RN to BSN programs in New York | 2025

RN to BSN programs are a fast and cost-effective way for Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) nurses to further their education and careers. Nurses with Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees often earn more money and have better job opportunities.

This guide explores every RN to BSN school in New York, including their location, tuition costs, and lengths. We'll also discuss the average nurse salary in New York and job outlook.

How to Go From RN to BSN in New York

To become a registered nurse (RN) in New York, students must graduate from an accredited ADN or BSN program. These can be found at community colleges or universities and, in some cases, can be completed online. 

After graduation, students must register for and pass the NCLEX-RN examination. Passing the NCLEX in the state you live in grants you a Registered Nurse state licensure in that state and permits you to legally start working as a registered nurse. New York is not a compact licensure state, so if you want to work as a travel nurse but only have licensure in NY, you will need to apply for a state license in the other state or states where you wish to work. 

In 2017, New York passed the BSN in 10 Law, meaning all RNs must complete their BSN within 10 years of getting their nursing license. For nurses who graduate from an ADN program, that means enrolling in an RN-BSN program. 

Students going from RN to BSN in New York have already finished an ADN program and have nursing experience. These programs aim to further their education and careers with a BSN. Though their title as an RN will not change, they may be able to earn more money and become eligible for better jobs.

RN to BSN Programs in New York

There are four RN-BSN programs we're highlighting in New York. These programs are a mix of public and private, and all four have online options, which makes pursuing an education while working or caring for loved ones more feasible. Some schools also allow preliminary entrance into a BSN program as students await completion of their NCLEX exam.

About RN to BSN Programs in New York

RN to BSN programs in New York are becoming increasingly popular and necessary due to the BS in 10 Law. Those looking to turn their RN to a BSN have four options in the Empire State. Programs range from one to four years, depending on the program and how many credits you have to transfer. Depending on the program, you’ll also have the option to complete your degree online or in person. Let’s dive deeper into the details.

Tuition for RN to BSN Programs in New York

Tuition for RN to BSN programs varies by program. The most affordable program is the Alfred State College program, which requires 60 credits at $500 per credit hour, totaling $30,000+ in tuition. 

On the higher end is Excelsior University, which requires 120 credits at $550 per credit for a total of $66,000+ in tuition. 

The other two programs fall in the middle of the two, but you should also consider other university fees, commuting costs, and fees for study materials.

Admission Requirements for New York RN to BSN Programs

Admission requirements for New York RN to BSN programs differ depending on the school. To understand the specific standards of your chosen school, you should speak with an academic advisor.

However, most RN to BSN programs in New York will have these general prerequisites:

• New York RN license
• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Prerequisite courses (per program)
• Graduation from an accredited ADN program
• All transcripts

Are RN to BSN Programs in New York Difficult?

RN to BSN programs in New York aren’t any more demanding than similar programs or even earning an ADN. Since these programs fill knowledge gaps between ADN and BSN education, many focus on ethics, leadership, and research. 

Compared to the pharmacology and pathophysiology courses you took during your ADN, these classes may feel easier to complete. Many RN-BSN courses can be completed online, and while they may be time-intensive, they may not be as challenging as other technical nursing classes. 

That being said, there are challenging aspects of attending a New York RN to BSN program. For example, you may have a hefty course load, making balancing a job, your social life, and family responsibilities challenging. Some students may find online or hybrid RN to BSN programs the most flexible with other obligations in their lives. 

Working as an RN in New York

RN Salary in New York

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the average wage for RNs in New York is $106,620, which is much higher than the national median annual salary for RNs, which is $94,480 per year or $45.42 per hour. California is currently the highest-paying state for RNs, earning an average yearly salary of $137,690 or $66.20 an hour. 

Career Outlook

The BLS projects that the RN career field will grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all other occupations. Additionally, it estimates 197,200 openings for registered nurses each year. Currently, New York is home to 188,060 RNs.

Where Can You Work? RN-BSN Jobs in New York

Depending on your interests and skills, you can work in several locations as a nurse. The largest and most common employer of nurses is hospitals. Other possible job locations include:

• Ambulatory healthcare services
• Government agencies
• Academia
• Medical and aesthetic spas
• Outpatient clinics
• Long-term care facilities
• Private practice
• Surgery centers
• Urgent care centers

Next Steps

The top RN to BSN programs in New York are perfect for working nurses. These flexible programs allow you to finish your BSN while maintaining a job and personal life. 

For more information on earning an RN to BSN, check out these resources:

• Cheapest & Fastest Online RN to BSN Programs
• Top 10 Online RN to BSN Programs
• Online RN to BSN Programs With No Clinicals

 

FAQs

• How many RN to BSN programs are there in New York?

  • There are four RN to BSN programs in New York - Alfred State College, Daeman University, Le Moyne College, and Excelsior University

• How much do RN to BSN programs in New York cost?

  • CRNA programs range in price from roughly $30,000 to over $66,000, depending on the program. 

• How long are RN to BSN programs in New York? 

  • Since RN to BSN programs are offered online, you can complete many programs within 1 year of full-time study. However, there are programs that begin at the beginning of of your nursing education where you can earn a full BSN in 4 years.

• How many registered nurses are in New York?

  • Currently, there are 188,060 RNs in New York.

• How much do registered nurses in New York make?

  • New York RN annual salaries exceed the national average at $106,620 per year.