Images of Niagra Falls, The Statue of Liberty, and The Egg are recognizable worldwide, but beyond the state’s many geographical attractions, there are many reasons why the state sees thousands of new residents every year. One recent reason that many are citing for relocation to The Empire State is the sudden increase of nursing positions due to the ongoing nursing shortage. Recent projections estimate an increase of 17% over the next ten years. If you’d like to know how to prepare yourself for a career in nursing, check out the options below.

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Cities in New York

Best RN Programs in New York

Selecting the best nursing school in New York can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in New York by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 101 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

31-10 Thomson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

Score: 98.51

LaGuardia Community College, located in Long Island City, offers an ADN degree pathway accredited by ACEN. Their curriculum consists of 66 units of nursing and general education courses. Graduates leave the program with the ability to communicate, provide quality nursing care, educate patients, and practice legally and ethically.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (718) 482-7200
2.

121 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203

Score: 98.19

SUNY Erie Community College's City Campus is part of a strong network of nursing programs within the state college framework. Located in Buffalo, this 64 total-credit program includes coursework in Health Restoration, Physical Assessment, General Psychology, and more. Program graduates are known for their resolve as patient advocates and motivated lifelong learners.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (716) 851-1322
3.

197 Franklin St, Auburn, NY 13021

Score: 97.81

Cayuga County Community College in Auburn, New York stands ready to address the gaps in the state's nursing workforce by providing a high-quality ADN program for aspiring RNs. The curriculum weaves general ed and specialty nursing courses, which are delivered in classroom, lab, and clinical settings. CCCC graduates integrate evidence-based decision-making into their nursing practice.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (315) 255-1743
4.

3435 Main St, Wende Hall, Buffalo, NY 14214

Score: 97.57

The University at Buffalo’s BSN degree program weaves biomedical and social sciences into a curriculum designed to create a solid workforce of educated RNs. With preceptorships, clinical rotations, and courses that emphasize holistic and safe nursing care, graduates of the program are well-prepared to provide care within complex health systems.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (716) 829-2537
5.

145 College Rd, Suffern, NY 10901

Score: 97.55

Suffern’s Rockland Community College offers an accredited ADN program that aims to prepare nurses to meet the needs of the community. Their program incorporates philosophical beliefs, scientific discipline, and concepts from nursing research to prepare nurses for careers in the ever-changing healthcare system.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (845) 574-4000
6.

6205 Main St, Williamsville, NY 14221

Score: 97.13

SUNY Erie Community College – North Campus boasts a fully accredited ADN degree pathway. The curriculum includes coursework and lab experiences that cover medical/surgical, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatric, and other nursing concepts. This program is designed to be completed in as little as two years of study, and graduates enjoy employment in a variety of healthcare settings.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (716) 851-1002
7.

2350 Broadhollow Rd, Farmingdale, NY 11735

Score: 96.79

Farmingdale State College is located north of Amityville in New York. Affiliated with the State University of New York, FSC nursing students can graduate with a BSN degree from a quality, affordable 4-year public college program. The student-centered curriculum includes courses in Health Assessment, Medical Microbiology, Clinical Pharmacology, and much more.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (631) 420-2000
8.

101 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook, NY 11794

Score: 96.31

The Stony Brook University - School of Nursing offers several baccalaureate pathways to an RN education. Stony Brook prides itself on it’s innovative, high-quality, and accessible nursing programs. Clinical experiences take place at Stony Brook University Medical Center, which is the only level-one trauma center in the area. Upon graduation from this accredited institution, students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (631) 689-8333
9.

222-05 56th Ave, Bayside, NY 11364

Score: 95.65

Queensborough Community College's home is in beautiful Bayside, New York. The college's nursing program was founded in 1967 and since has become one of the most renowned AAS programs in the state. QCC nursing graduates complete 67 total credits as part of the nursing curriculum, and often go on to join healthcare teams throughout the area.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (718) 631-6262
10.

714 New Scotland Ave. Room 111, Albany, NY 12208

Score: 95.63

St. Peter's Hospital College of Nursing is located in Albany, New York. Students can earn an associate's degree in nursing through St. Peter's comprehensive two-year program, and they can even pursue flexible part-time or full-time study options to accommodate busy schedules. The curriculum includes coursework in Anatomy & Physiology, Managing Care, Mental Health, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (518) 525-6850
11.

4245 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14618

Score: 95.29

Rochester's Nazareth College offers a BSN program that incorporates classroom and clinical learning in acute, ambulatory, and community settings. In addition to the traditional BSN, Nazareth College also offers LPN to BSN as well as RN to BSN bridge programs. These programs boast exceptional NCLEX-RN pass rates.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (585) 389-2525
12.

533 College Rd, Selden, NY 11784

Score: 95.24

Suffolk County Community College is home to an associate degree nursing program designed to prepare students for entry into nursing practice. Those enrolled can choose from daytime or evening courses, and required classes include Adult Physical Health Nursing, Maternal/Child Health Nursing Care, and others.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (631) 451-4110
13.

3690 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14618

Score: 95.03

St. John Fisher College fosters nursing graduates that can evaluate patient care and interventions as well as communicate effectively to the healthcare team. Located in Rochester, SJFC's BSN program consists of core college courses, to include liberal arts and science courses, as well as nursing theory and evidence-based clinical practice.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (585) 385-8000
14.

1300 Massachusetts Ave, Troy, NY 12180

Score: 94.82

Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing, part of St. Peter's Health Partners, is located in Troy and creates top-quality nursing candidates through its rigorous associate degree curriculum. Graduates demonstrate professionalism that incorporates personal and professional accountability - a hallmark of Samaritan nurses.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (518) 274-3382
15.

Score: 93.67

The Arnot Ogden Medical Center School of Nursing has been training and preparing nurses since 1889. The school offers an associate degree program to get students started in the field of registered nursing. The full-time, 2-year program takes place at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center for easy accessibility to clinical training.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (607) 737-4153
16.

4585 W Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse, NY 13215

Score: 93.49

Onondaga Community College in Syracuse offers a nursing program that culminates in an AAS degree. Enrolled students build clinical skills to advance the care of patients across the lifespan. OCC graduates have a 95% licensure exam pass rate - much higher than the national average.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (315) 498-2000
17.

94-20 Guy R Brewer Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11451

Score: 93.33

York College / CUNY offers a generic BSN program for aspiring RNs. This highly competitive program is designed for full-time study and is comprised of 120-122 total credits. Required courses include Pharmacology for Nurses as well as Fundamentals of Nursing Practice.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (718) 262-2000
18.

1220 Coffeen Street, Watertown, NY 13601

Score: 93.26

Jefferson Community College, located in Watertown, tops the list with a robust associate's degree nursing program. JCC graduates understand how to apply critical thinking to the nursing process, and integrate other strands of nursing care for best patient outcomes - in fact, as of 2018 JCC boasts a 100% job placement rate for nursing grads. This on-campus program has convenient weekday and weekend courses available for maximum flexibility.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (315) 786-2200
19.

1000 E Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623

Score: 93.21

Monroe Community College in Rochester prepares the next generation of RNs through its AAS in nursing program. MCC graduates boast a 91% pass rate on the NCLEX examination, with even higher rates of employment and student satisfaction. MCC credits transfer seamlessly for those who wish to go on to pursue an RN to BSN degree.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing
  • Phone: (585) 292-2000
20.

4400 Vestal Pkwy E, Binghamton, NY 13902

Score: 93.13

Binghamton University's Decker School of Nursing is home to an academically rigorous BSN program designed to prepare compassionate nurses. Students learn through hands-on clinical hours as well as the Innovative Simulation and Practice Center (ISPC) which lets students practice in a real-world environment. NOTE: as of 2020, the Decker School of Nursing will move to the University's Health Sciences Campus in Johnson, NY.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (607) 777-2000

New York Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

If you’re pursuing a career as an RN in New York, you have three pathways to licensure: an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Below are the key differences between these options.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

One of the fastest routes to becoming a registered nurse is through an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), typically completed in about two years. Another option is an RN diploma, available through select nursing schools or hospitals, which can often be finished in 1-2 years and emphasizes core nursing skills. Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in New York can also advance through LPN to RN bridge program, allowing them to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These affordable pathways prepare students for entry-level nursing roles, but it's essential to choose an accredited program to ensure your degree is valid and widely recognized.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in New York include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
  • Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely online; primarily on-campus

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in New York.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

Many students choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in addition to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or nursing diploma. A BSN, typically earned through a four-year program, is ideal for those looking for comprehensive training and aiming to stand out to potential employers, all without the commitment of a graduate degree. In addition to the traditional four-year route, there are flexible options such as the RN to BSN pathway and Accelerated BSN programs, which enable students to earn their BSN in a shorter time frame.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in New York typically include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

Students who hold a nursing license and an associate degree in nursing can take advantage of New York RN to BSN. These popular nursing bridge programs are widely available and can typically be completed in as little as two years.

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

New York ABSN programs are an excellent option for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree but are not trained nurses. Enrolling in an ABSN program allows you to earn your BSN in less than half the time it would take to complete a traditional BSN program from the start.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

ADNs, BSNs, and nursing diplomas are excellent options for students with little to no nursing experience. However, if you aspire to advance to a career as a nurse practitioner or advanced practice nurse, you will need to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs require a BSN or higher for admission, but similar to BSN programs, there are several bridge programs available to help shorten the time to graduation.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in New York:

Getting an RN License in New York

Once you’ve completed your education, the next step is to obtain your RN license. Licensing is required for all nurses who wish to practice in New York. The process begins with taking the NCLEX-RN exam. After passing the exam, you’ll need to complete and submit an application to the New York State Board of Nursing.

Requirements for RN Licensure in New York

  • Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
  • Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Application to the New York Board of Nursing
  • Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right RN program is RN program accreditation. When a school is “accredited,” it means it is approved by the New York State Board of Nursing, ensuring that graduates are eligible for licensure. As you apply to nursing schools in New York, be sure they are accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Continued List of All RN Programs in New York

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
21.
Troy, NY 12180 | Phone: (518) 629-4822
Programs: Associate in Nursing
92.79
22.
Batavia, NY 14020 | Phone: (585) 343-0055
Programs: Associate in Nursing
92.53
23.
Valhalla, NY 10595 | Phone: (914) 606-6600
Programs: Associate in Nursing
92.52
24.
Plattsburgh, NY 12901 | Phone: (518) 564-2000
Programs: BSN
92.09
25.
New York, NY 10065 | Phone: (212) 772-4000
Programs: BSN
92.08
26.
Albany, NY 12208 | Phone: (518) 438-3111
Programs: Associate in Nursing
91.44
27.
Brooklyn, NY 11203 | Phone: (718) 270-1000
Programs: BSN
91.24
28.
Rockville Centre, NY 11571 | Phone: (516) 323-4000
Programs: BSN
91.10
29.
Staten Island, NY 10314 | Phone: (718) 982-2000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
90.93
30.
Sanborn, NY 14132 | Phone: (716) 614-6222
Programs: Associate in Nursing
90.84
31.
Oneonta, NY 13820 | Phone: (607) 431-4000
Programs: BSN
90.73
32.
Brooklyn, NY 11201 | Phone: (718) 260-5500
Programs: Associate in Nursing
90.51
33.
Rochester, NY 14642 | Phone: (585) 275-2375
Programs: BSN
90.47
34.
New York, NY 10010 | Phone: (212) 998-5300
Programs: BSN
90.22
35.
Syracuse, NY 13210 | Phone: (315) 470-7481
Programs: Associate in Nursing
90.06
36.
Patchogue, NY 11772 | Phone: (631) 687-5100
Programs: BSN
89.94
37.
Utica, NY 13502 | Phone: (315) 792-3006
Programs: Accelerated BSN, BSN
89.50
38.
Queensbury, NY 12804 | Phone: (518) 743-2200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.29
39.
Plattsburgh, NY 12901 | Phone: (518) 562-4200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.24
40.
Utica, NY 13501 | Phone: (315) 792-5400
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.19
41.
Staten Island, NY 10301 | Phone: (718) 390-3100
Programs: BSN
89.08
42.
Jamestown, NY 14701 | Phone: (716) 338-1000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.06
43.
Utica, NY 13501 | Phone: (315) 798-8347
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.01
44.
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 | Phone: (845) 431-8000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.81
45.
Dryden, NY 13053 | Phone: (607) 844-8211
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.80
46.
Middletown, NY 10940 | Phone: (845) 341-4870
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.75
47.
Brentwood, NY 11717 | Phone: (631) 851-6700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
88.14
48.
Brockport, NY 14420 | Phone: (585) 395-2211
Programs: BSN
88.10
49.
Hudson, NY 12534 | Phone: (518) 828-4181
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.95
50.
Newburgh, NY 12550 | Phone: (845) 561-0800
Programs: BSN
87.65
51.
Brooklyn, NY 11235 | Phone: (718) 368-5000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.56
52.
Garden City, NY 11530 | Phone: (516) 572-7501
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.34
53.
Pleasantville, NY 10570 | Phone: (914) 773-3552
Programs: BSN
87.03
54.
Johnstown, NY 12095 | Phone: (518) 736-3622
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.37
55.
Yonkers, NY 10701 | Phone: (914) 964-4296
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.06
56.
New York, NY 10007 | Phone: (212) 220-8000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.83
57.
Stone Ridge, NY 12484 | Phone: (800) 724-0833
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.45
58.
Bronx, NY 10451 | Phone: (718) 518-4444
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.25
59.
Canandaigua, NY 14424 | Phone: (585) 394-3500
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.64
60.
New York, NY 10001 | Phone: (212) 614-6110
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.54
61.
BAY SHORE, NY 11706 | Phone: (631) 665-1600
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.96
62.
Geneva, NY 14456 | Phone: (315) 787-4000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.93
63.
Bronx, NY 10468 | Phone: (800) 556-6676
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.50
64.
Mt Vernon, NY 10550 | Phone: (914) 361-6221
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.29
65.
Schenectady, NY 12304 | Phone: (518) 243-4471
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.18
66.
Troy, NY 12180 | Phone: (518) 244-2000
Programs: BSN
81.16
67.
Buffalo, NY 14201 | Phone: (716) 829-8000
Programs: BSN
80.35
68.
Binghamton, NY 13905 | Phone: (607) 778-5000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
80.23
69.
Canton, NY 13617 | Phone: (800) 388-7123
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.93
70.
Patchogue, NY 11772 | Phone: (631) 687-5100
Programs: BSN
79.82
71.
Rochester, NY 14624 | Phone: (585) 594-6000
Programs: BSN
79.78
72.
New York, NY 10038 | Phone: (914) 773-3552
Programs: BSN
79.75
73.
Alfred, NY 14802 | Phone: (800) 425-3733
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.62
74.
Delhi, NY 13753 | Phone: (607) 746-4490
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.49
75.
Brooklyn, NY 11225 | Phone: (718) 270-4900
Programs: Associate in Nursing
79.05
76.
Bronx, NY 10453 | Phone: (718) 289-5700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
78.43
77.
Albany, NY 12203 | Phone: (518) 464-8500
Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
76.76
78.
Brooklyn, NY 11205 | Phone: (718) 940-5300
Programs: BSN
75.73
79.
Elmira, NY 14901 | Phone: (800) 935-6472
Programs: BSN
74.75
80.
Bronx, NY 10468 | Phone: (718) 960-8000
Programs: BSN
74.03
81.
Garden City, NY 11530 | Phone: (800) 233-5744
Programs: BSN
73.97
82.
Orangeburg, NY 10962 | Phone: (845) 359-7800
Programs: BSN
73.35
83.
Niagara University, NY 14109 | Phone: (800) 462-2111
Programs: BSN
72.43
84.
Morrisville, NY 13408 | Phone: (315) 684-6046
Programs: Associate in Nursing
72.29
85.
Corning, NY 14830 | Phone: (607) 962-9222
Programs: Associate in Nursing
71.78
86.
Saranac Lake, NY 12983 | Phone: (518) 891-2915
Programs: Associate in Nursing
71.21
87.
Rego Park, NY 11374 | Phone: (718) 357-0500
Programs: Associate in Nursing
70.58
88.
Bronx, NY 10471 | Phone: (718) 405-3200
Programs: BSN
70.30
89.
New York, NY 10035 | Phone: (212) 616-7200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
68.69
90.
Brooklyn, NY 11201 | Phone: (718) 488-1000
Programs: BSN
68.57
91.
Staten Island, NY 10311 | Phone: (718) 517-7700
Programs: Associate in Nursing
66.40
92.
Buffalo, NY 14220 | Phone: (716) 826-1200
Programs: Associate in Nursing
63.96
93.
Brookville, NY 11548 | Phone: (516) 299-2320
Programs: BSN
63.73
94.
Ticonderoga, NY 12883 | Phone: (518) 585-4454
Programs: Associate in Nursing
62.83
95.
Old Westbury, NY 11568 | Phone: (516) 686-1000
Programs: BSN
62.81
96.
Brooklyn Heights, NY 11201 | Phone: (718) 489-5200
Programs: BSN
60.77
97.
New York, NY 10001 | Phone: (212) 924-5900
Programs: Associate in Nursing
60.57
98.
Loch Sheldrake, NY 12759 | Phone: (845) 434-5750
Programs: Associate in Nursing
55.06
99.
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 | Phone: (914) 674-7600
Programs: BSN
53.69
100.
Bronx, NY 10461 | Phone: (718) 678-8899
Programs: BSN
-
101.
Purchase, NY 10577 | Phone: (914) 694-2200
Programs: BSN
-

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.