Best nursing schools in New York: Largest to smallest

With a growing population of 2.7 million nationwide and almost 170,000 across the state of New York, registered nurses (RNs) make up the largest healthcare occupation. In addition, there are more than 1.5 million certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in the US including 99,820 in New York, and more than 730,000 licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in the US including 49,050 in New York.

The state’s nursing population is so large that the New York State Education Department (NYSED) awards thousands of RN, LPN, and CNA licenses each year. To obtain a registered nursing license in the state, you must “present satisfactory evidence of having received at least a two-year degree or diploma from a program in general professional nursing” that has been approved by the NYSED.

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Aspiring registered nurses typically launch their careers with an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. These programs are available at many of the states 100+ accredited nursing schools, which range from private colleges with small class sizes to large public universities. Private institutions boast many of the advanced curriculums that today’s top healthcare employers seek, while public schools offer a smaller price tag and a more diverse collection of program offerings.

Aspiring LPNs and CNAs must complete a state-approved certificate program and obtain licensure to work in the state. Certificate programs are available in abundance at hundreds of New York community colleges, vocational schools, technical schools, and even at some traditional colleges and universities.

We’ve compiled below a list of New York’s best nursing schools and organized them within each geographic region from largest to smallest.