The state of New York is home to an impressive population of almost 170,000 registered nurses (RNs). Approximately 10,000 of these RNs live in the Capital District, a region that encompasses Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and the surrounding areas. The Capital District is also home to about 5,000 certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and almost 2,800 licensed practical nurses (LPNs). While the region’s nursing industry offers a number of promising opportunities, the field is still very competitive. To get your foot in the door at the area’s top hospitals, you will need the right education, licensure, and work experience.
Registered nurses perform a variety of healthcare duties, from administering treatment and medications to educating patients and the public about medical conditions. These nursing professionals typically hold a hospital diploma, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in registered nursing. All RNs must also pass the NCLEX-RN national licensure examination.
Graduates of the Capital District’s accredited nursing schools are prepared to seek positions with top local employers such as Albany Memorial Hospital, Columbia Memorial Hospital, Ellis Hospital, Seton Health System, and Samaritan Hospital. Local salaries are very competitive. Capital District-based RNs earn a median annual salary of $58,890. The area’s LPNs earn $39,540 per year on average, while its CNAs earn $26,790 per year.
To help aspiring nurses in the Capital District find the best education, we’ve compiled below a complete list of the region’s top nursing schools and programs.