Best Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs in New Jersey | 2025

If you're interested in the best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in New Jersey, you've come to the right place. Check out our comprehensive list below, and learn more about ABSN coursework, clinical training, costs, salary expectations, and more.

Best ABSN Programs in New Jersey - Online & On-Campus

Learn More About New Jersey's Top Accelerated BSN Programs

Building on the details shared above, this section highlights program features, admission requirements, and other key information to guide your decision-making. Explore what makes these ABSN programs in the Garden State stand out as you prepare for your nursing career.

Check the section above for information on tuition, accreditation, program formats, ranking criteria, and more.

1. Stockton University

Stockton University's Accelerated BSN program allows students with a bachelor's degree to swiftly transition into nursing. This program focuses on developing critical thinking, independent decision-making, and core nursing skills, along with health promotion and disease prevention. By the end of the program, graduates are fully prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and their future

• ABSN Credit Hours: 64 
• Stockton NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% 

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• Bachelor degree in a non-nursing field
• Prerequisite courses; General education, Statistics, Nutrition, Chemistry, Microbiology, Anatomy and Physiology, Ethics +
• A total GPA of 3.5  in all prerequisite science courses 
• A minimum grade of "C" in all prerequisite science courses taken at Stockton OR a minimum grade of "B" if taken at another institution

Application Deadlines: 

• Fall Application Deadline is May 15th
• September Application Deadline is October 15th 

2. Ramapo College of New Jersey

RCNJ's ABSN program is a highly regarded option for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, offering an accelerated, full-time, in-person pathway to the NCLEX-RN exam. This program can be completed in just 16 months, providing a solid foundation for further nursing education.

For those who need to complete prerequisites, RCNJ offers an 8-month "bridge to ABSN" program. This pathway requires 100 credit hours and prepares students for the ABSN program, helping them meet the necessary prerequisites for a nursing degree.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 64
• Ramapo NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Close to 100%

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree OR a minimum of 60 credits from a regionally accredited institution 
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all undergraduate coursework
• Prerequisite courses:L Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Statistics, Psychology +
• All prerequisite coursework must have been completed within the past 5 years with a grade of "C+” or higher

Application Deadlines: ABSN program starts in the Summer semester with an application period from October 1 to February 1. 

Financial Aid: 

3. Rutgers University

Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark, NJ offers an exceptional in-person Second-Degree BS in Nursing program, allowing students to leverage their previous bachelor's coursework to earn a nursing degree in just 14 months. This 4-semester, full-time program provides intensive education alongside a supportive cohort, with clinical placements at over 200+ Rutgers healthcare partner institutions across New Jersey.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 63
• Rutgers NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree from an accredited university or academic institution
• First-degree GPA minimum of 3.3
• Prerequisite Courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Nutrition, Statistics, Life Span, Psychology, Sociology +
• All science prerequisites within 10 years and a grade of C-C+ on all prerequisite courses

Application Deadlines: 

• Summer Admission - February 1
• Spring Admission - October 1 

4.  Saint Peter's University

The Accelerated BSN at SPU offers a fast track for individuals with a bachelor's degree to earn a nursing degree in just 15 months across 4 semesters. Taught by experienced and practicing nursing professionals, the program combines classroom learning with valuable clinical experiences and simulations, preparing students to succeed in the nursing field.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 60
• ABSN NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100%

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree from an accredited college.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Prerequisite courses: Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology or Sociology +
• A grade of "B" or higher in all prerequisite science courses
• A grade of "C+” or higher in all other prerequisite courses. 
• TEAS score of 78% or higher

Application Deadlines: February 1

5. Felician University

Felician University's Accelerated Nursing Program stands out for its flexibility and strong clinical connections. Offering both Hybrid and On-Ground ABSN options, students can choose the format that best fits their needs while benefiting from hands-on experience through clinical rotations with Atlantic Health System and other top healthcare providers. The program combines online learning with in-person nursing labs and simulations, allowing students to quickly earn their BSN in a supportive environment rooted in Franciscan values, preparing them for the NCLEX-RN exam and a successful nursing career.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 70
• Felician NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 94%. 

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree OR 60 credits from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Two professional or academic references. 

6.  Seton Hall University

SHU's Second Degree Accelerated BSN program is known for its comprehensive approach to nursing education, preparing students to address the modern challenges of the field. In just 14 months, students gain essential skills in evidence-based care, with hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings. The program's cohort model fosters collaboration, making it one of the top-ranked accelerated BSN programs in New Jersey.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 62
• SHU NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96%
• SHU Graduate Employment Rate: 97%

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• Non-nursing baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Prerequisite courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Organic Chemistry, Microbiology, Nutrition, Statistics, Ethics, Psychology +
• Completion of prerequisite courses within the last 5 years, with a minimum grade of C+ in each
• 500 word personal statement/essay on why you want to become a nurse
• Two letters of recommendation
• Resume 
• All ESL students must provide a TOEFL score of at least 84. 
•  

Application Deadlines: 

• Fall Start - May 1 (Freehold, NJ Campus Only)
• Spring Start - September 1 (Freehold and Nutley Campuses)

7. Fairleigh Dickinson University

FDU's Henry P. Becton School of Nursing and Allied Health, located in Teaneck, NJ, offers an accredited ABSN program, with a focus on both excellent nursing education and hands-on experience. The program is part of a school with a strong reputation for its accredited nursing and allied health programs, preparing students for success in the healthcare field.

• ABSN Credit Hours: 56
• FDU NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90%. 

ABSN Admission Requirements: 

• A baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university 
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Prerequisite courses: Anatomy and Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Statistics, 
• Completion of all prerequisite course with a minimum grade of B-

Application Deadlines: Admissions are handled on a rolling basis; the ABSN program starts annually in May, with a recommended deadline of December 1. 

What Is an ABSN Program?

In an accelerated nursing program, you'll engage in an intensive, fast-paced curriculum that covers the same comprehensive material as a traditional BSN program, but in a condensed timeframe. The coursework is challenging, yet it's designed to quickly and thoroughly prepare you for a nursing career by building on your existing knowledge in the sciences and humanities.

ABSN Coursework in New Jersey

ABSN coursework in New Jersey typically includes:

• Foundational Sciences: This includes courses in anatomy, pathophysiology, Microbiology, and chemistry. These subjects provide the necessary background for understanding the human body and how it responds to various medical interventions.
• Pharmacology: Students study the principles of pharmacology, including drug classifications, mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and side effects, which are essential for safe and effective medication administration.
• Nursing Theory: Students will learn the theoretical foundations of nursing, including nursing models, patient care philosophies, and the role of nurses in the healthcare system.
• Nursing Skills: This encompasses practical skills that nurses need in their daily work, such as patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, and more.
• Specialized Areas of Nursing: ABSN programs include courses that cover a range of nursing specialties, from general nursing to focused areas like pediatrics, acute/critical care, labor and delivery, and psychiatric nursing. These nursing courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the diverse fields within nursing, preparing you for various roles in the healthcare environment. 
• Evidence-Based Research: Engage in coursework that teaches you how to critically evaluate research, apply evidence-based practices in clinical settings, and contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge.
• Leadership in Nursing: Develop foundational leadership skills through courses that prepare you to guide healthcare teams, make informed decisions, and improve patient care outcomes.

ABSN Clinical Training in New Jersey

ABSN programs in New Jersey require clinical training, typically consisting of:

• Supervised Clinical Rotations: Students will rotate through various clinical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. During these rotations, they work under the supervision of experienced nurses and healthcare professionals.
• Diverse Experiences: The clinical rotations expose students to a wide range of medical conditions, patient populations, and healthcare environments. This diversity ensures that students are well-rounded and prepared for various nursing roles.
• Skill Application: In the clinical setting, students have the opportunity to practice essential nursing skills, from patient assessments to administering medications and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
• Professional Development: Clinical training also offers students the chance to develop their professional communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. They learn to work as part of a healthcare team and to advocate for their patients.

Can ABSN Programs in New Jersey Be Taken Entirely Online?

While some components of an ABSN program, such as theoretical coursework, may be available online, the program cannot be completed entirely online. ABSN programs require hands-on clinical training and lab work, which must be completed in person. These in-person experiences are essential for developing the practical skills needed for nursing and are a key component of the program's curriculum. Therefore, while online elements can offer flexibility, expect to attend on-site sessions for clinical rotations and lab activities.

ABSN Prerequisites & Admission Requirements in New Jersey

For those considering an ABSN program in New Jersey, it's essential to understand the prerequisites and requirements to ensure a successful application and enrollment into the program.

ABSN Program Prerequisites in New Jersey

Prerequisite courses are courses that a student must complete before entering the ABSN program. These general education prerequisites ensure that students have foundational knowledge that will be built upon during the ABSN program. Common prerequisites include:

• Science Courses: Most ABSN programs require students to have completed courses in anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and chemistry. These courses provide a foundational understanding of the human body and its functions.
• Mathematics: Some programs may require coursework in statistics or other relevant math courses to ensure students have the necessary quantitative skills.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Courses in psychology, sociology, and other humanities may be required to give students a well-rounded education and understanding of human behavior.

ABSN Admission Requirements in New Jersey

Requirements refer to the criteria that applicants must meet during the application process as admission requirements or once they are admitted to the program. They typically include:

• Previous Bachelor's Degree: Since ABSN programs are designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field, having a completed degree is a standard prerequisite.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement for the prerequisite courses to ensure that students are academically prepared for the rigors of the program.
• Application and Fees: Prospective students must complete the program's application form and pay any associated fees.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or other professionals who can attest to the applicant's qualifications and potential as a nursing student.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Applicants may need to submit a personal statement or essay detailing their reasons for pursuing a nursing career and why they believe the ABSN program is a good fit for them.
• Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the admissions process. This gives the admissions committee a chance to get to know the applicant better and assess their fit for the program.
• Background Check and Drug Screening: Due to the sensitive nature of healthcare work, many programs require students to undergo a background check and drug screening before beginning clinical rotations.
• Health Requirements: Students may need to provide proof of immunizations, a recent physical examination, and other health-related documentation to ensure they are fit for clinical work.
• CPR Certification: Some programs require students to be certified in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) before starting their clinical rotations.

Costs of ABSN Programs in New Jersey

The costs of ABSN programs in New Jersey will vary based on numerous factors including institution, employer, location, and more. However, some typical considerations include:

• Tuition: This is the primary cost and can vary based on whether the institution is public or private, in-state or out-of-state, and other institutional factors.
• Books and Supplies: Students will need to purchase textbooks, study materials, and other necessary supplies for their courses.
• Clinical Fees: Some programs may have separate fees associated with clinical rotations or placements. Additionally, students should budget for transportation costs to and from clinical sites, as well as any required uniforms, supplies, or background checks related to clinical placements.
• Medical Equipment: Students are typically required to purchase essential clinical lab equipment, including stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, sphygmomanometers, pen lights, and materials for skills checks, such as Foley catheter kits. These tools are crucial for hands-on training and practice in clinical settings.
• Licensing and Exam Fees: Towards the end of the program, students will need to pay for the NCLEX-RN exam and any associated licensing fees.
• Living Expenses: While not directly tied to the program, students should also consider costs like housing, transportation, and meals, especially if relocating for the program. Additionally, due to the intensive nature of ABSN programs, most students do not work during their studies, making it important to plan for living expenses in advance.

It's important to note that while ABSN programs in New Jersey might seem more expensive on a per-semester basis due to their accelerated nature, they might be comparable in total cost to traditional BSN programs since they are completed in a shorter timeframe. To assist with financial planning and reducing the overall costs of nursing school, consider exploring the best strategies for funding your education.

ABSN Salary Expectations in New Jersey

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs earn: 

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

RNs in the bottom 10% of the pay scale earn around $63,720 while RNs in the top 10% of the pay scale earn around $132,680 annually.

Top Paying States for RNs

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

Typically, there is a noticeable income gap between nurses with an associate degree (ADN) compared to those with a bachelor's degree, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs.

Average ADN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $39.00
• Annual Wage: $80,321.00

Average BSN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $46.00
• Annual Wage: $96,546.00

U.S. States With Highest BSN RN Salaries

• San Mateo, CA: $121,673.00
• Green River, WY: $188,365.00
• Johnstonville, CA: $115,131.00
• Richmond, CT: $113,883.00
• Stamford, CT: $112,504.00

By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential.

Importance of Picking an Accredited ABSN Program in New Jersey

Choosing an accredited ABSN program in New Jersey is crucial for several reasons:

• Ensures Quality Education: Accreditation signifies that the program meets established standards of quality in nursing education, ensuring you receive a robust and comprehensive education that prepares you for the nursing profession.
• Eligibility for Licensure: Graduating from an accredited ABSN program is often a requirement to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is necessary to obtain your nursing license and practice as a registered nurse.
• Transferability of Credits: If you decide to further your education, credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted by other institutions, making it easier to pursue advanced degrees in nursing.
• Employment Opportunities: Employers often prefer or require nurses to have graduated from accredited programs, as it assures them that the candidate has received a quality education and is well-prepared for the demands of the job.
• Access to Financial Aid: Many forms of federal and state financial aid, as well as scholarships, are only available to students enrolled in accredited programs, making it easier to finance your education.

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

ABSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best ABSN programs in the following states:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of support and resources are available to ABSN students?

• Academic Support: ABSN programs typically offer a range of academic support services, including tutoring, study groups, and access to faculty during office hours. Some programs may also provide online resources like recorded lectures, discussion forums, and digital libraries to help students keep up with the fast-paced curriculum.
• Career Services: Many programs have dedicated career services that help students with job placement after graduation. This can include resume workshops, interview preparation, networking opportunities, and job fairs specifically for nursing students.
• Mental Health and Wellness: Given the intensity of ABSN programs, many institutions offer mental health services, including counseling and stress management resources. Wellness programs might also be available to help students balance the demands of the program with self-care.

Can I work while enrolled in an ABSN program?

Most programs recommend against full-time employment because of the intense and demanding schedule. However, some students may choose to work part-time, especially if they have flexible jobs that can accommodate their study and clinical schedules. It's important to carefully consider your ability to manage both work and the rigorous demands of the program before making a decision.

What career opportunities are available to me after completing an ABSN program?

Graduating from an ABSN program opens up a wide range of career opportunities in various healthcare settings. As an RN, you can work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, community health centers, schools, and more. RNs can specialize in areas such as emergency care, pediatrics, oncology, critical care, or mental health. Additionally, an ABSN can serve as a foundation for further advanced nursing education, such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), or pursuing roles in nursing leadership, education, or research.