Best LPN Programs in New York 2026

Discover Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in New York with information on schools, curriculum, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across New York.

Written by Jane Dewy and Edited by The PracticalNursing.org Editorial Team.

Expert Guide Verified updated on May 29th, 2025.

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2027 Best LPN Programs in New York

Choosing the right Licensed Practical Nurse program in New York can feel overwhelming. That's where practicalnursing.org comes in. We've ranked the best LPN programs across the state based on key factors like affordability, student support, and NCLEX pass rates. These rankings help future nurses find a program that fits their goals and budget. From Buffalo to Long Island, New York offers many excellent options. But not all programs are created equal. Our list highlights the top choices so you can make an informed decision. Check out our detailed methodology to see exactly how we determined the rankings. https://www.practicalnursing.org/rankings-methodology/

CUNY Bronx Community College

Bronx, NY - Public 2-Year - bcc.cuny.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Licensed Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Bronx Community College offers a 45-credit Licensed Practical Nursing certificate designed for working adults, with evening and weekend classes to accommodate busy schedules. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based decision-making, and cultural competence, preparing students to collaborate with healthcare teams and deliver safe, dignified care. After the first semester, students can earn Nurse Aide Certification, and completing the program makes them eligible for the NCLEX-PN exam. Graduates pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Financial aid is available. However, note that the program is currently temporarily suspended due to faculty shortages, so prospective students should check with the college for updates before applying.

45 total credit hours
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Evening and weekend classes
Program suspended due to staffing
Earn Nurse Aide Certification

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

New York, NY - Public 2-Year - bmcc.cuny.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College's Practical Nursing Certificate is a 46-credit, five-semester campus-based program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-PN and LPN licensure. The curriculum encompasses parent-child nursing, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, gerontology/rehabilitation, pharmacology, and practical lab skills. Clinical placements begin in the first semester, providing hands-on experience across diverse healthcare settings. Admission is competitive and requires prerequisite coursework plus a satisfactory score on the HESI A2 entrance exam. Graduates are equipped for entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care, and many pursue further education in registered nursing. Faculty bring real-world nursing expertise to the classroom.

Entrance exam required
Exams: HESI
5-Semester program
46 total credit hours
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Parent-Child Nursing course
Medical-Surgical Nursing course
Mental Health Nursing course
Gerontology/Rehabilitation course

CUNY LaGuardia Community College

Long Island City, NY - Public 2-Year - lagcc.cuny.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Certificate

Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY LaGuardia Community College’s Practical Nursing Certificate is an intensive 10-month, 48-credit program designed to prepare students for LPN licensure. The curriculum blends classroom theory with clinical practice, focusing on health teaching, counseling, and restorative care. Approved by the New York State Education Department, graduates are equipped to work in chronic and acute care settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and community health. The program is tailored for adult learners from diverse backgrounds, offering a rigorous yet supportive environment with cohort-based learning and a single fall start each year. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the NCLEX-PN and begin careers as licensed practical nurses.

10-Month program
48 total credit hours
1 start dates per year
Starts fall
Approved by NYS Education Department
Prepares for practical nursing roles
Health teaching and restorative care
Rigorous yet supportive for adult learners

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY - Public 4-Year - mec.cuny.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Certificate in Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Medgar Evers College offers an 18-month, 39-credit Certificate in Practical Nursing that prepares students for the NCLEX-PN and entry-level LPN roles. The curriculum spans fundamental nursing skills, pharmacology, nutrition, and medical/surgical care, with clinical rotations in Maternal-Child Health and Psychosocial Nursing. Students benefit from small cohorts, intensive lab practice, and clinical experiences in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. The program reports a 100% licensure pass rate and more than 90% of graduates secure jobs within six months. Admission requires a high school diploma, prerequisite science courses with a B- or higher completed within five years, a minimum 2.7 GPA, and a satisfactory score on the NLN pre-entrance exam.

Entrance exam required
18-Month program
39 total credit hours
100% licensure pass rate
90% job placement rate
2.7 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
Financial aid available
Intensive lab and clinical practice

SUNY Brockport

Brockport, NY - Public 4-Year - brockport.edu

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

SUNY Brockport’s Practical Nursing program, offered at the Rochester Educational Opportunity Center (REOC), delivers a 1,135.5 clock-hour curriculum combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training in acute and long-term care settings. Students study anatomy, fundamentals of nursing, medical-surgical nursing, mental health, community health, and maternal-child nursing, culminating in a capstone that prepares them for the NCLEX-PN. With an 84% recent pass rate, graduates are ready for LPN roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Admission requires minimum TABE scores, ensuring academic readiness. The campus-based program is accredited by the New York State Education Department and emphasizes direct patient care skills.

Entrance exam required
7 total courses
84% licensure pass rate
Capstone required
Prepares for NCLEX-PN
1135.5 clock hour program
Minimum TABE scores required
Campus-based at Rochester EOC
Accredited by NY State Education Department
Clinical experience in acute and long-term care

*Data derived from the 2025 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

New York LPN Program Overview

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

Prospective Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) students in New York must meet specific prerequisites before applying to a state-approved program. These typically include having a high school diploma or GED, being at least 17 years old, and passing an entrance exam such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Some schools may request immunization records, background checks, and drug screenings in accordance with clinical site requirements. Additionally, applicants may need to complete a health screening and provide letters of recommendation or attend an interview.

Program Curriculum and Accreditation

LPN programs in New York are designed to prepare students with both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience needed to enter the nursing workforce. Courses cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health. Clinical training is integrated with classroom instruction and occurs in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.

Accreditation is a crucial element when choosing an LPN program. In New York, programs should be approved by the New York State Board of Nursing to ensure that the education meets state licensing requirements. National accreditations from bodies such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) further validate the quality of the program and can affect credit transfers and employment opportunities.

LPN Schools and Classes

New York offers LPN programs through community colleges, vocational-technical schools, and select universities. These institutions provide a blend of classroom instruction and clinical practice. Core coursework includes foundations of nursing, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and practical nursing skills. Students also learn specialized care in areas like geriatrics, pediatrics, and mental health. The curriculum emphasizes patient care, communication skills, critical thinking, and the ethical responsibilities of nursing professionals

Career Outlook

Licensed Practical Nurses in New York are in steady demand, with opportunities available in a variety of healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, clinics, and schools. With New York’s growing aging population, LPNs play a crucial role in providing care for elderly and chronically ill patients. Many LPNs in the state work full-time, including evenings and weekends, although part-time opportunities may also be available. The profession offers a stable career path with competitive entry-level wages and opportunities for advancement by pursuing RN or BSN credentials.

LPN Program Length

Full-time LPN programs in New York typically last 10 to 12 months. Part-time options are available for students needing more flexibility and may extend the program duration to 18 to 24 months. Evening and weekend programs are designed for working adults and those with daytime responsibilities, with similar extended timelines. Program availability and length may vary slightly by institution and clinical placement schedules.

2027 Shortest LPN Programs in New York

Searching for the shortest LPN programs in New York? This table breaks down schools and their programs, showing key highlights, graduation rates, and retention rates. Shorter programs get you into the workforce faster, which matters a lot today. They also cost less and let you start earning sooner. Whether you're in New York City, Buffalo, or Albany, these options offer the quickest route to becoming an LPN. Use this info to compare and pick the best fit for your career goals.

School Name	Highlights	Retention & Grad Rates
Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing Practical Nurse Certificate	One-year program length. Campus-based in Troy, NY. Earns college credits. Eligible for LPN licensure exam. 37 total program credits. 1:3 theory-to-clinical ratio. Application deadline May 15. Classes start each August.	Graduation Rate: 50% Retention Rate: 100% Student to Faculty Ratio: 7 :1
SUNY College of Technology at Canton Practical Nursing	Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited 1-Year program Complete in one year 2.0 GPA minimum Prepares for NCLEX-PN Clinical placements in Northern New York CPR certification required Tablet or laptop required	Graduation Rate: 38% Retention Rate: 69% Student to Faculty Ratio: 18 :1
Niagara County Community College Practical Nursing	4-Semester program 92% licensure pass rate 90% job placement rate Prepares for NCLEX-PN Clinical experiences at local health care facilities Eligible for NCLEX-PN licensure exam Pathway to AAS in nursing In-person biology lab requirement	Graduation Rate: 32% Retention Rate: 64% Student to Faculty Ratio: 23 :1

*Information derived from: IPEDS 2025 survey, conducted by NCES.

Tuition and Costs

Tuition for LPN programs in New York can range from approximately $4,000 to $30,000, depending on the institution and location. Public colleges generally offer lower in-state tuition compared to private schools. Additional expenses may include books, uniforms, insurance, background check fees, fingerprinting, licensing exam fees, and clinical supplies. Housing costs in New York vary widely by region, with urban areas such as New York City experiencing higher overall living expenses. Prospective students should also consider transportation and meal costs during clinical rotations.

2027 Low-Cost LPN Programs in New York

Finding an affordable LPN program in New York is a smart step toward a nursing career. Tuition should not block capable people from helping others. We have prepared a table that lists three schools across the state. It shows their programs, key highlights, and tuition ranges. Comparing these details helps students pick the right path without unnecessary debt. Whether in New York City, Buffalo, or Albany, affordable options exist. By choosing wisely, future nurses can start strong and serve communities. Review the table to see which program fits your goals and budget.

School Name	Highlights	Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees
CUNY Bronx Community College Licensed Practical Nursing	45 total credit hours Prepares for NCLEX-PN Financial aid available Evening and weekend classes Program suspended due to staffing Earn Nurse Aide Certification	$4,200 - $6,200 (Undergrad In-State) $6,500 - $9,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
CUNY Medgar Evers College Certificate in Practical Nursing	Entrance exam required 18-Month program 39 total credit hours 100% licensure pass rate 90% job placement rate 2.7 GPA minimum Prerequisite courses required Prepares for NCLEX-PN	$5,900 - $8,800 (Undergrad In-State) $12,200 - $18,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Monroe Community College Licensed Practical Nurse Program	Entrance exam required Exams: TEAS 12-Month program Apply by 2026-08-21 Starts fall Cohort-based structure 2 letters of recommendation (minimum) Prepares for NCLEX-PN	$4,800 - $7,200 (Undergrad In-State) $8,800 - $13,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)

*Based on: IPEDS 2025, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Can I Take LPN Classes Online?

LPN programs in New York cannot be completed entirely online because they require substantial hands-on clinical training and in-person skills labs. New York’s state regulations mandate direct patient care experiences, which are essential for developing nursing competencies and preparing for the NCLEX-PN licensure examination. While some general education or theoretical nursing courses may be offered in a hybrid format, core nursing courses and clinical components must be completed in person under the supervision of qualified instructors and clinical preceptors.

LPN Licensure Requirements in New York

NCLEX-PN Exam Information

To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New York, candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam after completing a state-approved practical nursing program. This national exam measures the competencies required for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice. Exam applicants must submit a licensure application to the New York State Board of Nursing and register with Pearson VUE to schedule their NCLEX-PN test date. The Board requires applicants to complete a nursing education program that is either approved by New York State or determined by the Board to be equivalent.

LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact

New York offers licensure by endorsement for LPNs who are licensed in another U.S. state. To obtain a New York LPN license through endorsement, applicants must submit verification from the original state of licensure, provide proof of education, and complete a moral character review. As of now, New York is not a participant in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that LPNs licensed in other NLC states must apply individually for a New York nursing license if they wish to practice in the state.

Licensure Requirements

The New York State Board of Nursing, a division of the Office of the Professions at the New York State Education Department, oversees licensure of LPNs in the state. Applicants for an initial LPN license must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 17 years old
Graduate from a state-approved practical nursing program
File an application for licensure with the Board along with the required fee
Pass the NCLEX-PN
Meet character and moral standards set by the Office of the Professions

New York also mandates completion of training in child abuse identification and infection control. These courses must be approved by the New York State Education Department and completed prior to licensure.

License Renewal

In New York, LPN licenses must be renewed every three years. While New York does not currently require continuing education hours as a condition for license renewal, LPNs must attest to completing infection control and child abuse identification training when renewing their licenses if not previously submitted. Renewal applications can be submitted online through the Office of the Professions portal. It is recommended that LPNs begin the renewal process early to avoid lapses in licensure.

New York LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs

The average annual salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in New York is $66,380, which is approximately 6.5% higher than the national average of $62,340. This elevated salary is influenced by several key factors, including New York's significantly higher cost of living index compared to the rest of the nation. Additionally, the state's dense and aging population creates a strong and sustained demand for LPNs, particularly within the long-term care sector. The competitive healthcare market, featuring numerous hospital systems and specific state regulations, further contributes to the higher wage structure required to attract and retain qualified nursing professionals.

Average LPN State Salary in New York

$66,380

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024

Average LPN National Salary

$62,340 per year

2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

New York LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree

LPN Diploma/Certificate

Program Length:

1-2 years

Credential Awarded:

Diploma or Certificate

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes

Program Focus:

Core nursing skills and patient care fundamentals.

Average In-State Tuition in New York:

$10,000 - $20,000

Best For:

Students who want to enter the workforce quickly.

School Types:

Community colleges, vocational schools, and some hospitals.

LPN Associate Degree

Program Length:

2 years

Credential Awarded:

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS) in Nursing

NCLEX-PN Eligibility:

Yes

Program Focus:

Broader education including general education courses alongside nursing curriculum.

Average In-State Tuition in New York:

$5,000 - $15,000 per year

Best For:

Students planning to advance their nursing education (e.g., pursue an RN).

School Types:

Primarily community colleges and some four-year institutions.

Choose Diploma/Certificate If:

You want the fastest path to becoming an LPN.
Your primary goal is immediate employment after graduation.
You prefer a highly focused, hands-on program without extensive general education requirements.

Choose Associate Degree If:

You plan to continue your education to become an RN or BSN in the future.
You want a more well-rounded education with a stronger academic foundation.
You believe an associate degree will provide better long-term career opportunities.

📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in New York

Career	Salary	Program Length	Exam	Clinical Hours	Tuition
LPN	$59,000 - $76,000	12-18 months	NCLEX-PN	500-900 hours	$10,000 - $30,000
MA	$38,500 - $51,000	9-12 months	CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) Exam	160-200 hours	$8,000 - $20,000
CNA	$39,000 - $51,000	4-8 weeks	New York Nurse Aide Competency Exam	Minimum 30 hours	$1,200 - $2,500
DA	$41,500 - $59,500	9-12 months	DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) Exam	250-400 hours	$5,000 - $18,000
Pharm Tech	$38,500 - $51,500	9-12 months	PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) Exam	120-300 hours	$4,000 - $15,000
Phlebotomist	$43,500 - $60,000	3-6 months	PBT (ASCP), CPT (NHA), or RPT (AMT) Exam	40-100 hours	$1,000 - $3,000
OTA	$63,500 - $87,500	2 years (Associate's degree)	NBCOT COTA Exam	Minimum 16 weeks (640 hours)	$12,000 - $50,000

List of LPN Programs in New York

Looking for an LPN program in New York? We've compiled a list of schools below to help with your search. The table includes each program's city and state, key highlights, and a direct link to the program page for more details. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your nursing career, these options provide a solid starting point. Explore the list and take the next step toward becoming a licensed practical nurse.

Jump to City:

Brockport, NY

SUNY Brockport

Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- 7 total courses
- 84% licensure pass rate
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN
- 1135.5 clock hour program
- Minimum TABE scores required
- Campus-based at Rochester EOC