Welcome to New Jersey best medical schools. Our rankings are based on alumni reviews, research scores received, peer institution assessment and admissions statistics including averaged MCAT scores, undergraduate GPA as well as acceptance rates. Below we list top medical schools in New Jersey that are top ranked nationally. You can find tuition cost, total enrollment and composite MCAT score for each school.
Top Medical Schools in New Jersey
National Ranking | Best Medical Programs |
82 | University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Acceptance rate: 8.2% MCAT composite score: 10.3 Tuition: Full-time: $32,805 (in-state), Full-time: $52,636 (out-of-state) Average undergraduate GPA: 3.64 Total medical school enrollment: 640 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 1.5:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $45.7 |
106 | University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Acceptance rate: 6.2% MCAT composite score: 9.4 Tuition: Full-time: $32,805 (in-state), Full-time: $51,060 (out-of-state) Average undergraduate GPA: 3.59 Total medical school enrollment: 549 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 0.3:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $2.7 |
All Medical Schools in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to several medical schools that offer a wide range of degree programs, emphasizing clinical practice, research, and healthcare in underserved communities. These schools are committed to producing highly skilled healthcare professionals to meet the needs of diverse populations.
1. Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS)
Overview
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), located in Newark, is part of the Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences division. As one of the oldest medical schools in the state, NJMS is known for its research-intensive curriculum and its commitment to addressing healthcare disparities in urban and underserved communities. The school is affiliated with University Hospital in Newark and other healthcare facilities in New Jersey, providing students with diverse clinical training opportunities in various medical specialties.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- MD/PhD (Medical Scientist Training Program)
- MD/MPH (Master of Public Health)
- MD/MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- Graduate programs in biomedical sciences
- Residency and fellowship programs in various specialties
Admission Requirements
- Average MCAT: 514
- Average GPA: 3.7
- Prerequisites:
- One year of biology with lab
- One year of general and organic chemistry with lab
- Biochemistry
- One year of physics with lab
- Mathematics (statistics or calculus)
- Humanities and social sciences courses are encouraged
- Significant clinical experience, research, leadership, and volunteer work
- NJMS values applicants who demonstrate a commitment to urban healthcare and serving underserved populations
Starting Salaries
- Median Starting Salary: $60,000–$70,000 (during residency)
- Post-residency: Graduates typically earn between $210,000 and $320,000 depending on their specialization, with primary care physicians generally earning toward the lower end and specialists such as surgeons and cardiologists earning on the higher end.
2. Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS)
Overview
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS), located in Piscataway and New Brunswick, is another highly regarded medical school within the Rutgers University system. RWJMS focuses on interdisciplinary medical education, research, and community health. The school is affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, and other major healthcare institutions, providing students with a wide range of clinical training experiences. RWJMS is known for its focus on primary care, public health, and biomedical research.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- MD/PhD (Medical Scientist Training Program)
- MD/MPH (Master of Public Health)
- MD/MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- Graduate programs in biomedical sciences
- Residency and fellowship programs in various specialties
Admission Requirements
- Average MCAT: 514
- Average GPA: 3.7
- Prerequisites:
- One year of biology with lab
- One year of general chemistry with lab
- One year of organic chemistry with lab
- Biochemistry
- Physics with lab
- Mathematics (calculus or statistics)
- RWJMS places a strong emphasis on clinical experience, community service, and leadership roles in healthcare settings
- Research experience is highly encouraged, especially for students applying to dual-degree programs
Starting Salaries
- Median Starting Salary: $60,000–$70,000 (during residency)
- Post-residency: Graduates typically earn between $210,000 and $320,000 depending on their specialization, with primary care physicians on the lower end and specialists like neurologists and oncologists earning more.
3. Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM)
Overview
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM), located in Stratford, is the only osteopathic medical school in New Jersey. RowanSOM is known for its emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care, and osteopathic principles, which focus on preventive care and treating the whole person. The school has a strong focus on primary care, particularly in underserved communities. It offers students extensive training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), equipping them with hands-on skills to diagnose and treat patients holistically.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- Dual degree programs in DO/MPH (Master of Public Health)
- DO/MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- Graduate programs in biomedical sciences
- Residency and fellowship programs in various specialties
Admission Requirements
- Average MCAT: 504
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Prerequisites:
- One year of biology with lab
- One year of general chemistry with lab
- One year of organic chemistry with lab
- Physics with lab
- Biochemistry
- RowanSOM values applicants with clinical experience, particularly in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) and primary care
- A strong commitment to holistic medicine and serving underserved populations is encouraged
Starting Salaries
- Median Starting Salary: $55,000–$65,000 (during residency)
- Post-residency: Osteopathic physicians typically earn between $180,000 and $250,000 depending on their specialty, with primary care physicians earning toward the lower end and specialists like orthopedic surgeons earning more.
Focus on Primary Care and Community Health in New Jersey
Addressing Healthcare Disparities
All three medical schools in New Jersey place a strong emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities, particularly in urban and underserved communities. New Jersey faces significant challenges in providing adequate healthcare access to all residents, and these schools are committed to training physicians who will help close the healthcare gap.
- NJMS Urban Health Focus: Rutgers NJMS is known for its commitment to providing healthcare to the urban populations of Newark and the surrounding areas. Students are trained to address the unique health challenges faced by urban communities, including access to care, chronic disease management, and preventive healthcare.
- RWJMS and Primary Care: RWJMS focuses on primary care and community health, encouraging students to pursue careers in family medicine, pediatrics, and internal medicine to meet the growing need for primary care physicians in New Jersey.
- RowanSOM and Holistic Care: RowanSOM’s curriculum emphasizes osteopathic manipulative medicine and preventive care, training students to approach patient care holistically. The school’s focus on primary care encourages graduates to serve in rural and underserved communities across the state.
Clinical Training and Residency Opportunities
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS)
NJMS provides students with extensive clinical training opportunities through its affiliation with University Hospital in Newark and other regional healthcare facilities. Students gain hands-on experience in a wide range of specialties, including surgery, pediatrics, internal medicine, and emergency medicine.
- Residency Programs: NJMS offers residency programs in family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, and more.
- Fellowship Programs: Students can pursue fellowships in advanced specialties such as cardiology, oncology, and gastroenterology.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS)
RWJMS offers clinical training through its affiliations with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, and other medical centers in New Jersey. The school’s proximity to some of the state’s largest healthcare facilities provides students with diverse clinical experiences.
- Residency Programs: RWJMS offers residency programs in family medicine, internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine.
- Fellowship Programs: Advanced training in subspecialties such as endocrinology, oncology, and infectious diseases is available.
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM)
RowanSOM provides clinical training through its partnerships with various healthcare institutions across New Jersey, focusing on holistic and hands-on patient care.
- Residency Programs: RowanSOM graduates pursue residencies in family medicine, internal medicine, emergency medicine, pediatrics, and osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM).
- Fellowship Programs: Fellowship opportunities are available in fields such as geriatrics, pain management, and sports medicine.
Admissions Process and Application Tips for Medical Schools in New Jersey
Admission to medical schools in New Jersey is highly competitive, and all three schools seek applicants who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, clinical experience, and a commitment to serving their communities.
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS)
- Application Process:
- Primary application submitted through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS).
- Secondary application that focuses on the applicant’s commitment to urban healthcare and community service.
- Interviews are conducted in a traditional format, with an emphasis on communication skills, problem-solving, and leadership.
- Key Qualities:
- Strong academic performance with competitive MCAT scores and GPA.
- Clinical experience, volunteer work, and leadership in healthcare-related settings.
- A commitment to addressing healthcare disparities in underserved communities.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS)
- Application Process:
- Primary application through AMCAS.
- Secondary application that highlights the applicant’s leadership, clinical experience, and interest in public health.
- Interviews assess interpersonal skills, ethical reasoning, and potential for leadership in medicine.
- Key Qualities:
- Strong academic background with competitive MCAT and GPA scores.
- Significant clinical experience and community service.
- Demonstrated interest in primary care and public health.
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM)
- Application Process:
- Primary application through the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS).
- Secondary application that focuses on the applicant’s understanding of osteopathic principles and commitment to holistic care.
- Interviews emphasize communication skills, empathy, and a passion for osteopathic medicine.
- Key Qualities:
- Academic excellence with a strong background in the sciences.
- Clinical experience, particularly in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) and holistic healthcare.
- A commitment to primary care and serving underserved communities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
All three medical schools in New Jersey offer financial aid packages to assist students with the cost of medical education. These include scholarships, grants, and loan programs. Additionally, students who commit to practicing in underserved areas may qualify for loan repayment programs.
Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS)
- Scholarships: NJMS offers merit-based scholarships for students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Loan Repayment Programs: Students who practice in underserved areas after graduation may be eligible for loan repayment assistance through state and federal programs.
Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (RWJMS)
- Scholarships: RWJMS offers need-based and merit-based scholarships for students who show strong academic achievement and a commitment to public health.
- Loan Repayment Programs: Graduates who serve in rural or underserved areas may qualify for loan repayment assistance through federal programs.
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM)
- Scholarships: RowanSOM provides scholarships based on academic achievement and commitment to osteopathic principles.
- Loan Repayment Programs: Graduates who work in primary care or underserved communities may qualify for loan repayment programs through federal or state initiatives.
Career Prospects and Starting Salaries for Medical Graduates in New Jersey
Graduates from New Jersey’s medical schools have strong career prospects, with many going on to practice in primary care, specialty medicine, or academic research. Given the demand for healthcare professionals in the state, particularly in underserved areas, New Jersey medical graduates enjoy competitive salaries and ample job opportunities.
Career Prospects
- Primary Care: Many graduates pursue careers in family medicine, internal medicine, or pediatrics, serving communities across New Jersey.
- Specialization: Graduates also enter specialized fields such as cardiology, oncology, surgery, and orthopedics, depending on their residency and fellowship training.
Starting Salaries
- Primary Care: $200,000–$250,000
- Specialists: $250,000–$350,000 depending on the field
Graduates who enter primary care fields typically earn on the lower end of the salary range, while specialists such as surgeons or cardiologists tend to earn higher salaries.