Nursing is a growing occupation in New Jersey and the state's 80,000 registered nurses command wages that are well above the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development. With projections showing an even greater need for qualified health professionals in coming years (an 11 percent increase from 2012 to 2022), the profession will continue to be a source of employment for NJ residents. Read more to find out what you need to become a nurse and what resources and tools are available to help you along the way.
- Top Nursing Schools in New Jersey
- Search Nursing Schools
- State Licensing Requirements
- Nursing by the Numbers
- Resources & Associations
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Top Nursing Schools in New Jersey
Methodology +
BEST 4-YEAR NURSING SCHOOLS
The top nursing programs listed in this state's ranking were determined by comparison of three primary, equally-weighted criteria including
- Student-to-faculty ration
- In-state tuition
- Graduation rate
Additional details for each school were included:
- Count of programs available
- Public and not-for-profit schools
- Normalized on a 100 percent curve
The methodology used for tie-break is as follows...
- Ties are broken based on lowest average net price for full-time, first-time undergraduates paying in-state tuition (average cost of tuition and expenses after grants and scholarships).
- If necessary, the lowest in-state tuition rate is used as a second tie-break
These rankings include
#1 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Rutgers University-Newark
Newark, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Rutgers University-Newark. Its programs, such as its nursing programs, foster learning through robust curriculums and supportive learning communities. Learners hoping to deepen their knowledge can collaborate with faculty members on research projects and other endeavors.
Degree-seekers can learn in person or remotely. Of its programs, 10% allow for fully online study. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
Rutgers University-Newark at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 99
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 87%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $14,352
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 46%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,919
Average Price After Aid: $11,981
#2 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Rutgers University-New Brunswick supports numerous programs from its main campus in New Brunswick. The school's nursing programs prepare students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. Learners benefit from programs' collaborative nature. Degree-seekers can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities while enrolled.
Nursing programs offer dual enrollment formats, enabling enrollees to study on campus or remotely. To date, the college supports 33 online degrees. All learners can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 374
Number of Online Programs: 33
Admission Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 71%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $14,168
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 47%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $9,017
Average Price After Aid: $16,873
#3 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
The College of New Jersey
Ewing, NJ - 4 years
- Campus
The College of New Jersey provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Ewing. The nursing program prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Enrollees benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. They can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
The program accommodates both in-person and remote study. Throughout their studies, enrollees can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
The College of New Jersey at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 83
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 86%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 81%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,431
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 52%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,390
Average Price After Aid: $23,945
#4 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
William Paterson University of New Jersey
Wayne, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Wayne-based William Paterson University of New Jersey provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. The college's nursing program equips learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Degree candidates complete nursing-related coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. They can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.
Enrollees can complete the nursing program in person or remotely. The college reports that 2% of its programs sustain online study. Degree-seekers can make use of campus resources, such as academic advising and library services, while enrolled.
William Paterson University of New Jersey at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 89
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,270
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 60%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,608
Average Price After Aid: $15,096
#5 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Monmouth University
West Long Branch, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Monmouth University provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in West Long Branch. The college's nursing program provides students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for the nursing field. Learners complete nursing-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Degree-seekers can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. Approximately 18% of the college's programs include online options. Degree candidates can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their studies.
Monmouth University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 78
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 67%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,832
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#6 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Rutgers University-Camden
Camden, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in higher education, Rutgers University-Camden provides educational opportunities to Camden-based students and distance learners. The school's nursing program prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Degree-seekers benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. Enrollees can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
Learners can complete coursework at the school's main campus or pursue remote learning. To date, 13% of the college's programs enable online study. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
Rutgers University-Camden at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 76
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $13,724
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 64%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $9,690
Average Price After Aid: $13,844
#7 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Seton Hall University. Nursing degree-seekers benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. Beyond the classroom, degree candidates can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
The school's nursing programs support in-person and online learning formats. At the college, 16% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Whether in person or online, students can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Seton Hall University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 119
Number of Online Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 51%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,607
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#8 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Stockton University
Galloway, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Galloway, Stockton University provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. Its programs, such as its nursing program, foster learning through a robust curriculum and supportive learning community in person and online. With a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study and the opportunity for collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
With the college supporting in-person and online study, degree-seekers can pursue their studies at their own pace. Remote degree-seekers can choose from one of one fully online degree. All students can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
Stockton University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 54
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 77%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,923
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 64%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,681
Average Price After Aid: $17,815
#9 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Saint Peter's University
Jersey City, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Peter's University is a Jersey City-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The school's nursing program equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. Degree candidates can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects, to supplement their learning.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. Of all programs offered through the college, 7% can be completed fully online. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Saint Peter's University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 83
Number of Online Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 50%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,214
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#10 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, NJ - 4 years
- Online
Thomas Edison State University connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. The school's nursing programs prepare students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. The college boasts a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects.
Learners from all walks of life benefit from the program's flexible format. Leading in online education, the college supports 69 online degrees. Throughout their studies, degree-seekers can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Thomas Edison State University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 69
Number of Online Programs: 69
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: Data not available
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 20%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,299
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#11 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
New Jersey City University
Jersey City, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Jersey City, New Jersey City University provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. The school's nursing program prepares students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. While completing coursework, enrollees can also pursue experiential learning opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Nursing students benefit from dual enrollment formats, learning in person or remotely. When considering remote study, applicants should know that 2% of the college's programs support online learning. All students can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
New Jersey City University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 65
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 95%
Graduation Rate: 41%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 94%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,086
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 45%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,872
Average Price After Aid: $13,685
#12 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Caldwell University
Caldwell, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Caldwell University reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, available in person and online. Its programs, such as the nursing program, foster learning through a robust curriculum and supportive learning community. Degree candidates hoping to deepen their knowledge can collaborate with faculty members on research projects and other endeavors.
Learners from all walks of life benefit from the program's flexible format. Leading in online education, the college supports five online programs. Whether in person or online, degree-seekers can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Caldwell University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 53
Number of Online Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 93%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 53%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,612
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#13 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Rowan University supports numerous programs from its main campus in Glassboro. The college's nursing program equips students with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a nursing career. With a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study and the opportunity for collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
Degree candidates seeking further opportunities for study can pursue internships or collaborate with faculty on research projects. Prospective applicants seeking remote study should know that 9% of the college's programs support fully online study. Enrollees benefit from access to campus resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Rowan University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 127
Number of Online Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 86%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,955
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 56%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,965
Average Price After Aid: $22,805
#14 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Mahwah, NJ - 4 years
- Campus
Ramapo College of New Jersey, a public college, is located in Mahwah. Enrollees seeking flexible study in nursing will benefit from the college's nursing program. Beyond the classroom, degree-seekers can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
The nursing program accommodates both in-person and remote study. All students can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
Ramapo College of New Jersey at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 60
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 89%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,548
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 56%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,705
Average Price After Aid: $16,823
#15 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Kean University
Union, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kean University connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. Learners looking to advance in the nursing field should consider the college's nursing program. Enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty through research and more.
Nursing degree-seekers benefit from dual enrollment formats. They can learn in person or remotely. Distance learners can choose from six fully online programs through the college. Whether in person or online, degree candidates can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Kean University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 89
Number of Online Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,257
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 61%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,953
Average Price After Aid: $17,490
#16 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
College of Saint Elizabeth
Morristown, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
College of Saint Elizabeth supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Morristown. Nursing students benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. Beyond the classroom, degree-seekers can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Enrollees can complete the program in person or online. Approximately 6% of the college's programs include online options. Learners can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
College of Saint Elizabeth at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 54
Number of Online Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 61%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,551
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#17 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Felician University
Lodi, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Felician University, a private college, is located in Lodi. Learners looking to advance in the nursing field should consider the college's nursing program. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education preparing them for the demands of the nursing field.
Working professionals and busy students benefit from the program's flexibility. Degree candidates can learn in person or online. Prospective applicants seeking remote study should know that 9% of the college's programs support fully online study. Enrollees benefit from academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.
Felician University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 79
Number of Online Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 71%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,484
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#18 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus
Teaneck, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Teaneck. The school's nursing program equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. Enrollees can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects, to supplement their education.
Students can complete the program in person or online. Approximately 4% of the college's programs include online options. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 100
Number of Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 49%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 33%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,615
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#19 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Georgian Court University
Lakewood, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgian Court University provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Lakewood. The school's nursing program equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. Enrollees benefit from the program's collaborative nature. Degree-seekers can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program on campus or online. Distance learners can choose from one of 10 fully online degrees. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Georgian Court University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 51
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 62%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,131
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
#20 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
Bloomfield College
Bloomfield, NJ - 4 years
- Campus
Bloomfield College provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Bloomfield. The nursing program prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Beyond the classroom, enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Degree-seekers can complete the program in person or remotely. Throughout their program, students can access institutional resources, benefiting from academic and career advising, library services, and more.
Bloomfield College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 26
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 92%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,472
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
Where to Find Nursing Programs in NJ
The New Jersey Board of Nursing accredits nursing schools and approves clinical affiliates to standardize the practice of nursing. It oversees those programs to ensure that curriculum and practical study is rigorous and provides adequate training for aspiring nurses. There are a number of approved and accredited nursing schools in New Jersey that offer certificate programs as well as degree options. The tool below can help narrow down the search for a nursing program that fits your needs.
NJ Licensing Requirements
All nurses looking to practice in the state of New Jersey must apply for and receive a license. Nurse licensure requirements can vary from state to state, so below is an overview of what applicants can expect during the process in New Jersey.
Requirements
- Applicants who have not previously been licensed in New Jersey or another state are eligible for licensure by examination, which starts with the completion of an accredited nursing program. Those who have a license and want to apply for reciprocity should fill out the License by Endorsement application.
- Register to take the NCLEX-RN with Pearson Vue and pay the appropriate fee
- Submit proof of citizenship to the Board. If you are not a US citizen, submit USCIS immigration documents.
- Complete the Certification and Authorization for a criminal background check
- Request fingerprint cards
- Submit the $200 fee to the New Jersey Board of Nursing
- Once you receive an eligibility notice from the Board, sign up for an exam date
- Request that a complete, official transcript for your nursing degree be sent to the board if you graduated from an out-of-state school
License Renewal in New Jersey
Nurses with an active license must meet certain criteria to renew their license, which includes ensuring that they are up-to-date on current practices and technology. Licenses are good for two years and expire on May 31. To renew a license, nurses must complete a minimum of 30 approved contact hours of continuing education during the two-year period before renewal. Any RN that has not received education or continuing education on organ and tissue donation and recovery must take a one contact hour CE on this topic. The renewal fee is $120 and an additional $50 will be added for any applications that do not meet the renewal date.
Advanced Practice Nursing in New Jersey
Advanced practice nurses receive additional education and training in a specialized field, such as acute care nurse, pediatric nurse practitioner, neonatal nurse and OB/GYN nurse practitioner. There are currently about 4,000 advanced practices nurses in New Jersey, and these nurses must meet all the qualifications of registered nurses, as well as additional criteria.
- Earn a graduate degree or higher from an accredited program
- Pass an exam in your specialty through a national certifying agency that is also accredited by the American Board of Nursing Specialties or the National Commission for Certifying Agencies
- Request a certificate application packet from the Board
- Complete the application and submit the $100 application fee (additional fees may apply), an official transcript, a copy of your national certification certificate, and proof that all information is in good standing
You can find more information about advanced practice nursing and license renewal at the New Jersey Board of Nursing.
New Jersey Salaries for Nurses
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development projects that there will be nearly 90,000 nurses at work in the state by 2022, an 11 percent increase from 2012. Nurses in New Jersey command one of the highest median salaries in the profession across the country, making it a competitive career to enter.
Find out more about where the highest-paid nurses work and what the future of nursing looks like in New Jersey.
Top-Paying Areas for RNs in New Jersey
| Area | Hourly Median Wage | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Newark-Union NJ-PA Metropolitan Division | $38.89 | $80,880 |
| Edison-New Brunswick NJ Metropolitan Division | $37.25 | $77,470 |
| Camden Metropolitan Division | $37.03 | $77,010 |
| Atlantic City-Hammonton | $35.82 | $74,500 |
| Trenton-Ewing | $34.07 | $70,860 |
| Vineland-Millville-Bridgeton | $34.04 | $70,810 |
| Ocean City | $32.01 | $66,590 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014
New Jersey vs. National Numbers
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Resources for New Jersey Nurses
The Institute for Nursing is a charitable affiliate of the NJSNA and provides scholarships and research grants to nursing students. It also offers 24-hour assistance for nurses with practice problems, primarily substance abuse.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation provides an NCIN Scholar Alumni Toolkit to those transitioning into the field of nursing. It gives nursing students leadership development and mentoring resources as they plan to start their careers.
New Jersey State Nurses Association
The New Jersey State Nurses Association represents the state's nursing population and advocates on behalf of the nurses and the general public. It is an affiliate of the American Nurses Association.
Sigma Theta Tau International Kappa Eta Chapter
Sigma Theta Tau International Kappa Eta Chapter is an honor society for nursing and was founded in 1922 to provide grants and learning opportunities to nursing students.
Society of Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurses
This organization serves all advanced practice nurses who specialize psychiatric care. It advocates for its members and works to uphold the standards for excellence in the profession.