Nurses in New Jersey are in demand and earn higher than average salaries, making the state a prime location to advance your nursing career. Learn about the top nursing programs in New Jersey, how to become a nurse in the state, and the salary and job outlook for nurses.
Best Nursing Schools in New Jersey
How to Choose a Nursing Program in New Jersey
There are many factors to consider as you explore nursing programs in New Jersey. However, careful research can make the selection process easier.
Narrow your options by examining features like tuition rates, program length, and curriculum. You can find out how well an institution prepares its students for the workforce by reviewing the nursing program's National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates and ensuring that the nursing program is accredited.
Why Become a Nurse in New Jersey
By 2030, New Jersey will need over 11,000 nurses to meet the projected demand. With the state anticipating a nursing shortage over the next decade, New Jersey may offer a number of job opportunities. The state's high average salary for nurses also makes it an attractive option.
In addition, New Jersey participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). As a nursing compact state, New Jersey has agreed to a set of rules and procedures that all licensed RNs must follow. The NLC makes it easier for RNs to qualify for out-of-state licensure in other participating states with minimal paperwork.
Nurses with an NLC license do not have to pay license renewal fees and can provide telehealth care as a virtual nurse to patients across state lines.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in New Jersey
Nurses in New Jersey earn higher than average salaries. For example, RNs in the state earn an average annual salary of $101,960, higher than the average annual salary of about $95,000 for RNs nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Nurse practitioners in New Jersey earn even higher pay, making an average salary of about $145,000 a year, which is significantly higher than the national NP average salary of $128,000 per year.
New Jersey is home to many employment opportunities for nurses. The BLS projects 6% job growth for RNs from 2022-2032, which is in line with the average national job growth for RNs.
The following table identifies the highest-paying metropolitan areas for RNs in New Jersey. Most are located in the state's southern region, except for Trenton. Southern New Jersey also employs the most RNs in the state.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Average Salary for RNs (2022) |
|---|---|
| Atlantic City and Hammonton | $83,900 |
| Trenton | $83,050 |
| Vineland and Bridgeton | $82,070 |
| Ocean City | $77,280 |
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in New Jersey
Prospective nurses in New Jersey should first choose a program that fits their chosen career path and nursing specialty. RNs and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) must complete a nursing program approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Once licensed, RNs must satisfy continuing education requirements to continue working as a nurse in the state.
RN Requirements
To become an RN in New Jersey, candidates must complete the following steps:
- Candidates must enroll in an accredited nursing program and earn either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
- The length of ADN and BSN programs can vary among institutions. However, most ADN programs take two years to complete, while BSN programs are generally four years.
- After completing an undergraduate nursing program, students must pass the NCLEX-RN and undergo a criminal background check before applying for a state nursing license. RNs must earn 30 every two years to maintain licensure.
APRN Requirements
Prospective APRNs in New Jersey must complete the following steps:
- Candidates must earn a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice from an accredited nursing program.
- Students who have not taken a pharmacology course within five years before applying are required to do so.
- Before earning an APRN license, RNs must pass a certification exam in a state-recognized specialty. The New Jersey licensing board accepts certifications from agencies that are accredited through the American Board of Nursing Specialties and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.
- APRNs must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain licensure.
Other Top Nursing Programs in New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in New Jersey
