LPN Programs in New York: Online and On-Campus
Learn about top-rated LPN programs in New York that can help you take the first step towards a rewarding nursing career.
If you want to join the nursing profession without spending years in college, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in New York could be an excellent option for you. These certificate and diploma programs – which usually take between 9-24 months to complete – allow you to begin working as an LPN once you receive licensure and registration from the New York State Education Department.
There are many important factors to consider when choosing an online LPN program, including tuition costs, accreditation, program requirements, salary expectations, and whether you should attend classes in-person or online. Keep reading this page to find the answers to these questions, along with a list of the top New York LPN programs for 2023.
Best LPN Programs in New York
With so many LPN programs in New York to choose from – from New York City to Hudson Bay – you have to take the time to find one that’s right for you. Regardless of the program you choose, you should make sure it’s properly accredited, has state approval, and meets your budget needs. We’ve highlighted three of the best state-approved programs in this section to give you a sample of top-notch programs and what you should be looking for in your LPN search.
FAQs About LPN Programs in New York
What skills do you learn in LPN programs in New York?
LPN programs in New York provide a comprehensive introduction to a variety of clinical and theory-based nursing topics. At Curtis High School, the two-year program reviews topics such as nutrition and medication administration, fundamentals of nursing, maternal and child health, and nursing care problems of the adult. Meanwhile, the LPN program at Genesee Valley BOCES covers the subjects of human anatomy and physiology, human growth and development, pharmacology I and II, and pediatric nursing. What’s important to note here is that any LPN program approved by the New York State Education Department will adequately cover all materials and topics required to properly prepare you for LPN licensure and practice.
How much do LPN programs cost in New York?
LPN program costs can vary dramatically throughout the Empire State, so it is important to do your research and choose a program that matches your budget. In your search for the best LPN program, you will likely come across those that are priced at a flat rate and those that charge per credit or unit. As you review the costs highlighted below, consider what would work best for you.
Suffolk County Community College
Practical Nursing Certificate
Total Credits: 37
$228/credit (resident); $456/credit (non-resident)
Niagara County Community College
Practical Nursing Certificate
Total Credits: 45
$210/credit (NY residents); $420 (out-of-state residents)
Can I get financial aid to help pay for my LPN program in New York?
Most LPN programs in New York cost several thousands of dollars, so it is important to consider how you will pay for your education before enrolling. If you attend an accredited, state-approved program, you may qualify for a variety of federal student loans, state scholarships, grants, and other types of funding. The New York State Education Department, for instance, offers a variety of educational funding opportunities for students who qualify. You can also check with professional LPN member associations, employers, and private foundations to learn about additional options. And to get you started in your financial aid search, be sure to check out EduMed’s own LPN scholarship guide.
How long do LPN programs in New York take to finish?
The amount of time you’ll spend working towards your LPN certificate depends on several factors. Most full-time programs at community colleges and vocational schools can be finished in as few as nine months. Conversely, programs offered at high schools and learning centers usually take two years to complete. The Adult LPN program at Curtis High School, for instance, meets three days per week and requires two years to complete. At the SUNY’s Canton campus, you can complete LPN certificate requirements in two semesters.
Inside Look at Online LPN Programs in New York
Given the in-person clinical practice requirements, it’s important to note that no LPN programs can be completed fully online. That said, some LPN programs in New York have begun offering their programs in a hybrid format in which students complete theory-based classes via distance learning. The Antoinette Marchese Clancy School of Nursing at Genesee Community College, for example, provides this option.
When completing online classes, you may be able to watch lectures and complete assignments at times that work best for your schedule. Once all classes are completed, you will complete clinical requirements both on campus and at local medical facilities near the school. Check with the program administrator for details.
Common Questions About Online LPN Programs in New York
Will earning my degree from an online LPN program in New York impact my ability to get certified or licensed?
As long as you attend an LPN program that is accredited and approved by the New York State Education Department, it does not matter whether you complete it in-person or online. With that in mind, the single most important thing you can do is make sure any program you consider has state approval.
Do employers care if I take some of my LPN classes online?
As long as you hold proper licensure, your employer should approve of your completed course, regardless of whether it is campus-based or online. In fact, the documentation you receive from your school after graduating will not specify how you completed your degree.
Are online LPN programs more affordable than campus programs in New York?
This depends on the program you choose. Both campus-based and online programs can be affordable, but you can also save money by cutting out costs associated with in-person learning. By studying from home, for instance, you won’t incur costs for transportation, eating out, or campus-based fees.
Can I complete my LPN training in New York faster by taking classwork online?
This depends on your schedule. While some online LPN programs may be faster, you need to make sure they work with your schedule. That said, if you spend several hours commuting to and from school each week, you could put that time towards finishing your LPN more quickly by taking classes online.
LPN Licensing Information and Requirements in New York
Before pursuing your LPN program in New York, it’s important that you understand the specific licensing requirements set out by the Board of Nursing. Failing to review the checklist of requirements fully can result in issues and delays in receiving your license, so pay close attention to each step outlined below.
Education and Training
To qualify for LPN licensure in New York, you must graduate from a state-approved nursing education that meets one of these four requirements:
- Nursing education program considered license qualifying by the NYSED
- An NYSED-approved U.S. Armed Forces nursing program lasting at least nine months
- A nursing education program located outside New York that has been approved by the licensing authority in that state
- A nursing education program located outside the United States that the NYSED deems acceptable
Professional Nursing Examination
To qualify for licensure as a practical nurse in New York, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical nurses (NCLEX-PN). This test, taken at the end of your LPN educational program, ensures you possess the skills and knowledge needed to provide basic nursing skills. Pearson VUE offers the exam at approved testing centers throughout the state. You must register directly with Pearson VUE to schedule your exam.
Infection Control Coursework
LPNs practicing in New York must complete infection control coursework every four years. Graduates of NYSED-approved LPN programs complete this coursework while in school, so they will not need to retake it until four years after initial licensure. If the nature of your nursing work does not require up-to-date knowledge of infection control, you can request an exemption. The state provides a list of approved coursework providers.
Pay Fees
To receive licensure and first registration through the NYSED, you must submit a payment of $143. If seeking a limited permit, the cost is $35. When making payment, it’s important that you follow the set rules. The department does not accept cash payments. If you apply for licensure online, you must pay by credit card. If you submit your application via mail, you can provide a personal check or money order made out to the New York State Education Department.
License Renewal & Continuing Education
While your license never expires (except in the case of being suspended, annulled, revoked, or surrendered), you must renew your registration certificate every three years. This can be done through the New York State Board of Nursing and requires a $73 renewal fee. When renewing your registration certificate the first time, the next renewal deadline will be moved to align with your birth month. If your registration expires, you cannot resume nursing practice until it is renewed.
Salary and Job Outlook for LPNs in New York
LPNs in New York can rest assured that there will be a job waiting for them when they graduate. Why can they be so confident? Because while the nationwide growth of LPNs is projected at 5.3% from 2022 to 2032, those in New York will experience a substantial 24.1% growth in job opportunities. That’s an impressive 11,060 new jobs over the decade. Most of these positions will be in nursing homes and home health care, but there will be other opportunities throughout the state—anywhere healthcare services are provided, LPNs are in demand.
The salary for LPNs in New York is also quite impressive. The median annual wage for New York LPNs is $62,360. Those just starting out might earn salaries closer to the 10th percentile of $49,250, while those with more experience or specialized work areas might reach the 90th percentile of $76,890. Those living in more populated areas of New York will find more opportunities, as healthcare demand is higher in those regions. For instance, those working in the New York City metro area will see a median annual wage of $66,300. Read on to learn more about salary expectations and job outlook for LPNs in New York.
Job Outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses in New York
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 655,000 | 689,900 | 34,900 | 5.30% | 54,400 |
| New York | 45,960 | 57,020 | 11,060 | 24.10% | 1,110 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Annual Earnings for Licensed Practical Nurses in New York
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $49,250 | $62,360 | $76,890 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | $49,560 | $53,500 | $67,660 |
| Binghamton, NY | $46,450 | $52,890 | $63,760 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY | $46,490 | $54,470 | $66,880 |
| Elmira, NY | $41,710 | $53,500 | $58,850 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $49,150 | $52,870 | $62,490 |
| Ithaca, NY | $48,880 | $57,770 | $66,250 |
| Kingston, NY | $50,630 | $60,110 | $68,230 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | $57,980 | $66,300 | $80,000 |
| Rochester, NY | $45,700 | $52,890 | $63,980 |
| Syracuse, NY | $46,210 | $53,340 | $63,600 |
| Utica-Rome, NY | $47,740 | $52,780 | $63,480 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum, NY | $39,520 | $50,240 | $64,000 |
Source: Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
New York LPN Student and Professional Resources
- American Nurses Association – New York Chapter This bustling chapter has supported nurses since 2012. It focuses on providing online and in-person events, highlighting NY-based jobs, and encouraging continuous learning.
- New York LPN License Requirements The New York State Education Department provides detailed and up-to-date information on the steps you need to take to earn licensure in New York. You can also learn about renewal requirements.
- National Council of State Boards of Nursing If you currently work as an LPN but want to move to New York, review information provided by the NCSBN about licensure compacts.
- New York State Nurses Association Joining the NYSNA provides you access to union resources, continuing education, benefits, and the NY Nurse magazine. You can also learn more about political action and policy initiatives.
- Scholarships & Online Resources for LPN/LVN Students Use this page to learn about LPN funding opportunities and take advantage of online services to make your educational journey easy and smooth.
