Best Nursing Schools in New Jersey – 2025 Accredited ADN, BSN, MSN Programs

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New Jersey had an impressive workforce of 78,340 registered nurses as of May 2022. Moreover, New Jersey stands out as one of the states offering higher salaries to registered nurses, boasting an average annual income of $96,670 (BLS, 2023).

According to the data provided, New Jersey stands out as a favorable state for enrolling in nursing programs and other healthcare management degrees. Nursing programs New Jersey encompass associate's degree in nursing (ADN), bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), and master of science in nursing (MSN).

Our Research.com team has compiled this guide to help you explore the top nursing schools in New Jersey, considering factors such as academic excellence, faculty expertise, clinical facilities, and institutional reputation. Our carefully curated list aims to assist prospective students and healthcare professionals in making informed decisions about their nursing education and future professional endeavors in 2025.

Best Nursing Schools in New Jersey Table of Contents

Is Nursing a good job in New Jersey?
What are the steps to becoming a Nurse in New Jersey?
Nursing Program Length in New Jersey
Tuition and Costs of Nursing Programs New Jersey
Licensing and Certification Requirements for New Jersey Nurses
New Jersey Schools Offering Nursing Programs for 2025
What advanced practice and specialization options can elevate your nursing career in New Jersey?
What to Look for in Nursing Programs New Jersey
What regulatory updates should prospective nurses in New Jersey consider?
Are there accessible pathways for non-nursing majors to enter New Jersey’s nursing field?
What complementary healthcare career pathways can enhance your expertise in New Jersey?
Can Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Programs Accelerate Your Entry into Nursing in New Jersey?
How can you transition from RN to a nurse practitioner role in New Jersey?
How do New Jersey nursing programs ensure robust clinical training?
Can Complementary Certifications Strengthen Your Nursing Career in New Jersey?
What unique financial aid options are available for nursing students in New Jersey?
How to stay competitive in the New Jersey nursing job market?
Are Online Nursing Programs a Viable Option for You?
What career support and job placement services do New Jersey nursing programs offer?

Is Nursing a good job in New Jersey?

Due to its sizable dimensions and advantageous proximity to major urban centers, New Jersey is acknowledged as an excellent destination for pursuing both a healthcare management career and a nursing degree, leading to a fulfilling profession in nursing. By the year 2030, it is estimated that there will be 90,850 job opportunities for registered nurses, averaging around 5,240 openings annually (Projections Central, 2021).

Despite the high living costs in New Jersey, there is a silver lining for nurses, as their salaries are approximately 8.61% higher than the national average (BLS, 2023). While the state may rank high in the national cost of living index, the higher nursing salary can offer significant financial benefits, even though some may go towards rent expenses (World Population Review, 2023).

What are the steps to becoming a Nurse in New Jersey?

Becoming a nurse in New Jersey in 2025 involves completing an accredited nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, passing a background check, applying for a state nursing license, and maintaining licensure through continuing education.

Complete a Nursing Program. Students who wish to earn their New Jersey RN license must possess a degree from a school that offers an accredited nursing program as defined by the criteria outlined in
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam. After completing accredited nursing programs New Jersey such as ADN, BSN, and MSN, students must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed RNs.
Pass a Background Check. Nurses in New Jersey must pass a criminal background check, including fingerprint screening, to apply for their license. Minor offenses may not disqualify applicants, decided case-by-case by the state nursing board.
Apply for a State Nursing License. Students who have completed an accredited nursing program and passed the NCLEX-RN exam can apply for a state nursing license with the
Maintain Licensure. Once licensed, nurses must maintain their licensure through continuing education and renew their licenses every two years.

New Jersey is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so one can opt for a single-state license or a multistate license valid in other Compact member states.

Individuals with a desire to further their education have the option to enroll in a BSN to DNP online program in New Jersey.

Nursing Program Length in New Jersey

The duration of nursing programs New Jersey varies, ranging from 12 months to four years, depending on the chosen degree. Additionally, nursing programs usually incorporate hands-on patient experience as an integral component of the educational curriculum for aspiring nurses.

ADN Program. Most ADN programs take two years to complete, from enrollment to passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Traditional BSN Program. A traditional BSN program will take four years, from enrollment to passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Accelerated Second-Degree BSN Program. Accelerated BSN programs in New Jersey can be completed in only 12 to 14 months.
RN to BSN Program. Traditional RN to BSN programs take nine months to two years to finish. There are also
MSN Program. This program can be completed in just two years or six semesters, from enrollment to passing the NCLEX-RN exam.

Tuition and Costs of Nursing Programs New Jersey

The tuition fees for nursing programs New Jersey differ based on the school and program. For the BSN program, in-state students can expect to pay approximately $15,000 to $18,000 annually, while out-of-state students may incur costs ranging from $15,000 to $24,000 annually.

Licensing and Certification Requirements for New Jersey Nurses

To practice as a registered nurse (RN) in New Jersey, aspiring professionals must meet several critical licensing and certification requirements. The process begins with the successful completion of an accredited nursing program, such as ADN or BSN, followed by passing the NCLEX-RN examination—a mandatory step for demonstrating competence in nursing principles and patient care. Applicants must also undergo a background check to ensure eligibility for licensure.

After these steps, candidates can apply for their state nursing license through the New Jersey Board of Nursing. Importantly, New Jersey participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which grants nurses holding a multistate license the flexibility to practice in other NLC member states. This feature can be particularly advantageous for professionals considering opportunities beyond state lines.

For those looking to further their education and career, exploring pathways like advanced practice certifications or a BSN to DNP program in New Jersey is encouraged. To gain a comprehensive understanding of this career path, prospective nurses can visit our guide on how to become an RN in New Jersey. It provides detailed insights into prerequisites, licensing criteria, and career advancement opportunities tailored to the state’s regulations.

New Jersey Schools Offering Nursing Programs for 2025

Here are some schools in New Jersey that offer on-campus nursing programs:

1. The College of New Jersey

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) provides three distinct undergraduate nursing programs. The BSN program is unique in Mercer County, offering a generic undergraduate route to the BSN degree with a special focus on health and wellness for individuals, communities, and populations.

Their cheap RN to BSN program caters to employed RNs with an associate's degree or nursing diploma who wish to pursue further education within a BSN degree program. Additionally, the accelerated second-degree BSN is tailored for students holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree, having completed required prerequisite courses, and seeking an accelerated path to achieve a BSN degree.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Science
Cost per Year: $18,686 (in-state); $24,570 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 128
Accreditation: Commission on Colleges of the Middlestates Association of Colleges and Schools, New Jersey Board of Nursing, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

The master's programs in nursing at TCNJ aim to foster the development of advanced skills and knowledge necessary for nursing professionals to become leaders in their fields.

Through a rigorous curriculum that combines academic inquiry, practical experience, and professional collaboration, students are guided toward specialization in various areas. Graduate nursing study at TCNJ equips individuals with the expertise and mentorship required to excel in graduate-level nursing practice and significantly contribute to the field.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner for Certified NPs, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Cost per Year: $15,031 (in-state); $15,624 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 35 to 47

2. Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Rutgers School of Nursing offers a traditional BS in Nursing program tailored to individuals who are embarking on their nursing education directly after completing high school. This comprehensive, full-time curriculum is available at both the Newark and New Brunswick campuses. Upon completing this program, students will be well-equipped to sit for their RN licensure examination.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Science
Cost per Credit: $532 (in-state); $940 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 126
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education, New Jersey Board of Nursing, CCNE

Rutgers also provides BSN programs tailored to various nursing student situations, including 2+2 BSN, second-degree BSN, and RN to BSN options.

Rutgers provides MSN options in Nursing Informatics and Nursing Leadership. The Nursing Informatics program hones nurses' data management skills for patient care and research, with online courses, 225 in-person clinical hours, and virtual meetings. Their Nursing Leadership program develops nurse leaders for healthcare changes. It's a 2-year or part-time program with 500 integrated clinical hours.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Informatics, Nursing Leadership
Cost per Credit: $1,183 (in-state and out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 37 to 42

3. Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo College offers a variety of nursing programs, including the generic BSN program designed for individuals preparing to enter the nursing profession. Additionally, they provide the RN to BSN track for registered nurses holding their RN license who wish to pursue a BSN degree.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Science
Cost per Credit: $499.30 (in-state); $824.64 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 128
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Ramapo College also offers MSN programs with three specialized tracks for BSN-prepared nurses seeking career advancement: Nursing Education, Nursing Administration, and Family Nurse Practitioner.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Education, Nursing Administration, and Family Nurse Practitioner.
Cost per Credit: $851.82 (in-state and out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 33 to 49

4. William Patterson University

William Paterson University's Department of Nursing provides educational programs spanning bachelor's, master's, and DNP levels. The BSN program equips students for entry-level roles as skilled nurses across various healthcare contexts, encompassing hospitals, communities, home healthcare, and more. BSN graduates meet the requirements for the NCLEX-RN examination and have the opportunity to further their nursing studies at the master's or doctoral levels.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Science
Cost per Credit: $470.75 (in-state); $778 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: CCNE

Their masters in nursing programs online prepare students to operate as advanced practice nurses in roles such as adult or family nurse practitioners, educators, or administrators. By engaging in coursework and hands-on clinical experience, students cultivate proficiency in elevated healthcare provision, leadership abilities, and research competencies.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Nursing Administration, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Education, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner in Primary Care
Cost per Credit: $822.15 (in-state and out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 33 to 47

5. Rowan College of South Jersey

The Cumberland Campus of Rowan College of South Jersey offers an Associate in Applied Science program for nursing students. This nursing curriculum encompasses theoretical and clinical study that equips students for entry-level roles as RNs. The theoretical segment consists of general education and nursing-specific courses.

Within the nursing courses, the clinical segment enables students to gain practical experience in offering direct nursing care to individuals across acute, long-term, and community healthcare settings under the supervision of proficient nursing faculty.

After successfully completing the program, graduates become eligible to undertake the NCLEX-RN examination. Nurses find employment across diverse settings, spanning from hospitals to laboratories.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Theoretical and Clinical Nursing
Cost per Credit: $120 (in-state); $148 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: New Jersey Board of Nursing and ACEN

What advanced practice and specialization options can elevate your nursing career in New Jersey?

Nursing professionals aiming to take on advanced practice roles can choose from focused pathways that emphasize both clinical acumen and leadership skills. Accredited programs provide curricula designed to hone expertise in fields such as critical care, pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health, ensuring graduates gain proficiency to manage complex patient cases. For those targeting advanced clinical roles, nurse practitioner programs in New Jersey offer a direct route toward gaining the necessary certification and specialization credentials. In addition, many institutions support continuous professional development through specialized certifications and continuing education modules that further enhance career prospects in a competitive healthcare landscape.

What to Look for in Nursing Programs New Jersey

If you are looking for nursing programs in New Jersey, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to look for:

Accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality standards and prepares you for licensure exams.
Program Type. New Jersey has several nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, and
Curriculum. Look for a nursing program offering a comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, and clinical practice. The program should also provide opportunities for hands-on learning through clinical rotations and internships.
Faculty. The nursing faculty should be experienced and knowledgeable in their field, with a mix of academic and clinical experience.
Cost. Nursing programs can be expensive, so it is important to consider the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses. Look for programs that offer financial aid, scholarships, and other forms of assistance to help offset the cost.

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Staying informed about recent state policy changes is essential for ensuring ongoing compliance and professional excellence. Regularly review updates relating to practice standards, clinical protocols, and licensure renewal requirements to maintain strategic alignment with regulatory mandates. Detailed information on these evolving criteria can be found by checking the nursing license in New Jersey, which outlines current guidelines and procedural updates.

Are there accessible pathways for non-nursing majors to enter New Jersey’s nursing field?

Non-nursing graduates can explore specialized bridge programs that facilitate a swift entry into the profession. Many New Jersey institutions offer tailored curricula designed to integrate foundational science coursework with intensive clinical practice, enabling career changers to build essential nursing competencies. Prospective students should carefully evaluate admission prerequisites, program duration, and clinical placement opportunities to ensure a smooth transition into nursing. For a comprehensive overview of these specialized pathways, consider exploring direct entry MSN programs for non-nursing majors.

What complementary healthcare career pathways can enhance your expertise in New Jersey?

Expanding your professional scope beyond nursing can offer additional avenues for clinical insight and career stability. Integrating roles that bridge direct patient care with complementary healthcare services may enrich your overall approach to health management. For instance, exploring opportunities to learn how to be a pharmacist in New Jersey equips professionals with medication management expertise that can support multidisciplinary patient care strategies. Such diversification fosters a comprehensive understanding of regulatory compliance, patient safety, and innovative treatment practices within New Jersey’s evolving healthcare landscape.

Can Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Programs Accelerate Your Entry into Nursing in New Jersey?

For individuals seeking an accelerated route into the healthcare field, Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) programs offer a focused curriculum emphasizing essential patient care skills and practical experience. Prospective students should evaluate factors such as program accreditation, clinical placement opportunities, and the potential for career progression through bridging pathways. It is critical to understand state-specific licensing prerequisites to ensure smooth program completion and professional entry. For detailed licensing criteria and guidance, review the LPN requirements in New Jersey.

How can you transition from RN to a nurse practitioner role in New Jersey?

For registered nurses targeting advanced clinical roles, transitioning to a nurse practitioner position requires careful evaluation of accredited advanced practice programs that emphasize specialized clinical rotations and comprehensive certification standards. Prospective candidates should compare curriculum depth, mentorship opportunities, and state-specific licensure pathways to ensure alignment with their long-term career objectives. Detailed guidance on the structured process and necessary qualifications can be found in how to become a nurse practitioner in New Jersey.

How do New Jersey nursing programs ensure robust clinical training?

Effective clinical training is a distinguishing factor among nursing programs in New Jersey. Evaluate programs based on the diversity of clinical rotations, access to state-of-the-art simulation labs, and formal partnerships with local healthcare organizations that guarantee exposure to varied patient care settings. Prioritize institutions that integrate evidence-based teaching practices with mentorship from experienced clinical professionals. For those considering blended educational paths, explore the best online LPN programs in New Jersey to find options that combine flexible online coursework with hands-on internships.

Can Complementary Certifications Strengthen Your Nursing Career in New Jersey?

Exploring additional certifications beyond traditional nursing education can diversify your skill set and deepen your understanding of the broader healthcare system. Earning credentials in areas like healthcare administration, patient information management, or clinical coding can complement clinical expertise by enhancing insight into billing practices, reimbursement processes, and regulatory compliance. For instance, nurses interested in expanding their administrative acumen may explore how to become a medical biller and coder in New Jersey. This targeted approach not only broadens career opportunities but also fosters effective interdisciplinary collaboration and improved operational efficiency in dynamic healthcare settings.

What unique financial aid options are available for nursing students in New Jersey?

Pursuing a nursing degree in New Jersey can be a significant financial commitment, but there are several unique financial aid options available to help ease the cost burden for students in the state. These financial support opportunities are specifically tailored for nursing students and may include scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs.

New Jersey Nursing Initiative (NJNI) Scholarships and Grants: The NJNI offers scholarships for nursing students committed to advancing the field within the state. These awards are often given to students pursuing advanced degrees with a focus on becoming nurse educators, helping to address faculty shortages in nursing schools across New Jersey.
New Jersey Student Tuition Assistance Reward Scholarship (NJ STARS): NJ STARS is available to high-achieving high school students attending county colleges in New Jersey, including those enrolled in nursing programs. Eligible students may receive full tuition coverage for their associate degree, making it a valuable option for ADN students in New Jersey.
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Nurse Corps Scholarship: While federally funded, the Nurse Corps Scholarship is popular among New Jersey nursing students. It offers tuition, fees, and other educational costs in exchange for a commitment to work in underserved areas of New Jersey, which can include both rural and urban healthcare settings.
New Jersey League for Nursing (NJLN) Scholarships: The NJLN awards annual scholarships to undergraduate and graduate nursing students in New Jersey. These scholarships are merit-based, and recipients are chosen based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to nursing in New Jersey.
Nurse Practitioner Loan Redemption Program of New Jersey: This program assists nurse practitioners in primary care who agree to serve in high-need areas in the state. Eligible NPs can receive loan forgiveness for their education debt, making it a valuable resource for MSN and DNP students planning to practice in underserved regions.

Emerging Trends in the Nursing Profession in New Jersey

As the healthcare landscape evolves, nursing in New Jersey is experiencing transformative changes. Emerging trends indicate that the profession will continue to expand, influenced by advances in technology, evolving healthcare policies, and the growing need for specialized care. These trends highlight how aspiring nurses can prepare for the future and capitalize on new opportunities in the field.

Telemedicine and Remote Healthcare Services: The rise of telemedicine has become a significant trend in healthcare, and New Jersey is no exception. Nurses are increasingly participating in virtual patient care, offering consultations, remote monitoring, and post-surgery follow-ups. This trend allows nurses to work in diverse settings and even from home, offering a more flexible work-life balance while contributing to patient care.
Nursing Specializations and Advanced Roles: New Jersey's healthcare system is seeing an increased demand for specialized nurses, particularly in areas like geriatrics, pediatrics, oncology, and mental health. Nurses with advanced degrees, such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), are becoming integral to the state's healthcare delivery, providing critical care in underserved areas. For example, Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) are in high demand, especially with New Jersey’s aging population. Nurses can pursue online BSN to FNP programs to gain the necessary qualifications and skills to thrive in these specialized roles.
Focus on Preventive Care and Community Health: New Jersey's healthcare policy is increasingly focused on preventive care to address health disparities and reduce long-term healthcare costs. Nurses are taking on more roles in community health, helping with wellness programs, education, and chronic disease management. This trend is opening new avenues for nurses to work in public health and policy advocacy.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: Nurses in New Jersey will soon find themselves working alongside artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to enhance patient care. AI is being used for everything from patient diagnostics to personalized treatment plans, while robots are assisting with surgical procedures and patient mobility. Nurses who are comfortable working with these technologies will have a competitive edge in the workforce.
Impact of Healthcare Policy Changes: With healthcare policies constantly evolving at the state and federal levels, nurses will need to stay informed about changes that affect their practice. New Jersey’s Medicaid expansion and other healthcare reforms are reshaping the demand for nursing services, particularly in underserved communities. Nurses will need to adapt to these shifts to continue providing high-quality care.

The future of nursing in New Jersey is promising, with diverse opportunities for professional growth and specialization. Aspiring nurses can take advantage of these emerging trends by pursuing advanced degrees, such as BSN to FNP programs, and staying up to date with technological innovations in healthcare.

How to stay competitive in the New Jersey nursing job market?

To stay competitive in the New Jersey nursing job market, focusing on education, specialization, and networking is important. Here are key strategies to advance your career:

Pursue Advanced Education and Certifications: Nurses who continue their education are more likely to secure higher-paying positions and specialized roles. Consider pursuing a BSN, MSN, or advanced certifications in areas like psychiatric nursing or nurse anesthesia. These credentials can make you stand out in the competitive job market. For example, the cheapest online PMHNP programs offer a cost-effective way to specialize in psychiatric nursing, which is in high demand in New Jersey.
Explore Specialty Areas: Specializing in pediatric nursing, geriatric care, or critical care nursing can increase your job prospects. These fields often offer higher salaries and unique opportunities, especially in major healthcare systems in New Jersey.
Gain Experience Through Internships or Volunteering: Getting hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work can help you build connections and expand your clinical skills. Many hospitals and clinics offer internships, especially for nurses in advanced practice roles.
Join Professional Nursing Associations: Networking with other nurses through professional organizations, such as the New Jersey State Nurses Association, can provide valuable career insights, continuing education resources, and job leads.
Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Healthcare is constantly evolving, so staying informed about new technologies, best practices, and patient care techniques is essential. Participate in workshops, webinars, and conferences to keep your skills current.

Are Online Nursing Programs a Viable Option for You?

Many students in New Jersey consider online nursing programs in New Jersey as a flexible and convenient way to pursue their nursing education. These programs offer a range of benefits, including flexibility in scheduling, accessibility, and often lower costs compared to traditional on-campus programs. When exploring online nursing programs, it's essential to ensure they are accredited and offer the same level of academic rigor and clinical training as their on-campus counterparts. Additionally, students should consider factors such as program format, curriculum, and support services when selecting an online nursing program that meets their needs and goals.

What career support and job placement services do New Jersey nursing programs offer?

Prospective nursing students should assess programs not only for their academic curriculum but also for the strength of their career support services. Evaluating elements such as dedicated career counseling, alumni networks, and formal partnerships with healthcare employers can offer valuable insights into job placement success and long-term career progression. Many programs complement classroom learning with simulation experiences and targeted mentorship opportunities that facilitate a smoother transition into professional roles. For nurses pursuing an expedited academic path, an option to consider is the 6 month RN to BSN program, which emphasizes both clinical readiness and comprehensive career support.

What is the most suitable nursing program in New Jersey for you?

Nursing schools in New Jersey offer various nursing programs such as ADN, BSN, and MSN. Determining the best nursing programs New Jersey can be influenced by various factors such as accreditation, program offerings, faculty expertise, and personal preferences. Researching and comparing multiple schools is recommended to find the one that aligns with your educational and career goals.

Key Insights

High Employment and Salaries: New Jersey boasts a significant nursing workforce with 78,340 registered nurses as of May 2022, and offers competitive salaries averaging $96,670 annually, making it a favorable state for nurses.
Diverse Educational Pathways: The state offers various nursing programs, including ADN, BSN, and MSN, with options for accelerated and online degrees to accommodate different needs and career goals.
Comprehensive Licensing Process: Aspiring nurses must complete an accredited program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, undergo a background check, and apply for a state nursing license. Continuing education is required for license maintenance.
Program Duration: Nursing programs vary in length, from one year for accelerated BSN programs to four years for traditional BSN programs. RN to BSN and MSN programs typically take one to two years.
Tuition Costs: Tuition for nursing programs in New Jersey varies widely. In-state students can expect to pay $15,000 to $18,000 annually for a BSN, while out-of-state students may pay $15,000 to $24,000 annually.
Accredited Institutions: New Jersey has numerous accredited nursing schools, including The College of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Ramapo College, William Patterson University, and Rowan College of South Jersey, offering a range of programs and specializations.
High Job Prospects: By 2030, New Jersey is expected to have 90,850 job opportunities for registered nurses, with an average of 5,240 openings annually, reflecting strong demand in the healthcare sector.
Quality of Life Considerations: Despite high living costs, the competitive salaries and professional opportunities in New Jersey make it an attractive location for nurses.

FAQ

What are the steps to becoming a nurse in New Jersey? To become a nurse in New Jersey, you must complete an accredited nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, pass a criminal background check, and apply for a state nursing license. Maintaining licensure requires completing continuing education credits and renewing the license every two years.
How long does it take to complete a nursing program in New Jersey? The duration of nursing programs in New Jersey varies. ADN programs typically take two years, traditional BSN programs take four years, accelerated BSN programs can be completed in 12 to 14 months, RN to BSN programs take nine months to two years, and MSN programs usually take two years to complete.
What are the tuition costs for nursing programs in New Jersey? Tuition costs for nursing programs in New Jersey vary. In-state students can expect to pay $15,000 to $18,000 annually for a BSN program, while out-of-state students may incur costs ranging from $15,000 to $24,000 annually. Other program costs will vary based on the degree and institution.
What are the career prospects for nurses in New Jersey? New Jersey offers strong career prospects for nurses, with 90,850 job opportunities expected by 2030 and an average of 5,240 openings annually. The state also offers competitive salaries, with registered nurses earning an average of $96,670 annually.
What are the top nursing schools in New Jersey? Top nursing schools in New Jersey include The College of New Jersey, Rutgers University, Ramapo College, William Patterson University, and Rowan College of South Jersey. These schools offer a variety of nursing programs and specializations, with strong academic and clinical training.
What should I look for in a nursing program in New Jersey? When choosing a nursing program in New Jersey, consider factors such as accreditation, program type (ADN, BSN, MSN), curriculum comprehensiveness, faculty expertise, clinical facilities, and cost. Financial aid, scholarships, and other assistance options are also important to consider.
Can I become a nurse in New Jersey with an online degree? Yes, you can become a nurse in New Jersey with an online nursing degree. Accredited online programs are available for various nursing degrees, including RN to BSN and MSN programs. Graduates must still meet state licensure requirements, including passing the NCLEX-RN exam and completing any required clinical hours.
Is nursing a good career in New Jersey? Nursing is a good career in New Jersey due to the high demand for healthcare professionals, competitive salaries, and ample job opportunities. The state's proximity to major urban centers and high-quality healthcare facilities further enhances career prospects for nurses.

References:

BLS. (2023, April 25). New Jersey - May 2022 OEWS state occupational employment and wage estimates.
Projections Central. (2021). Long-Term occupational Projections | Projections Central.
World Population Review. (2023, June). Cost of Living Index by State.