The demand for trained nurses in the United States has grown significantly in recent years, and with this growth, nursing has become one of the most rewarding and lucrative career paths today. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow faster than the average for most occupations, with hundreds of thousands of new positions expected over the next decade.
A great and rewarding nursing career starts with choosing the right institution to pursue your program. The kind of training you receive matters a lot because it shapes how prepared you’ll be for the job. A good nursing school doesn’t just teach theory; it gives you the skills, confidence, and clinical experience to step into any healthcare setting and deliver quality care.
With that in mind, we went through nursing schools across New York and highlighted the ones that truly stand out. We looked at accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, tuition, program options, and how these schools are ranked nationally. What you’ll find below is a list of the best nursing schools in New York; schools that can set you up for success from the classroom to your career.
Best Nursing Schools in New York
Looking to become a nurse in New York? Let’s take a closer look at the best nursing schools in New York you can consider.
1. New York University (NYU) – Rory Meyers College of Nursing
NYU Rory Meyers is one of the top-ranked nursing schools in the country. It offers flexible pathways, including the 15-month Accelerated BSN, the traditional four-year BSN, and transfer options for students from other colleges.
Students benefit from world-class clinical placements, a modern simulation learning center, and highly respected faculty. In 2024, graduates achieved a 92% NCLEX pass rate, well above the state average.
The college is fully accredited by the CCNE and offers programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, making it a top choice for students who want both quality training and excellent career prospects.
2. Columbia University School of Nursing
Columbia University School of Nursing is one of the oldest nursing schools in the United States, established in 1892. It has built a reputation for preparing leaders in nursing through both classroom study and hands-on clinical training.
The school offers programs for Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Certified Nurse Midwives, and other advanced practice roles, giving students valuable experience in some of New York City’s top healthcare facilities.
Its programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), with additional accreditation for Nurse Midwifery from the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
3. University at Buffalo School of Nursing
The University at Buffalo (UB) School of Nursing, founded in 1936, is another top-ranked nursing school in New York thanks to its strong academic reputation and variety of program options.
UB offers multiple pathways to suit different student needs, including the Traditional BS in Nursing, a 12-month Accelerated BS program for those who already hold a degree, and an RN to BS program designed for practicing nurses who want to advance their education.
At the graduate level, UB provides a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a PhD in Nursing, and advanced certificate options such as Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
Its programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality.4.
4. Stony Brook University School of Nursing
Stony Brook University School of Nursing is one of the top nursing schools in New York, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. At the undergraduate level, students can choose from the Traditional BS program, the Accelerated BSN for second-degree students, and the RN to BS program designed for practicing nurses.
For graduate study, Stony Brook provides a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) pathway, including Nurse Practitioner tracks such as Family, Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric, Neonatal, Nurse Midwifery, and Psychiatric/Mental Health.
The school also offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for advanced clinical practice and a PhD in Nursing for those pursuing research or academic careers.
All its nursing programs are fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
5. CUNY Hunter College — Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing
The Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing at CUNY Hunter College is one of New York’s well-regarded public nursing schools, known for its strong community and urban health focus.
Undergraduate students can choose between the traditional BS in Nursing, the Accelerated Second-Degree (A2D) program for those entering nursing as a new career, or the RN-to-BS track designed for working nurses who want to advance their qualifications.
At the graduate level, Hunter-Bellevue offers multiple specialized programs, including Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health, Community/Public Health Nursing, Nursing Education, and Nursing Administration/Urban Policy and Leadership. Advanced training is also available in Nurse Anesthesia and Acute Care NP practice, giving students the chance to pursue high-demand clinical roles.
The school’s programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), while the Nurse Anesthesia program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).
How to Pick the Right Nursing School in New York
Before you send in your application, know what to look for in a nursing program. Think about things like accreditation (to make sure your degree is recognized), NCLEX pass rates (a good sign of how well the school prepares students), program type (traditional, accelerated, or RN-to-BS), tuition costs, location, clinical placement opportunities, and schedule flexibility. These factors will help you choose a school that truly fits your goals and lifestyle.
General Admission Requirements for Nursing Schools
While each nursing school in New York has its own rules, most share a few basic requirements. You’ll often need prerequisite courses in science and math, a solid GPA, and sometimes entrance exams. Many programs also ask for recommendation letters, personal statements, and proof of volunteer or healthcare-related experience.
Career Paths After Nursing School
New York has one of the highest demands for nurses in the country, which means strong career opportunities after graduation. Depending on your program, you could work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers.
With advanced degrees, you can move into roles such as Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Midwife, or Clinical Specialist. Graduating from one of the top nursing schools in New York can give you an edge, since employers value training from respected and well-connected institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing Schools in New York
1. Which nursing school in New York has the highest NCLEX pass rate?
Pass rates change from year to year, but schools like NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing and the University at Buffalo School of Nursing are often recognized for strong NCLEX results. A high pass rate usually means the school prepares students well for professional practice.
2. Are there affordable nursing schools in New York?
Yes. Public colleges such as CUNY Hunter College and SUNY schools generally offer more affordable tuition compared to private universities, while still providing solid training and clinical opportunities.
3. What’s the difference between an Accelerated BSN and a Traditional BSN?
A Traditional BSN usually takes four years and is meant for first-time college students. An Accelerated BSN is a faster program (often 12–18 months) designed for people who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to switch careers into nursing.
4. Can I work while completing a nursing degree in New York?
It depends on the program. Traditional BSN students sometimes work part-time, but accelerated or graduate-level nursing programs can be very demanding, leaving little room for outside work. Many students choose flexible or weekend jobs if they need extra income.
Conclusion
Each school on our list can open doors to knowledge, skills, and hands-on experiences that prepare you for the real world of healthcare. The key is to find the program that feels like the best fit for you; one that matches your goals and supports your growth.