
Maria Delgado, RN
June 26, 2025
New Jersey provides a comprehensive suite of nursing programs designed to support learners at every career stage. Whether you’re starting as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), advancing from Registered Nurse (RN) to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), obtaining Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) credentials, or specializing as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), the state’s colleges and health systems combine rigorous academic coursework with immersive clinical experiences. With options for hands‑on practicum placements in accredited medical facilities and flexible online modules to suit varied schedules, New Jersey’s nursing education prepares graduates with evidence‑based skills, professional credentials, and competitive salary prospects needed to thrive in today’s dynamic healthcare environment.
Galloway, NJ - Public 4-Year - stockton.edu
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Stockton University's Prelicensure BSN program delivers a robust nursing education designed to transform students into skilled healthcare professionals. With a four-year curriculum emphasizing comprehensive patient care, students undergo rigorous training integrating theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experiences. The program demands exceptional academic performance, requiring a minimum 3.5 GPA and strong SAT/ACT scores. Prospective students must complete extensive science and math prerequisites, demonstrating academic preparedness. CCNE-accredited, the program focuses on developing ethical, culturally competent nurses prepared to excel across diverse healthcare environments. Mandatory annual health screenings, criminal background checks, and a commitment to professional development ensure graduates are fully equipped for NCLEX-RN licensure and future nursing careers.
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Stockton University's Accelerated BSN offers a dynamic pathway for career-changing professionals seeking registered nurse credentials. Tailored for bachelor's degree holders, this intensive program transforms students through a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, health promotion, and advanced nursing skills. Admission criteria include a competitive 3.5 GPA, specific science course completions, and successful background screening. The program integrates rigorous academic preparation with extensive clinical experiences, requiring immunizations and CPR certification. Students develop professional communication skills and ethical practice principles while preparing comprehensively for the NCLEX-RN examination. CCNE-accredited, this program provides a strategic, accelerated route for individuals committed to nursing as a second-career opportunity.
Camden, NJ - Public 4-Year - camden.rutgers.edu
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Rutgers University-Camden's Bachelor of Science in Nursing delivers a comprehensive educational experience that combines academic rigor with practical healthcare training. Students benefit from diverse learning pathways, including traditional, internal, and external transfer options. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences and advanced simulation technologies, preparing nurses for complex healthcare environments. Global study opportunities in countries like Guatemala and South Africa provide students with unique international perspectives. With a focus on civic engagement and professional development, graduates are equipped for entry-level nursing positions and potential advanced studies in clinical practice, research, and healthcare administration. The program's supportive campus environment and competitive tuition rates make it an attractive choice for aspiring nursing professionals.
Wayne, NJ - Public 4-Year - wpunj.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
William Paterson University's RN to BSN online program delivers a transformative educational experience for practicing nurses seeking professional advancement. Designed for working healthcare professionals, the 30-credit curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership development, and culturally sensitive care strategies. Students can complete the program in as few as 10 months, with a competitive total tuition of $9,892.50. The program requires an active unencumbered RN license, an associate degree in nursing, and maintains a 2.5 GPA admission standard. Tailored for flexibility, the program prepares nurses for expanded roles, advanced clinical responsibilities, and enhanced career opportunities in dynamic healthcare environments.
Ewing, NJ - Public 4-Year - tcnj.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of New Jersey's Bachelor of Science in Nursing delivers a comprehensive four-year educational pathway emphasizing patient-centered healthcare preparation. Students embark on early clinical experiences starting sophomore year, gaining hands-on skills through advanced beginner practitioner training. The program strategically integrates liberal arts, scientific foundations, and nursing principles, ensuring graduates are comprehensively equipped for professional nursing practice. Featuring state-of-the-art instruction and robust relationships with area hospitals, students receive rigorous preparation for the NCLEX-RN licensing examination. The curriculum prioritizes clinical competence across diverse healthcare environments, supported by qualified faculty with extensive professional expertise. Entrance exam requirements for undergraduate admission typically include SAT or ACT scores.
Bloomfield, NJ - Private 4-year - bloomfield.edu
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Bloomfield College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing delivers a comprehensive three-year program designed to transform aspiring healthcare professionals. Renowned for exceptional NCLEX pass rates and state recognition, the curriculum integrates rigorous academic preparation with extensive clinical practice. Students undergo a structured pathway requiring a 2.75 GPA and mandatory TEAS exam scoring at least 58.7. CCNE and NJ Board of Nursing accreditation ensures high-quality education, with a remarkable 90% licensure rate. Prospective nurses benefit from hands-on healthcare experiences across diverse medical settings, preparing them for dynamic roles in registered nursing, healthcare management, and health education. The program emphasizes comprehensive skill development, professional networking, and career readiness in today's complex healthcare landscape.
New Jersey’s LPN programs prepare students with fundamental nursing knowledge and hands‑on skills through targeted coursework and supervised clinical experiences in hospitals, long‑term care facilities, and community clinics. After completing clinical rotations and passing the NCLEX‑PN exam to earn licensure, graduates step into roles administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with patient recovery under RN supervision. By reducing staffing shortages and improving access to quality care across both metropolitan areas like Newark and Jersey City and the state’s rural communities, these programs bolster New Jersey’s practical nursing workforce.
New Jersey’s CNA courses run six to twelve weeks, merging interactive modules on patient hygiene, infection control, and vital‑sign recording with supervised clinical practicums. Learners practice essential care tasks, such as feeding support, mobility assistance, and personal hygiene, while refining communication with nursing teams. Upon certification, CNAs become indispensable members of care settings across the state. Their role underpins efficient care workflows and enhances patient comfort.
New Jersey’s RN to BSN programs combine self-paced online courses in nursing leadership, population and community health, informatics and policy with hands-on clinical rotations across diverse healthcare settings. Offered in part-time and accelerated tracks, they let working RNs seamlessly integrate study with their existing roles. Earning a BSN deepens skills in evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary coordination, meets employer and accreditation standards for degree-prepared nurses, and unlocks opportunities in specialty certification, management and public health. By advancing their education, nurses help strengthen New Jersey’s healthcare workforce and better address patient needs throughout the state.
New Jersey’s Nurse Practitioner programs transform a BSN foundation into advanced-practice expertise through a blend of rigorous graduate coursework and hands-on clinical immersions, typically completed in two to four years, in specialties such as family health, pediatric care, and psychiatric-mental health. Delivered via on-campus cohorts, hybrid schedules, and fully online formats at universities and health systems statewide, these MSN and DNP tracks equip nurses for APRN credentialing and New Jersey licensure. Graduates move into roles as primary care clinicians, chronic disease managers, and telehealth providers in urban centers like Newark and Jersey City, suburban practices, and underserved Shore and rural communities. By injecting highly skilled practitioners into areas facing provider shortages and broadening access to comprehensive care, NP programs are instrumental in fortifying New Jersey’s healthcare landscape.
| Degree | Typical Length | Prerequisites | Outcome / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) | ~2 years | High school diploma or GED | Still available, but BSN preferred/required by most hospitals |
| RN Diploma | 2-3 years | High school diploma or GED | No longer offered in New Jersey |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) | 4 years (12-18 months accelerated) | High school diploma or ADN transfer | BSN-in-10 state, BSN-prepared nurses strongly preferred statewide |
| Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 2 years (post-BSN) | BSN + RN license | Prepares for advanced roles, NPs require physician collaboration |
| Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | 3-6 years (post-BSN or post-MSN) | BSN or MSN + RN license | Highest degree, NPs limited by reduced practice authority laws |
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