, ensuring personalized mentorship and robust professional development. With a military-friendly approach and financial aid options, this program offers an accelerated pathway for individuals seeking to rapidly transition into the nursing profession while maintaining high academic and clinical standards.

  • 15-month program length
  • Campus-based learning
  • For non-nursing bachelor's holders
  • Includes clinical practice
  • Prerequisites required
  • Financial aid available
  • Intensive curriculum
  • Hands-on experience
  • Quality faculty access
  • Career changer friendly
#2

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ - Public 4-Year - tcnj.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Second-Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The College of New Jersey's Accelerated Second-Degree BSN program offers an intensive 14-month pathway for career changers with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. Distinguished by its impressive 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate, the program provides comprehensive nursing education through intimate learning environments. Students benefit from early clinical immersion, starting practical experiences in the first summer semester. The curriculum emphasizes faculty-guided research, hands-on simulation labs, and professional networking opportunities. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA, prerequisite coursework, and successful TEAS exam completion. With a remarkable 100% employment rate within six months of graduation, this program represents an efficient and high-quality route into professional nursing, supported by a flat-rate tuition of approximately $34,000.

  • 14-month duration
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Small class sizes
  • Faculty-mentored research
  • Clinical experience first summer
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • TEAS exam required
  • Flat-rate tuition $34k
  • 100% employment rate
  • On-campus program
#3

Stockton University

Galloway, NJ - Public 4-Year - stockton.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Stockton University's Accelerated BSN program provides a strategic pathway for career-changers holding bachelor's degrees in alternative fields. The comprehensive curriculum prioritizes critical thinking, health promotion, and disease prevention strategies, positioning graduates for successful NCLEX-RN examination and professional nursing roles. Prospective students must meet rigorous admission standards, including a 3.5 GPA, specific science course completion with B-level performance, and comprehensive background screening. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited program distinguishes itself through an integrated approach emphasizing ethical practice, advanced communication techniques, and hands-on clinical skill development. Ideal for motivated professionals seeking an expedited nursing education, this campus-based program delivers a robust, accelerated learning experience.

  • Accelerated BSN program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Requires bachelor's degree
  • 3.5 GPA admission requirement
  • Science courses needed
  • Background check mandatory
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Focus on critical thinking
  • Health promotion emphasis
  • Disease prevention focus
#4

Felician University

Lodi, NJ - Private 4-year - felician.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Felician University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) represents an innovative pathway for career changers with previous college credits. This dynamic 16-month hybrid program strategically blends online learning with immersive clinical experiences across Parsippany and Rutherford campuses. Students benefit from cutting-edge simulation centers, comprehensive NCLEX-RN® preparation, and extensive clinical rotations through Atlantic Health System partnerships. With a full-time schedule and three annual start dates, the program accommodates diverse learner needs. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes hands-on training, ensuring graduates are thoroughly prepared for professional nursing practice. Admission requires a minimum of 60 non-nursing college credits, with tuition set at $60,312.

  • 16-month program duration
  • Hybrid learning format
  • NCLEX-RN® preparation
  • $60,312 tuition
  • Hands-on nursing labs
  • Clinical rotations included
  • Options in Parsippany or Rutherford
  • Three start dates yearly
  • Full-time schedule
  • Accredited nursing program

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Felician University offers a transformative Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program designed for ambitious professionals seeking a rapid entry into healthcare. This comprehensive 16-month curriculum provides flexible learning modalities, including hybrid and on-ground options tailored to individual student preferences. Applicants with non-nursing bachelor's degrees can leverage their existing academic background to expedite their nursing career. The program features intensive hands-on labs, diverse clinical rotations, and high-tech simulation training. Students receive personalized guidance from admissions counselors and are comprehensively prepared to successfully challenge the NCLEX-RN® examination. With a competitive tuition of $60,312, the program represents an accessible pathway to nursing professional credentials.

  • 16-month program
  • Hybrid or on-ground options
  • Hands-on labs
  • Clinical rotations
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN®
  • Tuition $60,312
  • Starts with admissions counselor chat
  • For non-nursing degree holders
  • Full-time schedule
  • High-tech simulation center
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

New Jersey City University

Jersey City, NJ - Public 4-Year - njcu.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing—Accelerated Program (Second Degree), B.S.N.

Campus Based - Visit Website

New Jersey City University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) offers a dynamic 12-month pathway for non-nursing college graduates seeking rapid professional transformation. Meticulously designed, the program integrates rigorous classroom instruction with comprehensive clinical immersion across diverse healthcare environments. Students benefit from an intensive curriculum that cultivates advanced nursing competencies, leadership strategies, and critical thinking skills essential for modern healthcare delivery. The program demands specific prerequisites and provides a full-time, campus-based learning experience that efficiently bridges academic knowledge with practical nursing expertise. Graduates emerge prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and launch successful nursing careers with a robust educational foundation.

  • 12-month accelerated program.
  • Full-time, intense format.
  • Clinical experiences included.
  • Leadership skills development.
  • Prerequisites required.
  • Campus-based learning.
  • For non-nurse graduates.
  • Fast-track to nursing career.
  • Combines classroom and clinical learning.
  • Prepares for Registered Nurse role.
*Source: IPEDS 2023 data files, National Center for Education Statistics.

List of New Jersey Accelerated BSN Programs

New Jersey offers several quality Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs designed for career changers and students seeking a fast-track nursing education. These intensive programs typically take 12-18 months and help students quickly transition into the nursing profession. The following table highlights ABSN programs across New Jersey, providing essential details about location, program features, and direct links to learn more about each school's unique nursing pathway.
Jump to City:

Camden, NJ

Rutgers University-Camden

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program length
    • Campus-based learning
    • For non-nursing bachelor's holders
    • Includes clinical practice
    • Prerequisites required
    • Financial aid available
    • Intensive curriculum
    • Hands-on experience

Ewing, NJ

The College of New Jersey

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second-Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-month duration
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Small class sizes
    • Faculty-mentored research
    • Clinical experience first summer
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • TEAS exam required
    • Flat-rate tuition $34k

Galloway, NJ

Stockton University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated BSN program
    • Campus-based learning
    • Requires bachelor's degree
    • 3.5 GPA admission requirement
    • Science courses needed
    • Background check mandatory
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Focus on critical thinking

Jersey City, NJ

New Jersey City University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing—Accelerated Program (Second Degree), B.S.N.

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month accelerated program.
    • Full-time, intense format.
    • Clinical experiences included.
    • Leadership skills development.
    • Prerequisites required.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • For non-nurse graduates.
    • Fast-track to nursing career.

Saint Peter's University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month completion time.
    • Total cost $25,000.
    • Requires bachelor's degree.
    • 3.0 GPA prerequisite.
    • B or higher in sciences.
    • TEAS exam required.
    • 64 total credits.
    • Campus-based program.

Lakewood, NJ

Georgian Court University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-month duration
    • 10:1 clinical ratio
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • 87.5% employment rate
    • $795 per credit tuition
    • 3.2 GPA requirement
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • June and November starts

Lodi, NJ

Felician University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program
    • Hybrid or on-ground options
    • Hands-on labs
    • Clinical rotations
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN®
    • Tuition $60,312
    • Starts with admissions counselor chat
    • For non-nursing degree holders
  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program duration
    • Hybrid learning format
    • NCLEX-RN® preparation
    • $60,312 tuition
    • Hands-on nursing labs
    • Clinical rotations included
    • Options in Parsippany or Rutherford
    • Three start dates yearly

Madison, NJ

Fairleigh Dickinson University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing BSN Accelerated

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration.
    • Hybrid online and in-person format.
    • Requires prior bachelor's degree.
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
    • In-person labs for prerequisites.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
    • Full-time commitment needed.
    • Rolling admissions with summer start.

Mahwah, NJ

Ramapo College of New Jersey

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program
    • Full-time, day-time
    • Prepares for NCLEX exam
    • Foundation for graduate study
    • Requires completed prerequisites
    • 24-month bridge option available
    • Summer 2025 cohort deadline
    • Intensive in-person experience

Newark, NJ

Rutgers University-Newark

  • Bachelor's - Second-Degree BS in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-month accelerated program.
    • Campus-based in Newark, NJ.
    • Requires previous bachelor's degree.
    • Intensive nursing curriculum.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.

South Orange, NJ

Seton Hall University

  • Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated B.S.N.

    Campus Based - Website

    • 14-month duration
    • 62-credit program
    • NCLEX-R.N. eligible
    • 97.4% pass rate
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Fall and Spring starts
    • Freehold and Nutley locations
    • Evidence-based care focus

Teaneck, NJ

Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month accelerated nursing program
    • Requires prior bachelor's degree
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam

Trenton, NJ

Thomas Edison State University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration.
    • Hybrid online and in-person format.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • 60 credits required for admission.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Clinical experiences in NJ.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Simulation lab for hands-on learning.

Woodland Park, NJ

Berkeley College-Woodland Park

  • Bachelor's - LPN to BSN Accelerated Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated pathway for LPNs.
    • BSN degree awarded.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Hands-on clinical assignments.
    • Experienced faculty support.
    • Requires LPN license.
    • 2,080 clinical hours needed.
    • Nursing entrance exam required.
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

2025 Affordable ABSN Programs in New Jersey

Nursing students in New Jersey seeking an accelerated bachelor's degree have several affordable options across the state. From bustling urban centers like Newark and Jersey City to suburban regions, these programs offer pathways into healthcare without overwhelming financial burden. Affordable programs recognize the critical need to support aspiring nurses by providing quality education at reasonable tuition rates. Prospective students can explore various options that balance academic excellence with budget-friendly pricing. The following table highlights key nursing programs that provide comprehensive training and competitive costs, helping students launch their healthcare careers without incurring significant student debt. Evaluating these programs can help students find the right balance between educational quality and financial accessibility.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Rutgers University-Camden
  • 15-month program length
  • Campus-based learning
  • For non-nursing bachelor's holders
  • Includes clinical practice
  • Prerequisites required
  • Financial aid available
  • Intensive curriculum
  • Hands-on experience
  • $13,700 - $20,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $28,700 - $43,000 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Felician University
  • 16-month program
  • Hybrid or on-ground options
  • Hands-on labs
  • Clinical rotations
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN®
  • Tuition $60,312
  • Starts with admissions counselor chat
  • For non-nursing degree holders
  • $30,400 - $45,600 (Undergraduate)
Saint Peter's University
  • 15-month completion time.
  • Total cost $25,000.
  • Requires bachelor's degree.
  • 3.0 GPA prerequisite.
  • B or higher in sciences.
  • TEAS exam required.
  • 64 total credits.
  • Campus-based program.
  • $32,800 - $49,300 (Undergraduate)
Georgian Court University
  • 14-month duration
  • 10:1 clinical ratio
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • 87.5% employment rate
  • $795 per credit tuition
  • 3.2 GPA requirement
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • June and November starts
  • $29,700 - $44,500 (Undergraduate)
The College of New Jersey
  • 14-month duration
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Small class sizes
  • Faculty-mentored research
  • Clinical experience first summer
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • TEAS exam required
  • Flat-rate tuition $34k
  • $14,900 - $22,400 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $19,700 - $29,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Thomas Edison State University
  • 15-month program duration.
  • Hybrid online and in-person format.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • 60 credits required for admission.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Clinical experiences in NJ.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Simulation lab for hands-on learning.
  • $5,300 - $8,000 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $6,900 - $10,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
New Jersey City University
  • 12-month accelerated program.
  • Full-time, intense format.
  • Clinical experiences included.
  • Leadership skills development.
  • Prerequisites required.
  • Campus-based learning.
  • For non-nurse graduates.
  • Fast-track to nursing career.
  • $11,200 - $16,800 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $19,900 - $29,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Stockton University
  • Accelerated BSN program
  • Campus-based learning
  • Requires bachelor's degree
  • 3.5 GPA admission requirement
  • Science courses needed
  • Background check mandatory
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Focus on critical thinking
  • $12,400 - $18,600 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $18,700 - $28,100 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Rutgers University-Newark
  • 14-month accelerated program.
  • Campus-based in Newark, NJ.
  • Requires previous bachelor's degree.
  • Intensive nursing curriculum.
  • Hands-on clinical experiences.
  • $13,300 - $19,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $28,300 - $42,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Ramapo College of New Jersey
  • 16-month program
  • Full-time, day-time
  • Prepares for NCLEX exam
  • Foundation for graduate study
  • Requires completed prerequisites
  • 24-month bridge option available
  • Summer 2025 cohort deadline
  • Intensive in-person experience
  • $12,800 - $19,200 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $21,100 - $31,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.

Students exploring nursing schools in New Jersey will find a wide range of pathways to enter the profession, from traditional BSN programs to accelerated and bridge options. Each route is designed to meet different academic and career backgrounds, ensuring that prospective nurses can choose the program best aligned with their goals. With strong connections to leading healthcare systems across the state, New Jersey nursing schools provide both the education and clinical experiences necessary to prepare graduates for today's complex patient care environments.

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