Best Nursing Schools in New York | 2025

New York's top nursing schools offer comprehensive training, from undergraduate programs like ADN and BSN to advanced graduate degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), preparing students for roles like Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, and various other advanced nursing specialties. These programs equip nurses with hands-on experience to address New York's healthcare needs across urban and rural settings.

Explore our guide to the best nursing schools in New York, offering insights into educational pathways, reasons to pursue nursing in the state, tips for selecting the right nursing school to advance your career, and salary expectations upon graduation.

Best Nursing Schools in New York - Online & On-Campus

Why Become a Nurse in New York?

Choosing a nursing career in New York offers rewarding opportunities, job security, and the chance to make a significant impact on public health. Here's why New York is a compelling choice for aspiring nurses:

• High Demand for Nurses: New York offers an excellent opportunity for nurses seeking job security and career advancement due to its ongoing nursing shortage. With a growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in hospitals and underserved areas, nurses are in high demand. Recent data from the Center for Health Workforce Solutions shows that over 50% of patient care nurses work in hospitals, where younger nurses are essential to maintaining care standards. The state is taking steps to address high turnover and burnout, making it an ideal environment for nurses looking to make an impact and secure a stable, rewarding career.
• Improved Working Conditions: New York is addressing its nurse retention challenges by implementing initiatives to reduce burnout and enhance support. Programs that focus on leadership development, mentorship, and preceptor training aim to improve nurse satisfaction and reduce turnover. Efforts to promote work-life balance through flexible scheduling and career advancement opportunities further contribute to making nursing a more sustainable and fulfilling profession across the state.
• Public Health and Community Impact: New York faces critical healthcare shortages in areas designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). These underserved regions often lack access to primary care, mental health, and dental services, resulting in poorer health outcomes. Nurses are key to filling these gaps by delivering essential care and addressing chronic health conditions. Nursing professionals in New York have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by improving healthcare equity across these underserved communities.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: New York offers nurses diverse clinical settings suited to varied career goals. In NYC, dynamic, specialized environments at top hospitals like NewYork-Presbyterian and Mount Sinai allow nurses to manage complex cases in trauma and oncology. Upstate, smaller facilities focus on community-centered care, addressing the needs of underserved populations. 
• Career Advancement Opportunities: New York provides robust career advancement opportunities for nurses with graduate programs at prestigious institutions such as Columbia University School of Nursing and NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing. These programs equip nurses for higher-level positions such as Nurse Practitioners (NP), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM), Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS), and Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA).
• Financial Advantage: Nursing salaries in New York are above the national average, helping to offset the state's higher cost of living, particularly in urban areas like NYC. For nurses who prefer to work in rural settings, programs like the Nurses Across New York Loan Repayment Program offer financial support to those working in underserved communities. This not only helps compensate for the lower salaries in non-urban areas but also strengthens support for underserved populations. With competitive wages and targeted financial incentives, New York presents a strong option for nurses seeking a financially stable career while contributing to healthcare improvements across the state.

With its high demand for healthcare professionals, varied clinical settings, and robust educational pathways, New York is an excellent state for those looking to start or advance their nursing careers.

Steps to Become a Nurse in New York

Becoming a nurse in New York involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to provide high-quality care to patients. Whether you aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) or advance your career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN), following the right educational and licensure pathways is crucial.

RN Requirements in New York

1. Complete an Accredited Nursing Program: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing school.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain licensure.
3. Apply for RN Licensure: STo submit an application for RN licensure to the New York State Board of Nursing (BON), you will need to provide your academic transcripts, proof of passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and complete a background check. Additionally, New York State mandates that nurses complete an approved infection control course as well as a child abuse reporting education requirement. For specific details, guidelines, and application procedures, visit the New York State Education Department (NYSED) website to ensure compliance with all licensure requirements.
4. Obtain a Nursing License: Once your application is approved, you will be issued an RN license, allowing you to practice as a Registered Nurse in New York.
5. Pursue Continuing Education: In New York, RNs must complete the NSYED approved infection control continuing education (CE) if they do not qualify for an exemption. 

APRN Requirements in New York

1. Obtain and Maintain an RN License: Before pursuing APRN certification, you must be a licensed RN in New York.
2. Earn a Graduate Degree: Complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a specialization in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role — e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife.
3. Gain Clinical Experience: APRN programs require specific clinical hours based on your specialty and degree. All graduate-level nursing programs mandate a minimum of 500 clinical hours post-graduate. The National Task Force Standards for NP Education requires at least 750 hands-on clinical hours for NP graduates, while DNP programs require a minimum of 1,000 hours. These hands-on experiences are crucial for developing advanced nursing skills.
4. Pass a National Certification Exam: After completing your graduate program, you must pass a national certification exam specific to your APRN role and specialization.
   • American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
   • National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists (NACNS) 
   • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
   • American Association of Nurse Practitioners  American Nurses(AANP) 
   • National Board of Certification CRNA (NBCRNA)
5. Apply for APRN Licensure: Submit an application for APRN licensure to the New York Board of Nursing. This may require documentation of your active RN license, advanced nursing degree, APRN certification exam results, and clinical experience. APRN license requirements vary by state, as each state has its own scope of practice regulations for APRNs. Be sure to check your New York's specific guidelines to understand the requirements and scope of practice.
6. Maintain Certification and Licensure: APRNs in New York must maintain both their national certification and state licensure. National certification must be upheld according to the specific requirements of the certifying body for the APRN specialty. For state licensure renewal, APRNs are required to maintain their RN license and CEs as well as an additional three hours of pharmacology CEs to maintain prescriptive authority. 

^{Always verify nursing license requirementswith the state board of nursing, as application requirements may change or include additional steps.}

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in New York

Salary expectations in 2025 are based on geography, experience level, education, type of nursing specialties, and the types of industry that the nurse works in.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for an RN is $94,480, with the lowest 10th percentile making $63,720 and the 90th percentile making $132,680 annually. The highest employment levels were nurses in general medicine and surgical hospitals, making an annual $96,830.

Registered Nurses salary in New York is higher than the national average at a mean annual salary of $106,620 or $51.26 an hour. 

The highest salary states for RNs include:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not distinguish between nursing degree levels in its data, most nurses who pursue advanced degrees, such as an MSN or DNP, aim to become Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) — which includes Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs), and Nurse Anesthetists (DNAP/CRNAs).

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for APRNs is $129,480, with employment in these roles expected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, reflecting strong demand for advanced practice nurses.

In New York, APRNs earn the following mean annual salaries:

• Nurse Practitioners: $142,830.00
• Certified Nurse Midwives: $135,120.00
• Nurse Anesthetists: $256,160.00

^{Note: Although Clinical Nurse Specialists are also APRNs BLS does not provide information on CNS salary.}

How to Choose a Nursing Program in New York

Selecting the right nursing program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX-RN Pass Rates 
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

For prospective doctorate and master's degree nursing students, additional considerations include:

• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen specialty concentration.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program national certification success rates.
• Clinical Training: Diverse, high-quality clinical placements and/or clinical placement support.
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state where you want to work.

Choosing the right program should be based on your personal preferences and learning style. If you prefer a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice, consider a traditional nursing program. Conversely, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and thrive in an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated nursing program might be the better choice.

Importance of Picking an Accredited Nursing School in  New York

Choosing to attend an accredited nursing school in New York is important for several reasons:

• Assurance of Educational Quality: Accredited nursing schools undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure their curriculum, faculty, and clinical training meet high standards. This guarantees that students receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education, equipping them with the skills needed for successful nursing careers.
• Licensing Requirements: Graduation from an accredited program is often necessary to meet state licensure requirements. Without attending an accredited school, students may find it challenging or even impossible to obtain the necessary credentials to practice as a registered nurse.
• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Employers prioritize hiring graduates from accredited nursing programs because these programs are recognized for maintaining high educational standards. This preference can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities in the nursing field.
• Ease of Credit Transfer: Credits earned at an accredited nursing school are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is particularly important for students who may wish to transfer schools or pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
• Professional Credibility: Completing a program at an accredited nursing school adds to a nurse's professional credibility. It demonstrates that their education aligns with national standards, which is essential for advancing in the nursing profession.
• Eligibility for Financial Aid: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for accessing federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Attending an accredited school ensures that students can receive the financial support they need to complete their education.

Given these points, it's important prospective students research whether their choice of nursing school is accredited by a recognized body such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

More Top Nursing Programs in 2025

If you're interested in a specific nursing degree or specialty, we've got you covered. Explore our comprehensive guides to nursing programs across New York, tailored to various career paths and levels. Find the best program for you, whether you're looking to advance your nursing career or specialize in a specific area. Check out these resources:

Nursing Schools in Brooklyn, NY

Undergraduate Nursing Programs

• Best Medical Assistant Programs in New York
• Best Traditional BSN Programs 2025
• Best RN to BSN Programs New York
• Best Accelerated BSN Programs in New York

Graduate Nursing Programs

• Best MSN Programs in New York
• Best DNP Programs in New York
• Best NP Programs in New York
• Best NP Programs in Rochester, New York
• Best NP Programs in Buffalo, New York
  • Best FNP Programs in New York
  • Best AGNP Programs in New York
  • Best PMHNP Programs in New York

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in New York

Is it possible to enroll in a BSN program in New York without patient care experience?

Patient care experience is not always required for direct-entry BSN programs, but it can enhance your application. Some undergraduate nursing programs, particularly RN to BSN and accelerated and second-degree BSN (ABSN) tracks, may prioritize applicants with healthcare experience.

For master's programs and other graduate-level programs in nursing, patient care experience is a standard prerequisite.

Can out-of-state students enroll in New York nursing programs?

Yes, out-of-state students can enroll in New York nursing programs, though they may encounter higher tuition rates compared to in-state residents. New York's residency requirements for in-state tuition generally involve living in the state for at least 12 months prior to enrollment.

It is important for prospective students to verify licensure eligibility in the state where they plan to work after graduation, as not all nursing programs automatically qualify graduates for RN or APRN licensure in certain states. This information can typically be confirmed on both the school's website and the state Board of Nursing.

Are there online options for completing a bachelor's degree or master's degree in New York?

Many online nursing programs in New York cater to non-entry-level students, such as the following online nursing program options:  

• RN to BSN No Clinical 
• RN to MSN 
• Nurse Practitioner 
• DNP

These online programs are designed for nurses with clinical experience and often allow students to complete their clinical requirements near their homes. By offering a blend of online coursework and flexible clinical placements, these programs make it easier for working nurses to advance their education without needing to attend full-time, on-campus classes.

How much does it cost to attend a nursing program in New York?

Nursing program tuition in New York varies widely by program and institution. Advanced Graduate Certificate programs may cost under $10,000, while more comprehensive programs like BSN-to-DNP Nurse Practitioner can approach $200,000. To estimate the cost of your chosen program, refer to the data provided above.

The wide variation in nursing school tuition makes financial planning essential when evaluating which nursing school is best for you.