New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Maura Deering, J.D.
By
Updated on October 23, 2024
Edited by
New York is home to excellent nursing schools. Find the right nursing program in New York for your needs with this data-driven guide to the best nursing schools.
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When choosing a nursing program in New York, consider its academic quality, the curriculum, format options, cultural fit, and costs. This guide explores how to become a nurse in New York, what you can expect to earn as a nurse, and how to find the best nursing program for your needs.

Keep reading to learn more about the top nursing schools and programs in New York.

The Best Nursing Schools in New York

While the best school for you depends on your goals and background, this guide can help you choose between the many nursing schools in New York. Because proper nursing school accreditation is vital to your career success, we only offer accredited nursing program options.

Our Methodology: We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing schools 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.

#1 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Farmingdale State College

  • Location-markerFarmingdale, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,070
  • Out-of-state$16,980
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,792
  • Out-of-state$17,334
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate55%
  • Students Enrolled9,996
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment25%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

New York University

  • Location-markerNew York, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$50,684
  • Out-of-state$50,684
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$33,408
  • Out-of-state$33,408
  • Retention Rate94%
  • Acceptance Rate16%
  • Students Enrolled52,885
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment10%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

University of Rochester

  • Location-markerRochester, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$55,040
  • Out-of-state$55,040
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$51,705
  • Out-of-state$51,705
  • Retention Rate94%
  • Acceptance Rate30%
  • Students Enrolled12,233
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment7%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Binghamton University

  • Location-markerVestal, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,070
  • Out-of-state$24,660
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,310
  • Out-of-state$23,100
  • Retention Rate90%
  • Acceptance Rate41%
  • Students Enrolled18,124
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Columbia University in the City of New York

  • Location-markerNew York, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$57,763
  • Out-of-state$57,763
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$47,600
  • Out-of-state$47,600
  • Retention Rate99%
  • Acceptance Rate5%
  • Students Enrolled31,456
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment6%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Stony Brook University

  • Location-markerStony Brook, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,070
  • Out-of-state$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,310
  • Out-of-state$23,100
  • Retention Rate89%
  • Acceptance Rate44%
  • Students Enrolled26,814
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment22%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Saint John Fisher College

  • Location-markerRochester, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$34,340
  • Out-of-state$34,340
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$17,550
  • Out-of-state$17,550
  • Retention Rate88%
  • Acceptance Rate64%
  • Students Enrolled3,618
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment13%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

CUNY Hunter College

  • Location-markerNew York, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,930
  • Out-of-state$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,090
  • Out-of-state$20,520
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate35%
  • Students Enrolled23,193
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment7%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Nazareth College

  • Location-markerRochester, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$33,836
  • Out-of-state$33,836
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$17,244
  • Out-of-state$17,244
  • Retention Rate84%
  • Acceptance Rate64%
  • Students Enrolled2,979
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment22%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 New York Nursing Schools and Programs

Siena College

  • Location-markerLoudonville, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$38,055
  • Out-of-state$38,055
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$26,757
  • Out-of-state$26,757
  • Retention Rate86%
  • Acceptance Rate81%
  • Students Enrolled3,296
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment10%
  • AccreditationYes
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How to Choose a Nursing Program in New York

Factors to consider when exploring nursing schools in New York include the following:

  • Cost and tuition (in-state or out-of-state eligibility)
  • Academic quality and how well the curriculum matches your interests
  • Graduation and National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) pass rates which can indicate how well the program prepares you to become a nurse
  • Class sizes
  • Location
  • Program format

Why Become a Nurse in New York

The demand for nurses continues to grow in New York. According to Projections Central, between 2018 and 2028, nursing jobs could grow by 24.6% in the state, compared to 9% nationally. New York RNs also earn a competitive salary at $89,760, the BLS reports.

In addition to the amenities New York City offers, New York state offers smaller, rural communities that may appeal to working nurses. While most nursing programs in New York take place at institutions in larger cities, many nursing schools in New York offer online options as well.

In April of 2022, New York became the 25th state to grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners (NPs). The move will allow NPs to provide a greater range of care with less oversight. Full practice authority may also result in better retention rates and pay for NPs.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in New York

Nursing salaries in New York are among the highest in the country, with the average RN salaryat $93,320, and the nurse practitioner salary at $126,440, according to the BLS. However, while the cost-of-living index in New York is higher than the national average at 143.7, New York City is still ranked as one of the best places to live in the world.

By 2030, New York is expected to experience a nursing shortage of 2,220 nurses. Earning a New York nursing license can help meet the demand and result in a good investment for your career.

New York’s overall cost of living is higher than the average U.S. cost of living. This explains a wider range of salaries for nurses in New York. The right city for you depends on salary, cost of living, and what ranks most important to your family and lifestyle.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in New York
Top Paying Metropolitan AreasAverage Salary for RNs
New York — Newark — Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA$94,920
Kingston, NY$81,660
Buffalo — Cheektowaga — Niagara Falls, NY$77,580
Albany — Schenectady — Troy, NY$73,160
Watertown — Fort Drum, NY$70,990
Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in New York

Every state incorporates its own individual state RN licensing requirements. However, the general requirements remain similar, including a degree from an accredited and approved program, passing the NCLEX licensing exam, and completing a background check.

RN Requirements

To become an RN in New York, you must attend an approved nursing school and earn an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. You then have to pass an infection control and a child abuse reporting course, the NCLEX-RN examination, and a background check.

The licensing application fee is $143, with a renewal fee of $73. The state’s nursing board lists all requirements on its website.

APRN Requirements

New York requires that advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) graduate from a master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program, get APRN board certification, take state-approved pharmacology coursework, pass a background check, and apply for a license to the state board of nursing. A nurse practitioner application costs $85, and a clinical nurse specialist license costs $80.

Other Top Nursing Programs in New York

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Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in New York


How do I become a nurse in NY?

To become an RN in New York, you must attend a state-approved nursing school in New York (or a state-approved school in another state), earn an ADN or a BSN degree, pass an infection control and a child abuse reporting course, take the NCLEX-RN examination, and get a background check.

Are nurses in demand in New York?

Nurses are in demand in New York. Between 2018 and 2028, nursing jobs are projected to grow by 24.6%. New York is home to some of the largest hospitals and health systems in the country, and as the population ages, demand for nurses will also grow.

What is a nurse’s salary in New York?

In New York City, the average RN’s salary is $94,920, according to the BLS. Across the state, the average RN salary is $89,760. In some parts of the state, the average salary is closer to $70,000. Local salaries depend on demand and cost of living, which is much higher in and near New York City.

Can a foreign nurse work in New York?

Yes, you can work in New York as a nurse with a foreign license as long as your education is equivalent to a nursing program in New York. The state board of nursing explains how to document your education and apply for your license. If you graduated from a nursing school in Canada (other than Quebec), the process is easier.

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