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.
2026 Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Pennsylvania
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's fully online RN-to-BSN program delivers a transformative educational experience for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. The CCNE-accredited curriculum allows students to complete their degree in just two semesters, with flexible asynchronous learning. Emphasizing professional development, the program covers critical areas like research, ethics, leadership, and population health. Students benefit from no transfer credit charges, CLEP credit acceptance, and a streamlined path requiring only 120 total credits. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, the program prepares nurses to excel in modern healthcare environments with enhanced critical thinking and specialized skills.
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- Complete BSN in two semesters
- 100% online asynchronous format
- No charge for transfer credits
- CLEP credits accepted
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 120 total credits needed
- 7-week course sessions
- Year-round course offerings
Bachelor's - BSN for the Registered Nurse
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's innovative online BSN program provides registered nurses a dynamic pathway to academic and professional growth. The CCNE-accredited curriculum enables students to complete their degree in as little as two semesters through a flexible, asynchronous format. Tailored to working professionals, the program requires only 30 new credits from WCU, minimizing educational barriers. Course content focuses on professional communication, health policy, research, and leadership development. With year-round course offerings, CLEP credit acceptance, and no transfer credit charges, nurses can efficiently advance their credentials and expand career opportunities in healthcare.
- 100% online program
- Complete in two semesters
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- No transfer credit charges
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Asynchronous course format
- Year-round course offerings
- CLEP credits accepted
Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
West Chester University's comprehensive online RN-to-BSN program empowers registered nurses to elevate their professional trajectory. Designed for working healthcare professionals, the program enables degree completion in just two semesters with a rigorous, flexible curriculum. Meeting AACN baccalaureate standards, the course integrates advanced nursing skills across professional communication, research, ethics, health policy, and leadership domains. With a minimum 2.75 GPA requirement, students access a military-friendly program featuring 7-week course sessions, CLEP credit acceptance, and comprehensive technological competency training. The curriculum prepares nurses for expanded healthcare roles with enhanced critical thinking skills.
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- 100% online asynchronous format
- Complete in two semesters
- No transfer credit fees
- CLEP credits accepted
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 120 total credits needed
- 7-week course sessions
- Year-round course availability
- Multiple nursing course options
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online Nursing Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University's RN to BSN online nursing program offers a dynamic educational pathway for registered nurses seeking career advancement. Uniquely structured to accommodate working professionals, students can complete the program in just 12 months with maximum flexibility. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based learning, critical thinking, and professional leadership skills essential in contemporary healthcare settings. With CCNE accreditation, students benefit from an interactive learning platform and experienced nursing faculty. No entrance exam is required, and the program allows transfer of up to 135 quarter credits. The affordable tuition rate of $549 per credit and a three-year tuition lock make this program financially accessible for nurses looking to expand their academic credentials and professional opportunities.
- Online program, no campus requirements
- Complete in as little as 12 months
- Transfer up to 135 quarter credits
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- Tuition rate $549 per credit
- Flexible learning platform
- Three-year tuition lock available
- Experienced nursing faculty
- Interactive learning technologies
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock, PA - Public 4-Year - sru.edu
Bachelor's - Nursing RN-BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Slippery Rock University offers a dynamic online RN to BSN program tailored for working registered nurses seeking career advancement. This fully asynchronous program enables students to complete their degree in as little as one year, featuring flexible 8-week course sessions. Emphasizing critical thinking and leadership development, the curriculum prepares nurses for diverse healthcare roles while maintaining an accessible educational pathway. With experienced doctorally-prepared faculty and scholarship opportunities, the program maintains robust accreditation standards. Students must hold an active RN license and meet a 2.0 minimum GPA requirement. The online format allows professionals to balance academic pursuits with existing work commitments, making advanced nursing education more attainable.
- Fully online asynchronous program
- Completion possible in one year
- Accredited nursing program
- 8-week course sessions
- Affordable tuition rates
- Experienced doctorally-prepared faculty
- Scholarships available
- Multiple nursing career paths
- 2.0 minimum GPA requirement
- Active RN license needed
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - holyfamily.edu
Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Visit Website
Holy Family University's fully online RN to BSN program offers registered nurses a dynamic pathway to career advancement. The curriculum focuses on developing sophisticated healthcare leadership skills through flexible eight-week course modules. Students can leverage up to 90 transfer credits while exploring critical areas like culture-sensitive care and advanced research methodologies. The program eliminates traditional entrance exam requirements, making it accessible for working professionals seeking to expand their nursing expertise. Religious-affiliated and military-friendly, the program prepares nurses for diverse healthcare roles and potential graduate-level education. Cohort learning opportunities and multiple nursing specialties enhance the comprehensive educational experience.
- Online flexible format
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- One class per 8-week semester
- Prepares for graduate programs
- Multiple career path options
- Cohort learning opportunities
- Diverse nursing specialties
Saint Francis University
Loretto, PA - Private 4-year - francis.edu
Bachelor's - RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Francis University's innovative online RN-BSN program empowers registered nurses to elevate their professional trajectory through a dynamic and flexible curriculum. Specifically tailored for working healthcare professionals, this comprehensive program enables students to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing within an accelerated 11-month timeframe. The program stands out with its generous credit transfer policy, allowing up to 98 credits and providing 27 general education credits for associate degree holders. With CCNE accreditation, asynchronous online courses, and competitive tuition rates of $485 per credit hour, the program offers an accessible pathway for nurses seeking career advancement. Healthcare employees can benefit from a potential 25% tuition scholarship, making this an attractive educational investment.
- Complete in 11 months
- Transfer up to 98 credits
- Online asynchronous courses
- $485 per credit hour
- 25% tuition scholarship available
- CCNE accredited program
- Earn MSN credits at BSN rate
- Rolling admission
- 3 program starts per year
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
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.
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
2025 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:
Abington, PA
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid course design
- Accelerated 7-week sessions
- Multiple semester options
- 2.0 GPA requirement
- Credit transfer friendly
- Evening nursing courses
- Nurse scholarship opportunities
- Large alumni network
Bethlehem, PA
Moravian University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Rolling Admission
- Start Dates Every 8 Weeks
- Transfer Up to 20 Credits
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Professional Leadership Focus
- Tele-health Clinical Experience
- 32 Total Course Units Required
Cresson, PA
Mount Aloysius College
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online RN to BSN program
- Eight-week course sessions
- Flexible start dates
- Named top nursing program
- Multiple career pathways
- Accredited nursing program
- Minimum 2.50 GPA required
- Current RN license needed
East Stroudsburg, PA
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor's - RN to Bachelor Pathway (B.S.)
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible degree completion
- Designed for working RNs
- 2.75 GPA admission requirement
- Current PA nursing license needed
- Supports career advancement
Elizabethtown, PA
Elizabethtown College
- Bachelor's - Nursing (R.N. to B.S.N.)
Online Learning - Website
- Online nursing completion program
- Full CCNE accreditation
- Flexible pathway for RNs
- Designed for working nurses
- Accelerated degree progression
Greensburg, PA
Seton Hill University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Complete in as little as 10 months
- Online 8-week course sessions
- 33 credits awarded for RN license
- $450 per credit tuition rate
- Flexible full-time and part-time options
- Up to 90 credits can transfer
- Career-relevant nursing courses
- Multiple start dates annually
Immaculata, PA
Immaculata University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, B.S.N. (RN to BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online, accelerated courses
- Two years or less completion
- $465 per credit tuition
- Transfer up to 72 credits
- CCNE accredited program
- Professional learning community
- Career advancement opportunities
- Flexible scheduling for professionals
Loretto, PA
Saint Francis University
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- Complete in 11 months
- Transfer up to 98 credits
- Online asynchronous courses
- $485 per credit hour
- 25% tuition scholarship available
- CCNE accredited program
- Earn MSN credits at BSN rate
- Rolling admission
Millersville, PA
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Flexible online format.
- Designed for busy professionals.
- Requires as few as 34 credits.
- Accredited by NLN CNEA.
- Accelerated MSN path available.
- Focuses on ethics, diversity, technology.
- Prepares for advanced healthcare roles.
- Supports seamless education transition.
New Wilmington, PA
Westminster College
- Bachelor's - RN-BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online RN-BSN completion program
- Complete in five semesters
- Multiple annual entry points
- Flexible asynchronous courses
- Minimum 125 credits required
- Experienced nurse educators
- Professional advancement focused
- Comprehensive nursing curriculum
Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Online Nursing Program
Online Learning - Website
- Online program, no campus requirements
- Complete in as little as 12 months
- Transfer up to 135 quarter credits
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- Tuition rate $549 per credit
- Flexible learning platform
- Three-year tuition lock available
- Experienced nursing faculty
Holy Family University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible format
- Up to 90 transfer credits
- One class per 8-week semester
- Prepares for graduate programs
- Multiple career path options
- Cohort learning opportunities
- Diverse nursing specialties
Saint Joseph's University
- Bachelor's - Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 100% online
- 22-month program
- Accelerated learning
- Designed for working RNs
- Flexible scheduling
- Career preparation
- Leadership development
Pittsburgh, PA
Carlow University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- 11-16 months duration
- 120 total credits
- CCNE-accredited program
- 8 core nursing courses
- Generous transfer credit policy
- Tuition assistance opportunities
Reading, PA
Alvernia University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online asynchronous format
- Can complete in 1 year
- Up to 90 transfer credits accepted
- Minimum 30 Alvernia credits
- CCNE accredited program
- Requires current RN license
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Total 123 credits required
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks
- Bachelor's - RN to B.S. in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 33 nursing credits awarded
- 7-week accelerated classes
- Hybrid learning format
- Interactive video conferencing
- Flexible schedule for working nurses
- Diverse nursing career pathways
- Advanced healthcare perspectives
Scranton, PA
Marywood University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully online and hybrid program
- CCNE Accredited Nursing Program
- 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
- 100% employment rate
- Advanced clinical simulation labs
- Flexible for working nurses
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Experienced nursing faculty
University of Scranton
- Bachelor's - Registered Nurse (RN) Scholars Program
Online Learning - Website
- Innovative blended learning format
- 50% tuition reduction for RNs
- Small class sizes
- Optional service-learning opportunities
- Jesuit educational values
- 38.5 validation credits
- Flexible online attendance
- Clinical requirements in healthcare system
Slippery Rock, PA
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor's - Nursing RN-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online asynchronous program
- Completion possible in one year
- Accredited nursing program
- 8-week course sessions
- Affordable tuition rates
- Experienced doctorally-prepared faculty
- Scholarships available
- Multiple nursing career paths
University Park, PA
Pennsylvania State University
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Flexible full/part-time study
- Online and campus options
- 120 total credits required
- Two clinically-based courses
- Prepares for advanced roles
- Active RN license needed
- Multiple campus locations
- Multiple semester start dates
- Bachelor's - RN to BSN
Online Learning - Website
- 120 total credit program
- Online flexible format
- 45 total clinical hours
- $632-$678 per credit
- CCNE accredited nursing program
- Accelerated 7-week course options
- Optional nursing certificates available
- No on-campus requirements
West Chester, PA
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor's - BSN for the Registered Nurse
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online program
- Complete in two semesters
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- No transfer credit charges
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Asynchronous course format
- Year-round course offerings
- CLEP credits accepted
- Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN Program
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- Complete BSN in two semesters
- 100% online asynchronous format
- No charge for transfer credits
- CLEP credits accepted
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 120 total credits needed
- 7-week course sessions
- Bachelor's - RN-to-BSN
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE-accredited nursing program
- 100% online asynchronous format
- Complete in two semesters
- No transfer credit fees
- CLEP credits accepted
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- 120 total credits needed
- 7-week course sessions
Wilkes-Barre, PA
King's College
- Bachelor's - R.N. to B.S. Nursing Program
Online Learning - Website
- Part-time online RN to BSN
- 35 advanced placement credits
- 120 total credits required
- Focuses on leadership, global health
- Meets AACN educational standards
- Supports career advancement
- Flexible course scheduling
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required
Williamsport, PA
Pennsylvania College of Technology
- Bachelor's - Nursing, RN to B.S.N., Completion
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Program
- Designed for Working Nurses
- Flexible Full/Part-Time Options
- Accredited by ACEN
- Transfer-Friendly Credits
- Same Rigor as On-Campus
- In-State Tuition for All
- Master's/Doctoral Prepared Faculty
York, PA
York College of Pennsylvania
- Bachelor's - R.N. to B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month completion option
- 56 transfer credits granted
- Designed for working RNs
- Career advancement pathway
- Leadership skills development