It is my understanding that a felony conviction would in fact disqualify you from becoming a nurse in the State of New Jersey.  The state requires a criminal background check as partof their licensing requirements.  Now, that being said, it would pay for you to speak with a criminal attorney in your state becuase New Jersey law permits the expungement of felonies, depending upon the particular crime.  Your crime does not seem to be on this list.  The following crimes can never be expunged: sex crimes, murder, manslaughter, arson, crimes against children, robbery, sale of hard drugs, crimes committed by individuals holding a public office.  Expungement does not mean that certain agencies can not see the record and that is why you need to speak with an attorney on the matter because the sate licensing department may be able to still access the record.  Still you should consider expungement anyway for future jobs. You learned a hard lesson but hopefully you will be able to move on.  Good luck to you.