New York is home to a wide range of career options and fields, including nursing. In fact, the state has the third highest employment level for registered nurses in the country (after California and Texas) as of May 2014, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some sources, however, reveal slightly different numbers. For instance, data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing shows that the state had 285,228 licensed registered nurses and 22,411 APRNs in 2014, numbers that are a bit higher than BLS stats. Regardless of which numbers you look at, however, both sources suggest that the nursing field in the big apple is booming and likely to continue growing as the population ages and access to healthcare expands. For those interested in pursuing this career, New York is a strong contender for employment. Read on to find out more about nursing schools in New York, salary and employment trends, and licensing requirements.
Top Nursing Schools in New York
Methodology +
BEST 4-YEAR NURSING SCHOOLS
The top nursing programs listed in this state's ranking were determined by comparison of three primary, equally-weighted criteria including
- Student-to-faculty ration
- In-state tuition
- Graduation rate
Additional details for each school were included:
- Count of programs available
- Public and not-for-profit schools
- Normalized on a 100 percent curve
The methodology used for tie-break is as follows...
- Ties are broken based on lowest average net price for full-time, first-time undergraduates paying in-state tuition (average cost of tuition and expenses after grants and scholarships).
- If necessary, the lowest in-state tuition rate is used as a second tie-break
#1 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Hunter College
New York, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Hunter College. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, either in person or online. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.
Once enrolled, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff in a supportive learning community. Students in the nursing program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.
Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. The average student receives approximately $9,109 in financial aid, with 88% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.
#2 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University at Buffalo is a public college offering hybrid education in New York. The college supports 94 bachelor's programs, with one enabling fully remote study. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the nursing field. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Learners benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. Of all enrollees, 84% receive financial aid awards.
#3 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Helene Fuld College of Nursing
New York, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Helene Fuld College of Nursing is a private college offering hybrid education in New York City. The college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled in the BSN program and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Learners can access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards.
#4 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
New York University is a private college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. The private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their program.
Enrollees can access a supportive learning community throughout their studies. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with the nursing field. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study and gain practical knowledge.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied toward educational expenses. The institution boasts that 52% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#5 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Campus
The University of Rochester provides flexible study for individuals seeking a bachelor's degree. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. According to the school, undergraduates can access 71 bachelor's degree programs on campus.
Upon enrolling, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Nursing students complete field-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their curriculum in consultation with an academic advisor. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 81% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#6 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Stony Brook University. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.
Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Nursing students follow a rigorous program curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. The institution boasts that 79% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#7 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Nazareth College
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Campus
From its main campus in Rochester, Nazareth College supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Located in New York, the private institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for work in the nursing field through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. The college notes that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#8 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Saint John Fisher College
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint John Fisher College provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The college supports 39 bachelor's programs, with one enabling fully remote study. Both modalities support rigorous learning and connect students with premier faculty and supportive communities.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their program.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid.
#9 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Binghamton University
Vestal, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Binghamton University. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. According to the college, undergraduates can access 81 bachelor's degree programs on campus.
Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the nursing program.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. At the college, 75% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
#10 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Russell Sage College
Troy, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the bachelor’s degrees from Russell Sage College. To date, the college offers 31 bachelor's programs, two of which are fully remote. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities, and they can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#11 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
D'Youville College
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education should consider D'Youville College. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, either in person or online. To date, the school offers 28 bachelor’s programs, with one online degree option.
Upon enrollment, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether learning in person or online. As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors and pursue other academic modifications. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. To date, 100% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.
#12 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Adelphi University
Garden City, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Adelphi University is a private college offering hybrid education in Garden City, New York. To date, the college offers 50 in-person bachelor's programs, one of which is fully remote. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Students complete foundational and advanced classes. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and they can select elective courses. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. At the college, 94% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#13 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Lehman College
Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Lehman College. Learners can study from the comfort of their home or on the college's campus in the Bronx. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Once enrolled, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff. Students in the nursing program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
Students can declare minors and degree concentrations, and they can further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Students seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Typically, students receive an average financial aid package of $10,593.
#14 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Le Moyne College
Syracuse, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Le Moyne College. The private institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
After enrollment, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. As part of the nursing program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. Of all enrollees, 100% receive some form of financial aid.
#15 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Daemen College
Amherst, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Daemen College, a private college in Amherst, New York, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. Learners can enroll in one of 53 campus-based bachelor's programs. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of the nursing field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid.
#16 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
SUNY Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at SUNY Plattsburgh. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in New York. To date, the public college supports 64 bachelor's programs, two of which are online.
Upon enrollment, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether learning in person or online. Nursing students follow a rigorous program curriculum. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities.
Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 94% receive some form of financial aid.
#17 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Roberts Wesleyan College
Rochester, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Roberts Wesleyan College provides flexible study for learners seeking a bachelor's-level education. The private institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Learners studying in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community. Degree-seekers receive a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Students can select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors, and they can pursue other academic modifications. Students can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding.
#18 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
College of Mount Saint Vincent
Bronx, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Students seeking a flexible education should consider College of Mount Saint Vincent. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in the Bronx, New York. To date, the private college offers 27 bachelor's programs.
After enrollment, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive coursework. Degree-seekers can supplement their studies through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their program, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#19 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
SUNY Morrisville
Morrisville, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider SUNY Morrisville. The school delivers 26 bachelor's degree programs. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Throughout their program, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 95% receive financial aid awards.
#20 Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in New York [2022 Guide]
Maria College
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Campus
Located in Albany, New York, Maria College provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. The private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. At present, the college provides five bachelor's degree programs.
Learners studying in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community. After enrolling, students complete undergraduate coursework as part of the nursing program curriculum. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.
Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
New York Nursing Schools for Aspiring RNs
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports that nursing schools in New York educated almost 29,000 students at the baccalaureate and graduate degree levels in Fall 2014. These schools also enrolled a significant amount of minority and male students (35 percent and 12 percent, respectively), which is not typically seen in other nursing schools in the US.
The search tool below has been designed to allow prospective students to filter through the numerous nursing schools in New York to find a select few that closely match their preferences and needs.
New York Licensing Requirements
New York has strict requirements for nurses that practice in the state, and these requirements vary depending on the type of license. Aspiring registered nurses can apply for licensure through the New York State Education Department after completing a series of prerequisites. Below is information on how to apply for a first-time RN license, as well as renewal information for nurses in New York.
Licensing Requirements
Registered nurses in New York must be at least 18 years old, be of good moral character and meet the requirements below:
- Hold at least a two-year degree or diploma in nursing from a program approved by the New York State Education Department or a program approved by the agency that oversees nursing licenses in another state
- Complete training in the identification and reporting of child abuse
- Complete approved coursework appropriate to nursing practice regarding infection control and barrier precautions
- Submit an application for licensure to the New York State Education Department with the $143 registration fee
- Have your school of record send official transcripts to the NYSED
- Register to take the NCLEX-RN exam and submit the fee to Pearson Vue
- Nurses who are licensed in another state may forgo the NCLEX-RN requirement in exchange for proof of a current license in that state
Renewal in New York
Once a registered nurse is licensed, the license is valid for life unless it is revoked, annulled or suspended. Instead of renewing a license, as in most other states, RNs in New York must fill out a nursing license parchment and a registration certificate and keep that registration up to date. Registration is good for up to three years and will need to be renewed in order to continue practicing. By law, RNs cannot practice with an expired registration.
New York Advanced Practice Nurses
Advanced practice nurses are registered nurses who continued their education to work in a specialized area. The New York State Education Department issues certificates for nurse practitioners to specialize in adult health, neonatology, school health, oncology and a host of other areas. Advanced practice nurse certification is valid for life; however, nurses need to renew their registration certificate every three years. In addition to the standard RN requirements, advanced practice nurses must also fulfill the following:
- Be currently licensed as a professional RN in the state
- Graduate from a nurse practitioner education program approved by NYSED or be certified as a nurse practitioner by a national certifying organization
- Complete pharmacology coursework
- Complete an application for nurse practitioner certification and submit the $85 fee
For more information about advanced practice nursing licensure and renewal, visit the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions.
New York Nursing: A Look at the Numbers
By nature, nursing is an altruistic career; however, it does have great financial benefits in New York. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for nurses in the state is nearly $10,000 higher than the national average. Salaries and need vary by geographic area, but there's a need for about 13 percent more nurses statewide between 2012 and 2022. Take a closer look at the top-paying metropolitan areas in New York as well as the state and national comparison for different types of nurses.
| Area | Hourly Median Wage | Annual Median Wage |
|---|---|---|
| New York-White Plains-Wayne NY-NJ Metropolitan Division | $41.25 | $85,790 |
| New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island NY-NJ-PA | $40.23 | $83,690 |
| Nassau-Suffolk Metropolitan Division | $39.78 | $82,750 |
| Poughkeepsie-Newburgh-Middletown | $33.76 | $70,210 |
| Buffalo-Niagara Falls | $33.18 | $69,020 |
| Capital/Northern New York nonmetropolitan area | $30.23 | $62,880 |
| Binghamton | $30.14 | $62,680 |
| East Central New York nonmetropolitan area | $29.98 | $62,370 |
| Kingston | $29.84 | $62,070 |
| Rochester | $29.02 | $60,360 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2014