Best Online Nursing Programs in New York
The nursing field is growing rapidly in New York. The more education you have, the more you can take advantage of that growth to gain new responsibilities and a higher salary. Learn about top nursing programs in New York, financial aid, licensure, and much more to find the program that’s right for you.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate set on becoming nurse, an RN who needs to meet New York’s BSN in 10 requirement, or a college graduate interested in moving to nursing but working in a different field, there’s a nursing program in New York that meets your needs. From ADN and BSN degrees to master’s degrees and post-graduate certificates, there are plenty of ways to enter and advance within the fast-growing nursing profession in New York.
In this guide, you’ll learn about best-in-class nursing programs and get an inside look at increasingly popular online nursing programs in New York. Plus you’ll find out more about financial aid opportunities, licensing requirements, and details on the job outlook and salary potential for RNs in New York. Keep reading to find the nursing program in New York that’s just right for you.
Keuka College
Keuka Park, New York
Private
CUNY Lehman College
Bronx, New York
Public
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, New York
Public
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, New York
Public
SUNY College at Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh, New York
Public
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Canton, New York
Public
Molloy College
Rockville Centre, New York
Private
SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
Delhi, New York
Public
Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale, New York
Public
Saint John Fisher College
Rochester, New York
Private
Utica University
Utica, New York
Private
SUNY Brockport
Brockport, New York
Public
Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Private
Roberts Wesleyan College
Rochester, New York
Private
Daemen University
Amherst, New York
Private
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University
Brooklyn, New York
Public
University of Rochester
Rochester, New York
Private
CUNY LaGuardia Community College
Long Island City, New York
Public
CUNY Bronx Community College
Bronx, New York
Public
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College
New York, New York
Public
CUNY Queensborough Community College
Bayside, New York
Public
Find New York Nursing Programs in a City Near You
Common Qualities of the Best Nursing Schools in New York
Finding a nursing program in New York that fits your needs begins with knowing the common qualities that the best programs share beyond affordable tuition and great student services. When researching programs, always keep the following characteristics in mind.
- Accreditation and State Approval
Practicing RNs in New York must hold degrees from programs that are nationally accredited, indicating that the programs meet high academic standards. National accreditation comes through the ACEN or the CCNE. Equally important, your program must be registered by the New York licensing board (NYSED) as one that meets its quality standards. - NCLEX Pass Rate
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required for licensure, so you’ll want to make sure the program you choose prepares its graduates well for that exam and has a high pass rate. You can check a school’s pass rate on the New York State RN NCLEX Results page through the NYSED. - Program Length and Pace
Each nursing program caters to different needs in terms of program length and pace. Some provide accelerated programs, while others allow you to take classes at a slower pace and continue working full time. Likewise, some nurses want to further their education in stages, while others want to complete their entire education before focusing on full-time work. Make sure a program fits the length and pace you want and allows you to bridge to a higher level if that is your goal.
Types of Nursing Programs Available in New York
New York offers a variety of nursing programs for students at different points in their nursing education and career. Below are some of the most common options. Some programs are on campus and others have moved to a hybrid approach, but all of them are committed to the highest academic standards.
Pre-Licensure Nursing Programs in New York
ADN Programs
Associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs prepare students for professional practice as RNs. Through a combination of classroom instruction and clinical practice, students are ready to take the NCLEX-RN exam upon graduation. Most ADN programs take about two years to complete, and some have significant online offerings.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
Traditional BSN Programs
A traditional BSN program prepares students for professional practice as RNs. A BSN generally takes four years and prepares you for leadership, administrative, and management roles in addition to direct patient care. New York requires all new nurses to obtain a BSN within 10 years of receiving their RN licenses, in what’s often referred to as the BSN in 10 requirement.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN programs are typically for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another field and who have completed nursing prerequisites like nutrition, chemistry, and statistics. These programs are designed for those with non-nursing degrees to move into a nursing career and can be completed in as little as a year.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
Nursing Bridge Programs in New York for Current Nurses
LPN to RN and LPN to BSN Programs
Licensed practical nurses (LVNs) who want to become RNs can take a nursing bridge program to earn their ASN or BSN degree. These programs recognize the academic preparation and clinical experience of LPNs and provide opportunities for credit equivalency.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to BSN Programs
RN to BSN programs allow RNs with associate degrees or diplomas to obtain their BSNs in as little as two years while continuing to work. Sometimes partially or fully online, these programs in New York focus on increasing general science knowledge while expanding professional expertise.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
RN to MSN Programs
These programs are designed for students with an ASN or ADN to obtain both a BSN and a master of science in nursing (MSN). Students who complete this nursing program in New York will be prepared for advanced nursing practice in roles like nurse practitioners, midwives, educators, and nurse managers.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
Advanced Nursing Programs in New York
MSN Programs
MSN programs are for nurses who want to pursue advanced health careers as administrators, nurse educators, and clinical nurse leaders. MSN graduates fill roles as nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and more. Programs are available for specializations and generally take two to three years to complete.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
Doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs prepare RNs or advanced practice registered nurses to meet the complex health needs of diverse populations in various settings. Doctor of philosophy (PhD) programs prepare nurses to conduct research across a range of populations and health conditions. DNP and PhD students need a BSN or MSN in nursing as well as RN licensure or eligibility.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with this Program
Post-Graduate Certificates
Post-graduate certificates prepare nurses for roles in advanced practice in areas like psychiatric/mental health, gerontology, pediatrics, midwifery, and informatics. These certificates are for nurses who want to refine their practices toward specific patient populations for work in advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse educators, and nurse informaticists.
Examples of New York Nursing Schools with This Program
Inside Look at Online Nursing Programs in New York
Many New York nursing programs now offer flexible online programs with working RNs in mind. Some programs have residency requirements, meaning that students must meet periodically at the campus or at a satellite campus, but many are 100% online nursing programs in New York for those who already have (or will soon have) their RN license. These programs help meet New York’s BSN in 10 law, which requires nurses to earn their BSN within 10 years of initial licensure.
FAQs About Online Nursing Programs in New York
Can I earn my nursing degree in New York completely online?
If you already have your ADN, it is possible to earn your nursing degree completely online in New York. There are many quality NY online nursing programs where RNs can earn their BSN and even their MS. Coursework is entirely online with any residency requirements are usually met in a student’s home area.
Will my online New York nursing degree be considered less valuable by employers?
If your program is properly accredited and state-approved, employers will value your online New York nursing degree just as much as one earned in person. In fact, most employers won’t know you obtained your BSN or MS online unless you indicate you did so.
Are online nursing programs in New York more affordable than campus programs?
Online nursing programs in New York can be more affordable than campus programs. Tuition costs for online programs start as low as $300 per credit hour, which is less than many on-campus programs. Additionally, time saved on other expenses related to taking classes on campus also can reduce overall cost. Keep in mind, however, that there are usually additional fees associated with earning any degree, so be sure to check those before deciding on a program, online or in person.
Financial Aid Opportunities for Nursing Students in New York
Scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial aid opportunities can help you pay for nursing school. They are available through private foundations, colleges and universities, and the government. Check with individual schools about their financial aid offerings as well as with the following sources, some of which are specifically for New York nursing students:
- Edna A. Lauterbach Scholarship Fund: Training and education assistance for RNs and LPNs
- New York State Higher Education Services Corporation: Financial aid information
- NYSED: Scholarship, financial aid, and loan forgiveness opportunities
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Federal scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans
Our scholarship guide for RN students and main financial aid guide can also help in your search for financial aid.
How to Become an RN in New York: Licensing Information and Requirements
Becoming an RN is a similar process from state to state, but each has its own requirements outlined by its Board of Nursing. Find the latest New York state information on licensing requirements and processes on New York’s board of nursing page before you begin your program. The step-by-step list below gives an overview of the requirements for first-time RNs completing New York nursing programs.
Have a clean record
Your registration includes questions related to any felonies or misdemeanors, pending criminal charges, any professional misconduct, and your overall moral character. Any issues don’t necessarily disqualify you, however; decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Graduate from a nursing education program registered by NYSED.
RN licensure in New York requires graduating from a nursing education program accepted by the NYSED. Your program can be in another state if it is approved by that state’s licensing authority. Some programs outside of the U.S. are also accepted by the NYSED.
Complete New York State required infection control coursework and child abuse reporting coursework.
Before NYSED will issue your license, you must complete NYSED-approved child abuse reporting coursework and infection control coursework. If you graduated from a nurse education program registered by NYSED, you will have already completed this coursework. If you did not graduate from an NYSED approved program, such as one in another state or country, you must either take the coursework or receive an exemption.
Apply for an RN license with the NYSED.
To apply for an RN license with NYSED, fill out Form 1 – Application for Licensure – RN online and pay a first-time license and registration fee of $143. To practice as a graduate nurse (GN), you can also apply for a limited permit for $35. This limited permit allows you to practice as a GN for 90 days immediately following graduation. A supervising RN must be on duty while you are practicing as a GN.
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required to become a nurse in New York. This exam, administered by Pearson VUE, tests the knowledge and skills essential for safe and effective entry-level RN practice. You must apply for RN licensure before taking the NCLEX-RN and then register for the NCLEX-RN directly with Pearson VUE. The exam costs $200.
Practice nursing as a graduate nurse (GN) until receiving your RN license.
With a limited permit, you can practice as a GN for up to 90 days immediately following graduation. A limited permit holder can temporarily practice under the supervision of an RN in the health care facility noted on the permit.
Keep your registration current.
Once you receive your license, it stays valid for life unless it is surrendered, revoked, annulled, or suspended by New York State. Your registration with the state of New York authorizes you to practice as an RN for up to three years. You must renew your registration every three years; you cannot legally practice as a nurse if your registration expires.
Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in New York
The future looks bright for registered nurses in New York. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 25.50% increase in jobs, which means an additional 5,200 positions created annually. This makes it a great time to pursue a nursing degree, whether you're training for the first time or seeking further education. If you're considering another location, the prospects are also promising. In the United States, 193,100 new jobs will be added to the profession yearly, representing a 5.60% increase.
Below, you will find information about the salaries RNs earn in New York. The 10th percentile of nurses make $69,450, while the 90th percentile earn $136,780. The median salary is $104,570. In different areas of the state, nurses earn varying amounts. In Rochester, the range is $67,900 to $110,810, with an average of $87,010. Elmira nurses earn between $62,250 and $91,400, with an average of $76,890.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $69,450 | $104,570 | $136,780 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | $68,210 | $85,120 | $109,910 |
| Binghamton, NY | $67,110 | $84,680 | $108,080 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY | $68,440 | $87,200 | $113,350 |
| Elmira, NY | $62,250 | $76,890 | $91,400 |
| Glens Falls, NY | $57,980 | $82,040 | $99,780 |
| Ithaca, NY | $67,090 | $97,610 | $117,680 |
| Kingston, NY | $63,360 | $87,360 | $104,570 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | $79,220 | $108,540 | $136,480 |
| Rochester, NY | $67,900 | $87,010 | $110,810 |
| Syracuse, NY | $65,700 | $80,970 | $107,290 |
| Utica-Rome, NY | $62,510 | $82,920 | $99,830 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum, NY | $44,670 | $78,200 | $107,410 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| New York | 204,040 | 256,080 | 52,040 | 25.50% | 5,200 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
New York Nursing Resources
New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA)
As New York’s largest union and professional association for registered nurses, the NYSNA unites 42,000 nurses for safe staffing, patient safety, and healthcare for all.
New York State Board of Nursing
The state board of nursing is the governing body for all nursing practices within New York. The board sets the standards for safe nursing care, decides the scope of practice for nurses, and issues licenses for qualified candidates.
This site provides information on various types of student aid. It includes resources related to scholarships and grants for RN students, provides tips to help you submit the best application possible, and offers a variety of other resources for RNs.
The purpose of the NSANYS is to aid nursing students in transitioning from undergraduate student nurses to the professional world. Its goal is to help mold the future of nursing by developing leaders.
This nonprofit advocacy organization supports working professional nurses through mentoring, educational advancement, and promoting research and evidence-based practice to drive excellence in care delivery.
