Top LPN Programs in New Jersey

Top LPN Programs in New Jersey
Maria Delgado, RN

Maria Delgado, RN

June 4, 2025

The fundamental role of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) involves providing basic nursing care for patients while under the direction of Registered Nurses or physicians. The population of New Jersey depends on LPNs to deliver patient care especially in long-term care facilities and home healthcare services and outpatient clinics. The state’s demographic shift towards aging populations alongside diverse communities maintains an ongoing requirement for skilled LPNs who deliver compassionate hands-on support. 

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2026 Top LPN Programs in New Jersey

Aspiring nurses in New Jersey have numerous opportunities to launch their healthcare careers through Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs. TopNursing.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the best LPN programs across the Garden State, considering factors like student outcomes, clinical training quality, and affordability. Our comprehensive analysis helps prospective students identify top-tier educational institutions that provide exceptional practical nursing education. These programs prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare, offering robust curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong clinical placement opportunities. Whether you're seeking a program in Newark, Jersey City, or rural New Jersey, our rankings provide a trusted resource for making an informed decision about your nursing education journey. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Holy Name Medical Center-Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing

Englewood Cliffs, NJ - Private 2-year - holyname.org

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing program at Holy Name Medical Center offers a 60-week journey into the heart of healthcare. With a blend of theory, hands-on labs, and clinical experiences, students gain the skills to thrive as Licensed Practical Nurses. The program is approved by the New Jersey State Board of Nursing, ensuring a curriculum that meets high standards. Graduates can work in diverse settings, from hospitals to outpatient centers. The demand for LPNs is rising, making this an ideal time to start. Financial aid and transferable college credits add value to this career-launching education.

  • 60-week program duration.
  • Combines theory and clinical training.
  • Approved by NJ State Board.
  • 17 transferable college credits.
  • Hands-on skills lab sessions.
  • Clinical experiences in care facilities.
  • Eligible for LPN licensure.
  • Growing demand for LPNs.
  • ACEN-accredited program.
  • Focus on patient-centered care.
#2

Jersey College

Teterboro, NJ - Private 2-year - jerseycollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - LPN Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The LPN Program at Jersey College in Teterboro, NJ, offers a comprehensive pathway to a rewarding career in nursing. Designed for aspiring practical nurses, the program combines academic coursework with clinical training, preparing students for the NCLEX-PN exam. With a focus on holistic patient care, students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED. The program is accredited by the New Jersey Board of Nursing, ensuring quality education. Flexible scheduling options are available to accommodate students at different life stages.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Accredited by NJ Board of Nursing
  • Combines theory and clinical training
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Focus on holistic patient care
  • Hands-on healthcare experience
  • Designed for aspiring LPNs
  • Quality nursing education
#3

UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ

Cranford, NJ - Public 2-Year - ucc.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Practical Nursing Program at UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ, offers a comprehensive four-semester curriculum leading to a Certificate. Designed for aspiring nurses, the program blends theoretical knowledge from biological and social sciences with practical clinical experiences. Courses are available during the day, with clinical rotations scheduled across various times to ensure diverse client care experiences. Enrollment requires CPR certification, malpractice insurance, health documentation, a criminal background check, and an official uniform. This program is ideal for students seeking a solid foundation in nursing, with a focus on applying classroom and laboratory skills to real-world healthcare settings.

  • Four-semester program.
  • Daytime nursing courses.
  • Diverse clinical rotation schedules.
  • Incorporates biological and social sciences.
  • Practical client care experiences.
  • CPR certification required.
  • Malpractice insurance needed.
  • Health documentation mandatory.
  • Criminal background check required.
  • Official uniform needed.
#4

Berkeley College-Woodland Park

Woodland Park, NJ - Private 4-year - berkeleycollege.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

Berkeley College's Practical Nurse Certificate program in Woodland Park, NJ, prepares students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This program combines humanistic theory with clinical practice, teaching students to provide basic nursing care and perform administrative tasks. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licensure examination, a step towards becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The program is designed to be completed in 60 weeks for day students and 75 weeks for evening students. With a focus on hands-on learning and practical experience, students gain the skills needed for careers in physicians' offices, clinics, nursing homes, and more.

  • 60-week day program.
  • 75-week evening program.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Hands-on clinical practice.
  • Prepares for LPN licensure.
  • Focus on basic nursing care.
  • Administrative tasks training.
  • Career opportunities in healthcare.
  • Combines theory and practice.
  • Offered in Woodland Park, NJ.
#5

Rowan College of South Jersey-Gloucester

Sewell, NJ - Public 2-Year - rcsj.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Rowan College of South Jersey offers a Practical Nursing (PN) program designed for aspiring nurses. This program prepares students for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX-PN) and licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse. With a curriculum that can be completed in one calendar year, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The program is competitive, emphasizing the importance of meeting all admission criteria. Clinical placements are within a 90-minute radius, requiring students to arrange their transportation. Graduates earn an Academic Certificate in Practical Nursing, setting a solid foundation for their nursing careers.

  • One-year program length.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Eligible for LPN licensure.
  • Competitive admissions process.
  • Clinical placements nearby.
  • Academic Certificate awarded.
  • Transportation to clinicals required.
  • Highly competitive program.
  • Curriculum in two semesters.
  • General education courses transferable.
*Based on: NCES IPEDS 2023 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Program Curriculum & Length

Length

Curriculum

Anatomy & Physiology
Nursing Fundamentals
Pharmacology
Medical-Surgical
Maternal Health
Mental Health
Nutrition, Ethics, Communication, Professionalism

Clinical Rotations

Are Online LPN Programs Available in New Jersey

The hands-on nature of nursing education makes it challenging for New Jersey to offer fully online LPN programs. Some educational institutions provide hybrid programs which enable students to finish theoretical portions through online learning but require in-person completion of clinical and laboratory requirements. The blended educational approach enables students to achieve educational flexibility when they need to manage their responsibilities between work and family obligations. Multiple institutions provide evening and weekend classes which extend program accessibility to students who do not follow a traditional academic schedule. The demand for nursing education is growing while accelerating online-only programs remain scarce but flexible scheduling options are increasing in availability. 

2026 Fastest LPN Program Options in New Jersey

Nursing students in New Jersey seeking efficient career paths can explore the fastest LPN programs across the state. With options spanning urban areas like Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton, aspiring practical nurses can find accelerated training that gets them into healthcare careers quickly. These shorter programs recognize the urgent need for medical professionals and provide streamlined paths to certification. By focusing on essential skills and condensed coursework, students can complete their training in less time compared to traditional educational routes. The programs highlighted in this table demonstrate how nursing education can be both comprehensive and time-conscious, helping individuals launch their healthcare careers with minimal delay. Prospective students will find valuable insights into program lengths, graduation rates, and key highlights that support rapid professional development.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Rowan College of South Jersey-Gloucester
  • One-year program length.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Eligible for LPN licensure.
  • Competitive admissions process.
  • Clinical placements nearby.
  • Academic Certificate awarded.
  • Transportation to clinicals required.
  • Highly competitive program.
  • Graduation Rate: 33%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Holy Name Medical Center-Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing
  • 60-week program duration.
  • Combines theory and clinical training.
  • Approved by NJ State Board.
  • 17 transferable college credits.
  • Hands-on skills lab sessions.
  • Clinical experiences in care facilities.
  • Eligible for LPN licensure.
  • Growing demand for LPNs.
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 33%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Berkeley College-Woodland Park
  • 60-week day program.
  • 75-week evening program.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Hands-on clinical practice.
  • Prepares for LPN licensure.
  • Focus on basic nursing care.
  • Administrative tasks training.
  • Career opportunities in healthcare.
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2023 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Admission Requirements

High School Graduate
GPA of 2.5 or higher
Prerequisite Courses
Including: Biology, Medical Terminology
TEAS
Test of Essential Academic Skills Entrance Exam
Background Checks
Screening for patient safety.
CPR Certification
Preparedness to serve patients.
Immunization records
TB test results, proof of Hepatitis B vaccination and other required vaccines

Certification and Licensing

Certifying BoardNew Jersey Board of Nursing, Division of Consumer Affairs, Department of Law & Public Safety
CertificationNCLEX-PN via Pearson VUE
Educational PrerequisiteCompletion of a Board-approved practical nursing program with official transcript
Application & Fees$75 application, $120 initial license, $200 NCLEX exam, $5 discipline surcharge, $66 background-check fee, photo and proof of U.S. legal presence required
Processing TimeAuthorization to Test in 1–2 weeks, permanent license typically issued within 4–6 weeks after exam and background clearance
License RenewalBiennial renewal every two years with a $125 fee
Continuing Education30 contact hours of board-approved CE per renewal cycle
Licensure by EndorsementSame application and fees, verification of current unrestricted license, fingerprint check, and proof of recent practice or board-approved refresher

Salary and Job Outlook

The state of New Jersey provides LPNs with satisfying remuneration together with promising career prospects. The yearly compensation for LPNs throughout New Jersey exists between $65,000 and $70,000 while considering their work history along with their employment site and geographic location. The cost of living in urban centers together with elevated demand results in better pay for LPNs who work in Newark and Jersey City. The beginning salary for new LPNs tends to be lower but they can earn more after gaining experience along with specialized training. New Jersey’s healthcare sector maintains its expansion because of two main factors: an aging population and expanded healthcare services. 

Salary & Career OutlookNew JerseyUSA
Avg Annual LVN Salary$62,254$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$30.00$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$69,574$80,510
Median Salary$62,254$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$56,118$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032)5%3%
Annual Job Openings~54,000~54,000

2026 Affordable LPN Program Options in New Jersey

Aspiring nurses in New Jersey have excellent opportunities to launch their healthcare careers through affordable LPN programs across the state. With options available in key regions like Newark, Jersey City, and Camden, students can find practical training that doesn't break the bank. Affordable programs help remove financial barriers for those wanting to enter the nursing profession, ensuring that talented individuals can access quality education without overwhelming student debt. These certificate and associate degree programs provide comprehensive training that prepares students for essential roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. By offering low-cost educational pathways, these programs support both individual career goals and the broader healthcare workforce needs of New Jersey.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Rowan College of South Jersey-Cumberland Campus
  • One-year program length.
  • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
  • Campus-based learning.
  • Clinical experience required.
  • Competitive admissions process.
  • Transportation for clinicals.
  • Academic Certificate awarded.
  • State licensure application.
  • $4,700 - $7,000 (Undergraduate)
Holy Name Medical Center-Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing
  • 60-week program duration.
  • Combines theory and clinical training.
  • Approved by NJ State Board.
  • 17 transferable college credits.
  • Hands-on skills lab sessions.
  • Clinical experiences in care facilities.
  • Eligible for LPN licensure.
  • Growing demand for LPNs.
  • $18,800 - $28,200 (Undergraduate)
Salem Community College
  • 44-week program.
  • QSEN competencies emphasized.
  • Hands-on clinical experience.
  • Simulated lab training.
  • Focus on safety and quality.
  • Covers basic nursing care.
  • Includes pharmacology training.
  • Disease process education.
  • $5,700 - $8,600 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $7,900 - $11,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Reference: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 data system.

Advancement Pathways

The LPN license provides an opportunity for nurses to advance their careers toward higher nursing positions. LPNs throughout New Jersey pursue LPN-to-RN bridge programs to earn their Associate Degree in Nursing which enables them to take the NCLEX-RN test for registered nursing licensure. The programs grant students credit for their existing LPN coursework and clinical hours which helps them complete their education more quickly. Individuals who wish to expand their career possibilities typically pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. LPNs who gain specialized certifications in IV therapy, wound care, or gerontology develop both expertise and wider job possibilities. LPNs who gain experience usually shift into leadership positions that include charge nurse or clinical coordinator roles. Professional growth for LPNs relies heavily on continuing education because they pursue workshops and courses and enroll part-time in university programs to develop their skills. LPNs working in New Jersey can use formal education and workplace progression to build their careers.

List of LPN Programs in New Jersey

Jump to City:

Carneys Point, NJ

Salem Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 44-week program.
    • QSEN competencies emphasized.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Simulated lab training.
    • Focus on safety and quality.
    • Covers basic nursing care.
    • Includes pharmacology training.
    • Disease process education.

Cranford, NJ

UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester program.
    • Daytime nursing courses.
    • Diverse clinical rotation schedules.
    • Incorporates biological and social sciences.
    • Practical client care experiences.
    • CPR certification required.
    • Malpractice insurance needed.
    • Health documentation mandatory.

Englewood Cliffs, NJ

Holy Name Medical Center-Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-week program duration.
    • Combines theory and clinical training.
    • Approved by NJ State Board.
    • 17 transferable college credits.
    • Hands-on skills lab sessions.
    • Clinical experiences in care facilities.
    • Eligible for LPN licensure.
    • Growing demand for LPNs.

Jersey City, NJ

Hudson County Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based nursing certificate
    • High NCLEX-PN pass rate
    • Multiple healthcare work settings
    • Transfer to RN program
    • High job placement rate
    • Comprehensive clinical training
    • Requires health screening
    • Background check required

Mays Landing, NJ

Atlantic Cape Community College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 18-month certificate program
    • Small class personalized learning
    • NCLEX-PN exam preparation
    • Clinical and lab training
    • Pathway to RN advancement
    • Prerequisites: BIOL, ENGL, PSYC courses
    • 2.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
    • ATI TEAS score 58.7+ required

Newark, NJ

Essex County College

  • Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nurse

    Campus Based - Website

    • 49-credit comprehensive LPN program
    • Accredited by NJ Board of Nursing
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
    • Covers adult, maternal, child health
    • Clinical placement required

Sewell, NJ

Rowan College of South Jersey-Gloucester

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year program length.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Eligible for LPN licensure.
    • Competitive admissions process.
    • Clinical placements nearby.
    • Academic Certificate awarded.
    • Transportation to clinicals required.
    • Highly competitive program.

Teterboro, NJ

Jersey College

  • Certificate/Diploma - LPN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-PN exam
    • High school diploma or GED required
    • Accredited by NJ Board of Nursing
    • Combines theory and clinical training
    • Flexible scheduling options
    • Focus on holistic patient care
    • Hands-on healthcare experience

Vineland, NJ

Rowan College of South Jersey-Cumberland Campus

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • One-year program length.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Clinical experience required.
    • Competitive admissions process.
    • Transportation for clinicals.
    • Academic Certificate awarded.
    • State licensure application.

Woodland Park, NJ

Berkeley College-Woodland Park

  • Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nurse Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-week day program.
    • 75-week evening program.
    • Eligible for NCLEX-PN exam.
    • Hands-on clinical practice.
    • Prepares for LPN licensure.
    • Focus on basic nursing care.
    • Administrative tasks training.
    • Career opportunities in healthcare.
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.