Registered nurses in the Finger Lakes region will soon have a new opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing close to home as Keuka College relaunches its RN to BS in Nursing program in Canandaigua.
The hybrid program is now accepting applications for its inaugural Fall 2026 cohort and is designed specifically for working registered nurses who want to continue their education while maintaining full-time careers. Classes begin this fall and will be held Tuesdays from 4 to 8 p.m. at F.F. Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua.
The program comes as New York’s “BS in 10” law requires registered nurses who received their initial licensure through an associate degree or diploma program after June 19, 2019, to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing within 10 years.
“Nursing is, at its heart, a hands-on profession built on human connection,” said Keuka College President Amy Storey. “There’s real value in bringing nurses together to learn from one another, collaborate with experienced faculty, and create relationships that strengthen both their education and their profession. We’re excited to bring our hybrid RN to BS program back to Canandaigua, where students can enjoy the best of both worlds – convenient online coursework complemented by meaningful face-to-face learning.”
Keuka College officials said the RN to BS program builds on the school’s more than 80-year history of preparing nursing professionals. The flexible format is intended to help students balance coursework with work and family responsibilities.
“This program creates an accessible pathway for registered nurses to advance their education without putting their careers on hold,” said Dr. Colleen Carmody, interim executive director of nursing at Keuka College. “As they strengthen their leadership, evidence-based practice, and population health skills, they will be even better prepared to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities.”
Keuka College Vice President Pete Bekisz said the program also addresses a growing workforce need throughout the Finger Lakes.
“Registered nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, and many are balancing demanding careers, family responsibilities, and continuing education requirements,” Bekisz said. “Our goal is to help nurses meet the state’s requirements while enhancing their professional opportunities and strengthening the healthcare workforce throughout our region.”
Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis. Prospective students must hold an associate degree in nursing, have an unencumbered New York State nursing license and a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
More information and application details are available through Keuka College’s Office of Admissions.
