Best RN to BSN Programs in New York | 2024

Students who have completed an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can further their education and obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through a bridge program, opening up more job opportunities and increasing compensation rates for registered nurses (RNs).

However, navigating the multitude of RN to BSN programs available can be daunting, especially when trying to determine which program aligns best with your personal and professional goals.

To assist in your decision-making process, we have meticulously compiled a list of the top RN to BSN programs available in New York and included detailed information on coursework requirements, clinical training components, job opportunities post-graduation, and other essential factors to consider.

Best Online RN to BSN Programs in New York in 2024

What Is an RN to BSN Program?

An RN to BSN program is explicitly designed for students who already hold an ADN and want to further their education by obtaining a bachelor's degree. Compared to associate programs, a bachelor of science in nursing program provides a more comprehensive education in social and physical sciences, nursing management, research, informatics, and public health. It enhances knowledge and understanding of community health, healthcare management, leadership, and policy for a broader scope of practice.

Nurses with a BSN have diverse career opportunities and can work in a wider range of settings compared to ADN-prepared nurses. While both can work in hospitals and nursing homes, BSN-prepared nurses often qualify for roles in educational services, leadership roles, government agencies, schools, community centers, hospices, dialysis centers, and virtual care settings.

RN to BSN Coursework

RN to BSN coursework is designed to build upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired by RNs in their previous training and professional experience. This coursework typically includes:

• Advanced Nursing Practice: Expanding on basic nursing skills with a focus on complex clinical scenarios.
• Leadership and Management: Training in leadership skills, healthcare management, and administrative roles.
• Health Assessment: Advanced techniques in patient assessment and diagnosis.
• Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their impact on the body.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Focus on research methods and applying research findings to clinical practice.
• Community and Public Health: Understanding the role of nursing in community health and public health initiatives.
• Healthcare Policy: Study of healthcare systems, policies, and their impact on patient care.
• Informatics: Training in healthcare technology, data management, and information systems.
• Ethics in Nursing: Exploring ethical dilemmas and decision-making in healthcare.
• Capstone Project: A final project that often involves research or a practical application of learned skills in a real-world setting.

RN to BSN Clinical Training

Clinical training in RN to BSN programs involves hands-on experience, allowing nurses to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios. This training is crucial for developing advanced nursing skills, understanding the dynamics of patient care in different settings, and gaining experience in leadership and specialized areas of nursing. Clinical rotations are typically supervised by experienced nursing professionals and may include:

• Diverse Clinical Rotations: Exposure to different healthcare environments, such as acute care, community health, and specialty areas like pediatrics or geriatrics.
• Application of Advanced Skills: Opportunity to apply advanced nursing techniques and critical thinking in patient care.
• Leadership Experience: Gaining experience in supervisory roles, managing patient care, and leading healthcare teams.
• Community Health Engagement: Participating in community health initiatives, health education, and preventive care programs.
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Working alongside other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.
• Evidence-Based Practice Implementation: Applying research to improve patient outcomes.

Can RN to BSNs Be Taken Entirely Online?

RN to BSN programs can be taken entirely online. These programs are designed for working RNs who have already completed an ADN or nursing diploma program and obtained licensure, meaning they've gained significant hands-on experience in their initial programs and through work. However, it's important to note that some online RN to BSN programs may have in-person requirements such as exams or capstone projects, so students should check the specific requirements of a program to ensure it fits their needs.

Why Earn Your BSN?

Nurses who have already obtained an ADN might wonder why they should further their education with a BSN degree; there are several key reasons to consider this advancement.

First, BSN-prepared nurses enjoy more diverse career opportunities, including management and leadership roles that are often unattainable with an ADN. They also typically earn higher salaries and have the option to pursue a master's degree in nursing or another field of study.

Additionally, BSN-prepared nurses contribute to improved patient outcomes and enhanced healthcare system revenue. This has led many healthcare organizations to require or encourage BSN qualifications. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), "the Bachelor of Science degree in nursing is the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice."

Moreover, health systems seeking Magnet recognition status, awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), often push for their nurses to be baccalaureate-prepared. The ANCC recognizes healthcare organizations "worldwide where nursing leaders successfully align their nursing strategic goals to improve the organization's patient outcomes." As a result, many healthcare organizations offer tuition reimbursement or assistance to nurses pursuing their BSN.

RN to BSN Admission Requirements

When applying to an RN to BSN program, students must meet the school and the nursing program's admission requirements. RN to BSN admission requirements and prerequisite classes will vary by institution, but typical New York RN to BSN  program requirements include the following criteria:

• Completion of an ADN, ASN, or AAS program through an accredited institution.
• Passed your NCLEX-RN exam and have an unrestricted NY RN license
• Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
• Proof of transcripts from all prior schools
• Proof of clinical and practicum hours
• Background check and drug screen
• Up-to-date on immunizations and a current physical examination
• Many programs require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in previous coursework

Prerequisite courses may include:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• General Chemistry with lab
• Microbiology with lab
• Anatomy and Physiology with lab
• College Algebra
• Statistics
• Human Nutrition
• Speech or Interpersonal Communication

Always check the specific admission requirements for each RN to BSN program to ensure you meet all criteria, as they can vary by program. Many programs allow nursing students to complete these courses at a community college or the university where they plan to complete the BSN. Regardless of where you obtain your prerequisites, checking credit transfer eligibility with the program you plan on attending is essential to ensure your courses transfer appropriately.

Costs of RN to BSN Programs in New York

When considering an RN to BSN program in New York, there are several key factors to take into account:

• Tuition Fees: The cost per credit hour varies by institution, factors affecting this variation include: 
  • State schools are generally cheaper than private or out-of-state.
  • Public universities often charge lower rates for residents. 
  • Online programs can reduce costs, though clinical hours may still be required.
• Standard Fees: Application, technology, and graduation fees.
• Textbooks and Supplies: Costs for textbooks, uniforms, and other necessary nursing supplies can add up.
• Lab and Clinical Fees: For programs with hands-on or practical components, lab fees may be applicable.
• Transportation and Accommodation: If any on-campus attendance is required, consider the cost of transportation and potential accommodation.
• Background Check and Drug Screening: Most programs require a background check and drug screening, which can incur additional costs.
• Immunizations and Health Insurance: Up-to-date immunizations and health insurance may be required, especially for clinical training.
• Licensing Exam Fees: Post-graduation, there are fees associated with taking the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
• Living Expenses: Significant for those not working while studying or relocating.
• Opportunity Costs: Financial impact of reduced work hours while in school.
• Long-term ROI: Consider networking opportunities, educational quality, and job placement.
• Personal Circumstances: Factors like childcare or the need to maintain employment may affect choice.

These factors collectively contribute to the total investment required for a BSN RN program, making thorough financial planning essential for prospective students. To lower the overall cost of nursing school, explore the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and consider choosing one of the Most Affordable RN to BSN Programs.

RN Salary Expectations in New York 2024

Increasing salary sometimes motivates nurses to further their nursing education by obtaining a BSN degree. Nationally, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that RNs with a bachelor's degree can expect a mean salary of $94,480 per year, while BSN-prepared nurses in New York earn approximately 12-13% more at $106,620 per year.

The top five paying states for registered nurses are as follows:

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

 Including New York state, the states with the highest employment levels of RNs and their average annual earnings for 2023 were:

• California (332,560) $137,690.00
• Texas (251,840) $90,210.00
• FLorida (207,910) $84,760.00
• New York (188,060) $106,620.00
• Pennsylvania (144,100) $87,530.00

Other factors influencing salary include years of experience, nursing specialty, the healthcare system, and your location. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer higher salaries for RNs with a Bachelor's degree. Although the BLS does not distinguish between ADN RN and BSN RN salaries, ZipRecruiter offers valuable insights into the pay differences for ADN and BSN registered nurses.

Average ADN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $39.00
• Annual Wage: $80,321.00

U.S states with the highest ADN RN salaries are:

• Washington: $99,301.00
• New York: $88,028.00
• Vermont: $86,437.00
• California: $84,528.00
• Maine: $82,150.00

Average BSN RN Salary

• Hourly Wage: $49.00
• Annual Wage: $102,263.00

U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are: 

• Washington: $126,428.00
• New York: $112,075.00
• Vermont: $110,049.00
• California: $107,620.00
• Maine: $104,591.00 

According to ZipRecruiter, BSN RNs in New York earn an average of $100,338 annually, with the top-paying cities in the state as follows: 

• Harbor Isle, NY: $105,784.00
• Kensington, NY: $104,443.00
• Northwest Ithaca, NY: $104,134.00
• Bronx, NY: $103,239.00
• Walker Valley, NY: $99,962.00

Are RN to BSN Programs in New York Worth It?

RN to BSN programs in New York, like in many other places, offer both advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of RN to BSN Programs in New York

1. Career Advancement Opportunities: A BSN degree often opens doors to more advanced nursing positions, including management and leadership roles, which are typically not accessible to nurses with only an RN qualification.
2. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-prepared nurses often have a higher earning potential compared to their RN counterparts. This is due to the advanced level of education and the increased range of job opportunities available.
3. Educational Foundation for Further Studies: Completing a BSN program provides a solid foundation for nurses who wish to pursue further education, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing.
4. Improved Patient Outcomes: Research suggests that nurses with BSN degrees contribute to better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer medication errors, due to their enhanced training and skills.
5. Meeting Industry Standards: There's a growing trend in healthcare towards requiring nurses to have a BSN. In New York, especially in major hospitals and healthcare systems, a BSN is increasingly becoming the standard requirement.

Cons of RN to BSN Programs in New York

1. Cost and Time Investment: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant investment of time and money. The cost of tuition and the time spent studying can be substantial, especially for those who are already working as RNs.
2. Balancing Work and Study: For RNs who are working while pursuing their BSN, managing work, studies, and personal life can be challenging and stressful.
3. Market Saturation: In some areas, the market may be saturated with BSN-prepared nurses, making it competitive to find jobs even with an advanced degree.
4. Not Always Required for Clinical Practice: For nurses primarily interested in bedside care, a BSN may not be necessary as many clinical positions still hire RNs without a BSN.
5. Potential for Burnout: The intensity of BSN programs, especially for those who are working simultaneously, can lead to burnout, which might affect both academic performance and job effectiveness.

Ultimately, deciding whether and RN to BSN program in New York is worth it will require weighing the above pros and cons within the context of your career goals, financial situation, and life circumstances.

Tips to Choose the Best RN to BSN Program

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX 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 NCLEX 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 Courses

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

RN to BSN Program Accreditation

Another critical consideration is accreditation. Though its importance may not be immediately apparent, accreditation is crucial, especially for RN to BSN programs. Here's why you should choose an accredited RN to BSN program:

• Guaranteed Standards for Nursing Education
• Ensures Compliance with State Regulations
• Guarantees Minimum Clinical Hour Requirement
• Supports RN Licensure Eligibility
• Facilitates Credit Transfers
• Enhances Professional Credibility
• Improves Employment Prospects
• Enables Access to Financial Aid
• Promotes Long-Term Career Success

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

RN to BSN Programs Near Me

Discover RN to BSN programs in the following states:

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: Do nurses who have completed an ADN and passed the NCLEX have to retake the exam after completing a BSN?

A: No, once you pass the NCLEX, you do not have to retake it, even after completing a BSN program. 

Q: What can a BSN do that an ADN-prepared RN cannot do?

A: Obtaining a BSN degree opens up more career opportunities for nurses. Nurses with a BSN degree can move into leadership and health education roles and pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to become nurse practitioners and occupy other high-level positions. 

Q: Are NCLEX pass rates higher for BSN vs. ADN students?

A: NCLEX first-attempt pass rates are higher for BSN students vs. ADN students. In 2020, ADN students' first-attempt pass rate was 86.53%, while the first-attempt pass rate for BSN students was 92.83%.