Nursing positions are at an all-time high due to the ongoing nursing shortage. However, there are few states that are as impacted by the nursing shortage as New Jersey. The Garden State has a rapidly aging population, as well as diverse communities that are struggling to find adequate healthcare options. If you’re considering a nursing career in this state, you’ll have your work cut out for you, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a genuine difference. You also have reliable job security for at least the next decade — within the next ten years, New Jersey is expected to reach a nursing position vacancy of up to 9%, To learn about nursing degrees in the state, check out the sections below.
Jump to:
- New Jersey RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
- Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Getting an RN License in New Jersey
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 48 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/).
The College of New Jersey
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
Fairleigh Dickinson University
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
Ramapo College
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
Mercer County Community College
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
Thomas Edison State University
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
Holy Name Medical Center
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
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
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
Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing
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
Rowan College at Gloucester County
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
County College of Morris
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
Essex County College
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
William Paterson University
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
Passaic County Community College
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
Seton Hall University
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
Bloomfield College
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
St. Francis Medical Center
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
Rutgers University
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
Rutgers School of Nursing - Camden
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
Middlesex County College
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
Jersey College - Ewing
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
New Jersey Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you’re looking to pursue a career as a registered nurse, New Jersey offers several options to help you get started. Many aspiring nurses opt for an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Take a closer look at these different pathways to determine which one aligns with your professional objectives.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re just starting out in nursing and are looking for the fastest path to launch your career, pursuing an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) is an excellent choice. This degree, along with a nursing diploma, can typically be completed in one to two years, making it a relatively quick entry point into the field. In New Jersey, these programs are designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to become a registered nurse.
For those who already have experience in nursing, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), there are additional options to accelerate your transition into a Registered Nurse (RN) role. Many schools in New Jersey offer LPN to RN bridge program, which allow you to build on your existing experience and education. These programs can lead to earning either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), providing you with the flexibility to choose the degree that aligns best with your long-term career goals. Whether you’re starting fresh or building on previous experience, New Jersey offers various pathways to help you achieve your nursing aspirations.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in New Jersey include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
---|---|---|---|
ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in New Jersey.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
In New Jersey, while ADN programs and nursing diplomas offer quicker entry into the nursing field, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can be a valuable investment for those able to commit more time to their education. Many employers in the state prefer BSN-prepared nurses over those with an ADN or diploma, and a BSN also provides a strong foundation for advanced studies or leadership roles. For Registered Nurses (RNs) with an ADN, completing a BSN can take as little as two years through bridge programs. Additionally, if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, accelerated BSN programs allow you to earn your BSN in about a year, depending on your prior coursework.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in New Jersey typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
---|---|---|---|
Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
Working nurses in New Jersey often have hectic schedules, making it challenging to pursue further education. If you’re looking to earn your BSN more quickly than through a traditional program, you can take advantage of a bridge option like the New Jersey RN to BSN program. This pathway allows you to build on your current nursing experience and complete your degree in as little as two years.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For many nursing professionals in New Jersey, graduate school is the next important step in advancing their careers. Pursuing a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can open doors to higher salaries, greater autonomy, and improved job opportunities. Most nursing graduate programs in New Jersey typically require applicants to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher, along with a current RN license.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in New Jersey:
- New Jersey Nurse Practitioner Programs
- New Jersey MSN Program
- New Jersey Accelerated MSN Program
- New Jersey RN to MSN Programs
- New Jersey Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- New Jersey DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in New Jersey
To pursue nursing jobs in New Jersey, you’ll need to obtain a state license. This requires passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Afterward, you must complete and submit an application to the New Jersey Board of Nursing along with the required fees.
Requirements for RN Licensure in New Jersey
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the New Jersey Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
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.
Ranked | School | Program | Score | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
21. | Raritan Valley Community College Somerville, NJ 08876 | Phone: (908) 526-1200 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 88.36 | catalog.raritanval.edu |
22. | Ocean County College Toms River, NJ 08754 | Phone: (732) 255-0400 | Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN | 88.31 | ocean.edu |
23. | JFK Muhlenburg Harold B. and Dorothy A. Snyder School of Nursing Plainfield, NJ 07060 | Phone: (908) 668-2400 | Programs: Diploma | 87.31 | jfkmuhlenbergschools.org |
24. | Felician University Rutherford, NJ 07070 | Phone: (201) 559-6000 | Programs: BSN | 86.54 | felician.edu |
25. | Stockton University Galloway, NJ 08205-9441 | Phone: (609) 652-1776 | Programs: BSN | 86.28 | stockton.edu |
26. | Monmouth University West Long Branch, NJ 07764 | Phone: (732) 571-3400 | Programs: BSN | 86.07 | monmouth.edu |
27. | Salem Community College Carneys Point, NJ 08069 | Phone: (856) 299-2100 | Programs: LPN to ADN | 85.86 | salemcc.edu |
28. | New Jersey City University Jersey City, NJ 07305 | Phone: (201) 200-2000 | Programs: BSN | 85.74 | njcu.edu |
29. | Jersey College - Teterboro Teterboro, NJ 07608 | Phone: (201) 489-5836 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 85.72 | jerseycollege.edu |
30. | Georgian Court University Lakewood, NJ 08701 | Phone: (800) 458-8422 | Programs: BSN | 85.50 | georgian.edu |
31. | Saint Peter's University Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (888) 772-9933 | Programs: BSN | 84.46 | saintpeters.edu |
32. | Trinitas School of Nursing Elizabeth, NJ 07202 | Phone: (908) 659-5200 | Programs: Diploma | 84.45 | rwjbh.org |
33. | Bergen Community College Paramus, NJ 07652 | Phone: (201) 447-7100 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.89 | bergen.edu |
34. | Caldwell University Caldwell, NJ 07006 | Phone: (973) 618-3000 | Programs: BSN | 83.10 | caldwell.edu |
35. | Warren County Community College Washington, NJ 07882 | Phone: (908) 835-9222 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 80.20 | warren.edu |
36. | Brookdale Community College Lincroft, NJ 07738 | Phone: (732) 224-2345 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 80.05 | brookdalecc.edu |
37. | Atlantic Cape Community College Mays Landing, NJ 08330 | Phone: (609) 625-1111 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 79.76 | atlantic.edu |
38. | Rowan College at Burlington County Pemberton, NJ 08068 | Phone: (609) 894-9311 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 75.41 | rcbc.edu |
39. | Berkeley College Woodland Park, NJ 07424 | Phone: (800) 446-5400 | Programs: LPN to BSN | 73.66 | berkeleycollege.edu |
40. | Eastern International College - Belleville Belleville, NJ 07109 | Phone: (973) 751-9051 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 73.11 | eicollege.edu |
41. | Hudson County Community College Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 714-7100 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 72.91 | hccc.edu |
42. | Rutgers University - Blackwood Blackwood, NJ 08012 | Phone: (856) 566-6957 | Programs: BSN | 67.01 | nursing.rutgers.edu |
43. | Montclair State University School of Nursing Montclair, NJ 07043 | Phone: (973) 655-4000 | Programs: BSN | - | montclair.edu |
44. | Hudson County Community College Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 714-7100 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | hccc.edu |
45. | Eastwick College Ramsey, NJ 07446 | Phone: (201) 989-1131 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | eastwick.edu |
46. | Eastern International College - Jersey City Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 942-0363 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | eicollege.edu |
47. | Chamberlain University North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902 | Phone: (732) 875-1300 | Programs: BSN | - | chamberlain.edu |
48. | Best Care College East Orange, NJ 07018 | Phone: (973) 673-3900 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | - | bestcarecollege.edu |
Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.