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How to Become a Nurse in New Jersey, NJ

Aspiring professional nurses in New Jersey must start with prerequisite studies. Typically, this involves around 15 credits of introductory college classes, like math, physiology and chemistry. They then apply to a college of nursing in New Jersey—not all programs offer the same courses or charge the same tuition, nor have the same acceptance guidelines, and it is worth looking around to see which program suits you the best.

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Nursing students must also decide between a one-year Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, which offers an appealing entry-level nursing diploma, or a two or four year Registered Nurse (RN) training program—either an Associate Degree, Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science, Nursing (BSN). When deciding between the three programs, it’s really a question of the level of specialization: LPNs learn hands-on care, whereas ADN-equipped RNs have nurse management and deeper assessment and care knowledge. BSN students take advanced theory and research courses, and also have the opportunity to pursue more electives and specialize in areas like pharmacology, radiology, or maternal care.

New Jersey nurse education culminates with the NCLEX examination, a nationally administered test with both LPN and RN versions, which is the last step to becoming a nurse in New Jersey. Most graduating nursing students pass the test their first try—almost 9 out of 10—and become licensed to practice as a New Jersey nurse.

In-Depth New Jersey Nursing Information

To learn more about becoming a nurse in New Jersey, visit our detailed state page. There you will learn about job opportunities, wages, education programs, and much more.