Pursuing a Nursing Career with an LPN Degree
New York is one of the states with the largest number of licensed practical nurses, totaling close to 48,000. Even so, the demand for LPNs continues to rise. In addition to a promising job outlook, LPNs in New York enjoy annual wages above the national average.
Check out our ranking of the best LPN programs and learn more about the steps to become a licensed practical nurse, what the industry growth projections are, and specific requirements to practice in the state of New York.
New York is one of the states with the largest number of licensed practical nurses, totaling close to 48,000. Even so, the demand for LPNs continues to rise. In addition to a promising job outlook, LPNs in New York enjoy annual wages above the national average. Learn more about the steps to become a licensed practical nurse, what the industry growth projections are, and specific requirements to practice in the state of New York.
AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Top 10 Online LPN Programs in New York
These rankings include
#1 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
Niagara County Community College
Sanborn, NY - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, Niagara County Community College helps learners prepare for the workforce through associate and certificate programs in nursing. Many of the school's programs are available in on-campus and online formats. Many online learners complete coursework on evenings and weekends so as not to interfere with their work schedule.
Nursing-specific coursework and training in associate and certificate programs help participants understand the field and gain practical skills. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level nursing roles. To qualify for more advanced positions with higher earning potential, many graduates of associate or certificate programs pursue a bachelor's degree.
Niagara County Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 81
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 7
Number of Certificate Programs: 57
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 3
#2 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
Veeb Nassau County School of Practical Nursing
Hicksville, NY - 2 years
- Campus
Learners can obtain an associate degree or certificate from Veeb Nassau County School of Practical Nursing, a public school located in New York. While completing an associate or certificate program, students undergo technical training and gain the nursing-specific skills employers value. Many graduates pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for more advanced positions.
Enrollees not located near Hicksville can pursue the school's programs remotely, without relocating. Online learning is also ideal for students who work full time and need flexible scheduling options. Before choosing a program, applicants should consider their personal interests and professional goals.
Veeb Nassau County School of Practical Nursing at a Glance:
Number of Certificate Programs: 1
#3 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
North Country Community College
Saranac Lake, NY - 2 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, North Country Community College delivers nursing programs at various academic levels. The Saranac Lake-based school offers courses online and on campus, providing opportunities for students located in New York and elsewhere. Online programs typically feature flexible scheduling options, allowing busy learners to complete coursework around other responsibilities.
Nursing programs at the associate and certificate levels provide coursework and training that allow participants to develop a strong foundation in the field. These programs often lead to entry-level employment in the nursing field. To expand their career options, graduates of associate or certificate programs can complete a bachelor's degree before applying for positions in the field.
North Country Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 27
Number of Certificate Programs: 7
Number of Certificate Programs Available Online: 1
#4 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
The College of Westchester
Valhalla, NY - 2 years
- Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate from The College of Westchester, a public school delivering online and in-person programs from its New York campus. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the nursing field. Rather than entering the workforce immediately, many graduates pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for more advanced roles and higher salaries.
Enrollees not located near Valhalla can pursue the school's programs remotely, without relocating. Additionally, online programs allow students to maintain employment while pursuing their degree. Prospective applicants should look into the associate and certificate programs offered and see if any meet their needs.
The College of Westchester at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 55
Number of Certificate Programs: 30
#5 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
SUNY Canton
Canton, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in nursing can pursue a certificate or an associate degree from SUNY Canton, a public school. An associate degree or certificate qualifies graduates for many positions in the nursing field. To increase their career options, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program.
Enrollees living outside of Canton benefit from these programs being available online. Online learning also benefits working professionals, who need to schedule their studies around full-time employment. Before selecting a program, applicants should research the education requirements for positions they plan to pursue.
SUNY Canton at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 21
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 6
Number of Certificate Programs: 5
#6 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
SUNY Delhi
Delhi, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
SUNY Delhi delivers associate and certificate programs to prepare learners for nursing careers. With online and on-campus options, the school educates students in New York and other parts of the country. Online learning eliminates the need to relocate or commute.
Associate and certificate programs in nursing feature coursework covering crucial theories and practical knowledge. After completing their program, individuals can qualify for entry-level jobs related to nursing. Graduates can also transfer their credits into a four-year program and obtain a bachelor's degree before seeking employment.
SUNY Delhi at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 36
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 9
#7 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
Maria College of Albany
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Campus
At Maria College of Albany, learners can obtain a certificate or associate degree by enrolling online or on campus in New York. Associate and certificate programs in nursing prepare students for entry-level roles. To improve their job prospects and earning potential, graduates can continue their education and earn a bachelor's degree.
The school's online programs allow enrollees not located near Albany to pursue studies without relocating or commuting. Students with personal and professional responsibilities often choose online programs because of their increased flexibility. Before enrolling, applicants should review their prospective program's requirements and graduate outcomes.
Maria College of Albany at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 5
Number of Certificate Programs: 2
#8 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
Hostos Community College
Bronx, NY - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate from Hostos Community College, a public institution. While the school's campus is located in the Bronx, students can complete online programs from anywhere. The flexibility of online learning often appeals to working professionals who prefer not to relocate.
Along with field-specific knowledge, participants pursuing an associate degree or certificate in nursing gain practical skills in the field. These programs often lead directly to entry-level nursing positions. To qualify for more advanced positions and higher earning potential, many graduates of associate or certificate programs pursue a bachelor's degree.
Hostos Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 30
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 5
#9 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
LaGuardia Community College
Long Island City, NY - 2 years
- Campus
LaGuardia Community College, a public school in New York, is a great choice for learners in search of an associate or certificate degree in nursing. Students who plan to pursue careers in nursing can earn an associate degree or certificate to obtain technical training. An associate degree can also prepare graduates for advanced study, such as bachelor's programs.
Enrollees not located near Long Island City can pursue the school's programs remotely, without relocating. Online learning is also ideal for students who work full time and need flexible scheduling options. For specific information about the institution's programs, prospective applicants can consult an admissions counselor.
LaGuardia Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 45
Number of Certificate Programs: 7
#10 LPN Programs in New York [2023 Guide]
Suffolk County Community College
Selden, NY - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can earn an associate degree or certificate in nursing from Suffolk County Community College. The school provides on-campus and online programming to support students located in New York and throughout the country. Flexible online programs allow learners to attend classes without relocating.
While earning an associate degree or certificate in nursing, participants examine core concepts in the field. With the skills gained from their training, individuals can apply for entry-level nursing roles. To increase their earning potential, graduates can pursue bachelor's studies after earning their associate degree or certificate.
Suffolk County Community College at a Glance:
Number of Associate Programs: 72
Number of Associate Programs Available Online: 1
Number of Certificate Programs: 24
Getting an LPN License in New York
Like other states around the country, LPNs in New York are required to obtain a license in order to find employment. These credentials are issued by the New York State Board of Nursing, an agency that regulates the nursing profession. This section provides information on the licensure process, from education to license renewal.
Basic Eligibility for Licensure
- Must be at least 17 years old
- Complete a high school diploma or equivalent
Licensure Education and Training Requirements
Licensed practical nurses are required to complete a state-approved program that lasts at least nine months. In addition, license applicants must take an infection control course that has been approved by the New York State Board of Nursing to ensure they understand how to prevent the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis B.
Additional Requirements for Licensure
- Complete a licensing application and submit it to the Board
- Pay the required $143 licensing application fee
- Successfully take the NCLEX-PN examination
- Submit to a criminal background check
- Have school transcripts sent to the Board to verify education
Renewal
The New York State Board of Nursing requires that LPNs go through the licensing renewal process every two years. These professionals must take continuing education classes that cover infection control and child abuse in order to get their credentials renewed. When applying to renew a license, LPNs pay a $50 fee.
Salaries for LPNs in New York
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of LPNs around the country is $42,490. However, like other nursing jobs, the specific salaries of these professionals depend on where they work. This section details the top paying locations for LPNs in New York.
New York LPN Employment Trends
LPNs can choose to work in various professional settings, each of which has its own rewards. The following tables provide a picture of where LPNs work in New York State.
| Area | Total Employment (2014) |
|---|---|
| New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island NY-NJ-PA | 34,970 |
| New York-White Plains-Wayne NY-NJ Metropolitan Division | 20,440 |
| Nassau-Suffolk Metropolitan Division | 6,830 |
| Buffalo-Niagara Falls | 4,110 |
| Rochester | 3,460 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | 2,720 |
| Syracuse | 2,250 |
| Poughkeepsie-Newburgh-Middletown | 2,020 |
| Capital/Northern New York nonmetropolitan area | 1,900 |
| Southwest New York nonmetropolitan area | 1,590 |