The Best RN-to-MSN Programs in New York
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
Credit: DenisTangneyJr / E+ / Getty ImagesAccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), nurses in New York earn some of the highest salaries in the country. Registered nurses (RNs) make an average of $93,320, while nurse practitioners (NPs) earn $133,940.
Earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) in the state can be a financially beneficial decision. Keep reading to learn about some of the top nursing master’s programs in New York.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best RN-to-MSN programs in New York, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
Learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program, or go straight to our full ranking of the best New York RN-to-MSN programs.
At a Glance: The Top New York RN-to-MSN Programs
- University of Rochester
- Upstate Medical University
- Le Moyne College
Featured Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Do New York RN-to-MSN Programs Work?
RNs in New York with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and clinical experience can apply for an RN-to-MSN program. This accelerated bridge program provides a path for RNs to earn their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and master of science in nursing (MSN) simultaneously in as little as two years.
The fast-paced RN-to-MSN curriculum suits students who want to earn their BSN and MSN as quickly as possible. To help provide some flexibility, many programs in New York allow students to enroll on a full- or part-time basis while offering on-campus, online, or hybrid learning formats.
Applying to a New York RN-to-MSN Program
Before applying to an RN-to-MSN program in New York, make sure you meet the requirements necessary for acceptance. Check that the program offers your chosen specialization and is offered in the format that works best for your learning style.
While specific prerequisites may vary, many programs accept applicants who meet the following general requirements.
Admission Materials
ADN from an accredited program, active and unencumbered New York RN license, transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation, one year of clinical experience as an RNGPA Requirement
3.0 or higher
Why Is New York RN-to-MSN Program Accreditation Important?
Attending an accredited program provides benefits for both prospective nurses and their future employers and patients:
- Accreditation proves the program meets quality standards, demonstrating that the school successfully prepares nurses.
- The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing only provide accreditation to programs that appropriately prepare students for their role as nurses.
- Doctoral programs expect applicants to hold a degree from an accredited institution.
- Students in unaccredited programs may not be eligible for federal financial aid.
- Accredited programs may not accept transfer credits from an unaccredited program.
- Employers prefer to hire graduates with a degree from an accredited program.
Learn More About the Best New York RN-to-MSN Programs and Schools
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$57,188
- Out-of-state$57,188
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate35%
- Students Enrolled11,741
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
Upstate Medical University
- Syracuse, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$16,980
- Retention Rate0%
- Acceptance Rate0%
- Students Enrolled1,528
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Le Moyne College
- Syracuse, NY
- 4 year
- Campus
- In-State$34,910
- Out-of-state$34,910
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled3,409
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Featured Online RN-to-MSN Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About New York RN-to-MSN Programs
Is an MSN program difficult?
Nurses should expect an MSN program to be more difficult than their undergraduate studies, as the courses are more advanced and clinical hours can be time-consuming. Many nurses may also have to continue working to afford their graduate program, requiring them to balance professional, personal, and academic responsibilities.
Do RNs with an MSN make more money?
While earning an MSN may be difficult, graduates gain higher earning potential, as RNs with the advanced degree make more than their ADN and BSN counterparts. The BLS reports that RNs earn a median salary of $77,600 in the U.S., while master’s-prepared NPs earn $123,780.
What do nurses with MSN do?
Nurses with an MSN can focus on one of the four advanced practice registered nurse specializations: nurse practitioner (NP), clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, or certified nurse midwife.
NPs can choose a specific population, including adult gerontology, pediatrics, neonatal, oncology, psychiatry, family, or women’s health. They can also focus on indirect specializations, such as administration, education, informatics, or health systems management.
Does an MSN lead to an NP career?
Every NP has at least an MSN, but not every nurse with an MSN is an NP. After becoming a licensed RN, nurses can enroll in an MSN program or NP program specializing in a concentration of their choosing. Upon completion, both receive a master’s degree, but only one can obtain licensure as an NP.
