Best Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs in New York | 2025

Explore the top Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs in New York, including curriculum details, admission requirements, salary expectations, and tips for choosing the right program.

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New York's healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with nurses playing a crucial role in driving change. As patient care models and complexities shift, the demand for advanced and specialized nursing skills continues to grow. To stay ahead of these changes and significantly impact your community, consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). This guide will provide insights into the prospects of earning an MSN in New York and highlight the top programs available in the state.

Best MSN Programs in New York- Online & On-Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 Binghamton University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    Binghamton University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 42% Acceptance Rate
    • 82% Graduation Rate
    • 14,398 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 3,910 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 47% Men
    • 53% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 77% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 7% Asian

  2. #2 University of Rochester

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    University of Rochester is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, MSN to PhD, CNL, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd, New York, New York 14627, US
    • 1-585-275 2375

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 39% Acceptance Rate
    • 88% Graduation Rate
    • 6,569 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,430 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 47% Men
    • 53% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 84% White
    • 7% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 4% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  3. #3 SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

    allnurses College Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 450 Clarkson Ave Suite J, Brooklyn, New York 11203, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Medical Schools & Centers
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 95% Graduation Rate
    • 282 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,903 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 29 Average Age
    • 20% Men
    • 80% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 53% White
    • 16% Hispanic
    • 26% Black
    • 9% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  4. #4 Stony Brook University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Stony Brook University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MA, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 49% Acceptance Rate
    • 77% Graduation Rate
    • 17,406 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 8,201 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 49% Men
    • 51% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 69% White
    • 15% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 8% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  5. #5 SUNY Polytechnic Institute

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    SUNY Polytechnic Institute is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 100 Seymour Rd, Utica, New York 13502, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 63% Graduation Rate
    • 1,852 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 860 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 70% Men
    • 30% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  6. #6 Le Moyne College

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Le Moyne College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid programs—including BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 1419 Salt Springs Rd, Syracuse, New York 13214, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate
    • 2,459 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 603 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 88% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  7. #7 Columbia University in the City of New York

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Columbia University in the City of New York is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, MSN, Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME, ACEN, and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4% Acceptance Rate
    • 94% Graduation Rate
    • 8,902 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 25,880 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 51% Men
    • 49% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 70% White
    • 14% Hispanic
    • 12% Black
    • 8% Asian

  8. #8 New York University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    New York University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 12% Acceptance Rate
    • 85% Graduation Rate
    • 29,136 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 29,743 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 74% White
    • 12% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 8% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  9. #9 University at Buffalo

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    University at Buffalo is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 12 Capen Hall, Buffalo, New York 14260, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 68% Acceptance Rate
    • 73% Graduation Rate
    • 20,569 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 11,338 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 54% Men
    • 46% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 83% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 3% Asian

  10. #10 St. John Fisher University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    St. John Fisher University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, and MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 3690 East Ave, Rochester, New York 14618, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 73% Acceptance Rate
    • 77% Graduation Rate
    • 2,616 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 992 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 41% Men
    • 59% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 6% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  11. #11 Molloy University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Molloy University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, CNS, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 1000 Hempstead Ave, Rockville Centre, New York, New York 11570, US
    • 1-516-323-4000

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate
    • 3,207 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,536 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 29% Men
    • 71% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 70% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 17% Black
    • 6% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  12. #12 Roberts Wesleyan University

    allnurses College Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    Roberts Wesleyan University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, and online programs—including BSN, and MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 2301 Westside Dr, Rochester, New York 14624, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • 67% Graduation Rate
    • 1,033 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 525 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 32% Men
    • 68% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 87% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  13. #13 Touro University, Nevada

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Touro University, Nevada is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.

    • 874 American Pacific Drive, Henderson, Nevada 89014, US
    • 1-702-777-1737

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Special Focus Four-Year: Medical Schools & Centers
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • 79% Graduation Rate
    • 15 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,545 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 29 Average Age
    • 7% Men
    • 93% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 89% White
    • 10% Hispanic
    • 1% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  14. #14 Utica University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Utica University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 81% Acceptance Rate
    • 57% Graduation Rate
    • 2,526 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,183 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 42% Men
    • 58% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  15. #15 Pace University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Pace University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, BSN to PhD, CNL, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to PhD, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, PhD, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 83% Acceptance Rate
    • 60% Graduation Rate
    • 7,766 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,386 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 33% Men
    • 67% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 69% White
    • 16% Hispanic
    • 14% Black
    • 7% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  16. #16 Mount Saint Mary College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Mount Saint Mary College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, MSN, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 330 Powell Avenue, Newburgh, New York 12550, US
    • 845-561-0800

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 88% Acceptance Rate
    • 60% Graduation Rate
    • 1,466 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 376 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 30% Men
    • 70% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 80% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 10% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  17. #17 D'Youville University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    D'Youville University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 0% Acceptance Rate
    • 0% Graduation Rate
    • 1,372 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,140 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 25% Men
    • 75% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 78% White
    • 5% Hispanic
    • 16% Black
    • 2% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  18. #18 Excelsior University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Excelsior University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, LPN to BSN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 100% Acceptance Rate
    • 34% Graduation Rate
    • 13,983 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 1,850 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 33 Average Age
    • 51% Men
    • 49% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 74% White
    • 11% Hispanic
    • 15% Black
    • 3% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  19. #19 Hofstra University

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    Hofstra University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of on-campus programs—including BSN, MSN, DNP, CRNA, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    • 100 Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York 11549, US

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 63% Graduation Rate
    • 6,051 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 4,128 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 43% Men
    • 57% Women
    • 77% White
    • 10% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 5% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  20. #20 CUNY Hunter College

    allnurses College Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    CUNY Hunter College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 0% Graduation Rate
    • 16,549 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 5,714 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 34% Men
    • 66% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 51% White
    • 26% Hispanic
    • 20% Black
    • 11% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  21. #21 Wagner College

    allnurses College Ranking: C+
    0 reviews

    Wagner College is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Medium Programs
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • 0% Graduation Rate
    • 1,638 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 296 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 37% Men
    • 63% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 84% White
    • 8% Hispanic
    • 7% Black
    • 4% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  22. #22 Daemen University

    allnurses College Ranking: C+
    0 reviews

    Daemen University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of , hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, RN to BSN, and RN to MSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 0% Graduation Rate
    • 1,682 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 860 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 23 Average Age
    • 25% Men
    • 75% Women
    • 2% Veterans
    • 82% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 1% Asian
    * tuition estimated

  23. #23 Adelphi University

    allnurses College Ranking: C
    0 reviews

    Adelphi University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, Entry Level BSN, MSN, NP, Other, PhD, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    School Overview

    • Located in New York
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 73% Acceptance Rate
    • 74% Graduation Rate
    • 5,004 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
    • 2,197 Graduate Students Enrolled
    *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 32% Men
    • 68% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 67% White
    • 13% Hispanic
    • 18% Black
    • 7% Asian
    * tuition estimated
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What Is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program?

An MSN is a graduate-level nursing degree program designed for nursing professionals or individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who wish to advance their careers in the nursing profession. MSN degrees provide nurses with advanced education and training in theory, research, evidence-based clinical practice, leadership, and management in the healthcare setting.

After completing an MSN, RNs can pursue clinical nursing roles as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), such as nurse practitioners (NPs), clinical nurse specialists, or nurse midwives. Alternatively, post-MSN graduates can opt for non-clinical roles in nursing education, healthcare administration, informatics, or research.

MSN Program Pathways

MSN pathways include:

Where Do MSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

MSN degree holders work in most healthcare settings depending on their specialty and interests. Some of the most common include:

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient Care Centers
  • Physicians Office
  • Nursing Schools
  • Home Health Care Services
  • Public Health and Community Clinics
  • Research Institutions

Can MSN Programs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Many MSN programs can be taken online. However, it's important to note that some online programs may have in-person requirements such as exams, hands-on training, and more, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

Certain specializations, such as NP, typically require a certain number of clinical hours which need to be completed in person, under the supervision of licensed professionals. Some programs may also arrange clinical placements for their students.

Before selecting a program, it's important to research to ensure that it fits your needs, whether entirely online, hybrid, or in-person.

MSN Program Admission Requirements

Typical MSN admission requirements include:

  • Active RN License in good standing
  • Transcripts from accredited ADN or BSN programs
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • 1-3 Letters of recommendation
  • Responses to essay questions or equivalent writing projects
  • RN experience of 3 to 5 years
  • Graduation Record Examinations 
  • Interview to enter the program

MSN RN Salary Expectations in New York 

MSN graduates can expect varying salaries depending on their specialization. To give you a clearer picture, we've compared salaries of the top MSN RN roles in New York with the national averages, highlighting how they stack up.

Nurse Practitioner

New York NP compensation:

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $68.67
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $142,830

Compared to the national nurse practitioner salary (BLS):

  • Low: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
  • Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
  • High: $168.030 or $80.79 per hour

Top NP salaries by state: 

  • California: $161,540
  • Nevada: $148,670
  • Washington: $145,400
  • New Jersey: $145,030
  • Oregon: $144,950

Nurse Midwife

New York nurse midwife compensation:

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $64.96
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $135,120

Compared to the national nurse midwife salary (BLS):

  • Low: $87,320 or $41.98 per hour
  • Mean: $131,570 or $63.26 per hour
  • High: $177,530 or $85.35 per hour

Top nurse midwife pay by state: 

  • California: $183,740
  • Hawaii: $161,820
  • Massachusetts: $154,080
  • Maine: $140,440
  • Oregon: $139,490

Nurse Administrator

New York nurse administrator compensation: 

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $86.14
  • Mean Annual Wage:: $179,160

Compared to the national nurse administrator salary (BLS):

  • Low: $67,900 or $32.65 per hour
  • Mean: $134,440 or $64,64 per hour
  • High: $216,750 or $104.21 per hour

Top nurse administrator salaries by state:

  • New York: $179,160
  • District of Columbia: $170,710
  • Delaware: $164,190
  • New Jersey: $162,430
  • Massachusetts: $158,540

Nurse Educator

New York nurse educator compensation:

  • Mean Annual Wage:: $102,980

Compared to the national nurse educator salary (BLS): 

  • Low: $49,120
  • Mean: $86,530
  • High: $130,320

Top nurse educator pay by state: 

  • District of Columbia: $111,130
  • Oregon: $109,110
  • New York: $102,980
  • New Jersey: $101,540
  • Nevada: $99,320

When evaluating salary expectations, it's crucial to consider factors like experience, MSN specialty, location, cost of living, and pay variances across different healthcare systems. For more detailed insights on nursing salaries by location and specialty, explore our Nursing Salary Guide our report on Nurse Salaries in New York.

Tips to Choose an MSN Program

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of the education, while others may place greater emphasis on certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

  1. Cost
  2. High Pass Rate
  3. Location
  4. Academic Reputation
  5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
  6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
  7. Flexibility of Schedule
  8. Curriculum
  9. Campus and Surroundings
  10. Nursing Clinicals Location
  11. Availability of Online Course

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.

MSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best MSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: What's the highest-paying job you can do with an MSN in New York?

MSN graduates have many job opportunities, with the highest-paying roles often being Nurse Practitioners (NPs) or Nurse Administrators. According to BLS data, the highest-paying MSN RN positions in New York are Nursing Managers and Administrators, earning significantly more by approximately 30K annually. Nurse Practitioners follow, with NPs having the potential to earn more than nurse managers depending on their specialty and experience.

Q: Is an MSN worth it in New York?

Deciding whether or not an MSN is worth it will vary depending on each individual's goals. Many MSNs find their careers as NPs and APRNs personally fulfilling and financially rewarding.

Q: Is it better to have an MSN or DNP?

Whether an MSN or DNP best suits you depends on your career goals and interests. Some key things to consider are whether you prefer to work in direct patient care and become an APRN or are interested in more leadership-focused roles, influencing policy, implementing evidence-based practice at the system level, or considering a career in academia. If you're interested in a career as an APRN, an MSN may be sufficient for you. If you're interested in more leadership-focused roles, a DNP may be preferable.

Q: Can I become a Nurse Anesthetist with an MSN?

CRNAs are APRNs who administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgery, requiring a high level of expertise. Therefore, an MSN is not sufficient for this career. As of January 1, 2022, all CRNA programs require enrollment in a doctoral program, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). By 2025, a doctoral degree will be mandatory for entry into the field.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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