The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

New York stands out as an excellent destination for those aspiring to become nurse practitioners, consistently ranking among the top five states with the highest pay for NPs. Explore the top five NP programs in New York through this guide. If you are contemplating enrolling in nurse practitioner (NP) programs in New York, you likely have questions about the admission process, expectations during clinicals, and how to identify accredited NP programs. Another crucial consideration for many prospective NP students is navigating the financial aspects of pursuing a graduate degree.

Delve into insights about potential careers as a nurse practitioner, the application process for NP programs, and strategies for funding your graduate-level education. Once you identify the specific data points you wish to explore, gain access to the top five NP programs in New York in this guide. Our methodology relies on a data-driven approach to rank the best nurse practitioner programs in NY, streamlining the process of finding a program that aligns with your needs. We base our methodology on metrics that we consider vital to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

New York Nursing Schools and Programs

The Best New York Nurse Practitioner Programs and Schools

We rely on publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

The Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

The Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

1. Stony Brook University

– Location: Stony Brook, NY
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Stony Brook University, part of the State University of New York System, provides a range of master of science in nursing education degrees, including an online family nurse practitioner program. The comprehensive 45-credit curriculum equips graduates to manage both acute and chronic health conditions through health promotion, maintenance, and restoration.

Mandatory core courses cover family nursing theory and interventions, organizational leadership, safety and technology, and policy and advocacy. The Office of Clinical Placements collaborates with faculty to secure suitable placements for students.

– Program: Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Stony Brook, New York
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $471 per credit for New York residents; $963 per credit for out-of-state students
– Admission Requirements: BSN; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; minimum one year of clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 95.5% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $105,660 for master’s graduates (College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $7,070
– Out-of-state: $24,740
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $11,310
– Out-of-state: $23,100
– Retention Rate: 90%
– Admission Rate: 49%
– Students Enrolled: 26,782
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 90%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

2. Hofstra University

– Location: Hempstead, NY
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

Situated near New York City on Long Island, Hofstra University offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate programs. The master of science program in the family nurse practitioner track admits students in the fall semester only.

The 51-credit degree emphasizes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, as well as preventive healthcare. Students are required to complete a total of 840 direct clinical care hours and a project that incorporates evidence-based practice to address a significant healthcare problem or issue.

– Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Hempstead, New York
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $1,570 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; minimum of two years of clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $48,315
– Out-of-state: $48,315
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $26,172
– Out-of-state: $26,172
– Retention Rate: 82%
– Admission Rate: 69%
– Students Enrolled: 10,444
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 14%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. Wagner College

– Location: Staten Island, NY
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Campus

Wagner College, situated in Staten Island, New York, offers various undergraduate liberal arts majors and graduate programs in business administration, education, microbiology, physician assistant, and nursing. The 45-credit master’s in nursing features a family nurse practitioner concentration designed for practicing RNs. The program offers conveniently scheduled classes in the late afternoons, evenings, and weekends.

Students take core classes in pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and management of common conditions, along with specialized coursework in family nursing, research, and policy.

– Program: Master in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Staten Island, New York
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
– Tuition: $1,255 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN, including a course in nursing research; current RN license; minimum 3.2 GPA; clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 85.9% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $106,420 for master’s graduates (College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $48,010
– Out-of-state: $48,010
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $22,230
– Out-of-state: $22,230
– Retention Rate: 75%
– Admission Rate: 70%
– Students Enrolled: 2,070
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: Not provided
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

All Professional Nursing Organizations in New York

4. SUNY Polytechnic Institute

– Location: Utica, NY
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

SUNY Polytechnic Institute, spanning 400 acres at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains, serves over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The master of science in nursing offers a hybrid family nurse practitioner track. During the first semester, students must attend onsite classes one day per week, with the number of campus visits decreasing over the course of the program.

The 45-credit degree requires 800 hours of clinical experience and a comprehensive final exam.

– Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Utica, New York
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $471 per credit for New York residents; $963 per credit for out-of-state students
– Admission Requirements: BSN; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $96,630 for master’s graduates (College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $7,070
– Out-of-state: $16,980
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $11,310
– Out-of-state: $23,100
– Retention Rate: 82%
– Admission Rate: 73%
– Students Enrolled: 3,044
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 97%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

5. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

– Location: Brooklyn, NY
– Duration: 4 years
– Format: Online + Campus

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, with the only academic medical center in Brooklyn, New York, offers a master of science in nursing with concentrations in nursing education and women’s health.

The women’s health nurse practitioner track takes a holistic approach to obstetrics and gynecological care, focusing on health promotion and disease prevention for women throughout their lifespan. Students must complete 44 credits over five semesters.

– Program: Master of Science in Nursing
– Campus: Brooklyn, New York
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $471 per credit for New York residents; $963 per credit for out-of-state students
– Admission Requirements: BSN; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 88.2% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $113,740 for master’s graduates (College Scorecard)
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $7,070
– Out-of-state: $16,980
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $11,310
– Out-of-state: $23,100
– Retention Rate: Not provided
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 2,118
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 62%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Upstate Medical University

Syracuse, NY
4 years
Online + Campus

Upstate Medical University, located in Syracuse, New York, serves as the only academic medical center in central New York. The institution offers a comprehensive master of science program with a specialized track in adult geriatric nurse practitioner, providing both online and in-person learning formats. The program, spanning 50 credits, encompasses advanced practice nursing, nursing theory, family theory, advanced pathophysiology, and pharmacology. It places a strong emphasis on organizational leadership, healthcare policy, and research.

To fulfill clinical practice requirements, students collaborate with the program to secure placements, which include opportunities at Upstate University Hospital and approved sites throughout New York.

– Program: Master of Science – Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Syracuse, New York
– Type: Public
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $471 per credit for New York residents; $963 per credit for out-of-state students
– Admission Requirements: BSN; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; minimum of one year of clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 17 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $93,960 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $7,070
– Out-of-state: $16,980
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $11,310
– Out-of-state: $23,100
– Retention Rate: Not provided
– Admission Rate: Not provided
– Students Enrolled: 1,528
– Institution Type: Public
– Percent Online Enrollment: 46%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Mercy College

Dobbs Ferry, NY
4 years
Online + Campus

Mercy College, situated approximately 20 miles north of Manhattan along the Hudson River, has been offering undergraduate and graduate education since 1950. The School of Health and Natural Sciences hosts the family nurse practitioner master’s program, designed to train registered nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care, with a focus on managing acute and chronic medical conditions.

The 42-credit program includes 12 credits of core coursework covering health policy, biostatistics and epidemiology, and foundations of nursing theory and research. Additionally, students engage in 200 hours of precepted clinical placements per semester for three semesters.

– Program: Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Dobbs Ferry, New York
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $971 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 41.1% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $124,270 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $19,578
– Out-of-state: $19,578
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $16,686
– Out-of-state: $16,686
– Retention Rate: 74%
– Admission Rate: 82%
– Students Enrolled: 9,547
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 87%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Pace University

New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus

Pace University, established in 1906, boasts over 13,000 students enrolled in 135 undergraduate and 89 graduate programs across campuses in New York City and Westchester. The College of Health Professions offers master of science programs with various tracks, including adult-gerontology, nursing education, and family practitioner.

The master of science-family practitioner program, available at both campuses, centers on evidence-based, culturally competent primary healthcare for families and communities. With a curriculum spanning 42 credits, the program provides flexible online and on-campus course options along with individually precepted clinical placements.

– Program: Master of Science-Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: New York, New York
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $1,420 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN, valid RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA; undergraduate statistics course with a grade of “B” or above
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 74.7% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $107,610 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $45,832
– Out-of-state: $45,832
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $32,256
– Out-of-state: $32,256
– Retention Rate: 73%
– Admission Rate: 83%
– Students Enrolled: 12,835
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 90%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Long Island University

Brookville, NY
4 years
Online + Campus

Long Island University, offering a diverse array of programs at its Brooklyn and Post campuses, stands out with its LIU-Post campus situated on over 300 acres in the village of Brookville on Long Island’s North Shore.

The LIU-Post campus presents a master of science in nursing, featuring adult-gerontology and family nurse practitioner concentrations. The 46-credit family nurse practitioner program, designed to span seven semesters, adopts a blended format with approximately half of the coursework delivered online.

– Program: Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Brookville, New York
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $1,325 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN; valid RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; health assessment, research, and statistics courses; minimum of one year of clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 62.9% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $106,420 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $37,182
– Out-of-state: $37,182
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $22,482
– Out-of-state: $22,482
– Retention Rate: 77%
– Admission Rate: 85%
– Students Enrolled: 15,066
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 20%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 College of Mount Saint Vincent

Bronx, NY
4 years
Campus

Established in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity of New York in the Riverdale community of the Bronx, the College of Mount Saint Vincent enrolls over 1,800 students. The master of science-family nurse practitioner degree, tailored for practicing RNs, offers convenient late afternoon or evening classes. The 42-credit curriculum requires 15 credits in core coursework covering theory, research, leadership, ethics, and healthcare policy. Additionally, students delve into nine credits in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, along with 21 credits in family nurse practitioner and practicum courses.

– Program: Master of Science – Family Nurse Practitioner
– Campus: Bronx, New York
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $850 per credit
– Admission Requirements: BSN; valid RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; nursing research, and statistics courses with a grade of “C” or above; minimum of one year of clinical practice
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 63.1% first-time pass rate
– Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $108,090 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
– Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $39,500
– Out-of-state: $39,500
– Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $18,406
– Out-of-state: $18,406
– Retention Rate: 76%
– Admission Rate: 93%
– Students Enrolled: 2,663
– Institution Type: Private
– Percent Online Enrollment: 25%
– Accreditation: Yes, Middle States Commission on Higher Education

What to Look For in an NP Program

What to Consider in a Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program in New York

Admission Criteria

When exploring New York nurse practitioner programs, understanding the admission requirements is crucial. Each program has specific criteria, typically including a minimum GPA, current RN licensure, and a stipulated amount of RN experience.

Areas of Specialization

The specialization offered by each program is a pivotal factor. Before enrolling in a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, determining your desired career path is essential, as each specialization has distinct graduation and time commitments.

Curriculum Highlights

The NP curriculum focuses on developing professional expertise necessary for specialized care in diverse healthcare settings. Courses such as pharmacology, health promotion, and disease prevention are common. However, the specifics vary between programs, making it imperative to explore the unique course offerings of each.

Clinical Training

Clinical requirements are integral to NP programs, but the format can differ. While all programs necessitate specific practicum hours, the weekly commitment may vary. Understanding these requirements, including the number of hours and locations, is vital to align them with your personal and professional commitments.

It’s beneficial to inquire if the school assists in arranging clinical placements for students.

Accreditation Status

Verifying whether a program holds accreditation is paramount. Accredited programs undergo rigorous evaluations covering faculty, curriculum, clinical hours, and more. Graduating from an accredited program is often preferred by employers, and it may be a requirement for state NP certification.

Program Duration

Becoming an NP typically takes 6-8 years, encompassing a bachelor’s in nursing, clinical RN experience, and a graduate degree. Direct-entry MSN programs usually span 2-3 years full-time or up to 48 months part-time.

Considering the program’s length and credit requirements is crucial, especially for those managing full-time work and other responsibilities.

NCLEX Pass Rate

While NP candidates have completed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) as RNs, the school’s NCLEX pass rate remains indicative of the nursing school’s quality and its effectiveness in preparing students for their nursing careers.

Graduation Rates

Understanding the graduation rates of NP programs provides insights into their achievability. Examining the number of students who successfully completed the program in the past aids in evaluating its overall effectiveness.

Online Learning Options

Choosing between in-person and online programs is another consideration. Online programs offer convenience, particularly for working students. It’s crucial to review the program’s format, such as synchronous (live) or asynchronous (flexible schedule) courses.

Ensuring the online schedule aligns with your obligations is essential for a seamless learning experience.

Why Is NP Program Accreditation Important?

Accreditation is a third-party evaluation ensuring that academic programs and clinicals meet industry standards. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) serves as the accrediting body for MSN programs.

Every NP program listed among our top-ranked programs in New York holds accreditation. This is significant for several reasons:

– Quality Assurance: Accreditation guarantees the quality of NP programs.
– Credit Transfer: Credits from unaccredited schools may not be transferrable to NP programs.
– National Standards: Graduates from accredited nursing programs meet national standards for nursing practice.
– Certification Preparation: Accreditation ensures that programs provide the necessary curriculum and clinical experience for NP certification tests.
– Financial Aid Eligibility: Federal financial aid may not be available for students attending unaccredited NP programs.
– Employment Opportunities: Graduating from an accredited MSN program can enhance job prospects.

Applying to a New York Nurse Practitioner Program

Once you identify the right NP program, understanding the admission requirements is crucial for a smooth enrollment process. Generally, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an unencumbered RN license are prerequisites.

Admission Requirements

Specific requirements vary by school and program type. For an RN-to-MSN program, prerequisites may include an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a 3.0 or higher GPA, and at least one year of nursing experience. A BSN-to-MSN program typically requires a BSN, an unencumbered RN license, a 3.0 GPA, and a year of clinical experience.

Application Materials

Common prerequisites include anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and microbiology courses. Additionally, an online application, application fee, letters of recommendation, and an in-person or online interview may be required. Criminal background checks and graduate-level test scores, such as GRE or GMAT, may also apply.

GPA Requirement

Many NP programs require a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Paying for Nurse Practitioner Programs

Various factors impact the financial aspects of attending NP programs in New York:

– Schedule Flexibility: A flexible schedule allows working while studying, affecting financial considerations.
– Program Length: The overall duration of the program influences costs.
– Institution Type: Private schools tend to be more expensive than state colleges.
– Residency Status: In-state tuition is typically lower than out-of-state tuition.
– Living Arrangements: Living on or off-campus and the cost of living in the school’s area are crucial factors.

Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and federal loans, are available to assist students in financing their NP education.

What Can You Do With a Degree from a Nurse Practitioner Program?

NP programs offer various specialty tracks, each presenting unique opportunities and salary potentials. Specializations prepare nurses for certification in specific fields of study.

Many MSN-level NP programs prepare graduates for certification in areas such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), opening avenues in primary care. The demand for FNPs is high, addressing critical gaps in skilled advanced practice RNs.

According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), potential earnings by specialty include:

– Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: $60.00 per hour / $110,000 annual salary
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: $64.00 per hour / $129,000 annual salary
– Family Nurse Practitioner: $57.00 per hour / $110,000 annual salary

Frequently Asked Questions About NP Programs in New York

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

The typical duration for completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is four years, but the inclusion of applicable transfer credits might reduce this timeframe. Bridge or accelerated programs may also be accessible for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees or Registered Nurses (RNs) with Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADNs). Upon obtaining a BSN, the average time to finish a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) nurse practitioner program is 1-2 years, while a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program spans 3-6 years.

How do I become a nurse practitioner in New York?

Becoming a nurse practitioner in New York involves several steps. Initially, you must earn a BSN degree, successfully complete the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, and accumulate a minimum of one year of work experience as an RN. Subsequently, you need to graduate from an MSN or DNP program, acquire NP state licensure, and obtain national board certification.

What is the salary range for nurse practitioners in New York?

The salary for a nurse practitioner in New York is influenced by various factors, including the specific area of practice, certification status, the type of degree held (MSN or DNP), and the geographic location within the state. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for nurse practitioners is $121,610. The 10th percentile earns $87,340 annually, while the 90th percentile boasts a yearly salary of $165,240.

What are the educational requirements for NP certification in New York?

To attain NP certification in New York, students must graduate from an accredited MSN or a doctoral nursing program. Additionally, the program must offer a specialty track or concentration tailored for specific nurse practitioner certifications. These educational requirements ensure that individuals receive the necessary training and expertise to excel in their chosen NP specialty.