RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey | 2025

RN to BSN programs are a fast and cost-effective way for Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) nurses to further their education and careers. Nurses with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees often earn more money and have better job opportunities.

This guide explores every RN to BSN school in New Jersey, including their location, tuition costs, and lengths. We'll also discuss the average nurse salary in New Jersey and job outlook.

How to Go From RN to BSN in New Jersey

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in New Jersey requires students to first graduate from an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Next, graduates must register for and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN examination. Upon passing the NCLEX-RN exam, students are granted their RN licensure in the state. 

Both ADN and BSN graduates become RNs after passing the NCLEX exam and can begin working as nurses. However, students who earn their associate degree can also choose to enroll right away in an RN-BSN course. Students can begin working right away while enrolled in the BSN program or take some time to focus on work before enrolling. 

Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs aim to further nurses' education and careers. For instance, BSN-prepared nurses can continue on to earn more advanced degrees or pursue leadership positions. Although their title as an RN will not change, they may be able to earn more money and become eligible for better jobs.

RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey

As a compact nursing state, any nurse licensed in NJ can also work in states participating in compact licensure. These four RN-BSN programs in New Jersey are a mix of private and public, with some programs offering a bachelor’s degree in as little as 12 months. 

About RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey

There are currently four RN to BSN options in New Jersey, with a mix of private and public options. All four programs offer online or hybrid learning options, and it will take you anywhere from one to three years to complete an RN to BSN program in the Garden State

Tuition for RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey

Of the four RN to BSN programs in New Jersey, in-state residents can complete their degree for as little as $12,000 at Saint Elizabeth University. Since that’s on the lower end, a more average tuition for an RN to BSN program would fall in the $17,000-$32,000 range. The most expensive program is Kean university at $55,000 in tuition.

Admission Requirements for New Jersey RN to BSN Programs

Admission requirements for New Jersey RN to BSN programs differ depending on the school. To understand the specific standards of your chosen school, you should speak with an academic advisor.

However, most RN to BSN programs in New Jersey will have these general prerequisites:

• New Jersey RN license
• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Prerequisite courses (per program)
• Graduation from an accredited ADN program
• All transcripts

Are RN to BSN Programs in New Jersey Difficult?

RN to BSN programs may be more academically rigorous on courses that highly emphasize research and writing. Because they are specifically designed for working nurses, many nurses find the overall program less challenging than the practicum-based ADN program. 

Taking a full-time RN to BSN program can be more challenging than a part-time course load, but with many RN-BSN programs in New Jersey available, students can choose the pace that works best for their lives. Some students may prefer a full-time load to finish their BSN quickly, while others want a part-time program that allows them to keep working and slowly work through their program. 

Working as an RN in New Jersey

RN Salary in New Jersey

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual salary for RNs is $81,220 per year or $39.05 per hour. In New Jersey, RNs earn an average annual salary of $101,960, higher than the national average. California is currently the highest-paying state for RNs, earning an average yearly salary of $137,690 or $66.20 an hour. 

Career Outlook

The BLS projects that the RN career field will grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all other occupations. Additionally, it estimates 193,100 openings for registered nurses each year. Currently, New Jersey is home to 82,950 working RNs.

Where Can You Work? RN-BSN Jobs in New Jersey

Depending on your interests and skills, you can work in several locations as a nurse. The largest and most common employer of nurses is hospitals. Other possible job locations include:

• Ambulatory healthcare services
• Government agencies
• Academia
• Medical and aesthetic spas
• Outpatient clinics
• Long-term care facilities
• Private practice
• Surgery centers
• Urgent care centers

Next Steps

The top RN to BSN programs in New Jersey are perfect for working nurses. These flexible programs allow you to finish your BSN while maintaining a job and personal life. 

For more information on earning an RN to BSN, check out these resources:

• Cheapest & Fastest Online RN to BSN Programs
• Top 10 Online RN to BSN Programs
• Online RN to BSN Programs With No Clinicals

FAQs

• How many RN to BSN programs are in New Jersey?

  • There are currently four RN to BSN programs available in New Jersey - Kean University, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Saint Elizabeth University, and The College of New Jersey.

• How much do RN to BSN programs in New Jersey cost?

  • RN to BSN programs in New Jersey range from $12,000-$55,000 depending on if you’re an in-state or out-of-state resident and how many credits you’re bringing into the program. 

• How long are RN to BSN programs in New Jersey? 

  • RN to BSN programs in New Jersey take anywhere from one to three years to complete.

• How many registered nurses are in New Jersey?

  • Currently, there are 82,950 registered nurses employed in New Jersey.

• How much do registered nurses in New Jersey make?

  • New Jersey CRNA salaries exceed the national average with an average annual salary of $101,960, or $49.05 per hour.

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