Are you searching for the best nursing schools in New Jersey? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near New Jersey, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in New Jersey to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
New Jersey Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey
RN to BSN programs in New Jersey are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.
RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in New Jersey
Bridge programs in New Jersey provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, community health centers, and physician offices.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for providing safe and effective patient care.
Preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) through dedicated review courses, practice exams, and faculty support.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and the integration of research into nursing care.
Opportunities to participate in simulation labs to practice clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Strong career outlook with high demand for registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
Nursing Schools in Washington, New Jersey
Address: 475 Route 57 W, Washington, New Jersey 07882-4343
William Paterson University of New Jersey Nursing Programs in Wayne, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, and nursing fundamentals.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on patient-centered care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination through dedicated coursework, practice questions, and simulated exams.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Opportunities for interprofessional collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Simulation lab with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance clinical skills in a safe environment.
Thomas Edison State University Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, MSN, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Trenton, New Jersey
Focus on adult learners: Thomas Edison State University specializes in providing flexible, online programs catered towards working adults and those with prior college credits.
RN to BSN Emphasis: A strong RN to BSN program is often a core offering, allowing registered nurses with associate degrees or diplomas to earn a bachelor's degree online.
BSN Program Options: Provides multiple BSN pathways, including a traditional or potentially an accelerated option for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees.
Graduate Studies: Offers MSN programs with various specializations (e.g., Nursing Education, Nursing Administration, Informatics) allowing nurses to advance their careers.
DNP program availability: May offer a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, often focused on leadership, advanced practice, or education roles.
Online Delivery: Coursework is typically delivered primarily or entirely online, providing flexibility and accessibility for students nationwide.
Career Advancement: These programs prepare graduates for a wide range of roles, from direct patient care to advanced practice nursing, leadership, and education.
Nursing Schools in Trenton, New Jersey
Address: 111 W State St, Trenton, New Jersey 08608
Saint Peter's University BSN, FNP, MSN, NP, Nursing Admin/Leadership, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in North Bergen, New Jersey
Strong emphasis on ethical and compassionate patient care, reflecting Jesuit values often found at Saint Peter's University.
BSN program provides a foundation for entry-level registered nurse positions in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
RN to BSN program designed for working RNs to advance their education and career opportunities.
MSN programs, including FNP, prepare nurses for advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse leader/administrator.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, either as a concentration within an MSN or as a post-master's certificate, allows graduates to diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and manage patient care.
Nursing Administration/Leadership tracks equip nurses with the skills to manage teams, improve healthcare delivery, and influence policy.
Clinical experiences are typically integrated throughout the curriculum to provide hands-on learning and prepare students for real-world practice.
Nursing Schools in North Bergen, New Jersey
Address: 2641 Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306-5997
Rowan College at Burlington County BSN, DNP, LPN, MSN, PMHNP, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Provides multiple entry points into nursing careers, catering to different educational backgrounds and experience levels.
Offers both practical, hands-on training for immediate entry into the workforce (e.g., LPN, RN) and advanced education for leadership and specialized roles (e.g., MSN, DNP, PMHNP).
Typically includes clinical rotations at local hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing real-world experience.
RN to BSN programs provide a flexible pathway for associate degree-prepared nurses to advance their education and career prospects.
MSN and DNP programs often specialize in areas such as nursing education, leadership, or advanced practice, opening doors to roles like Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Manager.
The PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) track prepares nurses to provide specialized mental health care.
Programs are generally designed to meet the growing demand for qualified nurses in the region.
Nursing Schools in Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Address: 900 College Circle, Mount Laurel, New Jersey 08054-1599
Extensive Clinical Experience: Provides hands-on training in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health clinics.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Includes focused review sessions, practice exams, and resources to help students succeed on the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Dedicated Faculty: Taught by experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals committed to student success.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Offers opportunities to practice skills in a safe and controlled environment using advanced simulation technology.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Provides a pathway to various nursing specialties and advanced education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Nursing Schools in Sewell, New Jersey
Address: 1400 Tanyard Road, Sewell, New Jersey 08080
Rowan College South Jersey Cumberland Campus BSN, LPN, LVN, Nursing Certificate Nursing Programs in Vineland, New Jersey
Provides a range of entry points into the nursing profession, catering to different educational goals and career aspirations.
Nursing Certificate programs offer a quick route to entry-level healthcare roles, often serving as a stepping stone to further education.
LPN/LVN programs emphasize practical skills and patient care, preparing graduates for direct patient care roles under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians.
BSN programs offer a comprehensive education in nursing theory, leadership, and research, preparing graduates for more advanced nursing roles and leadership positions.
BSN programs often include clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, providing hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
Successful completion of each program prepares students for the relevant licensing exams (e.g., NCLEX-PN for LPN/LVN, NCLEX-RN for BSN).
Curriculum typically incorporates evidence-based practice, patient safety, and cultural competence to prepare students for diverse patient populations.
Nursing Schools in Vineland, New Jersey
Address: 3322 College Drive, Vineland, New Jersey 08362-1500
Rowan University MSN, RN Nursing Programs in Glassboro, New Jersey
Strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and critical thinking in all programs.
MSN programs often offer specialized tracks such as Nurse Practitioner (e.g., Family, Adult-Gerontology), Nurse Educator, or Nursing Leadership.
RN programs (typically Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN) provide a comprehensive foundation in nursing theory and clinical practice.
Clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings throughout South Jersey, including hospitals, community health centers, and long-term care facilities.
Opportunities for interprofessional collaboration with other healthcare professionals (e.g., physicians, pharmacists, therapists).
Focus on patient-centered care and cultural competency.
Preparation for national licensure exams (NCLEX for RNs, certification exams for MSN specialties).
Nursing Schools in Glassboro, New Jersey
Address: 201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro, New Jersey 08028
Rutgers University-Camden DNP Nursing Programs in Camden, New Jersey
Focuses on advanced nursing practice, leadership, and scholarship.
Prepares nurses for roles such as Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Nurse Executive.
May offer specialized DNP tracks in areas like Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or Leadership.
Typically requires a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for entry.
Culminates in a DNP project focused on translating research into practice or improving healthcare outcomes.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems thinking.
May offer options for part-time or full-time study to accommodate working nurses.
Montclair State University BSN, MSN, Nursing Admin/Leadership, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Montclair, New Jersey
Strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and critical thinking skills.
Opportunities for clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings throughout New Jersey, potentially including major hospitals and community health centers.
Faculty comprised of experienced nurses, researchers, and educators.
BSN program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing positions.
MSN programs offer specialization tracks to advance careers in areas like administration, leadership, or advanced clinical practice.
RN to BSN programs cater to working RNs seeking to enhance their education and career prospects.
Potential for research opportunities and participation in professional nursing organizations.
Nursing Schools in Montclair, New Jersey
Address: 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey 07043-1624
Morris County Vocational School District CNM, CRNA, LPN, NP, Nurse Educator, RN Nursing Programs in Denville, New Jersey
Offers various entry points into nursing, from Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to advanced practice roles like Nurse Practitioner (NP), Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM), and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).
Focuses on hands-on training and clinical experience, preparing graduates for immediate entry into the workforce (particularly relevant for LPN and RN programs).
Provides pathways for career advancement, allowing LPNs and RNs to pursue higher education and specialize as NPs, CNMs, CRNAs, or Nurse Educators.
May offer articulation agreements with local colleges and universities to streamline the process of obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher degrees.
Prepares students to meet the rigorous demands of the healthcare industry and to provide quality patient care.
Curriculum typically incorporates the latest evidence-based practices and technologies used in modern healthcare settings.
Nursing Schools in Denville, New Jersey
Address: 400 E Main St, Denville, New Jersey 07834
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, and mental health nursing.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice in nursing care.
Strong focus on patient safety, ethical considerations, and professional communication.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation resources, including practice exams, review sessions, and individualized support.
Opportunity to develop leadership skills and collaborative teamwork abilities.
Prepares graduates for entry-level registered nursing positions in a variety of healthcare settings.
Nursing Schools in Freehold, New Jersey
Address: 4000 Kozloski Rd, Freehold, New Jersey 07728-5033
Holy Name Medical Center-Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing Nursing Programs in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing, and community health.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including Holy Name Medical Center (if applicable), hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community clinics.
Focus on patient-centered care, critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and effective communication skills.
Emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation, including review courses, practice exams, and individualized support.
Opportunities for professional development and leadership skills training.
Small class sizes to foster close interaction with faculty (if applicable to Holy Name).
Nursing Schools in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey
Address: 333 Hudson Terrace, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus Nursing Programs in Madison, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing concepts, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, community health centers, and outpatient clinics.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills essential for safe and effective patient care.
Focus on patient-centered care, including communication, cultural sensitivity, and ethical considerations.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation resources and support, including review courses, practice exams, and tutoring.
Experienced and dedicated nursing faculty providing personalized guidance and mentorship.
Opportunities for professional development and networking through student organizations and events.
Nursing Schools in Madison, New Jersey
Address: 285 Madison Ave, Madison, New Jersey 07940
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus Nursing Programs in Teaneck, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, and mental health nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based practice in nursing care.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation resources, including practice exams, review sessions, and individualized support.
Focus on patient-centered care, communication, and teamwork skills.
Opportunities for simulation-based learning to enhance skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Preparation for entry-level Registered Nurse positions in various healthcare settings.
Georgian Court University Nursing Programs in Lakewood, New Jersey
Comprehensive Curriculum: Emphasizes a strong foundation in nursing theory, sciences, and clinical skills.
Extensive Clinical Experiences: Provides hands-on training in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.
Experienced Faculty: Learn from dedicated and qualified nurse educators with real-world experience.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab: Hone your skills in a safe and realistic environment using advanced medical simulation technology.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Integrated coursework and resources designed to prepare students for successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level RN positions in a variety of specialties and healthcare settings.
Flexible Learning Options: May offer traditional classroom settings or hybrid/online learning formats to accommodate diverse student needs.
Nursing Schools in Lakewood, New Jersey
Address: 900 Lakewood Ave, Lakewood, New Jersey 08701-2697
Eastern International College-Belleville Nursing Programs in Nutley, New Jersey
Comprehensive Curriculum: Focus on fundamental nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn care, pediatrics, and mental health.
Extensive Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Dedicated Faculty: Experienced and supportive nursing instructors committed to student success.
NCLEX-RN Preparation: Integrated review and practice to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Practice clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment using advanced simulation technology.
Career Advancement: Provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse.
Flexible Scheduling: Potential for day, evening, and weekend class options (check with EIC-Belleville for availability).
Nursing Schools in Nutley, New Jersey
Address: 251 Washington Ave, Belleville, New Jersey 07109
Eastern International College-Jersey City Nursing Programs in Jersey City, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing concepts, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive clinical experiences in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Experienced and dedicated faculty comprised of registered nurses and healthcare professionals.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the curriculum, including review courses, practice exams, and individualized support.
State-of-the-art simulation labs that provide a safe and realistic environment to practice nursing skills.
Opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the nursing profession.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities available to eligible students.
Nursing Schools in Jersey City, New Jersey
Address: 684 Newark Ave, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306
County College of Morris Nursing Programs in Randolph, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing principles, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-child health, mental health nursing, and pharmacology.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, community health agencies, and physician's offices.
Focus on patient-centered care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice.
Experienced faculty who are registered nurses with advanced degrees and clinical expertise.
State-of-the-art nursing skills lab for hands-on practice and simulation.
Preparation for the NCLEX-RN examination through review courses, practice tests, and individualized support.
Strong career outlook for registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
Nursing Schools in Randolph, New Jersey
Address: 214 Center Grove Rd, Randolph, New Jersey 07869-2086
Bergen Community College MSN, RN Nursing Programs in Paramus, New Jersey
RN programs are typically Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
MSN programs (if offered; often a transfer pathway) build upon an existing BSN or ADN, focusing on advanced practice, leadership, or education.
Clinical experience is a significant component of both RN and MSN programs, providing hands-on training in various healthcare settings.
Curriculum includes foundational sciences, nursing theory, patient care skills, and ethics.
Graduates of RN programs are eligible to apply for licensure as Registered Nurses.
MSN programs prepare nurses for advanced roles like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Administrator (usually requires a BSN as a prerequisite).
Community colleges like Bergen often have articulation agreements with four-year universities to facilitate RN-to-BSN or ADN-to-MSN pathways.
Nursing Schools in Paramus, New Jersey
Address: 400 Paramus Rd, Paramus, New Jersey 07652-1595
Berkeley College-Woodland Park MSN Nursing Programs in Woodland Park, New Jersey
Focuses on developing advanced nursing skills and knowledge.
Offers specialization tracks such as Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), though specific offerings depend on the college.
Prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare settings.
May require a BSN for entry into the program.
Typically involves advanced coursework in nursing theory, research, and practice.
Career paths include nurse manager, nurse educator, clinical nurse specialist, and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
Nursing Schools in Woodland Park, New Jersey
Address: 44 Rifle Camp Rd, Woodland Park, New Jersey 07424
Burlington County Institute of Technology-Adult Education Nursing Programs in Mount Holly, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, and pediatric nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and community health agencies.
Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for providing safe and effective patient care.
Preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) through practice exams, review sessions, and dedicated NCLEX-RN review resources.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice and incorporating research findings into nursing care.
Opportunities to learn about various nursing specialties and career paths.
Faculty composed of experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals.
Nursing Schools in Mount Holly, New Jersey
Address: 695 Woodlane Road, Westampton, New Jersey 08060-3826
Chamberlain University-New Jersey Nursing Programs in North Brunswick, New Jersey
Comprehensive curriculum covering foundational nursing concepts, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, and pediatric nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health organizations.
Focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and patient-centered care skills.
Dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation resources, including practice exams, review sessions, and individualized support.
Experienced and qualified nursing faculty dedicated to student success.
Opportunities for simulation-based learning to enhance clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Strong emphasis on ethical and legal considerations in nursing practice.
Nursing Schools in North Brunswick, New Jersey
Address: 630 U.S. Highway One, North Brunswick, New Jersey 08902
1. What types of nursing programs are available in New Jersey?
Nursing schools in New Jersey offer various programs, including:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.
2. How do I choose the best nursing school in New Jersey?
When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).
3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.
4. How do I check if a nursing program in New Jersey is accredited?
You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in New Jersey.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
The duration depends on the type of program:
CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.
6. Can I complete a nursing program online?
Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.
7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?
The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.
8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?
Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.
9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in New Jersey?
Nurses in New Jersey can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.
10. How much do nurses earn in New Jersey?
Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:
CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.