ACNP Programs in New Jersey (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
Acute care nurse practitioners in New Jersey work in hospital specialty units like ERs and ICUs as well as long-term care facilities. They treat patients who often require urgent medical or surgical interventions, so ACNPs must think quickly on their feet. Graduates of ACNP programs in New Jersey earn $148,560 annually on average, and the need for their services—already high—is expected to increase by 51 percent over the next decade. Could this be a promising career track for you? Investigate acute care nurse practice further by looking through this guide to the best ACNP programs in New Jersey.
FOLLOWING ARE THE ACNP PROGRAMS IN NEW JERSEY (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the campus-based and online ACNP programs in New Jersey.)
1. Seton Hall University - Nutley
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master’s Certificate Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The MSN program with the option to specialize in Adult Gerontology ACNP accepts applications on a rolling basis and admits new cohorts for the fall and spring semesters each year. The program is offered in an online format, making it an excellent choice for working professionals. Three two-day, in-person immersions are held on campus and designed to provide faculty interaction, career development, peer networking, and skills-building opportunities.
This MSN Adult Gerontology ACNP program features a 48-credit curriculum. In this program, you will receive hands-on training in EKG interpretation, chest tube insertion, intubation, arterial line insertion, thoracentesis, and other acute care clinical skills. Clinical requirements are met through four clinical practicums, totaling 675 practicum hours. Faculty collaborate with clinical agency personnel to identify preceptors within their agencies to provide supervision and guidance during your clinical experiences.
MSN Admission Requirements: Admission to the MSN program is open to Registered Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an ACEN-, CCNE-, or NLN-accredited nursing program. Candidates need an unrestricted professional RN license in their state of practice with eligibility to practice in New Jersey, if clinicals are performed in that state. Applicants must complete an admission application and provide a Statement of Professional Goals, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts of all previous academic work. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale and a “B” average in all nursing courses are required for all Adult ACNP program candidates.
One year of professional nursing experience in an acute care setting is required. If you are a recent BSN graduate, you may be admitted to the ACNP program after passing the NCLEX-RN. However, you must complete one year of clinical work experience in an acute care setting before enrolling in any clinical course. Selected candidates will be invited for a personal interview with the program faculty.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you previously earned a master’s degree in nursing and wish to attain additional certification as an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, the Post-Master’s Certificate program at Seton Hall University is a perfect choice. A GAP analysis is conducted for each student to determine the total number of credits needed to earn the certificate. A minimum of 24 credits is required for the Adult Gerontology ACNP Certificate. You will gain in-depth knowledge and the clinical skills needed to provide the assessment and management of acutely ill adults and older adults. Clinical placements are determined collaboratively with program faculty and completed with experienced, certified advanced nurse practitioners.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Post-Master’s Certificate program, candidates must have a Master of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited program, an active, unencumbered RN license, and at least one year of acute care experience as a Registered Nurse. Applicants are required to submit a Professional Goals Statement, two letters of reference, and official transcripts from all post-secondary schools reflecting a 3.2 or higher cumulative GPA and a “B” average in all nursing courses.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• As a nurse and nursing educator, I encourage potential students to consider their options when choosing a school or program carefully. While factors like accreditation are essential, it is also important to consider a school’s reputation for providing quality programs. For example, Seton Hall University is recognized by U.S. News & World Report for offering the Best Online Programs: Graduate Nursing in its 2025 survey.• Simulated learning has become a crucial part of quality nursing education programs. At Seton Hall University, students in the ACNP program utilize simulated learning activities during campus-based immersions. The Seton Hall Simulation Center features state-of-the-art technology, including high-fidelity patient suites where you will grow and learn as a practitioner while preparing to transition with confidence to a new role as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
• The Seton Hall College of Nursing has prepared students for advanced clinical and leadership roles in nursing since 1937! The school is known for pioneering servant leadership and evidence-based practice that you can integrate into your daily nursing practice.
2. Rowan University - Glassboro
Programs Offered: MSN
MSN Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The MSN Adult Gerontology ACNP program is offered in a hybrid format. The program combines fully online courses with face-to-face classes and clinical practicum experiences. Students are first admitted to the Master of Science in Nursing CORE, which consists of graduate-level courses taken by all MSN students. You will then transition to the NP component of the program, taking Core Nurse Practitioner courses and Adult Gerontology ACNP courses. A total of 44 semester hours and 750 clinical hours is required to complete the MSN with the Adult Gerontology ACNP specialization. Clinical arrangements for the program are managed by the Department of Nursing, ensuring you have the best possible experiences with the most qualified preceptors.
MSN Admission Requirements: Candidates for the MSN program must have a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Nursing from an accredited college or university, a valid RN license with privilege to practice in New Jersey for the duration of the program, and a current CPR certification. Applicants must submit an application for admission, a current professional resume, two letters of professional recommendation, individual professional malpractice insurance, and official transcripts from all post-secondary schools previously attended. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Graduates of the ACNP program at Rowan University consistently have high pass rates on national certification exams. As a nurse and healthcare educator, I believe it is important to consider exam outcomes when choosing a school or program, as they tend to indicate the quality and type of preparation you can expect as a student.• Rowan University’s ACNP program is taught by highly skilled, experienced practitioners and nursing educators. With many years of combined experience, they each bring unique perspectives and insight to the program. As a student, you can glean from their knowledge and experiences, which will help you prepare for the advanced practice role of an ACNP!
• Rowan University ACNP program graduates have excellent job placement rates, which is an important factor to consider when choosing a school. While most graduates report being employed in their chosen roles within three to six months of completing the program, many receive employment offers while still enrolled (pending conferral of the degree and obtaining national certification).
3. Ramapo College Of New Jersey - Mahwah
Programs Offered: MSN
MSN Specialties Offered: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
The program is delivered in a hybrid format, with almost all didactic coursework presented online. The MSN Adult Gerontology ACNP program requires the completion of 48 credits. The curriculum features classes, including Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Pathophysiology, Context of Healthcare for Advanced Practice, and Primary Care of Adults/Geriatrics. The program also includes 750 clinical hours. Your clinical practicums offer opportunities to collaborate with nurse practitioners, physicians, and other healthcare team members while providing direct patient care for patients experiencing acute and chronic phases of illness.
MSN Admission Requirements: Prospective students seeking admission to the MSN ACNP program must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and a valid, unencumbered, State-issued RN license. Applicants are required to submit two letters of recommendation (one from a professional in a clinical setting), a Personal Statement, a current resume, and official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• At Ramapo University, your success in the ACNP program is a priority. From the time you submit an inquiry about the program until you graduate, you will receive individual, one-on-one academic and career advising from faculty, preceptors, and advisors.• One of the most crucial parts of a nursing program is the clinical experience. At Ramapo University, you will collaborate with the Assistant Dean of Nursing and your Nursing Advisor to plan clinical practicums. You may identify your own preceptor. By working with faculty and staff, you can rest assured that you will have adequate and appropriate clinical experiences with guidance from well-qualified preceptors.
• Ramapo University is one of the most affordable colleges in New Jersey. The school offers one-on-one assistance from financial aid advisors who work with you to ensure you can afford to earn your degree. In addition to federal financial aid, private and university scholarships and grants, the school also offers payment plans to help reduce the stress associated with paying for your degree.
HOW MUCH DO ACNP GRADUATES MAKE IN NEW JERSEY?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF ACNP PROGRAMS IN NEW JERSEY EXPECT?
| Hourly | $52.55 |
| Weekly | $2,102 |
| Monthly | $9,110 |
| Annual | $109,300 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF ACNP PROGRAMS IN NEW JERSEY EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $52.55 | $2,102 | $9,110 | $109,300 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $59.46 | $2,378 | $10,310 | $123,670 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $70.18 | $2,807 | $12,170 | $145,980 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $78.16 | $3,126 | $13,550 | $162,570 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $93.40 | $3,736 | $16,190 | $194,280 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ACNP SALARY IN NEW JERSEY?
| Hourly | $71.42 |
| Weekly | $2,857 |
| Monthly | $12,380 |
| Annual | $148,560 |
HOW MUCH DO ACNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METRO AREAS OF NEW JERSEY?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Atlantic City-Hammonton | $63.79 | $2,552 | $11,060 | $132,690 |
| Ocean City | $68.72 | $2,749 | $11,910 | $142,930 |
| Trenton | $68.79 | $2,752 | $11,920 | $143,080 |
| Vineland-Bridgeton | $64.22 | $2,569 | $11,130 | $133,580 |
ACNP SALARY IN NEW JERSEY VS. OTHER SALARIES
ACNP SALARY IN NEW JERSEY VS. ACNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average New Jersey ACNP Annual Salary | Average National ACNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $148,560 | $131,620 | +$16,940 | +12.87% |
ACNP SALARY IN NEW JERSEY VS. ACNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $165,480 | -$16,920 | -10.22% |
| Nevada | $152,290 | -$3,730 | -2.45% |
| Washington | $148,940 | -$380 | -0.26% |
| New Jersey | $148,560 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Oregon | $148,480 | +$80 | +0.05% |
| Massachusetts | $147,520 | +$1,040 | +0.70% |
| New York | $146,310 | +$2,250 | +1.54% |
| Connecticut | $140,320 | +$8,240 | +5.87% |
| New Mexico | $140,100 | +$8,460 | +6.04% |
| Minnesota | $138,300 | +$10,260 | +7.42% |
| District of Columbia | $138,130 | +$10,430 | +7.55% |
| Rhode Island | $136,710 | +$11,850 | +8.67% |
| Hawaii | $135,840 | +$12,720 | +9.36% |
| Arizona | $135,790 | +$12,770 | +9.40% |
| Delaware | $134,300 | +$14,260 | +10.62% |
| Iowa | $134,010 | +$14,550 | +10.86% |
| New Hampshire | $133,920 | +$14,640 | +10.93% |
| Texas | $133,180 | +$15,380 | +11.55% |
| Wisconsin | $131,460 | +$17,100 | +13.01% |
| Maryland | $131,110 | +$17,450 | +13.31% |
| Utah | $130,930 | +$17,630 | +13.47% |
| North Dakota | $130,870 | +$17,690 | +13.52% |
| Pennsylvania | $130,550 | +$18,010 | +13.80% |
| Illinois | $129,990 | +$18,570 | +14.29% |
| Alaska | $129,240 | +$19,320 | +14.95% |
| Vermont | $129,170 | +$19,390 | +15.01% |
| Montana | $127,680 | +$20,880 | +16.35% |
| Idaho | $127,580 | +$20,980 | +16.44% |
| Oklahoma | $127,360 | +$21,200 | +16.65% |
| Wyoming | $126,570 | +$21,990 | +17.37% |
| Indiana | $126,320 | +$22,240 | +17.61% |
| Maine | $125,930 | +$22,630 | +17.97% |
| Ohio | $125,860 | +$22,700 | +18.04% |
| Colorado | $124,960 | +$23,600 | +18.89% |
| Nebraska | $124,640 | +$23,920 | +19.19% |
| North Carolina | $124,550 | +$24,010 | +19.28% |
| Georgia | $124,100 | +$24,460 | +19.71% |
| South Dakota | $123,930 | +$24,630 | +19.87% |
| Virginia | $123,810 | +$24,750 | +19.99% |
| Michigan | $123,620 | +$24,940 | +20.17% |
| Florida | $122,630 | +$25,930 | +21.14% |
| Kansas | $122,180 | +$26,380 | +21.59% |
| Louisiana | $121,560 | +$27,000 | 22.21% |
| Mississippi | $120,350 | +$28,210 | +23.44% |
| South Carolina | $119,790 | +$28,770 | +24.02% |
| Missouri | $119,520 | +$29,040 | +24.30% |
| West Virginia | $116,210 | +$32,350 | +27.84% |
| Arkansas | $116,170 | +$32,390 | +27.88% |
| Kentucky | $113,060 | +$35,500 | +31.40% |
| Alabama | $112,700 | +$35,860 | +31.82% |
| Tennessee | $106,250 | +$42,310 | +39.82% |
ACNP SALARY IN NEW JERSEY VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN NEW JERSEY
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $252,130 | -$103,570 | -41.08% |
| Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | $148,560 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nurse Midwife | $133,980 | +$14,580 | +10.88% |
| Registered Nurse | $101,960 | +$46,600 | +45.70% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Post-secondary | $101,540 | +$47,020 | +46.31% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $66,620 | +$81,940 | +123.00% |
| Nursing Assistant | $42,960 | +$105,600 | +245.81% |
ACNP SALARY IN NEW JERSEY VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN NEW JERSEY
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Veterinarian | $153,630 | -$5,070 | -3.30% |
| Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | $148,560 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Physician Assistant | $148,350 | +$210 | +0.14% |
| Optometrist | $141,870 | +$6,690 | +4.72% |
| Podiatrist | $135,180 | +$13,380 | +9.90% |
| Pharmacist | $130,390 | +$18,170 | +13.94% |
| Radiation Therapist | $116,250 | +$32,310 | +27.79% |
| Physical Therapist | $109,280 | +$39,280 | +35.94% |
| Audiologist | $107,660 | +$40,900 | +37.99% |
| Occupational Therapist | $105,880 | +$42,680 | +40.31% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $102,820 | +$45,740 | +44.49% |
| Chiropractor | $102,500 | +$46,060 | +44.94% |
| Dental Hygienist | $95,700 | +$52,860 | +55.24% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits ACNP Programs In New Jersey?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Accredited ACNP Schools Are There In New Jersey?
| 3 |
3. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Hour In New Jersey?
| $71.42 |
4. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Week In New Jersey?
| $2,857 |
5. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Month In New Jersey?
| $12,380 |
6. On Average, How Much Does An Acute Care NP Make Per Year In New Jersey?
| $148,560 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For ACNPs In New Jersey?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030) |
| +50.66% |
Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
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