There are various duties that could be assigned to a registered nurse, or RN, depending on where they choose to work. However, the role of a nurse usually includes providing direct patient care and filling some administrative tasks. In order to access more complex and lucrative parts of nursing, like leading public health education campaigns and assisting physicians in the ER or OR, nurses often must upgrade their qualifications to include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Many colleges and universities in Pennsylvania have RN to BSN programs.
2027 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Pennsylvania
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu
RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's RN-to-BSN program helps registered nurses advance their careers with a flexible online format. The CCNE-accredited program can be completed in as little as two semesters. It accepts transfer credits at no charge and welcomes CLEP credits. Admissions require a 2.75 GPA and official transcripts. Courses are offered in 7-week sessions year-round. The curriculum covers nursing research, ethics, population health, and leadership. Students work through core nursing courses and general education requirements tailored to their background.
- CCNE-accredited program
- Complete in two semesters
- 100% online format
- No charge for transfer credits
- CLEP credits accepted
- 2.75 GPA requirement
- Official transcripts needed
- Asynchronous online courses
- 7-week course sessions
- Year-round offerings
RN to BSN - BSN for the Registered Nurse
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's RN to BSN program helps working nurses earn their bachelor's degree quickly. The 100% online format offers flexible scheduling with no set class times. Students can complete the program in as little as two semesters. The curriculum follows AACN baccalaureate essentials and includes courses in nursing research, ethics, leadership, and population health. Transfer credits are accepted at no charge, and CLEP credits are welcomed. The CCNE-accredited program requires a 2.75 GPA for admission. Coursework includes both theoretical classes and practical experiences. The program accommodates various educational backgrounds through customized pathways.
- CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- Complete in two semesters.
- 100% online asynchronous format.
- No charge for transfer credits.
- CLEP credits accepted.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- 7-week course sessions.
- Year-round course offerings.
- Customized based on prior coursework.
- Includes nursing practicum courses.
RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University offers an RN-to-BSN program designed for working nurses. This online program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and can be completed in as little as two semesters. The curriculum follows AACN baccalaureate essentials and includes courses like Professional Nursing Communication, Applied Nursing Research, and Nursing Leadership. The program accepts transfer credits and CLEP credits at no additional charge. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA and official transcripts. Courses are delivered asynchronously in 7-week sessions year-round.
- CCNE-accredited program.
- Earn BSN in two semesters.
- 100% online format.
- No charge for transfer credits.
- CLEP credits accepted.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- Official transcripts needed.
- Asynchronous online courses.
- 7-week course sessions.
- Year-round offerings.
Chatham University
Pittsburgh, PA - Private 4-year - chatham.edu
RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN, Online)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Chatham's online RN-BSN program helps working nurses earn their bachelor's degree while continuing to practice. The curriculum emphasizes leadership and person-centered care, with courses exploring community health, health policy, evidence-based practice, and contemporary nursing issues. Most courses run 7.5 weeks, and you can study full or part time with no residency required. Practice experiences are embedded in coursework, so you can apply new knowledge immediately. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and admits students in fall and spring. Graduates have gone on to work at UPMC, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Philips Healthcare, and other major employers. UPMC nurses may qualify for tuition-free enrollment. With no application fee and no GRE requirement, Chatham makes it easy to take the next step in your nursing career.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- No entrance exam required
- $479 per credit
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- $0 application fee
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- No residency requirements
La Roche University
Pittsburgh, PA - Private 4-year - laroche.edu
RN to BSN - Nursing - RN to BSN Degree Completion Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
This 18-month online RN to BSN completion program is for registered nurses from diploma or associate degree programs who want a bachelor's degree. The curriculum blends 24 prerequisite credits, 30 liberal arts credits, and a nursing component with required courses and electives, centered on a scholarly approach to nursing practice. Students complete 120 credits, with the last 30 earned at La Roche University. Coursework includes the nursing mobility profile (NCLEX) and lets nurses choose electives that match their interests. Because the program is open only to licensed RNs, the experience fits working professionals. It also lays a foundation for graduate education, leading to roles like nurse educator, nurse administrator, or clinical nurse leader. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TOEFL
- 18-Month program
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- For diploma and associate degree RNs
- Open only to registered nurses
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - holyfamily.edu
RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Holy Family University's RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a flexible online pathway to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The curriculum develops management and leadership skills, culture-sensitive healthcare, family assessment, and nursing research. Courses are taken one at a time in eight-week semesters, allowing you to balance studies with professional commitments. The program accepts up to 90 transfer credits, including 51 from your RN license. Graduates are prepared for advanced practice programs like MSN or DNP and can pursue careers in acute care, public health, home healthcare, and specialty areas. With 50 years of nursing excellence, Holy Family provides a supportive learning community, including on-site cohort options at your workplace with discounted tuition.
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Online format with 8-week semesters
- Generous transfer policy up to 90 credits
- Cohort opportunities at work location
- Prepares for MSN and DNP programs
- Curriculum emphasizes leadership and research
- 50 Years of Nursing Excellence
- Clinical practicum experience
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg, PA - Public 4-Year - commonwealthu.edu
RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Commonwealth University's RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a flexible, 100% online path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum blends nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and critical thinking to prepare nurses for expanded roles in health promotion, disease prevention, and patient care across diverse settings. Students complete 120 credits, often finishing in as little as two semesters with transfer credits. Courses cover care coordination, informatics, quality improvement, and leadership, with a required Population Health clinical experience arranged around your schedule. The program is CCNE accredited and taught by faculty experienced in online delivery. Graduates pursue careers as charge nurses, nursing managers, clinical coordinators, and community health leaders, and can continue into advanced degrees through the DNP. Support includes transfer credit evaluation, financial aid, employer tuition deferment, and dedicated advising.
- CCNE accredited
- 2-Semester program
- As little as two semesters
- 120 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- 100% online program
- Designed for working nurses
Fast & Affordable Program Options
“Fast” and “affordable” are two common words used to describe RN to BSN programs because they are much easier to afford and faster to complete than a traditional RN to BSN program. These bridge programs work with students to receive their degree as fast as possible, working off of their existing training and knowledge.
Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options
As a fast-tracked nursing bachelor’s degree, you can count on an RN to BSN program to be much faster than a typical BSN program. While BSN programs take 4-years or longer to complete. if you already have an associate degree and a few years in the field, you are eligible to get your BSN in as little as two years or even less. Here are a few of the fastest options for RN to BSN programs in Pennsylvania.
| School | Degree Name | Length |
| York College of Pennsylvania | Online RN to BSN | 1 Year |
| Drexel University | Online RN to BSN | 1 Year |
Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.
Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?
While there are currently no 6-month RN to BSN programs based in Pennsylvania, these programs (though rare) exist in other states. If you’re looking in other areas (other than Pennsylvania) for your RN to BSN program, you may be eligible to get your BSN degree in this amount of time if you have an ASN or ADN and a large number of transferable credits. If you have questions, you can contact your prospective school’s registrar.
Affordable Online RN to BSN Options
As mentioned, RN to BSN programs can be extremely affordable, but it’s good to be aware of the individual costs involved, especially when relocating to Pennsylvania from another state. Many schools (particularly state schools) divide their tuition rates by whether or not you are a resident of Pennsylvania or if you are an online student. Additionally, you may find that technology fees in combination with the cost of textbooks and room and board may add up to the cost of your total tuition. That being said, there are a few RN to BSN programs in the state that offer the lowest tuition rates:
| School | Degree Name | Tuition Cost |
| West Chester University | Online RN to BSN | $7,716 per year (Resident) $19,290 per year (Non-Resident) |
| Harrisburg Area Community College | Online RN to BSN | $8,565 per year (Resident) $10,148 per year (Non-resident) |
Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.
See Related Articles
Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs
While institutions do vary, there are a number of similarities between schools in the state when it comes to admission requirements for accredited RN to BSN programs. With a list of clearly articulated admission criteria, each university can practice due diligence to ensure that they admit only the best candidates to earn their BSN. Below, we’ve listed some of the more common admissions requirements:
- GPA 2.5 or greater cumulative average for all prerequisite courses
- Submission of the completed application form
- Official transcripts from the ADN program and secondary school (if less than 5 years ago) should be sent directly to the office of the registrar
- Provide proof of a successful background screen and ‘negative’ drug screening
- Proof of RN license for the state, without encumbrances
- Submit a professional resume
Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?
At West Chester University in West Chester, RNs who are pursuing their BSN degree can expect to take upper-level courses like the following in order to expand their base of theoretical knowledge:
- HEA 206 Human Development
- PSY 210 Developmental Psychology: Lifespan
- NSG 310 Human Response to Disease
- NTD 303 Introductory Principles of Human Nutrition
2026 List of RN to BSN Programs in Pennsylvania
Learn about Pennsylvania's best accredited RN to BSN programs by looking at the listings below.
Find RN to BSN Programs By City:
Browse Our List of Programs
Abington, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 120 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Scholarships available
- Hybrid course design
- Convenient evening nursing courses
- Accelerated 7-week sessions
- Nurse scholarship opportunities
Beaver Falls, PA
Geneva College
- RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- NLN CNEA accredited
- 94% licensure pass rate
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Dual degree with CCBC
- Eligibility to sit for NCLEX-RN
- Clinical training under practicing nurses
- Nursing ethics, advocacy, social justice
Bethlehem, PA
Moravian University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- 30 total courses
- Rolling admissions
- Starts rolling
- $0 application fee
- 100% online program
- Rolling admission every 8 weeks
Bloomsburg, PA
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
- RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 2-Semester program
- As little as two semesters
- 120 total credit hours
- Starts fall/spring
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
Cresson, PA
Mount Aloysius College
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- $98,000 median earnings
- Capstone required
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Fully online courses
- Accelerated 8-week courses
Dubois, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State DuBois
- RN to BSN - RN to B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- RN to B.S. program
- 16-month completion time
- Classes one day weekly
- Full- or part-time study
- Delivered by Penn State Altoona
- Offered at DuBois and St. Marys
- Maintain employment responsibilities
- Prepares for NCLEX exam
Dunmore, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton
- RN to BSN - Jersey College RN to BSN Option
Campus Based - Website
- RN to BSN nursing option
- Builds on Jersey College associate degree
- Up to 30.5 credits for coursework
- 33 credits for RN license
- Remaining credits at Penn State Scranton
- 2.0 GPA requirement
- Active RN license required
- Cohort of 10-15 students needed
Elizabethtown, PA
Elizabethtown College
- RN to BSN - Nursing (R.N. to B.S.N.)
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Online program format
- Designed for licensed RNs
- Accelerated and flexible pathway
Erie, PA
Mercyhurst University
- RN to BSN - Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) accredited
- 2-Year program
- Complete in two additional years
- 120 total credit hours
- Synchronous and asynchronous options
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Financial aid available
- Blended online and in-person learning
Greensburg, PA
Seton Hill University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $450 per credit
- Complete in as little as 12 months
- Rolling admissions
- 5 start dates per year
- Starts rolling
- $0 application fee
- Financial aid available
Immaculata, PA
Immaculata University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- Part-time available
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Courses count toward MSN
- Open to registered nurses only
- Part-time accelerated format
Loretto, PA
Saint Francis University
- RN to BSN - Nursing, BS: RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 3-Semester program
- 128 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
Millersville, PA
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA) accredited
- 9 total courses
- 100% online coursework
- Designed for working RNs
- Emphasis on ethics and diversity
- Accelerated MSN pathway
- Leads to management and education roles
- Transfer-friendly (accepts previous credits)
Mont Alto, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto
- RN to BSN - Nursing, B.S.N. (RN to BSN Option)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Minimum 120 credits required.
- Credit for RN licensure available.
- Hybrid and online formats offered.
- Available at multiple campuses.
- C grade required in major courses.
- Clinical capstone included.
- RN licensure required for admission.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
New Kensington, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State New Kensington
- RN to BSN - RN to B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- For registered nurses only
- Full- or part-time study options
- 120 total credits required
- Up to 33 portfolio credits
- Fall, spring, summer admission
- Application deadlines by semester
- Active RN license required
- Two clinically-based courses
New Wilmington, PA
Westminster College
- RN to BSN - RN-BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- 5-Semester program
- Complete in as few as five semesters
- 125 total credit hours
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Asynchronous online classes
- Cohort-based structure
- Practical curriculum by qualified nurse educators
Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN Online Nursing Program
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $577 per credit
- 1-Year program
- Locked tuition rate
- 180 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-08-28
- 4 start dates per year
- 2.0 GPA minimum
Holy Family University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Online format with 8-week semesters
- Generous transfer policy up to 90 credits
- Cohort opportunities at work location
- Prepares for MSN and DNP programs
- Curriculum emphasizes leadership and research
- 50 Years of Nursing Excellence
Saint Joseph's University
- RN to BSN - Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $732 per credit
- 22-Month program
- 120 total credit hours
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/spring
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- $93,600 median earnings
Pittsburgh, PA
Carlow University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 11-Month program
- 120 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts spring/fall
- Financial aid available
- 100% online program
- Generous transfer credit policy
Chatham University
- RN to BSN - Nursing (RN-BSN, Online)
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- No entrance exam required
- $479 per credit
- Full-time and part-time options
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- $0 application fee
- Financial aid available
La Roche University
- RN to BSN - Nursing - RN to BSN Degree Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TOEFL
- 18-Month program
- 120 total credit hours
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
Reading, PA
Alvernia University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Complete in as little in 1 year
- 123 total credit hours
- Asynchronous online classes
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Up to 90 transfer credits accepted
- Designed for registered nurses
- 7 or 14 week course terms
Schuylkill Haven, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Schuylkill
- RN to BSN - RN to B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- Requires at least 120 credits
- Up to 33 portfolio credits
- Full- or part-time study options
- Fall, spring, summer start terms
- Active RN license required
- Two clinically-based courses
- Available at six campuses
- Online through World Campus
Scranton, PA
Marywood University
- RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Test optional
- 3-Semester program
- Complete in as little as three semesters
- 120 total credit hours
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- 3.0 GPA minimum
University of Scranton
- RN to BSN - Registered Nurse (RN) Scholars Program
Online Learning - Website
- $500 per credit
- Innovative blended program format
- 38.5 validation credits for RN license
- Optional travel-service-learning courses
- Small class sizes
- Jesuit education values
- Collaborative learning with experienced faculty
- Complete clinical requirements in your healthcare system
Sharon, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango
- RN to BSN - Nursing, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- RN to BSN option available.
- Minimum 120 credits required.
- Credit for RN licensure available.
- Available at Shenango campus.
- Blended program at University Park.
- Online option at World Campus.
- Clinical requirements include background checks.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
Slippery Rock, PA
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- RN to BSN - Nursing RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in as little as one year
- Asynchronous online classes
- 8-week course sessions
- 24/7 access to course materials
- Experienced clinician faculty
- Develop leadership and critical thinking skills
Summerdale, PA
Central Penn College
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 49 credits required
- Online delivery format
- Accelerated program structure
- For licensed RNs only
- Graduation from accredited program required
- Focus on evidence-based practice
- Includes capstone course
- Prepares for leadership roles
University Park, PA
Pennsylvania State University
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 120 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Capstone required
- 33 portfolio credits for RN training
- Two clinically-based courses: NURS 352 and NURS 475
- Project-based capstone course (NURS 475)
- RN to BSN - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $638 per credit
- 120 total credit hours
- Apply by 2026-06-30
- 3 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring/summer
- Capstone required
- $65 application fee
West Chester, PA
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
- RN to BSN - BSN for the Registered Nurse
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE-accredited nursing program.
- Complete in two semesters.
- 100% online asynchronous format.
- No charge for transfer credits.
- CLEP credits accepted.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- 7-week course sessions.
- Year-round course offerings.
- RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE-accredited program
- Complete in two semesters
- 100% online format
- No charge for transfer credits
- CLEP credits accepted
- 2.75 GPA requirement
- Official transcripts needed
- Asynchronous online courses
- RN to BSN - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE-accredited program.
- Earn BSN in two semesters.
- 100% online format.
- No charge for transfer credits.
- CLEP credits accepted.
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required.
- Official transcripts needed.
- Asynchronous online courses.
Wilkes-Barre, PA
King's College
- RN to BSN - R.N. to B.S. Nursing Program
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 120 total credit hours
- Part-time available
- 2.0 GPA minimum
- Capstone required
- For RNs with associate or diploma
- Transfer up to 95 credits
- 3 graduate credits apply to MSN
Williamsport, PA
Pennsylvania College of Technology
- RN to BSN - Nursing, RN to B.S.N., Completion
Online Learning - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- Rolling admissions
- Full-time and part-time options
- Asynchronous online classes
- Military benefits accepted
- Employer reimbursement supported
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
York, PA
York College of Pennsylvania
- RN to BSN - R.N. to B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 1-Year program
- Complete in as little as one year
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- Online delivery mode
- Transfer up to 56 credits
- CCNE accredited