How To Become a Nurse in New Jersey 2025

Becoming a registered nurse in New Jersey can lead to a rewarding career in healthcare, but the path to getting there can be challenging. You'll have to complete an accredited nursing program, pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), and obtain your license. Keep reading to learn how to become a nurse and discover nursing programs in New Jersey.

What Does an RN Do?

A certified registered nurse provides direct patient care, collaborates with other members of healthcare teams, and educates patients on their conditions and care. Their responsibilities include monitoring patients, administering medications, coordinating with doctors, and updating medical records. RNs are invaluable members of any healthcare team, and their contributions can't be overstated.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Nurse in New Jersey?

Generally, it takes two to four years to become an RN in New Jersey. You'll need at least an associate's degree from a nursing school, which typically takes two years to complete. If you want enhanced career prospects, a four-year bachelor's degree is a great way to go. There are accelerated nursing programs online if you want to earn your degree sooner.

4 Steps To Become a Registered Nurse in New Jersey

Becoming a nurse in New Jersey is a challenging path with numerous steps. While we'll go more into depth on the educational requirements for nurses and other prerequisites, know that they include completing a nursing degree program, completing clinical requirements, passing the state nursing exam, and obtaining your RN license.

Step 1: Find an Accredited Nursing Program

The first step to becoming a nurse is choosing a degree program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). You can choose from associate's or bachelor's programs, depending on your career ambitions and timeline. If you choose to, you can also pursue a master's degree program to further enhance your career options.

Step 2: Complete Clinical Experience Requirements

While earning your degree, you'll have to complete clinical experience requirements under the supervision of other nurses. As part of your nursing education, you may work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to clinics, to gain this hands-on experience. In addition to improving your nursing skills, you'll get exposure to the everyday life of a nurse.

Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-RN

All nurses have to pass the NCLEX-RN to earn their RN licensure. You should prepare for the test by taking courses and practicing with practice exams. While you can retake the exam if you fail, you must wait 45 days between attempts.

Step 4: Obtain Your License

Once you've finished a nursing degree program and passed your NCLEX-RN exam, it's time to apply for your nursing license. You'll have to send in your transcripts and exam results in addition to passing a criminal background check to obtain your license. You'll need to complete continuing education units periodically after earning your license to remain up-to-date.

Top Nursing Degree Programs in New Jersey

If you're looking for accredited online nursing programs, know that there are no fully remote programs. However, below are some of the best nursing degree programs in the state.

1. Atlantic Cape Community College

Training registered nurses for over 50 years, Atlantic Cape Community College is a perfect option for students looking to become RNs. The school also offers an RN-to-BSN program to help you advance your career.

• Estimated tuition cost: $25,462 total (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: ACEN

2. Bergen Community College

Bergen Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in nursing that prepares students with the skills they need to succeed in working in public health. Offering both day and night courses, BCC ensures students can earn their degrees conveniently.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,786 per semester (in-state); $6,862 per semester (out-of-state)
• Accreditation:ACEN

3. County College of Morris

The County College of Morris offers a two-year nursing degree that blends classroom lessons with practical theory and clinical experience. This program prepares students to pass the NCLEX exam or go on to bachelor's degree programs.

• Estimated tuition cost: $173 per credit (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation:ACEN

4. Rutgers University

Rutgers School of Nursing offers a nationally ranked, pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Accredited by the CCNE, it prepares students for RN licensure through rigorous coursework, clinical training, and advanced simulation labs. If you're looking for advanced degree options down the road, Rutgers also has a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,222 per semester (in-state); $33,734 per semester (out-of-state)
• Accreditation:CCNE

5. Ramapo University

Ramapo College's BSN program is a four-year, CCNE-accredited pre-licensure program located in Mahwah, NJ. Boasting an astounding 100% NCLEX pass rate, this program sets students up to succeed in their future careers. While the cost of the program may seem high for in-state students, there are financial aid options to bring down the price.

• Estimated tuition cost: $29,000 (in-state and out-of-state)
• Accreditation: CCNE

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in New Jersey

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for nurses in the U.S. is $93,000. What's more, the industry is expected to grow by 6% in the next 10 years. This means a career as an RN comes with higher-than-average pay and an excellent job outlook.

FAQs About How To Become a Nurse in New Jersey

Deciding to pursue a nursing career is no easy decision, and you may have some questions about what to expect. Read below for our answers to some FAQs about becoming a nurse in New Jersey.

How Much Does a Nursing Degree Cost in New Jersey?

The cost of a nursing degree varies by program and residency status. If you attend a community college for your associate's degree, you can expect to pay between $14,000 and $30,000. Four-year programs are a bit pricer, averaging $48,000 to $120,000. Online colleges that accept FAFSA can help you earn a degree within your budget.

What Are the Prerequisites for a Nursing Degree?

Most nursing programs require courses such as anatomy, chemistry, biology, and math, in addition to meeting a minimum GPA requirement. If you're enrolled in an online program, there may be additional self-paced nursing prerequisites online. You'll also have to have earned a high school diploma or a GED.

What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Nurse?

The fastest way to become a nurse is to complete an associate degree in nursing (ADN), which generally takes two years. Some schools offer accelerated ADN programs that you can complete in 11 to 18 months. These degrees set you up for entry-level jobs, so you may want to consider more advanced degrees for better job prospects.

What Is the Easiest Nursing Degree?

The easiest nursing degree to earn would likely be an ADN, but this may limit your career options. BSNs may take longer to earn, but they open up more doors for you regarding nursing job prospects. Using the best laptop for nursing students can certainly help make earning a degree even easier.

Find a Nursing Degree

A career as a nurse can be an exciting and rewarding path. Whether you're a licensed practical nurse (LPN) looking to advance your career or a new high school graduate considering a healthcare degree, there are programs out there for you. Keep exploring Learn.org to find the right program for you.