healthcare

Best Nursing Schools in New Jersey for 2025

Goodwork author

02 May 2025 — 2 min read

🏥 Top Nursing Schools in New Jersey (2025)

Based on recent data and rankings, here are some of the leading nursing schools in New Jersey:

1. Rutgers University – New Brunswick

NCLEX Pass Rate: Data not specified
Tuition: Varies by program; refer to Rutgers Tuition & Fees
Highlights: Offers a comprehensive range of nursing programs, including BSN, MSN, and DNP. Recognized for its research initiatives and clinical partnerships.

2. Seton Hall University – South Orange

NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% (2024)
Tuition: Approximately $23,190 per semester for the Accelerated BSN program
Highlights: Home to the Interprofessional Health Science Campus, providing interdisciplinary training with state-of-the-art simulation labs.

3. The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) – Ewing

NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% (Q2 2024)
Tuition: Refer to TCNJ Tuition & Fees
Highlights: Designated as an NLN Center of Excellence, TCNJ boasts small class sizes and a strong emphasis on student-faculty engagement.

4. Thomas Edison State University – Trenton

NCLEX Pass Rate: Data not specified
Tuition: $311 per credit for RN to BSN program
Highlights: Offers flexible online programs tailored for working professionals seeking to advance their nursing education.

5. Monmouth University – West Long Branch

NCLEX Pass Rate: 100% (Q2 2024)
Tuition: Varies by program
Highlights: Provides a range of nursing programs with a focus on community engagement and clinical excellence.

🎓 Choosing the Right Nursing Program

When selecting a nursing program in New Jersey, consider the following factors:

📍 Location

Decide between urban settings like Newark or Jersey City and more suburban or rural campuses, depending on your lifestyle preferences and clinical placement opportunities.

💰 Tuition & Financial Aid

Evaluate the cost of programs and explore financial aid options, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs. For instance, Thomas Edison State University offers competitive per-credit rates for its online programs.

📊 NCLEX Pass Rates

High NCLEX pass rates often indicate the effectiveness of a program's curriculum and preparation. Schools like TCNJ and Monmouth University have reported perfect pass rates in recent quarters.news.tcnj.edu

📚 Program Offerings

Ensure the school offers the specific nursing track you're interested in, whether it's traditional BSN, accelerated programs, or advanced degrees like MSN and DNP.

🎓 Graduation Rates

Consider schools with strong graduation rates, as this can reflect student satisfaction and program support.

📈 Nursing Career Outlook in New Jersey

New Jersey offers competitive salaries for nurses, with registered nurses earning an average annual salary of approximately $110,510. The state's diverse healthcare settings, from major hospitals to community clinics, provide ample employment opportunities.RNCareers