Every day, nurses strive to develop solutions through front-line patient care for some of the most important health challenges that plague our population. With dedication and evidence-based practice, nurses bring their ‘all’ to their rotation every day they’re at work. In order to be at their most effective, however, many nurses decide to return to school to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree – called a BSN for short – which positions them for greater practice and more leadership opportunities as well as higher salaries.

2026 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in New York

RegisteredNursing.org has carefully evaluated the top online RN to BSN programs across New York state, providing nurses with comprehensive insights into exceptional distance learning opportunities. These virtual nursing education pathways offer working registered nurses the flexibility to advance their academic credentials without disrupting their professional schedules. Our rankings consider critical factors such as program accreditation, faculty expertise, clinical placement support, and overall academic quality. Online RN to BSN programs have become increasingly essential, enabling nurses to seamlessly transition from associate's to bachelor's degree levels while maintaining their current employment. These remote learning options not only enhance professional credentials but also provide substantial career advancement opportunities for healthcare professionals seeking higher education. See our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

SUNY College at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY - Public 4-Year - plattsburgh.edu

RN to BSN - RN-to-B.S. Nursing Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

SUNY College at Plattsburgh offers a robust online RN-to-BSN program designed to elevate registered nurses' professional capabilities. Tailored for nurses holding associate degrees or diplomas, this fully online curriculum delves deep into comprehensive scientific and behavioral studies. The program features flexible learning experiences with an emphasis on professional development. Students benefit from personalized clinical coordination, enabling them to explore expanded nursing roles while maintaining their current employment. With CCNE accreditation and a competitive admission process requiring a minimum 2.5 GPA and an unencumbered RN license, this program provides a strategic pathway for career advancement in healthcare. Professional mentorship opportunities further enhance the educational experience.

  • Fully online RN completion program
  • Builds on associate degree nursing
  • Competitive admission process
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA required
  • CCNE fully accredited program
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • Additional student expenses apply
  • Flexible learning experiences
  • Professional mentorship available
#2

Maria College of Albany

Albany, NY - Private 4-year - mariacollege.edu

RN to BSN - RN-BS Degree in Nursing Completion

Online Learning - Visit Website

Maria College of Albany's hybrid RN-BS Nursing Completion Program offers licensed registered nurses a dynamic pathway to career advancement. This innovative program blends online and on-campus learning, accommodating working professionals with full- and part-time options. Accredited by ACEN, the curriculum delves into evidence-based practice, leadership development, and community health principles. Students explore advanced nursing theory, healthcare informatics, and critical research methodologies. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and ethical decision-making, the program requires an unencumbered RN license and maintains a minimum 2.5 GPA threshold. Graduates emerge equipped to navigate complex healthcare environments with enhanced clinical expertise.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Top nursing school
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Flexible full/part-time options
  • ACEN accredited program
  • 60 total credit hours
  • Clinical experience included
  • Online and campus options
  • Unencumbered RN license required
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA needed
#3

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Campus Based - Visit Website

#4

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY - Public 4-Year - hunter.cuny.edu

RN to BSN - RN-to-BS Nursing Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

CUNY Hunter College's RN-to-BS Nursing Program offers a dynamic hybrid learning pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced professional development. Through fully online nursing major courses, students can complete their bachelor's degree with flexible part-time or full-time study options. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes research, community wellness, and professional nursing practice, strategically preparing nurses for leadership roles. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, 36 liberal arts credits, and a current New York State RN license. With competitive CUNY tuition rates and a strong academic reputation, this program provides an accessible route for nurses to expand their clinical knowledge and career opportunities without compromising their current professional commitments.

  • Hybrid program with online nursing courses
  • Requires 3.2 GPA minimum
  • 120 total credits required
  • Part-time and full-time options
  • Accredited nursing program
  • No foreign language requirement
  • Fall and spring admissions
  • Online nursing major courses
  • Liberal arts transfer credits accepted
  • Prepares for graduate nursing study
#5

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY - Public 4-Year - stonybrook.edu

RN to BSN - Registered Nurse to Baccalaureate Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Stony Brook University's online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a dynamic pathway to academic advancement. This hybrid learning format provides flexibility for working professionals, allowing seamless integration of clinical experience with advanced nursing education. The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive patient care, leadership development, and evidence-based practice across diverse healthcare environments. With a structured pathway requiring a 2.50 GPA and 60 college credits, students can leverage their existing RN licensure to expand professional opportunities. The program's 60 upper-division credits are strategically designed to enhance communication skills, research competencies, and critical thinking essential for modern nursing practice. Ideal for associate degree nurses seeking career progression.

  • Hybrid distance learning format
  • 60 upper-division credits
  • RN license required
  • Designed for associate degree nurses
  • Emphasizes leadership skills
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Comprehensive patient care curriculum
*Data reference: NCES IPEDS 2024 Final Release.

Fast & Affordable Program Options

Nurses live busy lives and going back to school isn’t always an option, especially with the rising costs of tuition. Fortunately for working nurses, an RN to BSN program presents a valuable option to “level up” their education without the long enrollment period and expensive tuition costs associated with a traditional RN to BSN program.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

Most RN to BSN students graduate in two years or less when enrolled full-time. This is considerably shorter than a traditional BSN program which will require at least 4 years of study. If you’re looking to graduate in under a year, there are many options available in New York to do so:

SchoolDegree NameLength
Monroe CollegeOnline RN to BSN11 Months
Empire State UniversityOnline RN to BSN10 Months

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

It is possible to get your BSN degree in only 6 months, though you will need to meet several important enrollment requirements. Essentially, you’ll need to have a large number of transferable credits and you’ll need to find an RN to BSN program in New York that accepts these credits, in addition to the other primary requirements (RN licensure, experience in the field). If you think that you may qualify, talk to your prospective school’s registrar.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

RN to BSN programs are especially known for their affordability. Because you’ll only be required to commit to 1-2 years of full-time study, you can expect to pay around half price for your tuition. Keep in mind that you will still be required to pay full-price in fees, room and board, and other hidden costs, but ultimately, you’ll be paying much less. Here are a few of the most affordable RN to BSN programs in the state:

SchoolDegree NameTuition Cost
Hunter CollegeOnline RN to BSN$6,930 per year (Resident)

$18,600 per year (Non-resident)

Stony Brook School of NursingOnline RN to BSN$7,070 per year (Resident)

$26,860 per year (Non-Resident)

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

See Related Articles

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

New York RNs who decide to pursue their BSN degree are forward-thinking individuals who are committed to their ongoing professional development – both for career advancement and to advance the practice of patient care across the state and beyond. While each accredited institution varies in how they select the best candidates for the RN to BSN stream, listed here are many of the criteria that you might encounter.

  • Present evidence of an ADN from a regionally accredited college program
  • Articulate a maximum of 24 nursing credits for transfer
  • Have completed up to 36 credits in liberal arts for transfer
  • Submit a transcript from each post-secondary institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher
  • Applicants must have completed a minimum of 36 credits in liberal arts & sciences
  • Possess a valid and up to date RN license for New York State
  • Submit evidence of current liability and health insurance
  • Submit evidence of up to date CPR credentials

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs offered throughout New York State provides a robust theoretical and practical framework for graduate and doctoral options. Colleges such as Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing offer courses like the following in order to broaden undergraduates’ understanding of leadership in this culturally diverse era:

  • NURS 379: Nursing and Societal Forces
  • NURS 380: Nursing Research & Theory
  • NURS 384: Nursing Culturally Diverse Families

2026 List of RN to BSN Programs in New York

To find the best RN to BSN programs in New York, take a look at our listings below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

Jump to City:

Albany, NY

Bryant & Stratton College-Albany

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS Degree in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 122 total credits required
    • Approximately 40 months program length
    • Online delivery format
    • No application fee
    • Financial aid available
    • 24/7 access to course materials
    • 135 clinical hours required
    • CCNE accredited program

Excelsior University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online RN programs
    • Generous credit transfer policy
    • Well-rounded arts and sciences education
    • Real-world nursing application
    • Develop critical thinking skills

Maria College of Albany

  • RN to BSN - RN-BS Degree in Nursing Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Asynchronous online classes
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • 90 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Sigma Theta Tau honor society chapter

University at Albany

  • RN to BSN - BS in Nursing completion program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 60 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • 90 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Requires AS or AAS in Nursing
    • Prepares for NP, CNS, CRNA degrees

Amherst, NY

Daemen University

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN – BS Program)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • No entrance exam required
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 2.0 GPA minimum
    • Requires current RN licensure
    • Admission from ADN or diploma
    • Malpractice insurance fee required
    • Community experience requires a car

Brockport, NY

SUNY Brockport

  • RN to BSN - Nursing RN-to-BSN Fast-Track (BSN)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
    • Starts fall/spring/summer
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • 100% online degree completion
    • Clinical experiences in community or abroad
    • 50% move into leadership within first year
    • Fast-track completion option

Bronx, NY

CUNY Lehman College

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Rolling admissions
    • Starts spring/fall
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • 37.5-credit nursing major
    • 120 total credits for graduation
    • Online or traditional format
    • Requires NY RN license
    • Foundation for graduate study

Brooklyn, NY

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 3-Semester program
    • 125 total credit hours
    • Starts fall
    • Online classes with clinical component
    • Designed for working nurses
    • Prepares for graduate nursing study
    • Affordable tuition cost
    • Highly rated program

St. Francis College

  • RN to BSN - Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing, R.N. to B.S.N.

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Rolling admissions
    • 2.8 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Designed for working RNs
    • Up to 92 transfer credits accepted
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs
    • Small classes for individual attention

Buffalo, NY

Trocaire College

  • RN to BSN - Online RN to BS in Nursing Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
    • $410 per credit
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Employer reimbursement supported
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Most affordable BSN in WNY
    • Generous transfer credits accepted

University at Buffalo

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Complete in 1 and 2 year tracks
    • 32 total credit hours
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Asynchronous online classes
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)

Canton, NY

SUNY College of Technology at Canton

  • RN to BSN - RN-BS Nursing Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
    • Asynchronous online classes
    • Employer reimbursement supported
    • 100% online program
    • Asynchronous course delivery
    • Seamless transition from associate degree
    • Transfer to SUNY Upstate graduate programs
    • Career-ready for hospitals, clinics, research

Delhi, NY

SUNY College of Technology at Delhi

  • RN to BSN - Nursing: Online - RN-to-BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 5 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring/summer
    • 2.6 GPA minimum
    • $73,000 median earnings
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Financial aid available

Dobbs Ferry, NY

Mercy University

  • RN to BSN - RN to B.S. Degree Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, New York Board of Regents, New York State Education Department accredited
    • $508 per credit
    • Complete in Full-time: 1 - 2 years; Part-Time: 2 - 3 years
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2.8 GPA minimum
    • 135 clinical hours
    • Financial aid available

Farmingdale, NY

Farmingdale State College

  • RN to BSN - Nursing RN to BS Completion

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 121 total credit hours
    • Online learning format
    • Leadership practicum included
    • Faculty with broad nursing experience
    • Prepares for leadership roles
    • Balance of theory and practice
    • Clinical experiences in varied settings

Keuka Park, NY

Keuka College

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-Month program
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • Cohort-based structure
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Face-to-face classes weekly
    • Cohort model for support
    • Online coursework on own schedule

Morrisville, NY

SUNY Morrisville

  • RN to BSN - Nursing, BS

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • 100% online program
    • Requires accredited AAS nursing degree
    • Seamless transfer from Morrisville AAS
    • Prepares for advanced nursing degrees
    • Practical experiences in community health

New York, NY

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online format for flexibility
    • RN to BS in Nursing program
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • High program completion rates
    • Prepares for leadership positions
    • Focuses on health assessment
    • Includes nursing research
    • Covers global health topics

CUNY Hunter College

  • RN to BSN - RN-to-BS Nursing Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 3.2 GPA minimum
    • 45 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Credit for prior learning accepted

Helene Fuld College of Nursing

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS

    Campus Based - Website

    • RN to BS program offered
    • Online application system through NursingCAS
    • Application instructions provided
    • Academic calendar available
    • Course descriptions provided
    • Curriculum plan available
    • Student learning outcomes listed
    • Admission information provided

Pace University

  • RN to BSN - Nursing RN-BS, BS

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online accelerated nursing program
    • Complete in 12 months
    • Take up to 12 graduate credits
    • Minimum 2.75 CGPA required
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Designed for working RNs
    • $87,000 average starting salary

Newburgh, NY

Mount Saint Mary College

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 1-Year program
    • Complete in as early as one year
    • 30 total credit hours
    • 9 total courses
    • 80 clinical hours
    • Online and hybrid options
    • Reduced tuition for online courses

Niagara University, NY

Niagara University

  • RN to BSN - R.N. to B.S. Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Vincentian-based nursing education
    • Requires unencumbered RN license
    • Capstone leadership project
    • Builds on associate degree foundation
    • Online courses available

Orchard Park, NY

Bryant & Stratton College-Online

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
    • 40-Month program
    • 122 total credit hours
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • 135 clinical hours
    • $0 application fee
    • Financial aid available
    • Live remote learning

Plattsburgh, NY

SUNY College at Plattsburgh

  • RN to BSN - R.N.-to-B.S.-in-Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • On-campus RN-to-BSN program
    • Four-semester completion time
    • Affordable SUNY tuition
    • 26 nursing credits on site
    • Seamless transition from associate degree
    • Courses include health assessment
    • Research and informatics courses
    • Leadership and management training
  • RN to BSN - RN-to-B.S. Nursing Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Financial aid available
    • Top-Ranked in Affordability & Value
    • Expert advisors will mentor you
    • Clinical coordinator helps find local experiences

Rochester, NY

Nazareth University

  • RN to BSN - R.N. to B.S. in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 2-Year program
    • 97% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Clinical experiences in diverse settings
    • Modern nursing simulation center
    • Study abroad in Belize or Finland
    • Faculty advisor from first semester

Roberts Wesleyan University

  • RN to BSN - R.N. to B.S. in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 12-24 Months Completion
    • 36 Total Credits
    • No Entrance Exam Required
    • 45% Tuition Discount Available
    • 125 Non-Patient Clinical Hours
    • Small Class Sizes
    • CCNE Accredited Program

St. John Fisher University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN Online

    Online Learning - Website

    • Complete in 12-18 months
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • 24/7 online tutoring support
    • RN to BSN to M.S. Fast-Track
    • Project-based experiential learning
    • Two seven-week modules per semester

University of Rochester

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS Online Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 4-Semester program
    • Complete in as little as 16 months
    • Apply by 2026-07-01
    • Starts fall
    • Scholarships available
    • 100% online coursework with mobile technology
    • Optimized iPad device provided
    • Faculty support and writing resources

Rockville Centre, NY

Molloy University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 120 total credit hours
    • Fully online program
    • 7 or 14 week course options
    • Faculty are experts in their field
    • Emphasis on population health
    • Prepares for leadership roles
    • Bridge to graduate nursing programs

Saint Bonaventure, NY

St Bonaventure University

  • RN to BSN - RN to B.S. in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • $790 per credit
    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in completed in four semesters over two years
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Work experience required
    • Financial aid available

Saratoga Springs, NY

Empire State University

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to B.S.N.)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • $295 per credit
    • 124 total credit hours
    • Apply by 2026-04-10
    • Starts summer
    • 135 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Designed for licensed RNs

Staten Island, NY

College of Staten Island CUNY

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science (BS) (RN to BS in Nursing)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Focus on leadership, community health
    • Elective focus areas available
    • Faculty advisor assigned
    • Simulation and lab experiences
  • RN to BSN - NRS4-BS

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Builds upon prior nursing learning
    • Courses in health promotion and leadership
    • Clinical, simulation, and lab experiences
    • Prepares for career advancement
    • Dedicated and experienced faculty
  • RN to BSN - RN to BS in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • Faculty advisor available
    • In-person and online sections
    • Early and regular admission

Stony Brook, NY

Stony Brook University

  • RN to BSN - Registered Nurse to Baccalaureate Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 total credit hours
    • 2.5 GPA minimum
    • RN license required within six months
    • Accepts up to 8 transfer credits
    • Dean's List each semester
    • Degrees with Distinction offered

Syracuse, NY

Le Moyne College

  • RN to BSN - RN-BS Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • Ideal for associate degree RNs

Upstate Medical University

  • RN to BSN - RN to Bachelor of Science

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Asynchronous online classes
    • Accommodates work and family life
    • Builds foundation for graduate study
    • For RNs with associate's or diploma
    • Explore vast field of nursing
    • Discover new areas to practice

Utica, NY

SUNY Polytechnic Institute

  • RN to BSN - RN to BS Nursing Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • Synchronous and asynchronous options
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Transfer up to 76 credits
    • Designed for licensed RNs
    • Practicum in diverse clinical settings

Utica University

  • RN to BSN - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • $295 per credit
    • 20-Month program
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • $40 application fee
    • Military benefits accepted
    • Financial aid available
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2024 survey.