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“Nursing programs in New York offer a unique and exciting opportunity due to the state’s incredible diversity in both culture and healthcare needs. This diversity allows students to gain invaluable experiences that are unmatched elsewhere.”
Dr. Philip Gimber, PhD, Chairperson for the Health Sciences Department and Nursing Professor, LaGuardia Community College
New York offers many opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in nursing. Many different types of nursing programs are available with varying degrees, from certificates for licensed practical nurses to PhD for nurses interested in working in research or academia. This state is home to some of the most renowned nursing schools in the country, including prestigious institutions such as the Columbia University School of Nursing.
Registered nurses (RNs) make up the largest group of healthcare professionals in New York, with 268,870 employed in this state. RNs provide direct patient care, conduct health screenings, and develop care plans. They can also specialize in various areas of nursing, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or psychiatric/mental health. To become an RN, students must complete an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
Other options for nursing in this state include licensed practical nurses (LPN). They work under the direction of doctors and registered nurses, providing basic nursing care to patients in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings. The requirements to become an LPN include completing an approved education program and passing the NCLEX-PN exam.
Nurses who want a more independent practice can complete a master’s of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice degree to become nurse practitioners. In this state, nurse practitioners can specialize in acute care, adult health, college health, community health, family health, gerontology, holistic care, neonatology, obstetrics/gynecology, oncology, pediatrics, palliative care, perinatology, psychiatry, school health, and women’s health. More than 31,000 NPs are practicing in New York across specialties.
In this guide, you will find an overview of the different nursing programs available in New York and what you need to do to become a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, or nurse practitioner in the state.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Meet the Expert: Philip Gimber, PhD
Dr. Philip Gimber is the chairperson for the Health Sciences Department and a Nursing Professor at LaGuardia Community College. He has over 20 years of teaching experience and is a dedicated educator committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Licensed in New York as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise to his role. His background includes specializing in oncology and ICU care as a registered nurse and serving as director of nursing for a home care company. He leverages his hands-on experience and leadership to deliver impactful education and prepare future healthcare professionals.
NursingColleges.com: What do you wish the public understood about nursing programs in New York?
Dr. Gimber: I wish the public understood that nursing programs in New York offer a unique and exciting opportunity due to the state’s incredible diversity in both culture and healthcare needs. This diversity allows students to gain invaluable experiences that are unmatched elsewhere. However, it’s important to recognize that this same diversity also makes the journey to becoming a nurse quite challenging. The coursework and clinical experiences push students to develop the skills needed to care for a wide range of patient populations, each with varying and complex healthcare needs. This combination of opportunity and challenge prepares graduates to excel in any healthcare setting.
NursingColleges.com: What advice would you give to aspiring nursing students in New York?
Dr. Gimer: My advice to aspiring nursing students in New York is to develop strong independent study habits, as success in nursing—especially in an online environment—requires self-discipline and effective time management. It can be helpful to watch videos or read books about improving study habits to enhance your ability to learn independently.
Additionally, while many programs are online, it’s important to understand that most will require at least some in-person clinical experiences or labs, especially if you lack prior clinical experience. Be sure to plan for this aspect of your education journey, as hands-on practice is an essential part of becoming a competent nurse.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in New York
The associate’s in applied science at Maria College is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a registered nurse. This program is based on the principle that nursing is both an art and a science, and the focus is on providing students with the best possible training. Upon completion of our program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. With evening and daytime classes, traditional and non-traditional students alike will benefit from this program.
Clinical experiences for their program take place at healthcare facilities that we well regarded, such as Albany Medical Center, Ellis Medicine, and St. Margaret’s Children’s Hospital. To be considered for admission, students must have at least two college-level math classes and three science courses, including biology and chemistry.
- Location: Albany, NY
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduates of LaGuardia’s associate’s of applied science in nursing degree will be able to communicate effectively, provide direct nursing care to clients of all ages, educate clients, and manage patient care. They will also be able to practice within the legal and ethical framework of the profession. This is a 66-credit program that can be completed in just two years. Classes consist of clinical and pre-clinical courses and will prepare students to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
Applicants must be US citizens or have legal status to remain in the US to be eligible for admission. They must also have completed expensive prerequisite coursework in science and math, take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam, and have a passing score.
- Location: Long Island, NY
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Several degree options exist for students who wish to complete their nursing education at Monroe College. High school graduates with no college education can earn their bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN), while licensed practical nurses can complete the necessary education to become registered nurses or even earn their BSN. There is even a program designed for adult learners to progress through three levels of nursing in nine semesters.
In addition to lectures, labs, and clinical courses, students at Monroe College can participate in clubs and professional organizations such as the Student Nurses Association, Student-Faculty Organization, Ethics Committee, and the Allied Health Club.
- Location: Bronx, NY
- Duration: One to four years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
New York City College of Technology
The New York City College of Technology offers two nursing programs that emphasize the knowledge and skills required to be a registered nurse (RN): the associate’s in applied science degree program (AAS) and the bachelor’s of science in nursing degree program (BSN) for registered nurses.
Both programs are based on Watson’s Theory of Caring and emphasize the importance of providing quality health care. On average, graduates of this program pass the NCLEX-RN with higher mean scores than the combined average of all nursing schools in New York State.
This program includes biological sciences, psychology, and general education classes. Students will practice nursing skills in college laboratories, affiliated New York City hospitals, community health agencies, and long-term care facilities. Admissions are competitive, and students are required to have completed prerequisite coursework in math and science.
- Location: Brooklyn, NY
- Duration: Two to four years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
The associate’s of science in nursing program at St. Paul’s School of Nursing is designed for those looking to become registered nurses. The program fosters critical thinking skills and essential knowledge, instilling a desire to become lifelong learners. In addition to classroom learning, students gain hands-on experience through practicum experiences in clinical settings.
Upon graduation from this program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The curriculum includes instruction in the science and art of nursing, health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, mental health concepts, nursing research, and leadership development. Students also receive instruction in areas such as critical thinking skills, communication skills, and cultural awareness.
- Location: Queens, NY
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in New York
Columbia University – School of Nursing
Graduate nursing degree options at Columbia University School of Nursing include a master’s direct entry degree for non-nurses, a doctor of nursing practice (DNP), or a PhD. The DNP program offers specializations in anesthesia, adult gerontology, midwifery, family practice, pediatrics, and psychiatry. The PhD program is designed for students who want to pursue a career in academia or research, while the DNP prepares graduates to be advanced practice registered nurses.
Admission requirements will vary based on the degree pursued. However, all programs require that applicants have at least a bachelor’s degree. Other admission requirements include prerequisite coursework, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a current CV. Clinical experience in all of the degree programs ensures students gain the necessary hands-on skills.
- Location: New York, NY
- Duration: Three to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
New York University – Rory Meyers College of Nursing
The graduate nursing programs at New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing are designed to provide the necessary skills to work as advanced practice registered nurses or as a foundation for doctoral study. Graduates will be prepared for leadership positions in teaching, clinical consultation, clinical research, nursing management, administration, or advanced nursing practice. The curriculums include core nursing theory, research, statistics, population-focused care, and issues and trends in healthcare delivery.
Degree options include a master’s of science in nursing, a doctor of nursing practice, and a PhD. There are also post-master’s certificate options for students who have already completed a master’s degree in another field. Specializations for advanced practice nursing include adult-gerontology, family practice, midwifery, pediatrics, and psychiatry. There are also concentration options in holistic nursing, palliative care, and substance use disorders.
- Location: New York, NY
- Duration: Three to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
University of Rochester – School of Nursing
Students at the University of Rochester School of Nursing can feel confident in the quality of their education as the master’s and doctoral nursing programs are ranked in the top 30 in the country by US News & World Report. The school has also been recognized by the Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award for the past five years for its commitment to inclusion and diversity.
With various degrees and concentrations, students are sure to find a program that suits their needs. Options include accelerated master’s program for non-nurses, RN to BS to MS, nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology, family practice, family psychiatric mental health, pediatric, clinical nurse leader program, leadership in health care systems, and nursing education program. Some of the degrees are offered through distance learning, allowing students to complete their education without having to relocate and while continuing to work full-time.
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Duration: Two to Five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Nursing graduate programs at Hofstra University are designed for practicing clinicians looking to further their skills. The doctorate in nursing practice (DNP) offers adult-gerontology, anesthesia, family practice, and psychiatry concentrations. The master’s of science in nursing offers three tracks: family practice, adult-gerontology acute care, and psychiatric-mental health. Several graduate-level certificate programs are also available for students who have already completed a master’s degree.
The faculty that teach in this program are well known for being experts in their fields. Many of them are acclaimed authors in their discipline. All students will put their practical skills to the test in the Clinical Skills Center. Further hands-on skills, such as surgery, are gained in the Northwell Health fresh-frozen human tissue lab.
- Location: Hempstead, NY
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Pace University, New York – Lienhard School of Nursing
With relationships with other 200 leading clinicians and healthcare systems, graduate nursing students at Pace University New York Lienhard School of Nursing will have ample opportunities to apply their new nursing skills in a clinical setting. Consistently, the faculty in this program rank in the top 10 in the New York region and the top 10 percent nationwide. Options for graduate study include master of science, doctoral degrees, and certificates.
There are several concentration options, including family practice, psychiatry, nursing education, and adult-gerontology. The curriculum and requirements will vary by program. For example, the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner program prepares students to work with adult populations in acute and critical care settings. This program is based on an evidence-based primary health care framework.
- Location: New York, NY
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
St. John Fisher College – Wegmans School of Nursing
The graduate nursing degrees at St. John Fisher College Wegmans School of Nursing are very flexible, with full and part-time options that can be completed on-campus or online. No matter the format, students will receive the same high-quality education and must meet the clinical experience hours.
Graduates of the master’s of science in nursing and doctor of nursing practice programs can sit for national certification exams in their chosen fields, including adult-gerontology, family practice, and psychiatry.
All degree programs require applicants to have already completed a bachelor of science in nursing. The number of credits required to earn a degree will depend on the degree and the previous level of education. It can be as low as 33 or as high as 72 credits. Admission requirements include two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a personal statement, and a current resume.
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Duration: Two to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Students can complete their graduate education to become a clinical nurse specialist or a nurse practitioner at the College of Staten Island. They can complete either a master’s of science in nursing or a doctor of nursing practice degree in adult-gerontology. There is also the option to complete a PhD in nursing if academia or research is the end goal versus direct patient care. There are full or part-time attendance options, and many lecture courses are offered online.
Admission happens once a year for fall semesters. Applications are due by late March. Requirements for admission include a bachelor’s degree in nursing, prerequisite coursework, a current RN license in New York, and one year of full-time work experience.
- Location: Staten Island, NY
- Duration: Three years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Adelphi University – College of Nursing and Public Health
Adelphi University’s College of Nursing and Public Health graduate nursing degrees have a focus on population health. This holistic approach emphasizes community intervention, health maintenance and management, and environmental health. The college offers students small class sizes and close collaboration with faculty, preparing graduates for successful careers as nurses in various settings, including hospitals and private practices, as administrators and educators, and in healthcare organizations as managers, researchers, educators, advocates, and directors.
Graduate degree options include a doctor of nursing practice, a master’s of science in nursing, and graduate certificates. The two specializations offered include adult gerontology and psychiatry. There is a healthcare informatics certificate option for students wanting to pursue the technical side of healthcare.
- Location: Garden City, NY
- Duration: Three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Molloy College Barbara H. Hagan – School of Nursing and Health Sciences
The graduate nursing degrees at Molloy College Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences are offered in convenient evening courses delivered in both hybrid and traditional formats, which is part of the school’s flexible learning opportunities initiative. The programs prepare students with a theoretical base and processes before studying in the selected specialty area. This allows students to learn current nursing practices and new skills to apply in the healthcare environment.
Options for graduate studies at this school include master’s of science in nursing, doctor of nursing practice, PhD, and post-masters certificates. To be eligible for admission, applicants must have, at a minimum, a bachelor’s of science in nursing, a current New York registered nursing license, prerequisite coursework, one year of clinical nursing experience, three letters of recommendation, a current resume, and a personal interview.
- Location: Rockville Centre, NY
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The master’s of science in nursing at Mount Saint Mary College can be completed in as little as two and a half years of full-time study. Students in this program can choose from one of three tracks, including family practice, adult-gerontology, and psychiatry. In total, students must earn between 44 and 47 credits to complete this degree program. All students must also earn 600 clinical practice hours. Graduates can sit for national nurse practitioner certification exams or pursue doctoral studies, teaching, or administrative roles.
Graduates of this program are highly employable. A recent survey of graduates found that 100% were employed full-time in their chosen field. There are three start dates per year, evening classes, and blended online courses to create a flexible learning environment that can fit a student’s needs and schedule.
- Location: Newburgh, NY
- Duration: 2.5 years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing school accreditation is verifying the quality of nursing education programs. This voluntary process evaluates a given school’s curriculum, faculty, facilities, and student outcomes. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are the two primary organizations that accredit nursing schools. Accreditation is important because it ensures that nurses receive a high-quality education and is often required for certification or state licensure.
In New York, students must complete a program that is approved by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to be eligible for licensure. Should a candidate have completed a program outside of the state, they must demonstrate that the program is substantially similar.
How Much Do Nurses Make in New York?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2023—the latest data available as of February 2025
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Salaries
| United States | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 630,250 | 38,760 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $60,790 | $63,020 |
| 10th percentile | $45,670 | $49,250 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $59,730 | $62,360 |
| 90th percentile | $77,870 | $76,890 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,175,390 | 188,060 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $94,480 | $106,620 |
| 10th percentile | $63,720 | $69,450 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $86,070 | $104,570 |
| 90th percentile | $132,680 | $136,780 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 47,810 | 1,130 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $214,200 | $256,160 |
| 10th percentile | $139,980 | $223,510 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $212,650 | >$239,200 per year |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | >$239,200 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 6,960 | 740 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $131,570 | $135,120 |
| 10th percentile | $87,320 | $110,290 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $129,650 | $129,790 |
| 90th percentile | $177,530 | $165,370 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | New York | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 280,140 | 16,670 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $128,490 | $142,830 |
| 10th percentile | $94,530 | $100,510 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $126,260 | $137,630 |
| 90th percentile | $168,030 | $180,690 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licenses in New York
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Applicants for LPN licenses in New York must;
|
LPN license holders in New York must renew every three years. The requirements include:
|
Registered Nurse (RN) Licenses in New York
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| New York State Office of the Professions |
In order to earn a license in the state of New York as an RN a candidate must:
|
Renewals for RN license holders in New York must renew every three years. The requirements include:
|
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licenses in New York
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
To be eligible for an NP license in the state of New York, applicants must meet the following requirements:
|
New York’s state-issued NP certifications do not expire, but registration must be renewed on a three-year basis. |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licenses in New York
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| To qualify for a license as a CNM in the state of New York, the following requirements must be met:
| New York State does not require a Nurse Midwife to maintain any national certification to renew a registration to practice or complete a minimum amount of continuing education. |
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licenses in New York
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| To qualify for a license as a CRNA in the state of New York, the following requirements must be met:
|
CRNAs in New York must maintain their RN license as wella s their NBCRNA certification to continue practicing. NBCRNA credentials are renewed every four years and require 60 class A credits and 40 class B credits. RN license renewal requirements include:
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licenses in New York
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
CNS license eligibility requirements in New York are:
Applicants must provide evidence of meeting one of the following professional education and experience requirements:
All applicants must complete a CNS application | A CNS registration certificate authorizes practice for up to three years. Thereafter, CNS registration and RN registration with NYSED must be reregistered every three years in order to continue practicing as a CNS. Nursing services are not legally allowed as a CNS while CNS or RN registration is expired. The renewal fee is $30. |
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterThanks to her experience writing in healthcare, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth articles on timely topics for NursingColleges.com since 2022. Her aim is to assist both students and professionals in navigating the intricate process of selecting a nursing program and understanding the ever-evolving realm of nursing education.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.