Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in New York

In the dynamic and culturally rich state of New York, nurse practitioners (NPs) serve as crucial figures in advanced practice nursing, delivering expert clinical care across diverse healthcare settings. For individuals aspiring to contribute to comprehensive healthcare solutions and foster well-being throughout the state, we have meticulously examined the top NP programs available.

Discover these programs below, exploring their distinctive offerings and attributes, along with comprehensive details on how to embark on the journey to becoming an NP in New York. We delve into salary expectations and provide answers to frequently asked questions.

Whether you’re a prospective student eager to commence your educational voyage or an experienced practicing nurse looking to advance your career, New York presents an array of NP programs tailored to meet your specific needs.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in New York

The following institutions have been selected based on onlinenursingwritings’ methodology, incorporating reader surveys and considering factors such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, pricing, mode of delivery, duration, and admission rates from some of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Columbia University

Columbia University’s School of Nursing, part of the prestigious Ivy League institution, is renowned for its commitment to excellence. It offers cutting-edge nursing programs designed to prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare. The school’s research initiatives significantly contribute to the advancement of nursing science.

Columbia University provides several NP concentrations through its MSN degree:

– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
– Family Nurse Practitioner
– Pediatrics Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Columbia University stands as a beacon of quality education.

2. New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing

Situated in the heart of New York City, NYU’s Rory Meyers College of Nursing is celebrated for its innovative nursing programs. Offering a range of undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees, the college places a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice in the dynamic urban setting.

Through its MSN degree, NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing provides several NP Concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
– Family Nurse Practitioner
– Pediatrics Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
– Pediatrics Primary Care/Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Accredited by the CCNE, NYU exemplifies excellence in nursing education.

3. Stony Brook University, SUNY

Stony Brook University’s School of Nursing, part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, is recognized for its commitment to diversity and preparing nurses to meet the healthcare needs of underserved populations. The school offers a range of nursing programs with a focus on community engagement.

Stony Brook University presents several NP concentrations through its MSN degree:

– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
– Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
– Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
– Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Stony Brook University stands as a paragon of nursing education.

4. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester School of Nursing is a leader in healthcare education and research, located in upstate New York. It offers nursing programs emphasizing interprofessional collaboration and preparing nurses for leadership roles in healthcare delivery and research.

Rochester’s School of Nursing provides several MSN NP concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
– Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
– Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, the University of Rochester sets the standard for excellence in nursing education.

5. Molloy College

Located in Rockville Centre, New York, Molloy College’s School of Nursing offers a compassionate and holistic approach to nursing education. The programs focus on providing quality care and preparing students for fulfilling careers in various healthcare settings.

Molloy College’s MSN degree offers five NP concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
– Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Molloy College emphasizes comprehensive nursing education.

6. Saint John Fisher College

Saint John Fisher College’s Wegmans School of Nursing offers nursing programs that prepare students for compassionate patient care. The focus is on critical thinking, ethical practice, and clinical excellence.

The MSN degree at Saint John Fisher College offers four NP concentrations:

– Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (PCFNP)
– Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
– Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
– Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Saint John Fisher College exemplifies dedication to nursing excellence.

7. Binghamton University, SUNY

Binghamton University, a SUNY institution, offers nursing programs with a focus on research and evidence-based practice. The programs prepare students to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, providing opportunities for research and clinical experience.

Through its MSN and DNP degrees, Binghamton University offers three NP concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
– Family Nurse Practitioner
– Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Accredited by the CCNE, Binghamton University is a stalwart in nursing education.

8. Hunter College of CUNY

Hunter College’s School of Nursing, part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, provides high-quality nursing education in a diverse urban environment. The nursing programs emphasize cultural competence and community engagement.

Through its MSN and graduate certificates, Hunter College offers two NP concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (MS)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MS)

Accredited by the CCNE, Hunter College is dedicated to producing competent and culturally aware nurses.

9. Pace University

Pace University’s College of Health Professions offers nursing programs designed to prepare students for real-world healthcare challenges. The focus is on hands-on experience and interprofessional collaboration to develop well-rounded nurses.

Pace University offers three NP concentrations through its DNP degree:

– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Pace University stands as a hub for innovative nursing education.

10. University at Buffalo-SUNY

The University at Buffalo’s School of Nursing, part of the SUNY

system, offers a range of nursing programs with a strong emphasis on research and innovation. The programs prepare nurses to be leaders in healthcare and contribute to advancements in the field.

Three NP concentrations are offered through the university’s DNP degree:

– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
– Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, the University at Buffalo’s program is delivered in a hybrid format and offers a comprehensive educational experience.

11. Hofstra Northwell

Hofstra University’s partnership with Northwell Health provides students with unique clinical opportunities. Their nursing programs prepare students to excel in various healthcare settings and emphasize evidence-based practice.

Through its MSN, DNP, and graduate certificate options, Hofstra Northwell offers four NP concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Hofstra Northwell ensures a comprehensive and innovative nursing education.

12. Daemen College

Daemen College’s nursing programs focus on preparing students for the evolving healthcare landscape. They offer a holistic approach to nursing education and emphasize the importance of ethical practice and community engagement.

Through its MSN degree and graduate certificates, two NP concentrations are available:

– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
– Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)

Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Daemen College is dedicated to fostering ethical and competent nursing professionals.

13. Mount Saint Mary College

Mount Saint Mary College’s School of Nursing provides nursing programs that combine a strong foundation in nursing practice with a commitment to social responsibility. They prepare nurses to make a positive impact on their communities.

The college offers three NP concentrations through its MSN degree:

– Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
– Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Mount Saint Mary College focuses on instilling a sense of social responsibility in its nursing graduates.

14. Adelphi University

Adelphi University’s College of Nursing and Public Health offers nursing programs that emphasize patient-centered care and interprofessional collaboration. They prepare students for diverse nursing roles and leadership positions.

Through its MSN degree, Adelphi University offers two NP concentrations:

– Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
– Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Accredited by the CCNE, Adelphi University is dedicated to producing nursing professionals with a focus on patient-centered care.

15. Le Moyne College

Le Moyne College’s nursing programs focus on educating nurses who are well-prepared for the challenges of modern healthcare. They emphasize clinical practice and ethical decision-making.

Through its MSN, DNP, and graduate certificate options, Le Moyne College offers an NP concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Graduates are trained as competent and compassionate clinicians who provide top-notch care to diverse, under-served, and vulnerable populations.

Accredited by the CCNE, Le Moyne College is committed to preparing nurses who excel in clinical practice and ethical decision-making.

Nurse Practitioner Overview

In New York, NPs serve as cornerstone figures in advanced practice nursing, imparting clinical expertise across many care settings, from acute care hospitals to primary care clinics. An NP’s journey in New York typically initiates with obtaining an RN license, subsequently followed by deeper academic exploration, culminating in an MSN or DNP degree.

Upon the conclusion of their NP training, New York graduates are obligated to clear a stringent national certification exam to secure their advanced practice license. Their clinical skills are regularly assessed, and they engage in periodic peer reviews to ensure adherence to the highest patient care standards.

NPs in New York are revered across various healthcare domains, including emergency wards, urgent care hubs, outpatient facilities, hospitals, and private medical establishments.

Coursework

Nurse Practitioner (NP) education equips professionals with the vital knowledge and skills to excel as specialized APRNs through a thorough coursework curriculum. Some of the general coursework you can expect in an NP Program includes:

– Introduction to NP Role and Scope: Understanding the Nurse Practitioner role and the scope of practice in various healthcare settings.
– Foundational Nursing Knowledge: Exploring essential nursing concepts and principles as the foundation for advanced practice.
– Advanced Health Assessment: In-depth study of conducting comprehensive physical health assessments to inform diagnosis and treatment.
– Diagnostic Methods: Learning and interpreting diagnostic procedures, including X-rays and laboratory examinations.
– Clinical Assessment of Acute and Chronic Health Challenges: Courses focused on recognizing and addressing acute and chronic health challenges.
– Pharmacology: Study of medications, including ordering prescriptions and understanding therapeutic courses of action.
– Patient Education: Training patients on preventive strategies, treatment options, and self-care practices.
– Specialization Electives: Optional courses in specialization electives enable students to customize their education by focusing on a specific area of interest, such as family medicine, pediatrics, gerontology, or psychiatric nursing.

Note: Various NP programs may provide diverse specialization options, allowing students to personalize their education according to their career objectives.

Clinical Training

The practical training aspect of NP education is crucial for the development of practical skills. It encompasses:

Introduction to Clinical Placement: Providing an overview of the practical component of NP training, emphasizing the integration of theory into real-world practice.

Immersive Experience in Acute Care Settings: Involving hands-on experiences in emergency wards and other acute care environments to handle critical situations.

Clinical Rotations in Primary Care Clinics: Focusing on holistic patient care and management through clinical rotations in primary care settings.

Exposure to Outpatient Facilities: Providing firsthand experience in outpatient care settings and community-based healthcare for a well-rounded clinical experience.

Clinical Training in Hospitals: Gaining practical experience within hospital settings, exposing students to diverse medical scenarios and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.

Supervision and Peer Reviews: Overviewing the supervision process and engaging in periodic peer reviews to ensure adherence to high patient care standards and continuous improvement.

Specialized Clinical Rotations: Offering opportunities for clinical rotations in settings related to the chosen specialty, enabling students to apply their skills in specialized healthcare scenarios.

NP programs adopt a structured approach that provides students with a comprehensive education while allowing for specialization in specific areas of healthcare practice. Depending on the program, students may have various specialization options available to help them achieve specific career goals.

Primary NP Responsibilities:

• Conducting comprehensive physical health assessments.
• Initiating and interpreting diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays and laboratory examinations.
• Recognizing and addressing both acute and chronic health challenges.
• Endorsing medications and determining therapeutic courses of action.
• Educating patients about preventive strategies, treatment options, and self-care practices.

NP Concentrations

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) have the opportunity to specialize in various concentrations, each contributing distinct and valuable skills to healthcare. Some popular concentrations include:

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

FNPs play a crucial role in family-centered healthcare, delivering medical expertise and personalized services across all ages. Beyond treating illnesses, they prioritize preventive care, actively engaging in health education and advocating for overall wellness.

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

WHNPs provide specialized care tailored to the unique health needs of women throughout their life stages. They go beyond traditional roles, offering comprehensive services in family planning and addressing complex gynecological concerns.

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

AGNPs focus on the diverse healthcare needs of individuals from early adulthood to those over 65. Masters of managing acute and chronic conditions, they advocate for preventive care, health promotion, and tailored education.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

NNPs specialize in providing advanced care to newborns, especially those born prematurely or with health issues. They collaborate within multidisciplinary teams in neonatal intensive care units, offering specialized interventions and emotional support to families.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

PNPs champion pediatric health, managing healthcare needs from infancy to adolescence. They emphasize developmental assessments, routine wellness evaluations, and guidance on proper nutrition.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

PMHNPs address a broad spectrum of mental health disorders, offering comprehensive care approaches. Beyond clinical care, they advocate for mental well-being, raising awareness and fostering understanding within communities.

Each NP concentration provides unique skills, contributing to holistic patient well-being within their specific domains. By choosing a concentration, NPs become specialists in their chosen field, advocating for preventive care, education, and patient empowerment.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in New York

The pathway to becoming an NP in New York generally involves the following steps:

1. Attain RN Licensure in New York:

• Graduate from a nursing program approved by the New York State Education Department, either with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
• Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to secure your registered nurse license in New York.
• Consider that many advanced nursing programs prefer candidates with a BSN.

2. Pursue Advanced Nursing Education:

• Enroll in an MSN or DNP program with a nurse practitioner specialty track, ensuring accreditation by organizations like the CCNE or ACEN.
• Complete all academic and clinical requirements specified by the chosen program.

3. Obtain National Certification:

After completing advanced studies, choose an NP specialty and take the corresponding national certification exam offered by entities like the ANCC or AANP.

4. Acquire NP Licensure in New York:

• Apply for Nurse Practitioner certification through the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions.
• Submit all required documentation, including proof of RN licensure, advanced degree achievements, and national certification.
• Note that New York may have additional requirements, such as a criminal background check.

5. Uphold Licensure and Certification:

• Stay updated on the latest nursing practices and New York state regulations.
• Engage in ongoing professional development to meet renewal criteria for both state licensure and national certification.
• Regularly renew your license and certification, fulfilling continuing education and clinical practice hour requirements as stipulated by the New York State Education Department and the certification body.

It’s advisable to check with the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions or relevant entities for any updates in requirements or processes.

Costs of NP Programs

The costs of NP programs can vary widely based on the institution, location, and program type. For example:

The University of Rochester charges over $1,700 per credit hour.

Le Moyne College’s DNP program charges just over $1,000 per credit hour.

Considerations when researching program costs include:

• Tuition: Varies based on public/private, in-state/out-of-state status, and whether charged per credit hour or as a flat rate.
• Fees: Include application fees, registration fees, technology fees, lab fees, and other miscellaneous charges imposed by the institution.
• Books and Supplies: Textbooks and medical supplies like stethoscopes may add to costs.
• Clinical Costs: Some programs may require students to pay for clinical placements, including travel expenses.
• Certifications and Licensing: Costs associated with national certification exams and obtaining a state license.
• Living Expenses: Consider housing, food, and transportation, especially for full-time programs limiting work.

Additional considerations include health insurance, technology expenses, travel and accommodation for on-campus requirements, continuing education after graduation, and more.

Salary Expectations

While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides national average NP salary information, specific data for New York is not available. According to ZipRecruiter, the average NP salary in New York is $138,555 or $67.00 per hour.

Top-paying states for NPs include California, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Nevada.

Compare NP Salary by State with a comprehensive nursing salary guide.

 

Are NP Programs Worth It? Evaluating the Investment

Enrolling in NP programs represents a substantial commitment in terms of time, effort, and financial resources. The decision to pursue such programs hinges on individual career aspirations, financial considerations, and personal circumstances. A comprehensive assessment of the pros and cons is crucial to making an informed decision tailored to one’s needs.

Pros of NP Programs

1. Increased Earning Potential: NPs typically enjoy a higher salary compared to registered nurses (RNs), justifying the long-term investment in an NP program.

2. Expanded Scope of Practice: NPs possess a broader scope of practice, encompassing the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses, prescription authority, and overall management of patient care. This autonomy translates to a more substantial role in healthcare decision-making.

3. High Demand: The burgeoning demand for NPs, driven by factors such as an aging population, a focus on preventive care, and shortages of healthcare providers, especially in underserved areas, ensures job security and numerous employment opportunities.

4. Opportunity for Specialization: NP programs provide avenues for specialization in areas like family practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, psychiatric-mental health, and women’s health. Specialization opens doors to more focused career paths and professional opportunities.

5. Personal Fulfillment: Many NPs find their role deeply rewarding, exerting a significant impact on patient care, health outcomes, and the overall healthcare system. The ability to deliver comprehensive care and cultivate enduring patient relationships contributes to profound personal satisfaction.

Cons of NP Programs

1. High Cost of Education: The financial investment in NP programs, covering tuition, fees, books, and potential loss of income during reduced work hours, can pose a significant burden.

2. Intensive Time Commitment: NP programs demand rigorous commitment, with substantial time allocated to classes, clinical hours, and self-directed study. Striking a balance with personal and professional responsibilities can be challenging.

3. Stress and Responsibility: NPs shoulder a high level of responsibility, involving the diagnosis and treatment of patients, which can be inherently stressful. Managing complex health issues and making critical decisions adds to the challenges.

4. Licensing and Certification Requirements: NPs must adhere to ongoing licensing and certification requirements, encompassing continuing education, exams, and associated fees. Compliance with these requirements can be time-consuming and financially burdensome.

5. Market Saturation in Some Areas: While the demand for NPs is generally robust, certain geographic regions may experience market saturation, intensifying competition in job searches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the educational and clinical prerequisites for enrolling in an NP Program in New York?

In New York, aspiring NPs typically commence their journey by obtaining a BSN degree and RN licensure after successfully passing the NCLEX-RN exam. To enroll in an NP program in New York:

• Educational Prerequisites: Many NP programs necessitate a BSN degree for admission, although some institutions may offer RN-to-MSN bridge programs for those with an ADN.
• Clinical Experience: Several programs in New York require applicants to have a specified amount of clinical experience as RNs. This ensures a foundational understanding of patient care before progressing into specialized roles.
• Additional Requirements: Common prerequisites may include a minimum GPA, recommendation letters, a personal essay, and possibly an interview.

Q: Are there online NP programs in New York, and do they hold accreditation?

Numerous universities and colleges in New York provide online or blended NP programs tailored to accommodate working nurses, allowing them to balance career and academic responsibilities. Key considerations include:

• Accreditation: Opting for a program accredited by reputable bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is crucial, ensuring adherence to high standards of nursing education.
• Clinical Hours: Despite the online format, hands-on clinical experience remains essential. Educational institutions typically mandate students to accumulate clinical hours in approved settings, often arranged in the student’s local area for convenience.