If you already have a bachelor's degree but are looking to make a meaningful career change into nursing, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is your fastest path forward. New Jersey is home to several outstanding ABSN programs designed to build upon your existing education, preparing you to become a skilled and compassionate registered nurse. With the demand for qualified nurses consistently high, as noted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pursuing an ABSN in 2026 is a strategic investment in a stable and rewarding future.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best ABSN programs in New Jersey for 2026. We'll explore program details, costs, and career outcomes to help you find the perfect fit for your goals.
Quick Glance: Best New Jersey's ABSN Programs
Stockton University: 64-credit ABSN with a strong focus on clinical decision-making and health promotion
Ramapo College of New Jersey: 16-month, in-person ABSN with an NCLEX-RN pass rate near 100%
Felician University: Hybrid or on-ground ABSN with clinical placements through Atlantic Health System
Rutgers University: 14-month second-degree BSN with access to 200+ clinical partner sites statewide
Saint Peter's University: 15-month ABSN with simulation-based learning and experienced faculty
Seton Hall University: 14-month second-degree ABSN with a 97.4% NCLEX-RN pass rate
Fairleigh Dickinson University: 56-credit ABSN offered through the Henry P. Becton School of Nursing in Teaneck
Best ABSN Programs in New Jersey - Online & On-Campus
Learn More About New Jersey's Top Accelerated BSN Programs
1. Stockton University
Stockton University's ABSN program offers a flexible format that blends online coursework with essential on-campus labs and clinicals. The curriculum is designed for students with a prior bachelor's degree and focuses on developing critical thinking and independent decision-making skills. Graduates are well prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and entry-level nursing roles.
Credit Hours: 64
Admission Highlights: Requires a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, specific prerequisite courses, and a minimum GPA of 3.5 in all prerequisite science courses.
Application Deadlines: Fall start: May 15, 2026; Spring start: Oct. 15, 2026.
2. Ramapo College of New Jersey
Ramapo College offers a highly respected, full-time, in-person ABSN program that can be completed in just 16 months. The program is known for its strong academic foundation and excellent clinical preparation, leading to consistently high NCLEX pass rates. For students needing prerequisites, Ramapo also offers an 8-month "bridge to ABSN" program.
Credit Hours: 64
Admission Highlights: Requires a non-nursing bachelor's degree or a minimum of 60 credits, a cumulative GPA of 3.0, and prerequisite courses completed within the last 5 years with a C+ or higher.
Application Deadline: February 1st, 2026.
3. Felician University
Felician University provides flexibility with both On-Ground and Hybrid ABSN options. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through strong clinical partnerships with Atlantic Health System and other leading healthcare providers. Its curriculum combines rigorous online coursework with in-person labs and simulations, preparing students for a successful nursing career rooted in Franciscan values.
Credit Hours: 70
Admission Highlights: Requires a non-nursing bachelor's degree or 60 credits, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, and two professional or academic references.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions.
4. Rutgers University
The Second-Degree BS in Nursing program at Rutgers is an intensive, 14-month journey that leverages your previous bachelor's degree. Students learn in a supportive cohort model and gain extensive clinical experience at over 200 partner
Credit Hours: 63
Admission Highlights: Requires a non-nursing bachelor's degree, a first-degree GPA minimum of 3.3, and all science prerequisites completed within the last 10 years.
Application Deadlines: Summer admission: February 1; Spring admission: October 1.
5. Saint Peter's University
Saint Peter's University offers a 15-month ABSN track taught by experienced, practicing nursing professionals. The program effectively blends classroom instruction with simulation labs and diverse clinical experiences, preparing students to confidently enter the nursing field. Its affordability makes it a compelling option.
Credit Hours: 60
Admission Highlights: Requires a non-nursing bachelor's degree, a cumulative GPA of 3.0, a grade of B or higher in all science prerequisites, and a TEAS score of 78% or higher.
Application Deadline: February 1.
6. Seton Hall University
Seton Hall's Second Degree Accelerated BSN program is renowned for its outstanding NCLEX pass rate and comprehensive approach. In just 14 months, students learn to provide evidence-based care through a collaborative cohort model. While it is the most expensive option on our list, its outcomes are among the best in the nation.
Credit Hours: 62
Admission Highlights: Requires a non-nursing baccalaureate, a GPA of 3.0, prerequisites completed within the last 5 years, a 500-word personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.
Application Deadlines: Fall start (Freehold): May 1; Spring start (Freehold & Nutley): September 1.
7. Fairleigh Dickinson University
Fairleigh Dickinson's ABSN program, offered through the Henry P. Becton School of Nursing and Allied Health, provides a strong foundation in nursing education with a focus on hands-on experience. The hybrid format offers flexibility for students balancing other commitments, preparing them for success in a variety of healthcare settings.
Credit Hours: 56
Admission Highlights: Requires a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and completion of all prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of B-.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; program starts in May, with a recommended deadline of December 1.
What Is an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Program?
An Accelerated BSN program is an intensive, fast-paced educational track for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing. It condenses the traditional four-year BSN curriculum into approximately 12 to 18 months.
The curriculum covers the same core material, including:
Foundational Sciences: Anatomy, pathophysiology, microbiology, and pharmacology.
Nursing Theory & Skills: Patient assessment, evidence-based research, and patient care philosophies.
Specialized Nursing Areas: Courses covering pediatrics, psychiatric nursing, acute care, and public health.
Clinical Training: Supervised, hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
While some coursework may be delivered online in hybrid programs, all ABSN programs require in-person participation for clinical rotations and skills labs. This hands-on component is mandatory and essential for developing the practical skills needed to become a competent nurse.
Understanding the Costs of an ABSN Program in New Jersey
The cost of an ABSN program in New Jersey varies significantly, with public universities generally being more affordable than private institutions. For 2026, total tuition can range from approximately $28,000 to over $98,000.
When budgeting, be sure to account for additional expenses:
Tuition and Fees: The primary cost of the program.
Books and Supplies: Textbooks and other required course materials.
Clinical and Lab Fees: Fees for uniforms, background checks, and clinical placements.
Medical Equipment: A stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, and other essential tools.
Licensing Fees: Costs associated with applying for and taking the NCLEX-RN exam post-graduation.
Living Expenses: Housing, transportation, and food. Most students cannot work full-time due to the program's intensity.
ABSN Salary Expectations in New Jersey for 2026
Graduating with a BSN positions you for higher earning potential compared to an associate degree. According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the mean annual wage for registered nurses in New Jersey is $106,990.
Data from ZipRecruiter further clarifies the difference in earning potential based on degree:
Average ADN RN Annual Salary: $80,321
Average BSN RN Annual Salary: $96,546
New Jersey is a competitive state for nursing salaries, often exceeding the national average due to high demand and cost of living. While not in the top 5 highest-paying states like California ($137,690), a BSN-prepared nurse in New Jersey can expect a strong starting salary and significant opportunities for career and income growth.
How to Choose the Right New Jersey ABSN Program for You
Selecting the right program is a personal decision. Consider these factors:
Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total cost and research scholarship and financial aid opportunities available at each institution.
NCLEX Pass Rate: A high pass rate is a strong indicator of a program's quality and its ability to prepare students for licensure.
Program Format: Decide if a full-time, on-campus program fits your learning style, or if you need the flexibility of a hybrid model.
Clinical Placements: Research the program's clinical partners. Proximity and quality of these healthcare facilities can significantly impact your learning experience.
Prerequisites: Ensure you have completed or can complete the required prerequisite courses within the specified timeframe and GPA requirements.
Common ABSN Admission Requirements in New Jersey
While specific requirements vary by school, most New Jersey ABSN programs require:
A completed bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field from an accredited institution.
A minimum cumulative GPA, typically 3.0 or higher.
Completion of prerequisite courses (e.g., Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Statistics) with a minimum grade (often a C+ or higher).
A personal statement or essay.
Letters of recommendation.
A background check and drug screening.
Some programs may require an entrance exam like the TEAS.
Why Accreditation Matters for Your Nursing Career
Choosing an accredited ABSN program is non-negotiable. Accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous national standards for quality nursing education. The two primary accrediting bodies for nursing programs in the U.S. are: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, be eligible for financial aid, transfer credits, and be competitive in the job market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it realistic to work part-time while attending a New Jersey ABSN program?
Due to the intensive, fast-paced nature of these programs, most schools strongly recommend against working. The curriculum and clinical hours are equivalent to a full-time job. Some students may manage very flexible, low-hour part-time work, but it is challenging.
What are the job prospects for new ABSN graduates in New Jersey's top hospitals?
Job prospects are excellent. New Jersey has a robust healthcare sector with major hospital systems like Hackensack Meridian Health and RWJBarnabas Health actively recruiting BSN-prepared nurses. Many ABSN graduates are hired into new graduate residency programs, which provide additional training and support.
How competitive are ABSN programs in New Jersey to get into?
Admission is highly competitive. Successful applicants typically have a strong undergraduate GPA (often 3.3 or higher), high grades in science prerequisites, and compelling personal statements. Gaining healthcare experience before applying can also strengthen your application.
What is the main difference between an ABSN and an ADN-to-BSN bridge program in NJ?
An ABSN is for individuals who have a bachelor's degree in another field. An ADN-to-BSN bridge program is for registered nurses who already have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and want to earn their BSN.