New Jersey is offering its nursing candidates, new and future, support and encouragement to pursue a nursing degree with an array of different incentives. These incentives include, but are not limited to: preferential job selection, salary increases, advancement opportunities and help with funding for a school. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average salary for a registered nurse in the state at $89,690. New Jersey is looking at an average projected annual job opening of 2,000 new jobs per year over the next 5 years. Candidates are being encouraged to jump on board and join in the movement toward quality patient care.

For RN bridge programs visit:

Cities in New Jersey

Best RN Programs in New Jersey

Selecting the best nursing school in New Jersey can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in New Jersey by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 49 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

2000 Pennington Rd, Ewing Township, NJ 08628

Score: 95.95

The College of New Jersey is integral to Ewing Township. Experienced nurse educators help students learn theories, principals and models around the tenets of contemporary nursing - graduates are an important part of the local nursing workforce.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (609) 771-2131
2.

1000 River Rd, Teaneck, NJ 07666

Score: 95.43

Teaneck's Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a comprehensive bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) program that's open to high school grads, those who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, and those who hold a nursing diploma or ADN. Enrolled students begin clinical labs and placements in their sophomore year of the program, giving them a solid foundation in hands-on care.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (201) 692-2000
3.

505 Ramapo Valley Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430

Score: 94.65

Mahwah’s Ramapo College has offered a BSN program since 1993. Through it’s partnership with The Valley Hospital, the classroom portion of the program is taught on the Ramapo campus while the clinicals are offered by the Master’s-level nurses of The Valley Hospital. Graduates of the program are prepared to work as RNs in a variety of healthcare sites.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (201) 684-7500
4.

102 N. Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08608

Score: 94.26

Mercer County Community College in Trenton educates aspiring RNs through its associate degree in nursing (ADN) program. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, leadership, information management, collaboration, and many other aspects to create well-rounded and caring nursing professionals.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (609) 570-3416
5.

111 W State St, Trenton, NJ 08608

Score: 94.15

Thomas Edison State University is located in Trenton, New Jersey. Molding confident and competent nurses has given the university’s Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Program an excellent reputation. The university also offers RN-BSN, MSN and DNP programs for registered nurses. Students graduate to become leading members and advocates of their profession.

Program Details

  • Programs: Accelerated BSN
  • Phone: (888) 442-8372
6.

718 Teaneck Rd, Teaneck, NJ 07666

Score: 93.40

Holy Name Medical Center’s Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing offers students a diploma pathway toward an RN career, with the option to complete an ADN degree through a collaborative agreement with Saint Peter’s University. The School of Nursing was founded in 1925 with just 13 students, and has grown to become one of the largest coeducational diploma programs in the state. The curriculum focuses on nursing theory, clinical experiences, and professional development.

Program Details

  • Programs: Diploma
  • Phone: (201) 833-3000
7.

110 Paterson St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Score: 93.30

Rutgers University's New Brunswick campus offers several outstanding bachelor's-level nursing programs, including the traditional 4-year BSN, the "2+2" BS in partnership with Camden County College, and more. These programs are built around a supportive community of faculty, staff, and fellow students to support the next generation of nurses in their pursuit of quality education.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (848) 932-7700
8.

1600 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ 08103

Score: 93.28

Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing in Camden, New Jersey provides an acclaimed nursing program for students looking to enter the world of healthcare. With over 1,900 nursing program graduates, the school succeeds with a sound and contemporary curriculum with varied clinical placements for student experience.

Program Details

  • Programs: Diploma
  • Phone: (856) 757-3730
9.

1400 Tanyard Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080

Score: 93.09

Rowan College at Gloucester County, located in thriving Sewell, New Jersey creates the next generation of excellent nurses. Competent faculty train nursing students in the art and science of nursing practice; with contemporary care models and diverse clinical experiences, Rowan graduates excel in the workforce.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (856) 468-5000
10.

214 Center Grove Rd, Randolph, NJ 07869

Score: 92.57

The County College of Morris, located in Randolph, offers students an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing that accommodates individual learning needs. With several tracks of study, including day and evening options, CCM students learn the necessary clinical skills needed to become exemplary RNs.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (973) 328-5000
11.

303 University Ave, Newark, NJ 07102

Score: 92.17

Essex County College of Newark provides several educational pathways for aspiring RNs. Their traditional ADN and LPN to ADN offerings help students find their footing as healthcare providers and nursing leaders.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to ADN
  • Phone: (973) 877-3000
12.

300 Pompton Rd, Wayne, NJ 07470

Score: 92.13

William Paterson University in Wayne offers numerous quality nursing programs, including a general BSN, an RN to BSN, and multiple master's degree and post-grad pathways. WPU's BSN grads quickly find entry-level nursing employment, or can opt to continue their education with a graduate-level nursing degree.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (973) 720-2000
13.

1 College Blvd, Paterson, NJ 07505

Score: 91.45

Passaic County Community College, located in Paterson, offers students a competitive, 2-phase associate's degree in nursing program. Phase 1 consists of general education courses, while Phase 2 starts students on core nursing courses. The school offers both day and evening class options to accommodate busy schedules, and an LPN mobility option is also available.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN
  • Phone: (973) 684-6100
14.

400 South Orange Ave., South Orange, NJ 07079

Score: 91.44

Seton Hall University's BSN program boasts a unique nursing curriculum that blends classroom lectures and skills labs to give students the theoretical and hands-on learning necessary for effective nursing. Clinical skills are practiced starting in the 2nd year of the program to start giving students real-world experiences.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN, MSN
  • Phone: (973) 761-9000
15.

467 Franklin St, Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Score: 91.38

Bloomfield College is located right on the Garden State Parkway and between several other thriving communities. The college is renowned for the excellence of their nursing candidates - graduates continue to be leaders in generalist nurse competencies and lifelong learners.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (973) 748-9000
16.

601 Hamilton Ave., Trenton, NJ 08629

Score: 90.80

Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing is the proud home to an exemplary extended program designed for students coming directly from high school, and a general diploma program, and an LPN to RN bridge program. Incorporating faith and service into the curriculum means that St. Francis graduates are responsible for their team and accountable to their profession.

Program Details

  • Programs: Diploma, LPN to RN
  • Phone: (609) 599-5190
17.

180 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102

Score: 90.52

Rutgers University School of Nursing can be found in Newark, New Jersey. Widely esteemed, the college prepares BSN and MSN degree students with a variety of clinical experiences and ample theory around which to synthesize and develop into strong professionals.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (973) 972-4307
18.

215 North Third Street, Camden, NJ 08102

Score: 90.33

Rutgers School of Nursing in Camden provides educational excellence for nursing students in the South Jersey area. With a traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, and many other programs, students are prepared to grow professionally in the medical field with a world-class nursing education.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (856) 225-6226
19.

2600 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08818

Score: 90.03

Located in Edison, Middlesex Community College prepares prospective nurses with an ADN program in which students begin assisting patients within their first semester. The program is designed to be completed in just four semesters and boasts a 92.41% first-time NCLEX-RN exam pass rate.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (732) 548-6000
20.

1001 Spruce St., Suite 7 , Ewing, NJ 08638

Score: 89.30

Located in Ewing, Jersey College offers several entry-level nursing pathways, including an ADN program for aspiring RNs. A holistic model of nursing is emphasized through the college's classroom theory, skills labs, and clinical experiences.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (609) 777-9035

ADN Programs in New Jersey

A great gateway into the nursing profession, an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) has been gaining in popularity. This 2-year degree is a quick and efficient way of becoming a registered nurse. You can readily find this type of program at local junior colleges, technical schools, and more.

Over 12 schools in the state of New Jersey offer an ADN program, making it a snap to find one to suit your unique needs.

What to Look For in an ADN Program in New Jersey

Researching the different schools and ADN programs in your area is crucial. A good program can be the difference in landing a great nursing job, so it's not something to take lightly. Here are some key things to look for when comparing schools:

Accreditation

Arguably the most important factor to consider when looking for a good ADN program is proper accreditation. Respected national organizations like the Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), amongst others, will only lend their names to the best nursing programs. Aside from this, you'll also want to look for accreditation locally from the New Jersey State Board of Nursing.

Licensing

It's imperative that your ADN program fully prepares you to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This is the test you will have to pass in order to receive a nursing license from the New Jersey State Board of Nursing. Peruse your school of choice's curriculum, and perhaps even think about contacting the faculty, to ensure that the program produces graduates who excel at passing the NCLEX.

Program Outcomes

Looking at data of a school's past nursing graduates can shed some light on the program's success. Take a look at the following for your school of choice:

  • Graduation rates
  • Licensure exam pass rates
  • Graduate satisfaction
  • Employment rates

An example of a school offering a properly accredited ADN program in the state is Ocean County College, located in Toms River, NJ.

ADN Program Admission Requirements in New Jersey

Entrance requirements can vary slightly depending on the school you choose to attend. Generally speaking, you can expect to find the following:

  • Supply official transcripts from secondary school showing subjects completed and grades earned
  • Have a passing score on the TEAS test
  • Pass a criminal background check

Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in New Jersey

Paying for your ADN education can take a lot of planning. You'll have to pay the main cost of tuition, which generally covers your courses. Then you'll need to pay for indirect costs like textbooks, uniforms, transportation, and other mandatory school fees. If payment is an issue, see what kind of aid is available from your school's Financial Aid department. You can also use scholarships to offset the cost.

To provide an example of cost, the tuition for the ADN program at Raritan Valley Community College, located in Branchburg, NJ, is $174 per credit for in-county students and $254 per credit for out-of-county/state students.

Advantages of ADN Programs

ADN programs are designed for those who want to become registered nurses but don't want to spend a lot of time in school. The 2-year program makes it easy to get in and out and start working in healthcare before students in traditional programs are even done with their coursework. It's also ideal for those located in less urban areas, as smaller community colleges are often where ADN programs are found.

LPN to RN Programs in New Jersey

Due to the popularity and expanded employment opportunities of registered nursing, many New Jersey Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) eventually opt to advance their education via an RN program. Luckily, there are specialized LPN to RN programs to help these nurses reach their goals.

LPN to ADN/BSN Programs

The LPN to ADN program pathway is the basic option for LPNs. This program type can be completed in a few semesters, often taking less than a year to complete, and poises the graduate to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Rowan College at Gloucester County offers a selective-admission LPN to ADN pathway for interested students. Those looking for a more intensive nursing education may opt for the LPN to BSN pathway, in which students complete baccalaureate coursework. Woodland Park’s Berkeley College offers the only on-campus LPN to BSN program in the state.

Most LPN to RN programs in New Jersey will require the following:

  • Graduation from a board-approved LPN program
  • Current, unencumbered New Jersey LPN license
  • Some programs require prior work experience as an LPN

BSN Programs in New Jersey

A Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) is another educational option for becoming a registered nurse. This program is traditionally 4 years in length and is typically offered at larger universities in more urban areas. A registered nurse with a BSN has the opportunity to hold a wider variety of nursing jobs, including management positions, and has the potential to earn a higher salary. Additionally, many schools are now offering an accelerated BSN program as well as an RN to BSN program, making it one of the most versatile nursing degrees out there.

New Jersey has more than 12 schools throughout the state that offer an accredited BSN program.

What To Look For in a BSN Program in New Jersey

There are a few main factors to research when comparing BSN programs in the state. School location, cost, accreditation, and program outcomes are just a few of the things you should be looking for. If you have already completed a bachelor's degree or higher in another subject, then you may want to look for a school that offers an accelerated BSN program. If you're already a registered nurse looking to advance your career, finding a school that offers an RN to BSN program is a good idea.

Thomas Edison State University, located in Trenton, NJ, is just one school in the state offering an accredited BSN program.

BSN Program Length in New Jersey

A traditional BSN program (also sometimes referred to as a "Generic" or "Pre-Licensure" BSN) will take 4 years to complete. If you are looking into nursing as a second degree, an accelerated BSN can take as little as 15 months from start to finish, depending on the school. Lastly, RN to BSN programs, for those who already hold an ADN or nursing diploma, typically last around 2 years. It's always a good idea to inquire directly with any prospective school about their specific program lengths.

BSN Program Admission Requirements in New Jersey

You'll want to make sure you fulfill all the necessary requirements in order to apply for your program of choice. While admission requirements vary, the below is a sampling of what some schools in the state requirements for their BSN programs:

  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better
  • Achieving a minimum standard grade of C+ or better in pre-requisite courses
  • Must write an essay that expresses an interest in, and commitment to, the nursing profession

Tuition and Costs of BSN Programs in New Jersey

It's important to fully break down the costs and fees of any prospective BSN program. Remember that you'll need to pay for tuition in addition to extra mandatory costs like books, lab fees, equipment, and more. Your school's Financial Aid department should be able to provide you with resources if you need help paying for your program of choice.

For example, the tuition for the accelerated BSN program at New Jersey City University is $11,733.45 per semester, plus a $1,343.75 nursing fee for a total of $13,077.20 per semester for in-state students.

Advantages of BSN Programs

A BSN will put you on a path of success in nursing, as it provides the opportunity to hold higher positions in the nursing world as well as higher salaries. In fact, a BSN is often necessary in order to advance in your nursing career. It's a great choice for those who are interested in a traditional 4-year degree at a larger school.

MSN Programs in New Jersey

Those wanting to achieve the highest level of nursing careers should aim for a Master's of Science in Nursing degree (MSN). This advanced degree is available for those who already hold a BSN and want to advance to nursing jobs including Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, Nurse Practitioner, and other specialties. These jobs typically come with much higher salaries than standard nursing jobs.

Over 10 schools in the New Jersey area offer accredited MSN programs.

MSN Program Length in New Jersey

Generally, you can expect an MSN program to take 2-3 years to complete. Many schools offering this program offer flexible schedules so that busy working nurses can complete the coursework. Online classes, evening classes, and part-time schedules are commonly offered. It's advised to inquire with any prospective school regarding the types of coursework schedules they offer.

MSN Admission Requirements in New Jersey

MSN programs can be competitive, so you'll want to be sure you carefully review the admission requirements for any program you are considering. Here is an example of the type of entrance requirements you may face:

  • BSN from an accredited institution with a recommended GPA of 3.0
  • Personal statement/essay
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Professional resume

Tuition and Costs of MSN Programs in New Jersey

Costs can fluctuate wildly depending on which school and MSN program you are interested in. Be sure to properly compare program costs, including direct costs like tuition, as well as indirect costs like lab fees, books, transportation, room and board, and more. To provide an example of cost, the tuition and fees for the MSN program at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah are roughly $819 per credit.

For NP programs visit:

Getting a New Jersey Nursing License

New Jersey requirements for licensure are clearly laid out and require candidates to submit an application, fees and supporting documentation.

If you are applying by examination you must submit the following along with your notarized application:

  • Registration for NCLEX
  • Passport photo 2" x 2", signed and taken within the last 6 months
  • Proof of citizenship or immigration status
  • Proof of name change (if applicable)
  • Authorization for Criminal Background Check' form signed and completed

Applying by endorsement requires submitting the appropriate notarized application, ALL of the above information, and the following:

  • Verification of licensure from the original state-issued - either request from a state or NURSYS (if applicable)
  • Fingerprint cards completed - only if you live outside the metropolitan area of New Jersey

Learn more about NJ RN license requirements at the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs - NJ Board of Nursing.

Accelerated Nursing Programs in New Jersey

Fast-track your career by taking an accelerated BSN program and complete your degree in 12 to 15 months. Fast-tracking your degree will require full-time commitment as the course load and clinical hours run simultaneously within the program, which is why working while attending the program is greatly discouraged. Each program has different eligibility requirements that might mean candidates have to take additional courses before the start date of the program, these courses will also add cost to tuition and increase the amount of time until completion. For further tuition information contact the individual college programs.

Continued List of All RN Programs in New Jersey

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
21.
Somerville, NJ 08876 | Phone: (908) 526-1200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.36
22.
Toms River, NJ 08754 | Phone: (732) 255-0400
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN
88.31
23.
Plainfield, NJ 07060 | Phone: (908) 668-2400
Programs: Diploma
87.31
24.
Rutherford, NJ 07070 | Phone: (201) 559-6000
Programs: BSN
86.54
25.
Galloway, NJ 08205-9441 | Phone: (609) 652-1776
Programs: BSN
86.28
26.
West Long Branch, NJ 07764 | Phone: (732) 571-3400
Programs: BSN
86.07
27.
Carneys Point, NJ 08069 | Phone: (856) 299-2100
Programs: LPN to ADN
85.86
28.
Jersey City, NJ 07305 | Phone: (201) 200-2000
Programs: BSN
85.74
29.
Teterboro, NJ 07608 | Phone: (201) 489-5836
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.72
30.
Lakewood, NJ 08701 | Phone: (800) 458-8422
Programs: BSN
85.50
31.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (888) 772-9933
Programs: BSN
84.46
32.
Elizabeth, NJ 07202 | Phone: (908) 659-5200
Programs: Diploma
84.45
33.
Vineland, NJ 08360 | Phone: (856) 691-8600
Programs: Associate in Nursing
84.09
34.
Paramus, NJ 07652 | Phone: (201) 447-7100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.89
35.
Caldwell, NJ 07006 | Phone: (973) 618-3000
Programs: BSN
83.10
36.
Washington, NJ 07882 | Phone: (908) 835-9222
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.20
37.
Lincroft, NJ 07738 | Phone: (732) 224-2345
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.05
38.
Mays Landing, NJ 08330 | Phone: (609) 625-1111
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.76
39.
Pemberton, NJ 08068 | Phone: (609) 894-9311
Programs: Associate in Nursing
75.41
40.
Woodland Park, NJ 07424 | Phone: (800) 446-5400
Programs: LPN to BSN
73.66
41.
Belleville, NJ 07109 | Phone: (973) 751-9051
Programs: Associate in Nursing
73.11
42.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 714-7100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
72.91
43.
Blackwood, NJ 08012 | Phone: (856) 566-6957
Programs: BSN
67.01
44.
Montclair, NJ 07043 | Phone: (973) 655-4000
Programs: BSN
-
45.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 714-7100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
46.
Ramsey, NJ 07446 | Phone: (201) 989-1131
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
47.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 942-0363
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
48.
North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902 | Phone: (732) 875-1300
Programs: BSN
-
49.
East Orange, NJ 07018 | Phone: (973) 673-3900
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Share This:
LinkedIn
Reddit