
Best LPN Programs in New York
The state of New York strives to ensure the delivery of safe, quality care to patients, as well as provide a safe, accessible, and supportive environment for their healthcare teams. An 11% increase in licensed practical nurse (LPN) jobs is predicted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics through the year 2028. To meet this increase for nursing positions, applicants can attend one of New York’s many practical nursing programs with the goal of gaining PN licensure in the state. LPNs in New York earn approximately $23.45 per hour, which equates to an average annual salary of $48,770. This is roughly $1,720 per year more than the national average.
Are you looking to become a licensed practical nurse in New York? The school you choose is important when it comes to getting your license. Approved programs in New York are offered at community colleges, technical centers, and private career schools - we list 64 schools across the state. After careful review of NCLEX-PN exam first-time pass rates over the past several years, we have ranked the top 20 programs. For more information on our LPN program rankings, see our Methodology page.
To see all the top ranked LPN programs in New York click here.
Details on New York LPN Schools & Classes
With over 60 schools in New York offering LPN programs, prospective students have many educational options to choose from. Community colleges, state colleges, and trade schools all offer LPN programs. Some are classroom-only, while others incorporate online elements. Some programs even offer night or weekend courses. Total program length falls in the 1-2 year range, depending on part-time or full-time attendance.
Enrolled students can expect to take a mix of nursing courses, labs, and hands-on clinical experiences. Course titles are likely to include:
- Mental Health Concepts
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Practical Nursing Arts
- Medical Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Pharmacology
Accreditation
A savvy student knows that a good way to narrow down schools and LPN programs is to search for those with proper accreditation. These accredited schools signify quality and academic excellence. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) is one of the main national accrediting agencies to watch out for, though many others exist, and can include regional organizations. The New York Board of Nursing also maintains a list of approved practical nursing programs.
Admission Requirements
Each school and program will have its own unique set of admission requirements, and students are encouraged to look over them carefully to ensure they are eligible to apply. Common requirements include:
- High school transcript or GED certificate
- Completion of prerequisite courses with a minimum C+ average
- Minimum GPA of 2.75
- Proficient score on ATI TEAS exam
- Pass drug screen and background check
Tuition and Costs
Many potential students can be apprehensive about LPN program expenses. To break it down, students are generally responsible for the costs of tuition, mandatory school fees, and materials (such as textbooks). For students who need assistance paying for their LPN program, financial aid opportunities are available in the forms of grants, loans, and scholarships. Keep in mind that indirect expenses like room and board are typically not included in the college’s main cost breakdown.
To provide an example, tuition for the LPN program at Monroe College in the Bronx runs about $680 per credit, not including additional costs or fees.
New York LPN Licensing Requirements
To become an LPN in New York, the applicant must be at least 17 years of age and have a high diploma or GED equivalent. Applicants must also have graduated from a practical nursing program with at least 9 months of coursework and that is approved by New York State Education Department or the US Armed Forces and completed the approved coursework for infection control and barrier precautions.
After graduation, the individual must register and pass the licensure exam—the NCLEX-PN. While graduates of state approved nursing programs can be employed as LPNs for 90 days while becoming licensed, they must apply for a limited permit to do so.
NCLEX Exam Information
The NCLEX-PN exam tests a student’s practical nursing knowledge following the completion of a PN program. A passing grade is needed in order to gain official licensure through the state. A detailed overview on the NCLEX-PN examination can be found here. Additionally, this NCLEX-PN practice test can aid students in studying for the exam.
LPN Reciprocity and eNLC
New York has no current pending legislature to enter into the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in any participating compact state without needing additional licensure. With that said, LPNs transferring from another state can be become licensed in New York by endorsement. All that is required is to provide verification of licensure from previous state of license.
Individuals transferring from foreign countries must verify educational equivalence through the Board based on the Commission of Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) evaluation before taking the licensure exam.
LPN Salary in New York By Area
The table below lists career information collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for licensed practical nurses in New York. The table is sorted by total employment, with the largest metropolitan areas listed first.
Area | Total Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|
New York, Newark, Jersey City | 37,070 | $26.75 | $55,640 |
Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Niagara Falls | 4,110 | $20.63 | $42,920 |
Rochester | 3,820 | $20.29 | $42,210 |
Albany, Schenectady, Troy | 2,900 | $20.67 | $42,980 |
Syracuse | 2,660 | $20.33 | $42,300 |
Utica, Rome | 1,720 | $19.59 | $40,740 |
Binghamton | 590 | $21.15 | $44,000 |
Kingston | 480 | $22.12 | $46,010 |
Glens Falls | 460 | $19.91 | $41,410 |
Watertown, Fort Drum | 420 | $19.43 | $40,420 |
Elmira | 300 | $17.14 | $35,650 |
Ithaca | - | $20.80 | $43,260 |
For those interested in advancing their nursing career, see our New York LPN to RN/BSN programs page.
Top Ranked New York LPN Programs
CA BOCES CTE at Belmont

At CA BOCES, nursing theory and patient care lab skills taught in the classroom are combined with supervised clinical experience to develop a knowledgeable and competent Practical Nurse. Those who complete the program are eligible to apply for licensure as a Practical Nurse.
AMG School of Licensed Practical Nursing

At AMG School of Pratical Nursing, students are empowered for excellence. Students get to enjoy the challenge of learning in a professional environment with dedicated faculty and administration committed to helping them fulfill their highest potential.
Niagara County Community College

Niagara County Community College (NCCC) is located in Sanborn, New York. NCCC offers more than 70 comprehensive degree and certification programs that empower students, providing them with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the workplace, meeting both academic and personal goals for success.
CA BOCES CTE at Olean

Cattaraugus-Allegany-Erie-Wyoming BOCES-Olean is located in Olean, New York, with additional locations in Ellicottville and Belmont. CA BOCES offers a wide variety of programs including special education, career/technical education, and continuing education, as well as labor relations and business office support.
Monroe College

Monroe College is located in Bronx, New York, with additional campuses located in New Rochelle, Saint Lucia, and Flushing. Monroe College provides career oriented higher education to students, offering access to a personalized environment and caring faculty who are dedicated to student success.
Orleans-Niagara BOCES

Orleans-Niagara BOCES offers a part-time practical nursing program for adults. The curriculum combines theory and clinicals to help students understand and integrate quality nursing care. Upon completion of the program, students have the skills, knowledge, and behaviors to find success in the industry.
Samaritan Hospital

Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing, located in Ashland, New York, promotes health and wellness in the community. Samaritan Hospital provides hands-on, interactive clinical experience in a professional environment, providing the student with access to a comprehensive network of healthcare and community facilities.
Cayuga Onondaga BOCES

Cayuga Onondaga BOCES, located in Auburn, New York, offers extensive programs and services to students of all ages. Cayuga-Onondaga promotes a safe, stimulating environment, supporting innovative teaching and learning, providing high-quality personal development and lifelong learning to meet the goals of both the student and the community.
Maria College

Maria College, located in Albany, New York, provides educational programs with high academic standards, flexible scheduling, and in individualized formats to fit each student's needs. Maria College focuses on providing opportunities for growth, allowing students to make valuable contributions to the community.
Bronx Community College

Bronx Community College (BCC) is located in Bronx, New York. BCC offers more than 30 academic programs, preparing students for careers and advanced degrees, with flexible schedules in the evenings and on the weekends, providing high-quality education for the whole community.
North Country Community College - Saranac Lake

North Country Community College-Saranac Lake is located in Saranac Lake, New York, with additional campuses in Ticonderoga and Malone, provides the highest quality public postsecondary education in the region. North Country Community College provides individualized education to its students, ensuring success.
Erie 1 BOCES- Potter Road Center

Erie 1 BOCES-Potter Road Center is part of the New York State Board of Cooperative Educational Services located in West Seneca, New York. Erie 1 BOCES offers a variety of instructional programs as well as workforce development options to ensure occupational success.
Erie 1 BOCES- Kenton Center

Erie 1 BOCES-Kenton Center offers a practical nursing program that is designed to be completed in 12 months. With programs starting in April and October of each year, students can begin their nursing education at their convenience. Roughly 1,100 clock hours are needed in order to graduate.
La Guardia Community College

LaGuardia Community College, located in Long Island City, New York, provides affordable education that prepares students to face challenges and become productive leaders. LaGuardia is dedicated to educating students and producing critical thinkers that are socially responsible and help to shape a rapidly evolving society.
Rochester Regional Health IGH School of Practical Nursing

Isabella Graham Hart School is part of the Rochester General Health System, located in Rochester, New York. Isabella Graham Hart offers a 10-month full-time Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program as well as a part time program that requires 2 years.
Champlain Valley Educational Services

At Champlain Valley Educational Services, students receive preparation for entering a health career in Practical Nursing. Their program is a great start for continuing in a postgraduate health profession career pathway. Students gain the skills and knowledge that will allow them to deliver safe and effective nursing care.
Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing

Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing is part of Finger Lakes Health, located in Geneva, New York, providing a one-year, daytime program to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Marion D. Whelan is one of three hospital-based practical nursing programs in the state.
Broome Tioga BOCES

Broome Delaware Tioga BOCES is an innovative educational institution located in Binghamton, New York, with additional locations in Endicott, Johnson City, and Apalachin. Broom Delaware Tioga BOCES provided personalized learning environments designed to fit student needs, providing career opportunities and work experiences through hands-on training in the classroom.
Erie 1 BOCES- Southtowns Academy

Erie 1 BOCE-Southtowns Academy is part of the New York State Board of Cooperative Educational Services located in Hamburg, New York. Erie 1 BOCES has a variety of career-minded programs and workforce development options to help students reach their personal and professional goals.
North Country Community College - Malone

North Country Community College provides an exceptional LPN department. NCCC offers students the ability to learn in a challenging and supporting educational community. LPN graduates are ready to enter the field with knowledge and confidence.
Continued List of All Programs in New York
Ranked | Program | Score | Details |
---|---|---|---|
#21 |
North Country Community College - Ticonderoga
11 Hawkeye Trail, Ticonderoga, NY 12883
| 85.07 | Visit Website |
#22 |
Otsego-Northern Catskills BOCES
31 Center Street, 3rd Floor, Oneonta, NY 13820
| 85.05 | Visit Website |
#23 |
Hunter Business School
Nassau Mall, 3601 Hempstead Turnpike #9, Levittown, NY 11756
| 84.51 | Visit Website |
#24 |
Erie 1 BOCES- Harkness Career and Technical Center
99 Aero Drive, Cheektowaga, NY 14225
| 84.38 | Visit Website |
#25 |
Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES- Hudson Falls
1051 Dix Ave, Hudson Falls, NY 12839
| 84.12 | Visit Website |
#26 |
Southern Westchester BOCES
17 Berkley Drive, Rye Brook, NY 10573
| 83.63 | Visit Website |
#27 |
Eastern Suffolk BOCES
350 Martha Avenue, Bellport, NY 11717
| 82.64 | Visit Website |
#28 |
Dutchess BOCES
5 BOCES Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
| 82.12 | Visit Website |
#29 |
Putnam-Westchester BOCES
200 Boces Drive, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
| 81.98 | Visit Website |
#30 |
Orange-Ulster BOCES
53 Gibson Road, Goshen, NY 10924
| 80.98 | Visit Website |
#31 |
Suffolk County Community College
121 Speonk-Riverhead Road, Riverhead, NY 11901
| 80.83 | Visit Website |
#32 |
Vocational Education and Extension Board of Nassau County
899-A Jerusalem Ave, Uniondale, NY 11803
| 80.15 | Visit Website |
#33 |
Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-BOCES
8685 Erie Road, Angola, NY 14006
| 79.29 | Visit Website |
#34 |
OCM BOCES - Liverpool
4500 Crown Road, Liverpool, NY 13090
| 79.23 | Visit Website |
#35 |
The Greater Southern Tier BOCES - Elmira
459 Philo Road, Elmira, NY 14903
| 79.13 | Visit Website |
#36 |
Jefferson-Lewis-Hamilton-Herkimer-Oneida BOCES
20104 NYS Route 3, Watertown, NY 13601
| 78.66 | Visit Website |
#37 |
Madison-Oneida BOCES - Verona
4937 Spring Road, Verona, NY 13478
| 77.13 | Visit Website |
#38 |
Curtis High School
105 Hamilton Ave, New York, NY 10011
| 76.70 | Visit Website |
#39 |
The Greater Southern Tier BOCES - Coopers Education Center
9579 Vocational Drive, Painted Post, NY 14870
| 76.68 | Visit Website |
#40 |
Clara Barton High School
901 Classon Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225
| 75.35 | Visit Website |
#41 |
Transitions Career Institute
30-50 Whitestone Expressway, Ste 400, Flushing, NY 11354
| 74.64 | Visit Website |
#42 |
Erie 2 BOCES - Cassadaga
8115 Glasgow Road, Cassadaga, NY 14718
| 73.97 | Visit Website |
#43 |
SUNY Canton
34 Cornell Drive, Canton, NY 13617
| 73.87 | Visit Website |
#44 |
Rockland BOCES
65 Parrott Road, West Nyack, NY 10994
| 73.64 | Visit Website |
#45 |
Hostos Community College
500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451
| 73.51 | Visit Website |
#46 |
The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership School of Practical Nursing
8250 State Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020
| 73.29 | Visit Website |
#47 |
Madison-Oneida BOCES - Utica
502 Court St, Utica, NY 13502
| 71.30 | Visit Website |
#48 |
Capital Region BOCES
Suite 102, 900 Watervliet-Shaker Rd, Albany, NY 12205
| 71.00 | Visit Website |
#49 |
Madison-Oneida BOCES - Rome
4937 Spring Rd, Rome, NY 13440
| 69.38 | Visit Website |
#50 |
Medgar Evers College
1650 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225
| 68.79 | Visit Website |
#51 |
Herkimer-Hamilton-Fulton-Otsego BOCES
352 Gros Blvd, Herkimer, NY 23219
| 68.55 | Visit Website |
#52 |
DCMO BOCES Chenango Campus
6678 County Road 32, Norwich, NY 13815
| 66.46 | Visit Website |
#53 |
The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership School of Practical Nursing - Mount Morris
27 Lackawanna Ave, Mount Morris, NY 14510
| 65.81 | Visit Website |
#54 |
Mildred Elley School - Albany
855 Central Avenue, Albany, NY 12206
| 62.29 | Visit Website |
#55 |
Rochester Educational Opportunity Center
161 Chestnut St, Rochester, NY 14604
| 61.71 | Visit Website |
#56 |
Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES- Rochester
435 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14620
| 61.63 | Visit Website |
#57 |
Trocaire College
360 Choate Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14220
| 59.97 | Visit Website |
#58 |
Mildred Elley School - New York City
25 Broadway, Floor 16, New York, NY 10004
| 57.17 | Visit Website |
#59 |
Erie 2 BOCES - Buffalo
175 Jefferson Street, Buffalo, NY 14210
| 54.21 | Visit Website |
Programs Not Included In Rankings
Program | Details |
---|---|
Erie 1 BOCES- Niagara Lutheran Home
64 Hager Street, Buffalo, NY 14208
| Visit Website |
Orleans/Niagara BOCES- Niagara Falls
4232 Shelby Basin Road, Medina, NY 14103
| Visit Website |
The Greater Southern Tier BOCES - Hornell
1126 Bald Hill Road, Hornell, NY 14843
| Visit Website |
Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES- Saratoga Springs
27 Gick Road, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
| Visit Website |
Western Suffolk BOCES
507 Deer Park Ave, Huntington Station, NY 11746
| Visit Website |
Are we missing your school's program or need to make changes to the information listed? Please contact us.
Additional NY Nursing Resources
- New York State Board of Nursing
89 Washington Avenue, Education Bldg.
2nd Floor West Wing
Albany, NY 12234
Phone: (518) 474-3817
- New York State Nurses Association
131 West 33rd Street, 4th Fl.
New York, NY 10001
Phone: (212) 785-0157
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