Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs are an increasingly popular choice for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into a nursing career quickly. These programs offer a fast-track path to becoming a registered nurse (RN) by condensing traditional nursing education into an intensive 12 to 24-month format.
While ABSN programs provide a quicker route to licensure, cost can be a significant concern for many students. Tuition varies widely across programs, making it essential to find an option that is both affordable and high-quality.
This guide highlights some of the cheapest accelerated nursing programs in NY, helping prospective students compare tuition rates, financial aid options, and program structures to make an informed decision.
What to Look for in an Affordable Accelerated Nursing Program
Choosing the right accelerated BSN (ABSN) program involves more than just looking at tuition costs. A truly affordable program should offer high-quality education, financial aid options, and strong clinical training opportunities to ensure success in nursing. Below are key factors to consider when searching for the cheapest accelerated nursing programs in NY that still meet educational and career goals.
Accreditation
Enrolling in an accredited accelerated BSN program ensures that your education meets state and national standards for nursing licensure. The two main accrediting bodies for ABSN programs in the U.S. are:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Accreditation is also essential for securing federal financial aid and meeting state nursing licensure requirements in New York and beyond.
Tuition & Fees
When evaluating affordability, it’s important to consider all costs associated with an ABSN program, including:
- Tuition – Public universities often have lower in-state tuition rates, while private institutions may be more expensive but offer generous financial aid packages.
- Fees – Lab fees, simulation fees, and clinical placement costs can add to the total expense.
- Books & Supplies – Nursing programs require textbooks, scrubs, and medical equipment.
- Living Expenses – Housing and transportation costs can vary widely depending on the location of the school.
Prospective students should compare cheapest accelerated BSN programs to find the most cost-effective option.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Many students use a combination of federal student aid, scholarships, and grants to reduce tuition costs. ABSN programs in New York may offer:
- Institutional Scholarships – Merit-based or need-based financial aid.
- Nursing-Specific Scholarships – Available from national nursing associations and healthcare organizations.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs – New York offers loan repayment assistance for nurses who commit to working in underserved areas.
Checking with each school’s financial aid office can help prospective students maximize their savings.
Program Length
ABSN programs typically last 12 to 24 months, with shorter programs offering a faster return on investment. While longer programs may allow for more flexible scheduling, they can also mean higher total costs due to additional semesters of tuition and fees.
Clinical Rotations
Hands-on experience is a critical component of any nursing program. The best top accelerated BSN programs provide:
- Clinical placements in top hospitals and healthcare facilities in New York.
- Diverse clinical training in specialties such as emergency care, labor and delivery, and intensive care.
- Networking opportunities with potential employers.
Finding the Best Affordable ABSN Program
Comparing accelerated BSN programs based on cost, accreditation, financial aid options, and clinical training ensures that students make a well-informed choice. By selecting a quality, cost-effective nursing program, students can enter the workforce without excessive student loan debt while still receiving a strong nursing education.
Some of the Most Affordable Accelerated Nursing Programs in New York
Finding an affordable accelerated BSN (ABSN) program in New York requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including accreditation, program structure, and cost. To help prospective students identify strong yet cost-effective options, the programs highlighted in this section were selected based on CCNE accreditation, program structure, and published undergraduate tuition rates.
How This List Was Compiled
- Accreditation: All programs listed are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring they meet rigorous academic and professional standards.
- Program Structure: Selected programs follow an accelerated format designed for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and include comprehensive clinical training.
- Tuition Costs: Undergraduate tuition rates were compiled from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) to help identify affordable undergraduate programs in New York. While these rates are useful, actual program costs may differ based on additional fees, course load, and residency status. Prospective students should visit individual program websites for the most up-to-date tuition and fee structures.
Why CUNY and SUNY Schools Tend to Be the Most Affordable Options
In New York, public universities within the City University of New York (CUNY) and State University of New York (SUNY) systems often offer the lowest tuition rates compared to private institutions. This is due to:
- State Funding – As public institutions, CUNY and SUNY schools receive significant funding from New York State, which helps keep tuition costs lower for in-state residents.
- In-State Tuition Rates – New York residents benefit from subsidized tuition, making these programs more affordable than private alternatives.
- Financial Aid and Grants – Many students at CUNY and SUNY schools qualify for New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) grants and Excelsior Scholarships, further reducing costs.
While private universities may offer larger financial aid packages, public institutions often provide the lowest baseline tuition rates for New York residents, making them a top choice for cost-conscious nursing students.
1. Hunter College (CUNY) – Accelerated Second-Degree Nursing Program (A2D)
- Location: New York, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $6,930
- Program Name: Accelerated Second-Degree Nursing Program (A2D)
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 18-month full-time program for students with a prior bachelor’s degree.
- Combines classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations in New York City hospitals.
- Competitive admission process with a strong emphasis on science prerequisites.
2. Lehman College (CUNY) – B.S. in Nursing – Accelerated Nursing Program
- Location: Bronx, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $6,930
- Program Name: B.S. in Nursing – Accelerated Nursing Program
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 15-month program designed for students with a previous bachelor’s degree.
- Offers clinical placements at major NYC hospitals and healthcare facilities.
- Emphasizes hands-on learning with simulation lab experiences.
3. Binghamton University (SUNY) – Baccalaureate Accelerated Track (BAT) Program
- Location: Binghamton, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $7,070
- Program Name: Baccalaureate Accelerated Track (BAT) Program
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 12-month intensive nursing program for second-degree students.
- Includes coursework in pharmacology, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice.
- Clinical rotations at hospitals and healthcare agencies in the Southern Tier region.
4. Stony Brook University (SUNY) – Accelerated Baccalaureate Program
- Location: Stony Brook, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $7,070
- Program Name: Accelerated Baccalaureate Program
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 12-month accelerated BSN program.
- Prepares students for NCLEX-RN licensure through rigorous coursework and clinical experience.
- Offers simulation lab training and clinical placements at Long Island hospitals.
5. SUNY Brockport – Nursing Accelerated (Second Degree) BS to BSN
- Location: Brockport, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $7,070
- Program Name: Nursing Accelerated (Second Degree) BS to BSN
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 15-month second-degree BSN program.
- Includes community-based clinical experiences and hospital rotations.
- Focuses on developing leadership and critical thinking skills in nursing.
6. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University – Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Location: Brooklyn, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $7,070
- Program Name: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 15-month ABSN program with clinical placements in New York City hospitals.
- Features simulation labs, community health projects, and research opportunities.
- Prepares graduates for leadership roles in nursing and public health.
7. University at Buffalo (SUNY) – Accelerated BS in Nursing Program
- Location: Buffalo, NY
- In-State Tuition (IPEDS 2024): $7,070
- Program Name: Accelerated BS in Nursing Program
- Program Link
- Program Overview:
- 12-month full-time intensive nursing program.
- Includes high-fidelity simulation training and clinical rotations in Buffalo’s top hospitals.
- Strong NCLEX-RN pass rates and job placement support for graduates.
Making an Affordable Choice
These affordable accelerated BSN programs in New York provide a high-quality nursing education at a fraction of the cost of private institutions. While CUNY and SUNY schools typically offer the lowest tuition rates, prospective students should also consider program length, financial aid availability, and clinical training opportunities when selecting the right fit. For those specifically looking to study in New York City, exploring ABSN programs in NYC can help identify additional cost-effective options within the metropolitan area.
Ways to Lower the Cost of an Accelerated Nursing Program
While accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs can be costly, there are several ways for students to reduce expenses and make nursing education more affordable. From scholarships and employer tuition assistance to loan forgiveness programs and community college partnerships, prospective students have multiple financial aid options to explore.
Scholarships & Grants for Nursing Students
Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid, making them one of the best ways to lower the cost of an ABSN program. Some common options include:
- New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) – Provides need-based grants to eligible students enrolled in accredited programs.
- HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program – Covers tuition and fees for students who commit to working in an underserved area after graduation.
- American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Scholarships – Offers multiple scholarship opportunities for students pursuing a BSN.
- Institutional Nursing Scholarships – Many ABSN programs provide merit-based or need-based scholarships to qualified students.
Students should check with individual schools to learn about institutional scholarships and grant opportunities that may help reduce tuition costs.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement
Many hospitals and healthcare organizations offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing a nursing degree. Some hospitals may:
- Cover a portion of tuition costs in exchange for a work commitment after graduation.
- Provide tuition assistance for employees working in entry-level healthcare roles while they complete an ABSN program.
- Offer financial incentives for nurses who specialize in high-need areas such as critical care or public health.
For students who are already employed in healthcare or willing to work part-time while in school, employer tuition assistance can significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses.
Loan Forgiveness Programs for Nurses
New York has several loan repayment and forgiveness programs designed to support nurses working in underserved communities or specific healthcare settings. These include:
- New York State Nursing Faculty Loan Forgiveness Incentive Program – Encourages nurses to become educators by offering loan repayment assistance.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – Available to nurses working for qualifying nonprofit or government healthcare facilities after making 120 qualifying loan payments.
- Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program – Pays off up to 85% of student loans for nurses working in critical shortage facilities.
For students who anticipate taking out loans to fund their ABSN program, loan forgiveness programs can provide significant financial relief after graduation.
Community College Partnerships & Hybrid Program Options
Some students lower the cost of an ABSN program by completing prerequisite courses at a community college before enrolling in a four-year institution. Community colleges often offer:
- Lower-cost general education and science courses that can be transferred to a BSN program.
- Articulation agreements with nursing schools to ensure seamless credit transfers.
- Flexible scheduling options, including online courses, which may be useful for working students.
Additionally, some hybrid ABSN programs allow students to complete coursework online while attending in-person clinical training at partner hospitals. These programs may provide cost savings by:
- Reducing transportation and housing expenses for students who live far from campus.
- Allowing students to work part-time while completing online coursework before beginning clinical rotations.
By combining scholarships, employer tuition benefits, loan forgiveness, and cost-saving strategies like hybrid learning and community college credits, students can significantly reduce the financial burden of an ABSN program while preparing for a rewarding career in nursing.
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations for ABSN Graduates in New York
Earning a BSN through an accelerated nursing program opens the door to strong job prospects and competitive salaries in New York. With the state’s growing healthcare demands and the increasing preference for BSN-prepared nurses, graduates of ABSN programs can expect steady employment opportunities and room for career advancement.
Demand for Nurses in New York and the Northeast Region
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- Employment for registered nurses (RNs) is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
- New York has one of the highest employment levels for RNs in the country, with thousands of job openings each year.
- The state’s aging population and expanding healthcare system continue to drive demand for skilled nurses, particularly in hospitals, outpatient care centers, and home health services.
Salary Expectations for BSN-Prepared Nurses in New York
New York offers higher-than-average salaries for RNs, making it an attractive location for nursing graduates. According to BLS data (May 2023):
- The median annual wage for RNs nationwide is $86,070.
- In New York State, the average RN salary is approximately $106,620, significantly above the national average.
- Nurses working in New York City and surrounding metropolitan areas often earn higher salaries due to the increased cost of living and demand for healthcare professionals.
Career Advancement Opportunities Post-Graduation
Graduates of ABSN programs can pursue various career paths, including:
- Hospital Nursing – Working in medical-surgical, emergency, or critical care units.
- Outpatient & Community Health Nursing – Providing care in clinics, schools, and public health settings.
- Specialized Nursing Roles – With additional experience, nurses can move into fields such as pediatrics, oncology, and operating room nursing.
- Advanced Practice Nursing – Many BSN graduates continue their education to become nurse practitioners (NPs), nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), or nurse educators.
With strong job growth, high salaries, and opportunities for specialization, ABSN graduates in New York can expect rewarding and financially stable careers in nursing.
FAQ: Affordable Accelerated Nursing Programs in NY
Can I get financial aid for an ABSN program?
Yes. Many ABSN students qualify for:
- Federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
- New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) grants for eligible students.
- Nursing scholarships, including those from the AACN, HRSA, and state-specific programs.
- Loan repayment programs for nurses working in underserved areas after graduation.
Are there affordable online ABSN programs in New York?
While most ABSN programs require in-person clinical rotations, some schools offer hybrid learning formats, where students complete online coursework before transitioning to in-person labs and hospital training. However, fully online ABSN programs are rare due to the hands-on nature of nursing education.
How long does an ABSN program take?
Most accelerated BSN programs in New York take between 12 and 18 months to complete. Some programs may extend to 24 months if they include part-time or hybrid learning options.
What are my job prospects after completing an ABSN in New York?
New York has strong demand for BSN-prepared nurses, and ABSN graduates can work in:
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Outpatient clinics and community health organizations
- Long-term care and home healthcare
- Specialized fields like emergency, critical care, or labor and delivery
Many ABSN graduates also choose to pursue advanced nursing degrees for career growth.
Next Steps: Applying to an Affordable ABSN Program in New York
Choosing an affordable accelerated BSN program can help students transition into nursing without excessive financial burden. By researching accredited programs, comparing tuition rates, and exploring financial aid options, prospective students can find a high-quality, cost-effective path to becoming an RN.
To get started, applicants should review program admission requirements, complete prerequisite coursework, and apply for scholarships and grants. With New York’s strong job market for nurses, earning a BSN through an accelerated program is a smart investment in a rewarding healthcare career.