Best RN to BSN Programs in New York in 2024 According to an RN Researcher

Are you an RN in the Empire State, armed with an ASN or ADN and ready to take the next step in your career by earning your BSN degree? As the healthcare industry evolves, the demand for highly skilled nurses is on the rise. Obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can open up new avenues for growth and significantly enhance your nursing practice.

In this comprehensive guide to RN to BSN programs in New York, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to achieve your RN-BSN distinction. From dissecting the admission requirements and course structure to exploring career benefits and salary prospects, this guide will be your one-stop resource.

You’ll gain insight into the financial aid options available, including scholarships, work-study programs, loan forgiveness, and more. We’ll also discuss New York’s stance on the nationwide push for 80% BSN by 2020 initiative, shedding light on the state’s commitment to elevating the nursing profession.

But it doesn’t stop there. This guide also unveils the unique advantages of possessing a BSN degree in the bustling healthcare scene of New York. Lastly, we provide you with a robust list of resources specifically designed to assist RN to BSN nurses in New York, easing your transition and offering support throughout your journey.

From the shores of Long Island to the high peaks of the Adirondacks, the opportunities for BSN-prepared nurses in New York are as vast and diverse as the state itself. Let’s get started on your path to advanced nursing practice in the heart of the Big Apple and beyond.

What Are the Best RN to BSN Programs in New York in 2024 According to an RN Researcher

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See our Ranking Methodology

RN to BSN Programs in New York

New York offers 11 RN to BSN programs, providing registered nurses (RNs) with valuable opportunities to advance their nursing education. These programs focus on expanding clinical skills, fostering leadership development, and increasing career prospects.

By pursuing an RN to BSN program in New York, nurses can gain advanced knowledge in nursing theory, research, and evidence-based practice. They develop critical thinking abilities, sharpen their clinical judgment, and enhance their ability to provide comprehensive patient care.

Additionally, these programs open doors to many career opportunities, including specialization in different nursing fields and leadership roles in healthcare organizations. New York’s RN to BSN programs empower nurses to excel professionally and contribute to the delivery of high-quality healthcare across the state.

University	Offered as	City/State
Columbus State University	Campus, Online	Columbus, GA
South University-Savannah	Campus, Online	Savannah, GA
Georgia Southwestern State University	Campus, Online	Americus, GA
Georgia Southern University	Campus, Hybrid, Online	Statesboro, GA
University of West Georgia	Campus, Online	Carrollton, GA
Georgia College and State University	Campus, Online	, GA
South Georgia State College	Campus	Douglas, GA

Admissions Requirements for New York RN to BSN Programs

Charting the next course in your nursing career? RN to BSN programs in New York offer the crucial stepping stone to escalating your healthcare contribution. To embark on this journey, it’s important to understand the admission requirements. Here’s your guide to these prerequisites, with a deep-dive into each requirement.

Admission Requirements for RN to BSN Programs in New York

• Active RN License: All RN to BSN programs in New York require an active RN license. The license proves you have the fundamental nursing skills and knowledge to pursue advanced study.
• Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing: Programs typically require a completed associate degree or diploma in nursing from an accredited institution. This ensures you possess a baseline understanding of nursing concepts.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts are required from all post-secondary institutions attended. These documents verify your previous academic performance.
• GPA: Most programs in New York require a minimum GPA (typically around 2.5-3.0) in your prior nursing study to ascertain academic capability for the BSN coursework.
• Letters of Recommendation: Though not always required, some programs may request letters of recommendation. These references should ideally highlight your abilities and work ethic.
• Resume or CV: A current resume or CV gives a snapshot of your professional journey, including any nursing experience or accomplishments.
• Personal Statement: Some programs may require a personal statement or essay describing your professional goals and why you’re pursuing a BSN. This helps to assess your motivation and commitment.

Optional but Important: Filling out the FAFSA

Though not a direct admission requirement, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step. It enables you to explore various financial aid options, which can substantially offset your educational expenses. Consider this step as part of your early planning process.

Embarking on RN to BSN programs in New York can be the best decision for your nursing career. Knowing the admission requirements is the first step towards making this transformation happen.

RN to BSN Classes & Courses in New York

Unlocking new career potentials and opportunities, RN to BSN programs in New York provide a rigorous curriculum designed to enhance your nursing knowledge and skills. Let’s explore the core courses that define these programs.

Key Courses in RN to BSN Programs in New York

• Advanced Nursing Concepts: This course delves into complex nursing theories and their practical applications in healthcare settings. It lays the groundwork for understanding and integrating advanced nursing concepts into practice.
• Leadership and Management in Nursing: Here, you’ll learn the essential aspects of leadership and management within the nursing profession. Topics often include team management, strategic planning, conflict resolution, and decision-making.
• Health Assessment: This course is centered on developing advanced skills in patient assessment. You’ll learn to conduct comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessments of patients across the lifespan.
• Community and Public Health Nursing: This course exposes you to concepts related to public health, prevention, and community-oriented nursing practice. It fosters the understanding of the nurse’s role in promoting health and preventing disease in various community settings.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: This course teaches you how to evaluate and apply research findings in nursing practice. It equips you with the tools to improve patient outcomes through evidence-based practice.
• Pathophysiology: This course deepens your understanding of disease processes and their effects on the human body. It builds upon basic science knowledge to prepare nurses for more complex patient care scenarios.
• Healthcare Policy and Advocacy: This course explores the nurse’s role in healthcare policy, including advocating for patients and the nursing profession. It covers policy making processes, health care financing, and health policy analysis.
• Informatics in Nursing: This course introduces you to the use of healthcare technology, including electronic health records and telehealth. It highlights the importance of informatics in improving patient care and health outcomes.

RN to BSN programs in New York equip you with a holistic nursing education that goes beyond clinical skills. These courses foster advanced thinking, leadership skills, and a profound understanding of healthcare systems, thus elevating your nursing practice to new heights.

Online RN to BSN Programs in New York

Moving towards a more advanced role in nursing? The path to joining RN to BSN Programs in New York is straightforward and well-structured, designed with the working nurse in mind. Here’s an insight into the admission process, timeline, and completion period of these programs.

Admission Process and Timeline

• Submit an Application: Most programs start by inviting applications either online or through the mail. Be sure to fill out every section accurately and completely.
• Transcripts: You’ll need to provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, demonstrating your previous academic performance.
• RN License: An active and unencumbered RN license is a prerequisite for admission.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may ask for professional or academic references. Start contacting your recommenders early to meet the deadline.
• Personal Statement: A compelling personal statement is often needed, outlining your professional goals and reasons for pursuing a BSN.

Program Length and Time to Completion

• Part-Time or Full-Time: RN to BSN Programs in New York offer flexibility with part-time or full-time enrollment. You can choose the one that fits your schedule and career aspirations.
• Program Length: On a full-time basis, these programs typically take about 18 months to 2 years to complete. Part-time students might take up to 3 years, depending on the course load each semester.
• Course Credits: These programs generally require around 60 to 70 credits to graduate, including both nursing and general education courses.

When advancing your nursing education with RN to BSN Programs in New York, planning your journey is key. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to new heights in your nursing career.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

A primary consideration for many aspiring BSN students is undoubtedly the cost. Let’s examine the typical tuition and associated costs for RN to BSN Programs in New York.

The cost of an RN to BSN program varies widely based on factors such as location, school, whether the program is online or on-campus, and the length of the program. The total cost usually includes tuition, fees, books, and supplies, and it can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more. Here are a few examples:

• CUNY School of Professional Studies: As a public institution, CUNY offers one of the more affordable RN to BSN programs. For in-state students, tuition can be around $6,930 per academic year.
• Molloy College: A private institution in Rockville Centre, Molloy’s tuition for the RN-BSN program is about $29,500 for the entire program, depending on the number of credits a student transfers in.
• Stony Brook University: This public university offers an RN to BSN program with tuition around $7,070 per year for in-state students.
• University of Buffalo: As part of the SUNY system, in-state tuition for the RN to BSN program is approximately $7,070 per academic year.

Remember, these figures are estimates and can change. Additionally, keep in mind the availability of financial aid and scholarships, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of these RN to BSN Programs in New York. Always check with the institution for the most current tuition information and financial aid opportunities.

Scholarships for RN to BSN Nursing Students

In New York State, several organizations offer scholarships to assist RN to BSN students in covering tuition and related expenses. Below, we’ve compiled a list of seven scholarships available specifically to New York nursing students enrolled in RN to BSN Programs in New York.

1. New York State Nursing Education Scholarship

• Deadline Month: Varies
• Award Amount: Full Tuition
• Website: https://www.hesc.ny.gov

2. Nurse.com GEM Awards Scholarship

• Deadline Month: January
• Award Amount: $2,000
• Website: https://www.nurse.com

3. Foundation of New York State Nurses Scholarship

• Deadline Month: March
• Award Amount: Up to $1,000
• Website: https://www.foundationnysnurses.org

4. NYSNA LBU Scholarship Fund

• Deadline Month: April
• Award Amount: Varies
• Website: https://www.nysna.org

5. Edith M. Wingerd Scholarship

• Deadline Month: February
• Award Amount: $1,000
• Website: https://www.nysna.org

6. New York League for Nursing Scholarship

• Deadline Month: May
• Award Amount: Varies
• Website: https://www.nln.org

7. Professional Nurses Association of Western New York Scholarship

• Deadline Month: March
• Award Amount: Varies
• Website: https://www.pnawny.org

Each of these scholarships has its own specific eligibility criteria and application procedures. It’s crucial to apply early and to as many scholarships as you qualify for. Also, don’t forget about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which unlocks a host of federal financial aid options, including loans, grants, work-study, and sometimes even state and school-based aid. Your journey to an RN to BSN program in New York could be more affordable than you think!

Does an RN to BSN Increase My Salary?

In the nursing field, education makes a significant difference, not only in terms of professional opportunities but also in terms of salary. Pursuing an RN to BSN degree can indeed enhance your earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses with a BSN typically earn higher salaries than those with an associate degree.

Here are additional non-salary benefits of earning your BSN in New York:

• Expanded Opportunities: BSN-prepared nurses often have access to more diverse job opportunities, including positions in research, teaching, and leadership roles. They can also work in specialized nursing areas that require a higher level of expertise.
• Higher Skill Level: RN to BSN Programs in New York provide additional education in areas like public health, leadership, and research, which can enable nurses to offer a higher level of care to their patients.
• Industry Preference: Many healthcare employers prefer, and some even require, nurses to have a BSN. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has reported that 82% of employers express a strong preference for BSN program graduates.

So, while the boost to your paycheck is a compelling reason to consider an RN to BSN program, the benefits don’t stop at the salary. Advancing your nursing education can open doors to new professional opportunities, enhance your skills, and align with industry preferences, making you a valuable asset in the healthcare field.

2024 List of RN to BSN Programs in New York

Program Name	Location	Online	Campus	Hybrid	Accreditation
New York State University, Fullerton	Fullerton	Yes	No	No	CCNE
University of New York, Los Angeles	Los Angeles	No	Yes	No	CCNE
University of San Francisco	San Francisco	Yes	No	Yes	CCNE
San Diego State University	San Diego	No	Yes	No	CCNE
Loma Linda University	Loma Linda	Yes	Yes	Yes	CCNE
New York State University, Sacramento	Sacramento	No	Yes	No	CCNE
West Coast University	Multiple Locations	Yes	Yes	Yes	CCNE
Fresno Pacific University	Fresno	Yes	No	Yes	CCNE
New York State University, Long Beach	Long Beach	No	Yes	No	CCNE
New York State University, San Marcos	San Marcos	Yes	No	Yes	CCNE

Financial Pathways to

As the demand for BSN-prepared nurses continues to rise, New York has responded with a broad selection of programs designed to help RNs advance their careers. The following table presents 10+ notable RN to BSN Programs in New York, offering a variety of formats to suit your lifestyle and learning preference.

Program Name	Location	Online, Campus or Hybrid	Accreditation
SUNY Delhi School of Nursing	Delhi, NY	Hybrid	CCNE
Molloy College	Rockville Centre, NY	Hybrid	CCNE
Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing	New York, NY	Campus	ACEN
University at Buffalo School of Nursing	Buffalo, NY	Online	CCNE
New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing	New York, NY	Campus	CCNE
Stony Brook School of Nursing	Stony Brook, NY	Hybrid	CCNE
Excelsior College School of Nursing	Albany, NY	Online	ACEN
CUNY School of Professional Studies	New York, NY	Online	CCNE
Lehman College Department of Nursing	Bronx, NY	Campus	ACEN
University of Rochester School of Nursing	Rochester, NY	Hybrid	CCNE
Pace University Lienhard School of Nursing	New York, NY	Hybrid	CCNE

Before choosing a program, ensure it aligns with your career goals and can accommodate your schedule. With so many RN to BSN Programs in New York, you’re sure to find one that suits your professional aspirations and educational needs.

Financial Pathways to an RN to BSN in New York

Pursuing an RN to BSN degree is a significant investment in your future. Fortunately, there are numerous funding options available to New York residents to help offset the cost.

• Federal Financial Aid: The U.S. Department of Education provides financial aid in the form of grants, loans, and work-study funds. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the starting point.
• State Aid: New York State provides a variety of financial aid programs, including the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and Excelsior Scholarship.
• Scholarships: Numerous organizations and institutions offer scholarships based on merit, need, field of study, or background.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers provide tuition reimbursement as part of their benefits package, especially for fields in high demand like nursing.
• Work-Study Programs: Federal Work-Study provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs: Certain federal and state loan forgiveness programs exist, like the NYS Nursing Faculty Loan Forgiveness Incentive Program and the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Military Benefits: If you’re a veteran or active-duty military member, you may be eligible for education benefits through the GI Bill.
• Payment Plans: Many schools offer payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of your education over time, making it more manageable.
• Tax Credits: You may be eligible for tax credits such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or the Lifetime Learning Credit.
• Private Student Loans: Private loans can fill the gap when other forms of aid are not enough. These are provided by banks, credit unions, and other lending institutions.

Before you begin any of the RN to BSN Programs in New York, it’s crucial to explore all these funding options to understand what best suits your situation. Remember, investing in your education is investing in your future.

New York’s Pursuit of the 80 Percent BSN Initiative: A Leap Towards Improved Healthcare

In response to the Institute of Medicine’s (now the National Academy of Medicine) landmark report recommending that 80% of RNs hold a BSN degree by 2020, several states have implemented strategies to meet this goal. Among them, New York has taken a unique step forward.

In December 2017, New York became the first state to pass the “BSN in 10” law. This groundbreaking legislation requires newly licensed RNs to obtain a BSN within ten years of initial licensure. This is a significant advancement in the recognition of the BSN as the cornerstone of RN preparation, echoing the IOM’s goals.

The passing of this law underlines the significance of RN to BSN Programs in New York. Existing nurses with an ADN or diploma are not required to go back to school, but the law strongly encourages continued education. This also sends a strong signal to aspiring nurses about the value of a BSN degree for their future career.

New York’s stance reflects the growing national recognition of the need for highly educated nursing workforce, capable of responding to the increasing complexities of the healthcare landscape. It also aligns with evidence that links BSN-prepared nurses with better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates.

This advancement in New York’s nursing education sets the precedent for other states and further emphasizes the crucial role BSN-prepared nurses play in our healthcare system. It’s an exciting time to be part of the nursing profession in the Empire State!

10 Benefits of Earning an RN to BSN in New York

New York is a vibrant state with a diverse healthcare landscape. RN to BSN Programs in New York can be a game-changer for those in the nursing profession. Earning a BSN can provide numerous benefits, including:

1. Higher Salary: BSN-prepared RNs often earn more than their ADN-prepared counterparts due to their additional education and qualifications.
2. Greater Job Opportunities: BSN-prepared nurses can explore a broader range of nursing specialties, leadership roles, and job opportunities in a variety of healthcare settings.
3. Advanced Skills and Knowledge: A BSN degree provides nurses with a deeper understanding of nursing concepts, health policy, and research application, enhancing their problem-solving capabilities.
4. Improved Patient Care: Numerous studies have linked BSN-prepared nurses to better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer medication errors.
5. Eligibility for Graduate Study: A BSN is typically required for admission into graduate nursing programs, including Nurse Practitioner (NP), Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Certified Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), and Nurse Educator programs.
6. Increased Autonomy: BSN-prepared nurses are often afforded a greater level of autonomy in decision-making, reflecting their advanced education.
7. Compliance with the “BSN in 10” Law: Earning a BSN within 10 years of initial RN licensure is a requirement in New York, positioning BSN-prepared nurses favorably for the future.
8. Professional Development: Pursuing a BSN is an excellent demonstration of personal commitment to professional growth and lifelong learning.
9. Opportunities for Leadership Roles: With a BSN, nurses have a greater chance of advancing into management or administrative roles.
10. Employer Preference: Many employers, especially Magnet-designated hospitals, prefer or require a BSN for their nursing staff due to the demonstrated benefits of higher education in nursing.

Whether you’re just starting your nursing career or you’re an experienced RN looking to advance, RN to BSN programs in New York offer a rewarding path for professional and personal growth.

RN to BSN Resources for Nurses in New York

• RN to BSN Programs in Your State: This resource provides comprehensive information about RN to BSN programs across the US, helping you to compare and choose the best program for your needs.
• New York Board of Nursing: The New York Board of Nursing is the regulatory body for nursing practice in New York. It provides licensure information, practice laws, and other critical information for nurses in the state.
• American Nurses Association (ANA) New York: ANA New York is a professional association of registered nurses in New York. They offer various resources, including continuing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
• New York State Student Nurses Association (NYSNA): The NYSNA provides support and resources for nursing students in New York. It’s a useful resource for information on scholarships, educational events, and career development opportunities.
• New York Organization of Nurse Executives and Leaders (NYONEL): NYONEL offers networking, leadership development, and educational resources for nurse leaders in New York.

RN to BSN programs in New York are a significant step toward advancing your nursing career. These resources can provide valuable guidance and support on your educational journey and beyond.

Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Your State

Elevate your nursing career with our curated list of the best RN to BSN programs in each state. Transitioning from a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) opens doors to broader career prospects and deeper clinical knowledge. Our guide spotlights premier programs close to you, paving a well-marked path towards achieving your enhanced nursing ambitions.

See our ranking methodology for RN-to-BSN degree programs.