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.

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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/).

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

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:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely 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:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-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)

New Jersey ABSN programs offer an excellent opportunity for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field to earn their BSN in just one to two years. These programs are ideal for those who choose to pursue nursing later in their careers, providing a fast-track path to becoming a registered nurse.

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:

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?

Accreditation is a crucial factor when choosing an RN program in New Jersey. Without RN program accreditation, graduates will be unable to obtain licensure. As you explore your options, ensure that the program you're considering is accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

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.
Paramus, NJ 07652 | Phone: (201) 447-7100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.89
34.
Caldwell, NJ 07006 | Phone: (973) 618-3000
Programs: BSN
83.10
35.
Washington, NJ 07882 | Phone: (908) 835-9222
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.20
36.
Lincroft, NJ 07738 | Phone: (732) 224-2345
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.05
37.
Mays Landing, NJ 08330 | Phone: (609) 625-1111
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.76
38.
Pemberton, NJ 08068 | Phone: (609) 894-9311
Programs: Associate in Nursing
75.41
39.
Woodland Park, NJ 07424 | Phone: (800) 446-5400
Programs: LPN to BSN
73.66
40.
Belleville, NJ 07109 | Phone: (973) 751-9051
Programs: Associate in Nursing
73.11
41.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 714-7100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
72.91
42.
Blackwood, NJ 08012 | Phone: (856) 566-6957
Programs: BSN
67.01
43.
Montclair, NJ 07043 | Phone: (973) 655-4000
Programs: BSN
-
44.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 714-7100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
45.
Ramsey, NJ 07446 | Phone: (201) 989-1131
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
46.
Jersey City, NJ 07306 | Phone: (201) 942-0363
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-
47.
North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902 | Phone: (732) 875-1300
Programs: BSN
-
48.
East Orange, NJ 07018 | Phone: (973) 673-3900
Programs: Associate in Nursing
-

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