2027 Best Nursing Schools in Buffalo

Rankings help prospective nursing students compare programs based on key metrics, guiding them toward schools that best align with their career goals. In our Best Nursing Schools in Buffalo ranking, Registerednursing.org utilizes NCLEX pass rates as the sole ranking criterion, ensuring an objective assessment of program effectiveness. For a detailed explanation of our methodology, see https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.

Yearly Pass Rate Trends in Buffalo

Average pass rates in the region experienced a slight decline, accompanied by a reduction in the number of test-takers.

  • 2024: 89.93% average pass rate (149 students)
  • 2023: 92.27% average pass rate (169 students)

Top Performing Schools

Among Buffalo-area nursing programs with sufficient data, Niagara County Community College stands out with the highest average pass rate over the two-year period.

  • Niagara County Community College: 94.89% average pass rate (157 students, 2 years)
  • Niagara University: 87.56% average pass rate (161 students, 2 years)

Pass Rate by Program Size

Medium-sized programs, enrolling 50-100 students per year, demonstrated higher average pass rates than smaller programs with fewer than 50 students.

  • Medium (50-100 students/year): 94.87% average pass rate (78 students)
  • Small (<50 students/year): 86.67% average pass rate (15 students)

Consistently High Performing Schools

Niagara County Community College maintained an average pass rate above 90% across two years of data, indicating reliable program quality.

  • Niagara County Community College: 94.89% average, 157 students, 2 years
#1

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY - Public 4-Year - buffalo.edu

Bachelor's - Traditional Baccalaureate in Nursing Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

University at Buffalo's Traditional Baccalaureate in Nursing Program offers a comprehensive pathway to registered nursing. The curriculum integrates biomedical and social sciences with clinical nursing and general education, building a strong foundation for upper-division study. Upper-level coursework emphasizes nursing practice, health promotion, informatics, evidence-based research, and health systems policy. Students gain over 600 hours of hands-on clinical experience, including innovative Dedicated Education Units that simulate real practice. The concept-based curriculum fosters critical thinking and care coordination across populations. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue careers as registered nurses in diverse healthcare settings. Special admissions pathways include the Daniel Acker Scholars and Honors College programs. Start in fall with full-time study.

  • Complete in 2 years prerequisites + 2 years upper division (full time)
  • 120 total credit hours
  • 1 start dates per year
  • Starts fall
  • 600 clinical hours
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Capstone required
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • Dedicated Education Units (DEU) model
#2

Niagara University

Niagara University, NY - Private 4-year - niagara.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Niagara University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is a four-year, 120-credit degree that blends a strong liberal arts foundation with intensive clinical training. From the start, you'll dive into anatomy, chemistry, and microbiology, then progress to health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. The program includes 675 clinical hours across acute, long-term, and community settings, ensuring real-world readiness. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue careers in hospitals, primary care, long-term care, schools, and occupational health. What sets this program apart? Expert faculty, on-campus learning labs, and the unique Center for Nurse Wellness—a dedicated counselor for nursing students. With rolling admissions and separate tracks for freshmen and transfer students, it's accessible for diverse learners. Accredited by CCNE.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
  • 4-Year program
  • 120 total credit hours
  • Rolling admissions
  • 675 clinical hours
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Clinical experience in acute, long-term, community settings
  • Center for Nurse Wellness
  • On-Campus Learning Labs
  • Career paths: Primary Care, Hospitals, Long-Term Care
#3

D'Youville University

Buffalo, NY - Private 4-year - dyu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

D'Youville University's CCNE-accredited BSN program prepares you for a rewarding career as a registered nurse through a concept-based curriculum blending simulation, clinical experiences, and hands-on practice. Choose from three tracks: a traditional 4-year path, a 15-month accelerated option for career changers, or an online RN-to-BSN for current nurses. You'll gain skills in patient assessment, health promotion, and team collaboration across diverse healthcare settings. Clinical rotations at top regional hospitals like Buffalo General and Roswell Park provide real-world experience. With a low 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio and interprofessional learning alongside 12+ health fields, you receive personalized mentorship. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam and can pursue over 75 nursing specialties, from critical care to pediatrics. The program also offers study abroad opportunities and summer internships. Financial aid is available.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
  • 3 concentration options
  • Complete in 1.5-4 Years
  • $86,070 median earnings
  • Median Wage for Nurses in 2023 $86,070
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • Financial aid available
  • State-of-the-art simulation training
  • Clinical partnerships with top hospitals
  • Interprofessional learning with 12+ fields
#4

Trocaire College

Buffalo, NY - Private 4-year - trocaire.edu

Bachelor's - BS in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Trocaire College's online BS in Nursing program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education and career. Building on your RN foundation, this program requires only 135 clinical hours—45 fewer than many competitors—and offers generous transfer credit flexibility. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for roles such as nurse manager, educator, or clinical specialist. With a strong 80% job placement rate within 6-12 months, graduates are well-positioned in Western New York's thriving healthcare market. The program combines online convenience with local support: you can access on-campus resources and receive assistance securing clinical placements near your community. Trocaire's intimate setting fosters close faculty relationships, while RN and alumni discounts help reduce out-of-pocket costs. This is a practical, supportive path to a BSN that respects your experience and connects you to local employers.

  • 80% job placement rate
  • 135 clinical hours
  • Financial aid available
  • Online program
  • Small, supportive learning environment
  • Off-site placement assistance
  • RN discount available
  • Alumni discount on 6 credits
  • Transfer credit flexibility
  • Clinical placements with local employers

Bachelor's - Online RN to BS in Nursing Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Trocaire College’s online RN to BS in Nursing program is designed for registered nurses seeking career advancement. The curriculum goes beyond clinical skills, covering patient education, health promotion, community health, and technology integration. In as few as 30 credits—thanks to generous transfer policies—you’ll develop leadership and management competencies. Small class sizes foster personalized attention from faculty, and the program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. The flexible online format fits busy schedules, and financial support includes scholarships and employer tuition reimbursement. Graduates emerge ready for leadership roles in Western New York’s major healthcare systems.

  • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
  • 30 total credit hours
  • Employer reimbursement supported
  • Financial aid available
  • Scholarships available
  • Small class sizes
  • Focus on nursing expertise beyond clinical
  • Online flexibility for working nurses
  • Generous transfer credit policy
  • Healthcare Heroes Scholarship available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Daemen University

Amherst, NY - Private 4-year - daemen.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S. (1+2+1 Program)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Daemen University's Nursing, B.S. (1+2+1 Program) offers a unique pathway to a bachelor's degree in nursing. Students spend their first year at Daemen, then earn an AAS in nursing at a partner community college before returning for a final year to complete the B.S. The curriculum blends direct patient care with leadership, evidence-based practice, and population health. Graduates are prepared for roles in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Key features include the ability to work as an RN after the third year, flexible online or hybrid courses, and a 50% tuition discount for the final year. The program is ACEN-accredited and boasts a 100% job placement rate.

  • ACEN accredited
  • Test optional
  • 100% job placement rate
  • Earn RN after third year
  • Community college tuition for years 2-3
  • 50% tuition discount final year
  • Guaranteed seats with partner colleges
  • Flexible online or hybrid courses
  • Center for Interprofessional Learning
  • Graduate programs at reduced rate
*IPEDS 2025 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Buffalo, NY

Whether you want to commit for the long term with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, jump into nursing with an ADN, or transition from an LPN job, nursing has a range of gateways suitable to most situations. Buffalo-area colleges and universities offer the full assortment of programs for those looking to enter or advance in this stable field.

LPN to RN Programs

LPNs take pulses and vital signs as well as monitor wound dressings and bandages for indications of infection. Yet Licensed Practical Nurses who would like to help their patients more can do so by completing an LPN to RN option. Genesee Community College, located about 50 minutes east of Buffalo, offers a competitive-entry LPN to RN bridge program for nurses who wish to develop their careers. The nursing program is recognized in the greater Western New York area because its graduates have NCLEX pass rates that exceed both NY state and national averages.

ADN Programs

Nursing offers career stability and longevity and has few barriers to entry.  The most efficient way to enter the profession is via a two-year, career-focused Associate of Science in Nursing program. Trocaire College in Buffalo offers a clinical-heavy nursing option that transitions the student to real-world healthcare in about three semesters. The comprehensive program covers Anatomy and Physiology to Pediatric Nursing and Mental Health. Its NCLEX-RN pass-rate for first-time program graduates is 80%.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs

Begin your career in the middle as a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing degree. Hospitals and medical centers strongly prefer to hire nurses with BSN degrees. In fact, many hospitals today require their nurses to earn the degree within a certain number of years. Niagara University, situated north of Buffalo, NY, offers both accelerated and traditional BSN tracks.  They focus on nursing fundamentals and include clinical intensives with area hospitals. Coursework such as critical analysis and problem-solving for nurses is covered, as is complex disease management and health assessments.

Find out more about New York Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Buffalo, NY

Efficiency-focused bridge RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs make it possible for RNs who work to achieve their education and career goals. Most bridge pathways in Buffalo, New York are offered either entirely or partially online and allow you to complete coursework and projects at a pace that suits your busy life. Because they focus only on essential nursing courses with no extras, bridge RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs tend to cost less, too.

RN to BSN Programs

RNs can quickly leverage their valid license, along with their associate degree and bedside experience, to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Recognized for its quality, Daemen College, which is located north-east of Buffalo, offers a hybrid online and on-campus bridge program for professional nurses who wish to pursue a degree at their own pace. Created for expediency, the rigorous, competitive entry program prides itself on its nursing core competencies.

Find out more about New York RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

Nurses who know they want to become Nurse Practitioners or hold other advanced roles may wish to enroll in an RN to MSN program. While a bit more intensive than RN to BSN programs, this bridge program prepares nurses for higher-level, more specialized nursing positions. Daemen College offers multiple RN to MSN pathways, including one that prepares nurses for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner roles, as well as one designed for RNs who hold a non-nursing baccalaureate degree.

Find out more about New York RN to MSN Programs

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

Looking to advance your nursing career? This list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs covers schools across the country. Each entry includes the city and state, key program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Explore your options and find the right fit for your goals. We have gathered these programs to help you make an informed decision.
Jump to City:

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

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)

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
*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2025.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Buffalo, NY

Nursing has become a more progressive line of work as advanced practice nurses are taking on greater patient care functions. They are moving into leadership positions and gaining more autonomy and authority in diagnosing and treating patients.  To step into these positions, RNs in Buffalo must pursue advanced academic programs such as master’s degrees, post-master's certs and doctor’s degrees in nursing.

MSN Programs

Today’s patients are as likely to be seen by a Nurse Practitioner for routine exams and wellness checks as they are to be seen by a physician. The demand for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to perform these general practice roles at hospitals and outpatient centers is high. D'Youville College in Buffalo, New York, offers practitioner and leadership-focused Master's of Science in Nursing programs for nurses looking to take the plunge. Most programs require a two-year commitment and have at least some online coursework.

Find out more about New York Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

For nurses with an existing Master's of Science in Nursing, certificates can be a way to specialize without having to commit to a long-term academic program. The University at Buffalo, a State University of New York (SUNY) school, offers a range of certs including Family Nurse Practitioner, Mental Health Nursing and Leadership. Though the length of each cert varies, most can be completed in a blend of face to face and distance learning formats. Designed for working nurses, certs are offered on a part-time schedule.

Find out more about New York Post-Master's Certificate Programs

DNP Programs

Nurses are said to be the lifeblood of the healthcare profession and the center of patient care. Advanced practice nurses today are playing a more impactful role in diagnosing, assessing and treating patients than ever before. D'Youville College, a private Catholic-traditioned school in Buffalo, NY, offers two clinically intensive Doctor of Nursing Practice options, the Family Nurse Practitioner and Mental Health. Program length may vary as each applicant completes a skills gap assessment to determine the coursework required for graduation.

Find out more about New York DNP Programs

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in Buffalo

We've rounded up the top APRN programs in Buffalo for nurses aiming to become advanced practice registered nurses. Whether seeking an MSN, DNP, or NP certification, this list has options. The table below includes each school's city and state, standout program features, and direct links to their official pages for further details. Dive in and discover which program matches your goals.

Amherst, NY

Daemen University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • 38 total credits required
    • Includes thesis requirement
    • Focuses on acute care
    • Adult-gerontology specialization
    • Advanced health assessment course
    • Advanced pharmacology included
    • Pathophysiology courses required
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN, CCNE accredited
    • 3.3 GPA minimum
    • Work experience required
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Requires NYS RN license
    • Interview with nursing faculty required
    • Part-time: 1-8 credits per semester
    • Full-time: minimum 9 credits per semester
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Only program of its kind in WNY
    • Covers leadership, informatics, technology, policy
    • Highest clinical degree in nursing
    • Offers post-BSN and post-MSN tracks
    • First cohort starts Spring 2025
    • Prepares for board certification as ACNP
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Starts spring
    • Only program in Western NY
    • Prepares for board certification
    • Covers leadership, informatics, policy
    • Post-BSN and post-MSN paths
    • Highest clinical nursing degree
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 36 total credit hours
    • 500 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • Adult-gerontology primary care focus
    • Leadership and policy emphasis
    • Post-master's DNP program
    • Evidence-based practice focus

Buffalo, NY

D'Youville University

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • No entrance exam required
    • Test optional
    • 2-Year program
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 2 start dates per year
    • Starts fall/spring
    • 3.3 GPA minimum
  • MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP)

    Online Learning - Website

    • No entrance exam required
    • Exams: GRE
    • Test optional
    • 2-Year program
    • Complete in as little as two years
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 3.3 GPA minimum

University at Buffalo

  • MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Half primary care, half acute care courses
    • Prepares for AGNP board certification exam
    • Practice in diverse settings
    • Full practice authority in New York
    • Treat adults from young to elderly
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • Complete in three to five years
    • Apply by 2026-04-01
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • $75 application fee
    • Application fee waived during National Nurses Week
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • Complete in three to five years
    • Apply by 2026-04-01
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • $75 application fee
    • Financial aid available
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 3 concentration options
    • Complete in three to five years
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Work experience required
    • $75 application fee
    • Financial aid available
    • Interview required for all graduate programs
  • MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in 3 to 5+ Years
    • 97 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • $75 application fee
    • Hybrid instruction method
    • Primary care across the lifespan
    • Clinical preparation for advanced practice
    • Addictions and mental health curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in 3 to 5+ Years
    • 94 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • $75 application fee
    • Prepares for leadership and direct care
    • Assess and diagnose psychiatric disorders
    • Prescribe and monitor psychotropic medications
    • Implement psychotherapy interventions
  • MSN to DNP - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (Post-MS) DNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in 2.5 to 5 Years
    • 36 total credit hours
    • Part-time available
    • $75 application fee
    • 100% online coursework
    • Capstone project addressing practice gaps
    • Post-MS to DNP pathway
    • Focus on informatics, health policy, leadership
*IPEDS 2025, U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near Buffalo, NY

Looking for nursing programs in the Buffalo area? This comprehensive list brings together nursing schools near Buffalo, NY, with details on city and state location, program highlights, and links to each school's program page. Use the table below to compare options side by side. Whether just starting out or advancing a nursing career, these schools offer a variety of paths. We've made it easy to find the right program.
Jump to City:

Amherst, NY

Daemen University

  • Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S. (1+2+1 Program)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • ACEN accredited
    • Test optional
    • 100% job placement rate
    • Earn RN after third year
    • Community college tuition for years 2-3
    • 50% tuition discount final year
    • Guaranteed seats with partner colleges
    • Flexible online or hybrid courses

Buffalo, NY

D'Youville University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
    • 3 concentration options
    • Complete in 1.5-4 Years
    • $86,070 median earnings
    • Median Wage for Nurses in 2023 $86,070
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
    • State-of-the-art simulation training

Trocaire College

  • Bachelor's - BS in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • 80% job placement rate
    • 135 clinical hours
    • Financial aid available
    • Online program
    • Small, supportive learning environment
    • Off-site placement assistance
    • RN discount available
    • Alumni discount on 6 credits
  • Bachelor's - Online RN to BS in Nursing Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
    • 30 total credit hours
    • Employer reimbursement supported
    • Financial aid available
    • Scholarships available
    • Small class sizes
    • Focus on nursing expertise beyond clinical
    • Online flexibility for working nurses

University at Buffalo

  • Bachelor's - Traditional Baccalaureate in Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Complete in 2 years prerequisites + 2 years upper division (full time)
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 1 start dates per year
    • Starts fall
    • 600 clinical hours
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Capstone required
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN

Niagara University, NY

Niagara University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited
    • 4-Year program
    • 120 total credit hours
    • Rolling admissions
    • 675 clinical hours
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Clinical experience in acute, long-term, community settings
    • Center for Nurse Wellness

Orchard Park, NY

Bryant & Stratton College-Online

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • Entrance exam required
    • Exams: TEAS
    • 32-Month program
    • 125 total credit hours
    • $0 application fee
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • Financial aid available
*Data obtained from: NCES IPEDS 2025 database. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/