The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

New York offers a wide range of opportunities for those aiming to become nurse practitioners (NPs).
With a reputation for high-paying job opportunities, it’s a great state to advance your career in nursing.
If you’re considering enrolling in one of the best nurse practitioner programs in New York, you’ll need to consider various factors, such as accredited programs, specialization options, and financial support.

This guide will help you navigate the top nurse practitioner programs in NYC, including the best options for Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNP), and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP), as well as online and hybrid programs that can accommodate working professionals.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

New York is home to several accredited nurse practitioner programs that provide students with comprehensive training and clinical experience. These programs prepare students for NP certification in New York state, ensuring they meet the necessary qualifications to enter the workforce as skilled, licensed practitioners. Whether you’re looking for a full-time or part-time program, you can find flexible options that suit your schedule.

Our guide provides an overview of the top NP programs, with data sourced from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to help you make an informed choice. These programs are ranked based on factors such as program quality, affordability, reputation, and available specializations, including Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP), and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs.

Accredited Nurse Practitioner Programs in NYC

Accreditation is a critical factor when choosing an NP program in New York. Accredited programs undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure that they meet the highest academic standards, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification exams and successful careers. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is the accrediting body for nursing programs. Enrolling in an accredited program ensures that you can access financial aid, transfer credits easily, and gain certification after graduation.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

1. Columbia University School of Nursing
Location: New York, NY
Website: https://www.nursing.columbia.edu
Columbia University offers a highly regarded Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with several Nurse Practitioner specialties, including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. The program provides rigorous academic and clinical training to prepare students for advanced practice roles in healthcare.

Columbia’s NP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Students benefit from extensive clinical placements in New York’s top healthcare facilities and access to a robust network of healthcare professionals. The program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, and graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams in their chosen specialty.

Campus: New York, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,800 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

2. New York University (NYU) Rory Meyers College of Nursing
Location: New York, NY
Website: https://www.nursing.nyu.edu
NYU offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with multiple Nurse Practitioner specialties, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and clinical expertise in their chosen field.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and offers students clinical rotations in some of the city’s leading hospitals. The program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis and typically takes 2-3 years to finish. Graduates are eligible to take the national certification exam for their specialty.

Campus: New York, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,500 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

3. The State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Health Sciences University
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Website: https://www.downstate.edu/nursing
SUNY Downstate offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with multiple Nurse Practitioner tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed to provide students with the clinical skills, leadership abilities, and theoretical knowledge required for advanced practice nursing.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and students engage in clinical experiences at a variety of healthcare institutions across New York City. The program takes approximately 2-3 years to complete, and graduates are eligible for certification exams in their specialty.

Campus: Brooklyn, NY
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $600 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

4. Hunter College – City University of New York (CUNY)
Location: New York, NY
Website: https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/nursing
Hunter College offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with Nurse Practitioner tracks in Family, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is structured to develop clinical competence and leadership skills while providing high-quality patient care in diverse settings.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and offers students hands-on experience through clinical placements at New York City’s top healthcare facilities. The MSN program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, and graduates are eligible to sit for the certification exam.

Campus: New York, NY
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $710 per credit hour (in-state)
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

5. St. John’s University
Location: Queens, NY
Website: https://www.stjohns.edu/nursing
St. John’s University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with Nurse Practitioner specialties, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing students to provide high-quality care in various healthcare settings.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program offers a combination of online coursework and in-person clinical rotations. The MSN program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, and graduates are eligible for national certification exams in their chosen specialty.

Campus: Queens, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,150 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care

6. Binghamton University
Location: Binghamton, NY
Website: https://www.binghamton.edu/nursing
Binghamton University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with Nurse Practitioner specialties in Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The DNP program is designed for nurses who want to advance their practice while preparing for leadership roles in healthcare settings.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). It combines rigorous academic coursework with clinical practice and is designed to be completed in 3-4 years. Graduates are eligible to take the certification exam for their chosen NP specialty.

Campus: Binghamton, NY
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 3-4 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

7. Pace University
Location: New York, NY
Website: https://www.pace.edu/nursing
Pace University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with Nurse Practitioner tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program prepares nurses to become advanced practice providers capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse populations.

The MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and students complete clinical rotations in a variety of healthcare settings in the New York metropolitan area. The program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, and graduates are eligible for certification exams.

Campus: New York, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,100 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

8. Cornell University
Location: Ithaca, NY
Website: https://www.nursing.cornell.edu
Cornell University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program for aspiring Nurse Practitioners with specialties in Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. The program integrates clinical expertise with advanced leadership training, focusing on healthcare improvement and population health.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Cornell’s DNP program is designed for nurses who want to assume leadership roles in advanced practice. The program typically takes 3-4 years to complete and includes clinical rotations in top healthcare institutions.

Campus: Ithaca, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,400 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 3-4 years
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care

9. The College of New Rochelle (CNR)
Location: New Rochelle, NY
Website: https://www.cnr.edu
The College of New Rochelle offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with specializations in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program emphasizes clinical practice, healthcare leadership, and a holistic approach to patient care.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the MSN program at CNR combines academic coursework with extensive clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings. The program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, with graduates eligible for certification exams in their chosen specialty.

Campus: New Rochelle, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

10. Mount Saint Mary College
Location: Newburgh, NY
Website: https://www.msmc.edu
Mount Saint Mary College offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a Nurse Practitioner track in Family Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed to prepare nurses to provide primary care across the lifespan, focusing on patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and leadership.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Students complete both didactic courses and clinical hours in diverse healthcare settings, preparing them for national certification exams. The program takes 2-3 years to complete.

Campus: Newburgh, NY
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 2-3 years
Online Available: Yes (Hybrid model)
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner

How to Choose the Right Nurse Practitioner Program in New York

When selecting the best NP program for you, consider the following:

1. Specialization: Nurse practitioner programs in New York offer various specializations, including Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP). Think about which specialization aligns with your career goals.
2. Program Duration and Flexibility: Full-time programs may take 2-3 years to complete, while part-time options could take longer. Many programs offer online or hybrid options, which allow for greater flexibility, especially for working professionals.
3. Admission Requirements: Admission requirements for NP programs typically include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an active RN license, and a minimum GPA. Some schools may also require prior clinical nursing experience.
4. Clinical Placement: Clinical placements are an essential part of nurse practitioner education. Many schools in New York assist students in arranging clinical experiences. It’s important to ensure that the program you choose offers suitable clinical opportunities in your area of interest.
5. Accreditation and Reputation: Choose a program that is accredited by recognized bodies, such as CCNE, to ensure you meet the certification and licensure requirements in New York.

Nurse Practitioner Admission Requirements for New York Programs

Admission to nurse practitioner programs in New York typically requires:

• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent degree (e.g., Associate Degree in Nursing with RN licensure for RN-to-MSN programs).
• A minimum GPA, typically 3.0 or higher.
• Licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) in New York.
• Clinical experience, often at least one year as an RN.
• Application materials, which may include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and transcripts.

Program Duration and Flexibility: What to Expect

The length of nurse practitioner programs in New York can vary based on whether you are enrolling full-time or part-time. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) typically takes 2-3 years to complete full-time, while part-time students may take 4-5 years. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs can take 3-6 years, depending on the track.

Financial Aid for Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

The cost of NP programs in New York can be significant, but there are financial aid options available. Many schools offer scholarships, grants, and federal student loans to help students cover tuition and other expenses. In-state students typically pay lower tuition rates compared to out-of-state students.

Salary and Career Outlook for Nurse Practitioners in New York

New York offers competitive salaries for nurse practitioners, with salaries varying based on specialization. For example, Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) in New York can earn around $110,000 per year, while Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) can earn up to $129,000 annually. The job outlook for NPs in New York is strong, with demand for qualified practitioners in primary care, mental health, pediatrics, and other specialties.

Online and Hybrid Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

Online NP programs in New York provide flexibility for working professionals. Many programs offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with clinical placements in your local area. Online options allow students to balance work, school, and personal responsibilities while still receiving a quality education.

Certification and Licensure Requirements for Nurse Practitioners in New York

After completing an accredited NP program in New York, you must pass a certification exam relevant to your chosen specialty. For example, FNPs must pass the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam. After certification, you will need to apply for licensure as a nurse practitioner in New York state. You will also need to maintain your certification and licensure through continuing education.

Specializations in Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

Nurse practitioner programs in New York offer a variety of specializations, including:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): This specialization prepares nurses to provide primary care to individuals and families across the lifespan.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): This program focuses on the care of children, from infants to adolescents.
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): This track prepares NPs to provide mental health care, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.

Each specialization offers different career opportunities, salary potentials, and job outlooks.

Family Nurse Practitioner Certification in New York

Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in New York requires completing an accredited MSN or DNP program, followed by obtaining FNP certification. FNPs play a crucial role in providing primary and preventative care, and they are in high demand throughout the state.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNPs) specialize in caring for children, from newborns to young adults. New York offers various programs where you can gain the necessary skills to become a PNP, including both full-time and part-time options.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) specialize in the mental health field, diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions. If you’re interested in working in mental health, New York offers accredited programs to help you obtain your PMHNP certification.

Frequently Asked Questions About NP Programs in New York

• How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner in New York?
  • Becoming a nurse practitioner typically requires earning a BSN, completing clinical work as an RN, and then pursuing an MSN or DNP program. The whole process can take 6-8 years, including undergraduate and graduate education.
• What is the salary range for nurse practitioners in New York?
  • Salaries for nurse practitioners in New York vary by specialty. For example, FNPs typically earn $110,000 annually, while PMHNPs earn approximately $129,000. The salary range depends on experience, location, and specialization.
• What are the educational requirements for NP certification in New York?
  • To become an NP in New York, you must complete an accredited MSN or DNP program with a focus on your chosen specialty. Certification exams and state licensure are required after graduation.

New York’s nurse practitioner programs are diverse, offering a range of specializations and online options to accommodate various career goals. Whether you’re looking to enter a Family Nurse Practitioner program, pursue certification in psychiatry or pediatrics, or seek affordable options, you’ll find the right program to help you advance your career in nursing.