Nursing remains one of the most detail-oriented professions in the world. With a tendency to promote those with strong multi-tasking skills across a spectrum of tasks, nurses deliver exacting and caring treatment to restore their patients to health. Nurses should be motivated for professional growth and thrive in a complex working environment.

2026 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey

Registered Nursing (.org) presents the most comprehensive rankings of online RN to BSN programs in New Jersey, helping nurses advance their professional credentials through distance learning opportunities. These virtual programs provide working nurses with flexible pathways to complete their bachelor's degree without disrupting their current employment. Online RN to BSN programs in New Jersey offer critical educational advancement, allowing registered nurses to enhance their clinical knowledge, increase career opportunities, and potentially boost their earning potential. Nurses can complete coursework from home, balancing professional responsibilities with academic growth, making these programs essential for career development in the healthcare sector. Our carefully researched rankings consider factors like program quality, affordability, and student support. Learn about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ - Private 4-year - saintpeters.edu

Bachelor's - Online RN to BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Saint Peter's University delivers a robust online RN to BSN program tailored for working nurses seeking accelerated career progression. Through an innovative curriculum spanning 14-21 months, students complete 31-36 credit hours in convenient 8-week terms. The Jesuit-affiliated program emphasizes whole-person healthcare principles, preparing nurses for diverse professional roles like nurse educator and health policy specialist. With personalized academic advising and national accreditation, the program offers flexibility for registered nurses holding diplomas or associate degrees. No specific entrance exam requirements are mentioned, and the program is 100% online, making it accessible for busy healthcare professionals.

  • 100% online program
  • 31-36 credit hours
  • 14-21 months completion
  • Accelerated 8-week terms
  • Jesuit whole-person healthcare approach
  • Personal academic advising
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Experienced nursing faculty
  • Multiple career path opportunities
#2

William Paterson University of New Jersey

Wayne, NJ - Public 4-Year - wpunj.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

William Paterson University's online RN to BSN program provides registered nurses an accelerated pathway to enhance their professional credentials. The fully digital program spans 10 months, requiring only 30 credit hours and costing $9,892.50. Designed specifically for working healthcare professionals, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced clinical reasoning, and leadership development. Students benefit from a flexible learning format that allows seamless integration with current nursing responsibilities. The program prepares nurses for expanded career opportunities across diverse healthcare settings, focusing on professional growth and advanced practice roles. Military-friendly and accredited, this program offers RN license transfer credits and a comprehensive approach to nursing education.

  • 100% Online Program
  • $9,892.50 Total Tuition
  • 10-Month Program Length
  • 30 Credit Hour Requirement
  • Prepare for Advanced Nursing Roles
  • Flexible Learning Format
  • Accredited Nursing Program
  • RN License Transfer Credits
  • Leadership Development Focus
  • Diverse Career Preparation
#3

Montclair State University

Montclair, NJ - Public 4-Year - montclair.edu

Bachelor's - BSN in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Montclair State University's fully online RN to BSN program provides registered nurses a dynamic pathway to advance their professional credentials. Tailored for working nurses with associate degrees, this flexible program enables students to complete coursework asynchronously, accommodating varied schedules. With a 2.5 GPA requirement and transfer credit opportunities, students can efficiently enhance their nursing competencies. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and leadership development. As a military-friendly institution and one of New Jersey's most affordable public universities, Montclair State offers comprehensive support for nurses seeking career progression without traditional classroom constraints.

  • 100% Online Flexible Format
  • Self-paced or Accelerated Options
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA Required
  • Transfer Credits Available
  • RN Licensure Required
  • 30 Competency Credits
  • Most Affordable Public University
#4

Rowan University

Glassboro, NJ - Public 4-Year - rowan.edu

Bachelor's - B.S. in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Rowan University's online RN to BSN program delivers a comprehensive nursing education designed for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. Through a flexible digital learning platform, students can complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing without disrupting their professional schedules. The program's hallmark is its generous transfer credit policy, allowing up to 90 credits to be applied towards the 120-credit degree. CCNE-accredited and tailored for practicing nurses, the curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical skills, healthcare leadership, and evidence-based practice. Military-friendly and offering multiple entry terms, the program requires a minimum 2.5 GPA and current RN licensure. Coursework is structured in 7-15 week modules, providing an adaptable educational pathway for busy healthcare professionals.

  • Fully online RN to BSN program
  • 120 total credit program
  • Up to 90 credits transferable
  • CCNE fully accredited
  • Part-time study option
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • Current RN licensure needed
  • Courses in 7-15 week modules
  • Career advancement focus
  • Multiple entry terms available
#5

Rutgers University-Newark

Newark, NJ - Public 4-Year - newark.rutgers.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BS in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Rutgers University-Newark's fully online RN to BSN program offers a transformative educational experience tailored for licensed registered nurses seeking professional growth. The curriculum strategically emphasizes evidence-based practice, cutting-edge healthcare technologies, and comprehensive population health strategies. With the unique advantage of earning 12 potential graduate credits, nurses can accelerate their academic progression while maintaining professional flexibility. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, the program enables students to customize study plans and develop advanced clinical competencies. No specific entrance exam requirements are highlighted, making it accessible for practicing RNs looking to expand their academic credentials and career opportunities.

  • Primarily online program
  • For NJ-licensed RNs
  • Customizable study plans
  • 12 graduate credits available
  • Professional skill development
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

Fast & Affordable Program Options

There are many benefits to enrolling in an RN to BSN program but two that many nurses look forward to the most are affordability and succinctness. While going to school may not be an option for many nurses who have busy schedules and busy home lives, RN to BSN programs offer flexibility that traditional programs don’t have.

Quickest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

To save the most time in a BSN degree program, many nurses leverage their experience and credentials and enroll in an RN to BSN program. These fast-tracked bridge programs accept a large number of credits from associate programs and work with nurses who have their licenses to deliver the shortest possible enrollment period. Most RN to BSN programs can be completed in two years or less. Here are a few of the shortest RN to BSN programs in New Jersey.

SchoolDegree NameLength
Rutgers UniversityOnline RN to BSN1 Year
St. Peter’s UniversityOnline RN to BSN14 Months

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

They do, though 6-month RN to BSN programs aren’t common in New Jersey. To be eligible, you’ll need to have a lot of transferable credits and a program that accepts them. You’ll also need a current nursing license and at least a year of experience. If you find a program that you think might put you on a 6-month timeline to graduation, take to the admissions department to learn how you can apply.

Cheapest Online RN to BSN Options

As mentioned, RN to BSN programs can be extremely affordable, but it’s good to be aware of the individual costs involved, especially when relocating to New Jersey from another state. Many schools (particularly state schools) divide their tuition rates by whether or not you are a resident of New Jersey or if you are an online student. Additionally, you may find that technology fees in combination with the cost of textbooks and room and board may add up to the cost of your total tuition. That being said, there are a few RN to BSN programs in the state that offer the lowest tuition rates:

SchoolDegree NameTuition Cost
Kean UniversityRN to BSN$12,972 per year (Resident)

$20,364 per year (Non-Resident)

Montclair State UniversityOnline RN to BSN$13,762 per year (Resident)

$22,472 per year (Non-Resident)

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

Admissions requirements for RNs to enter a Bachelor of Science of Nursing (BSN) program are rigorous. While the applicants are already trained and licensed, it’s still important for universities – in partnership with the New Jersey Board of Nursing – to ensure that only the candidates who exceed the requirements are able to enter their accredited RN to BSN program. While each program is different, listed below are many of the criteria that you will encounter:

  • Submit a complete application
  • Submit all official secondary and post-secondary transcripts via mail or electronic means
  • College transcripts must reflect an overall GPA of 2.5
  • Students must have a minimum of 30 hours of credits to transfer
  • Have a valid RN license that is free from encumbrances
  • Out of state students are responsible to confirm that a BSN from their program is acceptable in the state where they want to practice

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

At Rowan University in Glassboro, the RN to BSN program is designed to place more emphasis on the art and practice of nursing on a broader scale. Some courses that are offered are:

  • NURS 03304 Nursing Informatics
  • NURS 03404 Research Applications In Nursing
  • NURS 03401 Community Health Nursing
  • NURS 03405 Health Care Policy And Finance

2025 List of RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey

If you're looking for the best RN to BSN programs in your state, take a look at the listings below:

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Caldwell, NJ

Caldwell University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Accelerated 7-week modules
    • 30 credits to complete
    • Reduced tuition rate $545/credit
    • Rolling admission
    • No application fee
    • Flexible start terms

Ewing, NJ

The College of New Jersey

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Designed for working RNs
    • Off-campus flexible coursework
    • Leadership skill development
    • Professional practice focused
    • Advanced learning opportunities

Glassboro, NJ

Rowan University

  • Bachelor's - B.S. in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online RN to BSN program
    • 120 total credit program
    • Up to 90 credits transferable
    • CCNE fully accredited
    • Part-time study option
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
    • Current RN licensure needed
    • Courses in 7-15 week modules

Hackettstown, NJ

Centenary University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online 30-credit program
    • Special RN student pricing
    • Flexible synchronous/asynchronous classes
    • Credit for previous nursing experience
    • Leadership and management focus

Jersey City, NJ

New Jersey City University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
    • Comprehensive BSN curriculum
    • Focuses on professional nursing skills
    • Prepares nurses for multiple healthcare settings
    • Emphasizes critical thinking and leadership
    • Culturally sensitive care approach
    • Evidence-based practice integration

Saint Peter's University

  • Bachelor's - Online RN to BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 31-36 credit hours
    • 14-21 months completion
    • Accelerated 8-week terms
    • Jesuit whole-person healthcare approach
    • Personal academic advising
    • Nationally accredited program
    • Experienced nursing faculty
  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 21-month completion timeframe
    • Transfer up to 30 nursing credits
    • Generalist professional practice focus
    • Prepares for nursing leadership
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Requires current nursing license
    • Comprehensive clinical requirements
    • Flexible learning pathways

Lakewood, NJ

Georgian Court University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/in-person format
    • $564 per credit tuition
    • Up to 90 credits transferred
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Hackensack Meridian Health partnership
    • Small class sizes
    • Evidence-based nursing curriculum

Montclair, NJ

Montclair State University

  • Bachelor's - BSN in Nursing (RN to BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Flexible Format
    • Self-paced or Accelerated Options
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA Required
    • Transfer Credits Available
    • RN Licensure Required
    • 30 Competency Credits
    • Most Affordable Public University

Morristown, NJ

Saint Elizabeth University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • Accelerated 1-year completion
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • ACEN and NJ State Board accredited
    • Prepares for multiple nursing roles
    • Seven-week course sessions
    • Capstone project included

Newark, NJ

Rutgers University-Newark

  • Bachelor's - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Primarily online program
    • For NJ-licensed RNs
    • Customizable study plans
    • 12 graduate credits available
    • Professional skill development

Trenton, NJ

Thomas Edison State University

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online nursing program
    • Completed in 18 months
    • 120 total credits required
    • Rolling admissions six times yearly
    • Credit for prior learning
    • Small class sizes
    • Eight-week course sessions
    • Optional MSN pathway

Union, NJ

Kean University

  • Bachelor's - RN-BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 120-credit upper-division program
    • Online and hybrid format
    • Transfer partnerships available
    • Career advancement opportunities
    • Flexible adult learner design
    • ACEN accredited program
    • Potential $30,000 salary increase

Wayne, NJ

William Paterson University of New Jersey

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • $9,892.50 Total Tuition
    • 10-Month Program Length
    • 30 Credit Hour Requirement
    • Prepare for Advanced Nursing Roles
    • Flexible Learning Format
    • Accredited Nursing Program
    • RN License Transfer Credits
*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2023 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/