Best 20 Nursing Schools in New York (2025 Rankings and Complete Guide)

Choosing where to study nursing is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your healthcare career, and New York offers more options than almost any other state. From Ivy League research institutions to community-rooted CUNY and SUNY campuses, the state is home to dozens of accredited programs that produce some of the most sought-after nurses in the country.

This guide ranks the best 20 nursing schools in New York, covering everything from admission requirements and tuition to NCLEX pass rates and specialty tracks. Whether you’re a high school senior planning a BSN, a career-changer eyeing an accelerated program, or a working RN looking for an MSN or DNP, you’ll find practical information here to help you narrow your list.

We’ll also walk through how to evaluate nursing programs, what accreditation actually means, financial aid options, and answers to the most common questions applicants ask before enrolling.

Why New York Is a Strong State to Study Nursing

New York has one of the largest healthcare workforces in the nation, anchored by major hospital systems in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. As a result, nursing students here get access to clinical placements at world-class teaching hospitals, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a job market that consistently needs qualified RNs.

In addition, New York passed a

For related reading, see our guide on Business Schools in New York.

New York State also passed the “BSN in 10” law, which requires registered nurses who begin their careers with an associate degree to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing within ten years of initial licensure. This has pushed hospitals, community colleges, and four-year universities to build stronger RN-to-BSN pathways, so students who start with an ADN are rarely left without a clear next step. Combine that with a statewide nursing shortage in many regions outside Manhattan, and you have a job market that rewards nurses at every stage of their education.

New York City alone is home to some of the busiest hospital systems in the country, including NewYork-Presbyterian, Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, and Northwell Health, all of which partner with local nursing schools for clinical rotations. Outside the five boroughs, cities like Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany host their own major medical centers, giving students across the state access to strong clinical training regardless of where they study.

How We Ranked the Best Nursing Schools in New York

Putting together a list like this requires more than just looking at name recognition. We evaluated each school using a combination of factors that matter most to prospective nursing students:

• Accreditation: Every school on this list holds accreditation from either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
• NCLEX-RN pass rates: We prioritized programs with pass rates at or above the state average, since this is one of the clearest indicators of how well a program prepares students for licensure.
• Program variety: Schools offering multiple entry points, such as traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP tracks, scored higher because they serve a wider range of students.
• Clinical partnerships: Programs affiliated with major teaching hospitals or health systems offer stronger hands-on training opportunities.
• Affordability and financial aid: We factored in tuition costs relative to program quality, along with the availability of scholarships and loan forgiveness programs.
• Student outcomes: Graduation rates, job placement, and reputation among regional employers were all considered.

With those criteria in mind, here is our ranked list of the 20 best nursing schools in New York for 2025.

The Best 20 Nursing Schools in New York (2025 Rankings)

1. Columbia University School of Nursing

Columbia’s nursing school, part of Columbia University Irving Medical Center, is consistently ranked among the top nursing schools in the country. It offers an accelerated BSN for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, along with a wide array of MSN, DNP, and PhD programs. Students benefit from clinical placements at NewYork-Presbyterian and other elite Manhattan hospitals. Tuition is on the higher end, but the school’s research funding and career outcomes are exceptional.

2. NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing

NYU’s nursing college is another nationally recognized program, known for its innovative simulation labs and strong global health initiatives. It offers a traditional BSN, an accelerated BSN for career-changers, and graduate programs including MSN, DNP, and PhD tracks. NYU Langone Health provides deep clinical partnerships, and the school’s NCLEX pass rates consistently exceed the national average.

3. University of Rochester School of Nursing

Located in upstate New York, the University of Rochester offers a highly regarded accelerated BSN program along with a strong RN-to-BSN pathway for working nurses. Its affiliation with the University of Rochester Medical Center gives students access to one of the largest health systems in the region. The school is particularly well known for its nurse practitioner and DNP programs.

4. Stony Brook University School of Nursing

As part of the SUNY system, Stony Brook offers an affordable, high-quality BSN program with strong clinical ties to Stony Brook University Hospital, a major Level I trauma center on Long Island. The school also offers accelerated and RN-to-BSN options, plus graduate degrees in nursing leadership, education, and advanced practice.

5. Binghamton University Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Binghamton’s Decker College has built a strong reputation for its rigorous BSN curriculum and high NCLEX pass rates. The college also offers an accelerated second-degree BSN and a Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Its relatively affordable in-state tuition makes it a popular choice for students seeking a strong SUNY option.

6. Hunter College (CUNY) School of Nursing

Hunter College’s nursing program is one of the most affordable highly-ranked options in New York City, particularly for New York residents. It offers a traditional BSN, an accelerated program, and graduate tracks in nurse-midwifery, nurse practitioner studies, and nursing administration. Hunter’s clinical partnerships throughout the city give students exposure to a diverse patient population.

7. University at Buffalo School of Nursing

UB’s nursing school combines strong academics with affordable SUNY tuition. Programs range from a traditional BSN to an accelerated second-degree option, plus MSN and DNP tracks with concentrations in areas like psychiatric-mental health and adult-gerontology. The school’s research output and clinical partnerships across Western New York are notable strengths.

8. Pace University College of Health Professions

Pace offers nursing programs at both its New York City and Westchester (Pleasantville) campuses. Its BSN, accelerated BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs are known for small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. Pace also has a strong graduate program with nurse practitioner specialties in family, adult-gerontology, and psychiatric care.

9. Adelphi University College of Nursing and Public Health

Adelphi, located on Long Island, offers one of the most comprehensive nursing programs in the state, from a traditional BSN to a full range of graduate and doctoral degrees. The school has a strong simulation lab and long-standing partnerships with hospitals across Long Island and New York City.

10. Molloy University College of Nursing and Public Health

Molloy has built a strong reputation specifically around nursing education, with high NCLEX pass rates year after year. The school offers a traditional BSN, an accelerated second-degree BSN, RN-to-BSN completion, and multiple graduate specialties, including a well-regarded nurse anesthesia program.

11. St. John’s University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

St. John’s nursing program is smaller than some of its Manhattan and Long Island competitors, but it offers a solid BSN and RN-to-BSN pathway with a strong focus on community health. Its Queens campus location provides access to a wide range of clinical sites throughout New York City.

12. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University College of Nursing

SUNY Downstate, based in Brooklyn, is one of the few SUNY campuses fully dedicated to health sciences. Its College of Nursing offers BSN, accelerated BSN, and graduate programs, with clinical training centered around University Hospital of Brooklyn. It’s an excellent, affordable option for students focused specifically on healthcare careers.

13. SUNY Upstate Medical University College of Nursing

Located in Syracuse, SUNY Upstate offers a BSN, an accelerated BSN, and graduate nursing programs, including a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Students train at Upstate University Hospital, giving them exposure to trauma care, pediatrics, and specialized medical units rarely available at smaller institutions.

14. Le Moyne College

Le Moyne, also in the Syracuse area, has a well-regarded nursing program known for its close-knit class sizes and strong first-time NCLEX pass rates. The college offers a traditional BSN, an accelerated second-degree BSN, and graduate nursing degrees with a focus on family and psychiatric nurse practitioner tracks.

15. Wagner College

Located on Staten Island, Wagner College offers a BSN program built around its distinctive learning community model, which blends coursework with hands-on clinical experience earlier than many traditional programs. Its proximity to Manhattan hospitals gives students access to a wide variety of clinical placements.

16. D’Youville University

D’Youville, based in Buffalo, offers a strong nursing program with options ranging from a traditional BSN to an accelerated second-degree BSN and a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The university has invested heavily in simulation-based learning, which helps students build clinical confidence before entering hospital settings.

17. Niagara University

Niagara University’s nursing program serves the Western New York region with a traditional BSN, an RN-to-BSN completion track, and graduate programs for nurse practitioners. The school’s smaller size allows for close faculty relationships and personalized academic support.

18. Long Island University (LIU)

LIU offers nursing programs at both its Brooklyn and Post (Long Island) campuses, giving students flexibility in choosing an urban or suburban learning environment. Programs include a traditional BSN, RN-to-BSN, and graduate nursing degrees, with strong clinical ties to hospitals in both regions.

19. Nazareth University

Based in Rochester, Nazareth University offers a well-established BSN program along with an accelerated second-degree option and graduate nursing degrees. The school has a strong regional reputation and close relationships with Rochester-area hospitals for clinical placement.

20. Utica University

Rounding out our list, Utica University in central New York offers an accessible BSN and RN-to-BSN program, along with online graduate nursing options that appeal to working nurses who need flexibility. Utica’s smaller class sizes and dedicated advising make it a solid choice for students who want more individualized support.

Understanding the Different Nursing Degree Paths

Not every nursing student follows the same path, and New York’s schools reflect that diversity. Understanding the differences between degree types can help you choose the right program for your goals and timeline.

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

An ADN typically takes two to three years and is offered mostly through community colleges. It’s the fastest and most affordable way to become a licensed RN, though the BSN in 10 law means most graduates will need to continue their education within a decade of licensure.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A traditional BSN takes about four years and is the most common entry point for students who know early on that they want a nursing career. Many hospitals, particularly in New York City, now prefer or require a BSN for new hires, making this the safest long-term choice for most students.

Accelerated BSN

Designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a different field, accelerated BSN programs compress the coursework into 12 to 18 months. These programs are intense but allow career-changers to enter nursing relatively quickly without starting a degree from scratch.

RN-to-BSN

This path is built for working RNs who started with an ADN and need to complete their bachelor’s degree, often to comply with the BSN in 10 law or to qualify for leadership roles. Most RN-to-BSN programs are offered online or in hybrid formats to accommodate full-time work schedules.

MSN and DNP

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) prepares nurses for advanced practice roles such as nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse educator. A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest clinical degree in the field and is increasingly becoming the standard for nurse practitioners nationwide. Several schools on this list, including Columbia, NYU, and the University of Rochester, offer strong DNP programs.

Tuition and Financial Aid for Nursing Students in New York

Cost is often the deciding factor for students choosing between programs. Public SUNY and CUNY schools, such as Stony Brook, Binghamton, University at Buffalo, Hunter College, and SUNY Downstate, offer significantly lower tuition for New York residents compared to private universities like Columbia, NYU, or Adelphi. In-state tuition at SUNY and CUNY nursing programs typically runs a fraction of what private institutions charge per year, making them attractive options for budget-conscious students.

That said, private schools often provide more generous scholarship packages and financial aid that can narrow the gap. Several nursing-specific funding sources are worth exploring:

• New York State Nursing Faculty Loan Forgiveness Incentive Program: Offers loan forgiveness for nurses who commit to teaching in the state after graduation.
• HRSA Nursing Scholarship and Loan Repayment programs: Federal programs aimed at students who agree to work in underserved areas after licensure.
• Excelsior Scholarship: Available to eligible SUNY and CUNY students, covering tuition costs for New York residents who meet income and enrollment requirements.
• Hospital-sponsored tuition assistance: Many major New York health systems offer tuition reimbursement or loan repayment for nurses who commit to working for them after graduation.

Students planning a nursing career in New York City should also budget for cost of living, which can be significantly higher than in upstate cities like Buffalo, Rochester, or Syracuse. If you’re relocating for school, it can help to research the surrounding area in advance; resources like our guide to fun things to do in New York can give you a sense of what life outside the classroom looks like in different parts of the state.

Career Outlook for Nurses in New York

New York remains one of the strongest job markets for registered nurses in the country. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, New York consistently ranks among the top states for total RN employment, and demand is expected to keep growing as the population ages and more nurses reach retirement age themselves.

Salaries vary significantly by region. Registered nurses working in New York City and the surrounding metro area typically earn considerably more than the national average, while nurses in upstate cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse often see slightly lower pay but also benefit from a lower cost of living. Nurses who pursue advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners or certified registered nurse anesthetists, can expect substantially higher earning potential, particularly with a DNP or specialized MSN.

Beyond hospitals, New York nurses find opportunities in outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, school health programs, public health departments, and increasingly in telehealth. The state’s robust pharmacy and healthcare infrastructure, including the extensive network covered in our list of pharmacies in New York, reflects just how large and interconnected the healthcare job market really is here.

Tips for Getting Into a Competitive Nursing Program

Nursing programs, especially at top-ranked schools like Columbia, NYU, and Stony Brook, can be highly competitive. A few strategies can improve your chances of admission:

• Take prerequisite science courses seriously. Strong grades in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology matter more to admissions committees than almost anything else.
• Get healthcare exposure early. Volunteering, shadowing, or working as a CNA or medical assistant shows genuine commitment to the field.
• Apply broadly. Given how competitive accelerated and traditional BSN programs can be, applying to several schools on this list improves your odds of acceptance somewhere that fits your budget and timeline.
• Prepare thoroughly for entrance exams. Many programs require the TEAS or HESI A2 exam, and a strong score can offset a less competitive GPA.
• Don’t overlook RN-to-BSN or online options if you’re already working in healthcare. These pathways are often less competitive and more flexible for working adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best nursing school in New York?

Columbia University and NYU’s Rory Meyers College of Nursing are generally considered the top two nursing schools in New York based on research funding, national rankings, and career outcomes. However, “best” depends heavily on your budget, career goals, and whether you’re looking for a traditional BSN, accelerated program, or graduate degree.

How long does it take to become a registered nurse in New York?

An ADN typically takes two to three years, a traditional BSN takes about four years, and an accelerated BSN for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree can be completed in 12 to 18 months. After finishing a nursing program, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed.

Is it hard to get into nursing school in New York?

Competitive programs at schools like Columbia, NYU, and Stony Brook can have selective admissions, particularly for accelerated BSN tracks. However, New York has a large number of SUNY, CUNY, and private options, so students with reasonably strong academic records generally have several viable choices statewide.

Do I need a BSN to work as a nurse in New York?

Not immediately. New York’s “BSN in 10” law allows nurses who start with an associate degree to work as an RN, but they must complete a BSN within ten years of their initial licensure. Many hospitals, especially in New York City, now prefer BSN-prepared nurses for new hires even before that deadline applies.

How much does nursing school cost in New York?

Costs vary widely. SUNY and CUNY nursing programs are generally the most affordable option for New York residents, while private universities like Columbia, NYU, and Adelphi charge significantly more per year, though they often offer stronger financial aid packages. Total program cost also depends on whether you choose a two-year ADN, a four-year BSN, or an accelerated second-degree track.

Final Thoughts

New York’s nursing education landscape is remarkably deep, offering everything from Ivy League research powerhouses to affordable, tightly-run SUNY and CUNY programs, plus a wide range of private colleges that specialize almost exclusively in health sciences. Whichever path you choose, from an ADN at a community college to a DNP at Columbia, the state’s dense concentration of hospitals and health systems means clinical experience and job opportunities are rarely far away.

Before applying, take the time to compare accreditation status, NCLEX pass rates, tuition, and financial aid options across the schools on this list. The right program isn’t necessarily the most prestigious one; it’s the one that fits your budget, your career goals, and the kind of nurse you want to become. With any of the 20 schools featured here, you’ll be starting your nursing career with a solid, well-respected foundation.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations for Nurses in New York

One of the biggest draws of a nursing career in New York is the sheer size and diversity of the job market. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, New York consistently ranks among the top-paying states for registered nurses, with average annual salaries well above the national median. Nurses working in New York City metro hospitals, academic medical centers, and specialty clinics often earn even more than the statewide average, particularly once they gain a few years of experience or move into specialized units like critical care, oncology, or labor and delivery.

Beyond salary, the job security is hard to beat. New York’s aging population, ongoing nursing shortages in rural counties, and the constant expansion of outpatient and home-health services mean demand for RNs, NPs, and advanced practice nurses is projected to keep growing throughout the decade. Graduates of the schools on this list regularly find work not just in hospitals, but in school health offices, corporate wellness programs, telehealth companies, correctional facilities, and public health departments across the state.

For nurses who want to climb the career ladder, many of the BSN and MSN programs featured above feed directly into leadership tracks such as nurse manager, clinical educator, or hospital administrator. Others use their advanced degree as a springboard into nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist roles, both of which command significantly higher salaries and greater clinical autonomy.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Program for You

With 20 strong options on this list, narrowing down your choice can feel overwhelming. Here are the factors that matter most when comparing programs:

• Accreditation: Always confirm the program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Without it, you may struggle to sit for licensure exams or transfer credits later.
• NCLEX pass rates: A school’s first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate is one of the clearest indicators of how well it prepares students for licensure. Look for programs consistently above the state and national averages.
• Clinical placement network: Programs affiliated with major hospital systems, like those tied to NewYork-Presbyterian, Mount Sinai, or Northwell Health, tend to offer richer, more varied clinical rotations.
• Cost and financial aid: Compare not just sticker price, but net cost after scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs, especially state-funded options for nurses who commit to working in underserved areas.
• Program format: Decide whether a traditional four-year BSN, an accelerated second-degree BSN, an online RN-to-BSN bridge, or a direct-entry MSN best fits your timeline and prior education.
• Campus location and lifestyle: Studying in Manhattan is a very different experience from studying upstate in Rochester or Buffalo. Think about cost of living, commute, and whether you want easy access to everything New York City has to offer outside of class.

It’s also worth reaching out to current students or recent alumni of any program you’re seriously considering. Ask them directly about clinical site quality, faculty support, and how manageable the workload felt alongside work or family obligations.

Application Tips for New York Nursing Schools

Admission into a competitive BSN or accelerated nursing program in New York usually requires more than just good grades. Here’s how to strengthen your application:

• Nail your prerequisites: Anatomy and physiology, microbiology, chemistry, and statistics are almost universally required. Strong grades in these courses matter more to admissions committees than your overall GPA.
• Prepare for entrance exams: Many schools require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2 exam. Give yourself at least two to three months to study, especially for the science and math sections.
• Get clinical or healthcare exposure early: Volunteering at a hospital, working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), or shadowing an RN shows admissions committees you understand what the job actually involves.
• Apply broadly, but strategically: Because competitive programs like Columbia, NYU, and Adelphi receive far more applications than seats available, consider applying to a mix of highly selective and less competitive but still accredited programs.
• Start financial aid paperwork early: File the FAFSA as soon as it opens, and research New York-specific programs like the Nursing Faculty Loan Forgiveness Program or the SUNY-specific tuition assistance awards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does nursing school cost in New York?

Costs vary widely. SUNY and CUNY nursing programs are generally the most affordable option for New York residents, while private universities like Columbia, NYU, and Adelphi charge significantly more per year, though they often offer stronger financial aid packages. Total program cost also depends on whether you choose a two-year ADN, a four-year BSN, or an accelerated second-degree track.

What is the fastest way to become a registered nurse in New York?

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from a community college typically takes about two years and is the fastest path to sitting for the NCLEX-RN exam. Accelerated second-degree BSN programs are also relatively quick, usually 12 to 18 months, but they’re designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.

Do I need a BSN to work as a nurse in New York?

You can begin your career with an ADN and pass the NCLEX-RN, but New York’s “BSN in 10” law requires most RNs to earn a bachelor’s degree within ten years of initial licensure. Because of this, many hospitals, especially in New York City, now prefer BSN-prepared nurses for new hires even before that deadline applies.

Are online nursing programs respected by New York employers?

Yes, as long as the program holds proper CCNE or ACEN accreditation and includes hands-on clinical hours completed in person at approved facilities. Many RN-to-BSN and MSN bridge programs are offered in hybrid or fully online formats specifically because the coursework builds on skills nurses already practice daily on the job.

How competitive is admission to top nursing schools in New York?

Highly selective programs at institutions like Columbia, NYU, and Hunter College can be very competitive, often accepting a small fraction of applicants each cycle. However, New York’s SUNY and CUNY community college ADN programs, along with several private colleges outside Manhattan, offer far more accessible admission standards while still providing accredited, high-quality education.

Conclusion

Choosing where to study nursing is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your healthcare career, and New York gives you an unusually wide range of excellent options to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to the prestige and research opportunities of an Ivy League program, the affordability of a SUNY or CUNY campus, or the tight-knit, hands-on feel of a smaller private college, the state’s dense network of hospitals and health systems ensures that quality clinical training is never far away. Take the time to weigh accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, cost, and program format carefully, and don’t be afraid to apply to a mix of reach schools and reliable backups. Wherever you land among these 20 programs, you’ll be stepping into a nursing career built on a strong, respected educational foundation and backed by one of the largest, most dynamic healthcare job markets in the country.