On this page

Back to top

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.

Search hundreds of schools
for the degree you want ......

I want my
In

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.

2023’s 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 for 2023 in this section to give you a sample of top-notch programs and what you should be looking for in your LPN search.

Niagara County Community College (NCCC)

Part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, Niagara County Community College (NCCC) offers a practical nursing certificate comprised of 45 credits. Some of the topics explored include medication simulation, human anatomy and physiology, practical nursing, and lifespan developmental psychology. Students complete two semesters plus two shorter summer sessions. To graduate, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher. After completing all program requirements, graduates are academically qualified for state LPN licensure and eligible for advanced standing in the school’s RN program.

New York residents pay $210 per credit, while out-of-state students pay $420 per credit. Students are additionally required to purchase their own uniforms, equipment, and laboratory supplies. NCCC offers several different scholarships to help students pay for their practical nursing programs.

Admission requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent earned with a 2.75 or higher GPA, and prerequisite coursework. Once admitted, students must supply an acceptable physical exam report, basic life support certification, evidence of flu vaccination, and a background check to remain in the program.

LaGuardia Community College (LGC)

Located in Long Island City, LaGuardia Community College offers a practical nursing program that prepares you to sit for the National Council of State Boards Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing (NCLEX-PN). The program is also approved by the New York State Education Department.

Full-time students complete 48 credits over the course of 10 months. A part-time program lasting two years is also available. LGC accepts new students once per year for the program’s fall semester start. Class subjects include fundamentals of practical nursing, concepts in pharmacology and nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, and transition to practical nursing.

To qualify for the certificate’s clinical portion, students must earn at least a 2.5 GPA, complete a health screening, attend a program orientation, and demonstrate proper citizenship or residency documentation.

Suffolk County Community College (SCCC)

With campuses in Brentwood, Selden, and Riverhead, Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) serves the needs of students throughout the county looking to complete a practical nursing certificate. SCCC’s program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. The School of Nursing also maintains membership in the National League for Nursing and the New York State Practical Degree Nursing Council.

This program consists of 37 credits and includes coursework in the fundamentals of nursing for practical nursing, nursing care of maternal-child clients, pharmacology safety and dosage calculations, and survey of the human body. Program starts are available in both the fall and spring, providing convenience to students that work full-time or have personal obligations that limit their time.

Admission requirements include a high school diploma, prerequisite coursework, and ATI TEAS scores. The certificate program typically requires approximately nine months to complete, but students have up to three years to meet all requirements. Clinical experiences can be completed in program-affiliated healthcare facilities located throughout Suffolk County.

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.

Erie 1 BOCES

Licensed Practical Nursing

Total Credits: 1,100 hours

$13,000 total

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

Before committing to an LPN job, make sure the salary and job outlook work for your professional goals. We answer some common questions about both factors below.

Are LPNs in high demand in New York?

Jobs for LPNs across the United States are slated to grow by 10.7% between 2018 and 2028, leading to the creation of more than 66,000 new jobs. New jobs for LPNs in New York are projected to outpace the national growth rate, increasing new positions by nearly 20%. So, if you’re thinking about entering the nursing profession but value job security, becoming an LPN is a safe choice. As you review the numbers below, keep in mind that many of these new jobs will likely originate in larger metropolitan centers such as New York City, Buffalo, and Albany.

Job Outlook for Licensed Practical Nurses in New York

Employment (2018) New Jobs (2018-2028) Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) Average Annual Openings (2018-2028)
New York 50,880 9,960 19.60% 5,250
United States 728,900 78,100 10.7% 66,300

Source: Projections Central

How much do LPNs make in New York?

Many licensed practical nurses working in New York earn wages above the national median, especially those who live in the larger New York City metropolitan area. While NYC residents may earn nearly $10,000 more each year than the national median, it’s also important to consider that their costs of living are also substantially higher. Someone living in rural New York, for example, will pay far less for things like housing, transportation, food, and insurance. Review the table below to see how your area stacks up in terms of pay.

Annual Earnings for Licensed Practical Nurses in New York

Location 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021

New York LPN Student and Professional Resources