Nursing Programs in Philadelphia, PA

Last Updated On Jul 28, 2026

Expert Verified: Melanie Shaw, MSN, RN, CCRN

3 Min Read

2027 Best Nursing Schools in Philadelphia

Rankings provide essential guidance for prospective nursing students, allowing them to compare program quality at a glance. Our ranking of the Best Nursing Schools in Philadelphia focuses exclusively on NCLEX pass rates, a key indicator of program effectiveness. Registerednursing.org has created these rankings using rigorous data analysis. Learn more about our methodology here: https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/

Yearly Pass Rate Trends

Pass rates improved significantly from 2022 to 2023, then stabilized in 2024, indicating consistent program quality across the region.

2022: 84% average pass rate (1,125 students)
2023: 93.52% average (1,189 students)
2024: 93.59% average (1,073 students)

Top Performing Schools

These three schools maintained the highest average pass rates over a three-year period, demonstrating sustained excellence.

Neumann University: 97.09% average pass rate (206 students, 3 years)
West Chester University of Pennsylvania: 95.9% (268 students, 3 years)
Bucks County Community College: 95.68% (185 students, 3 years)

Pass Rate by Program Size

Medium-sized programs (50-100 students annually) lead with a 96.69% average pass rate, suggesting an optimal balance of resources and class size.

Small (<50 students/year): 89.65% average pass rate
Medium (50-100): 96.69%
Large (>100): 92.8%

Biggest Improvements

Several schools achieved remarkable gains in pass rates across the study period, with double-digit improvements.

Delaware County Community College: +17.69%
Gwynedd Mercy University: +13.73%
Bucks County Community College: +10.17%

Consistently High Performing Schools

These five institutions maintained average pass rates above 90% for at least two years, reflecting reliable and effective nursing education.

Neumann University: 97.09% (206 students, 3 years)
West Chester University of Pennsylvania: 95.9% (268 students, 3 years)
Bucks County Community College: 95.68% (185 students, 3 years)
Montgomery County Community College: 94.21% (328 students, 3 years)
Villanova University: 93.57% (591 students, 3 years)

Bucks County Community College

Newtown, PA - Public 2-Year - bucks.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Bucks County Community College prepares students for registered nurse licensure through a curriculum blending liberal arts, sciences, and nursing courses. Each course combines theory with hands-on clinical components, building knowledge sequentially. The program is ACEN-accredited and approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. Clinical applications open December 15–February 15, and an LPN to RN advanced placement track is available. Students have access to TEAS testing resources, scholarships, and supportive faculty. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and careers in healthcare. This campus-based program offers a structured path to becoming a registered nurse.

ACEN accredited
Scholarships available
Approved by PA State Board of Nursing
Theoretical and clinical components per course
LPN to RN advanced placement available
Clinical application window Dec 15–Feb 15

Neumann University

Aston, PA - Private 4-year - neumann.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Neumann University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program blends the art and science of nursing with Franciscan values of reverence, integrity, service, excellence, and stewardship. You'll build clinical reasoning through liberal arts and evidence-based nursing courses covering adult health, mental health, community health, and more. Clinical practicums in varied settings provide hands-on experience. Faculty all have clinical experience, and graduates achieve a 96.9% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate. The small campus offers a family-like atmosphere. Graduates work at top hospitals like Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, with a starting average salary of $79,690 in Pennsylvania. The BSN prepares you for diverse nursing roles or graduate study. Financial aid and military benefits are available to eligible students.

Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Military benefits accepted
Financial aid available
96.9% NCLEX first-time pass rate
100% faculty with clinical experience
Franciscan values-centered education
Small campus, family atmosphere
Clinical partner: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Average salary in PA: $79,690
Employer: Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

West Chester, PA - Public 4-Year - wcupa.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

West Chester University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program delivers a comprehensive education grounded in nursing science and evidence-based practice. Students explore organizational, cultural, and economic principles that shape modern healthcare. The curriculum integrates classroom learning with diverse clinical experiences—from acute care and community health to school and veterans hospital settings. A low 1:8 faculty-to-student ratio ensures personalized instruction, while an on-campus learning lab allows students to practice skills before patient contact. Graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing roles in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community agencies, and many pursue advanced study after gaining professional experience. The program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), reflecting its commitment to high-quality nursing education. Admission is highly competitive, and graduates enter a field with strong employment prospects.

CCNE accredited
No entrance exam required
Clinical experiences: acute care, community health
1:8 faculty/student ratio in clinical
On-campus learning laboratory
Graduates work in hospitals, rehab centers
Competitive admission
Graduates often pursue graduate study

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Co-op)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Drexel University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offers two distinct paths: a Co-op option with integrated work experiences and a Non-Co-op option designed for transfer students. The Co-op program provides 4-year and 5-year tracks, including up to three cooperative education placements in acute care, chronic illness, and specialty nursing. The Non-Co-op transfer program allows students to complete their BSN in two years of full-time study. Both programs feature a rigorous curriculum covering adult health, pediatrics, psychiatric care, and community nursing, with clinical rotations in groups of 6-8 students per faculty member. Graduates consistently achieve a 96-100% pass rate on the NCLEX-RN and are eligible for immediate licensure. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and financial aid is available. Students benefit from Drexel's strong clinical affiliations and simulation labs, preparing them for diverse nursing careers in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
Full-time enrollment
Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Financial aid available
Cooperative education included
96-100% NCLEX pass rate
Clinical rotations across specialties
6-8 students per clinical faculty
CCNE accredited

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated Career Entry)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Drexel University's Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) BSN program is an intensive 11-month, full-time path for students who already hold a bachelor's degree. The curriculum immerses you in nursing science through four consecutive 10-week terms, combining on-campus classes with clinical placements in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare settings. You'll develop skills in critical thinking, health promotion, leadership, and ethical practice, preparing you for diverse roles in medical?surgical, critical care, pediatric, psychiatric, and other nursing units. With a 97.6% NCLEX pass rate and CCNE accreditation, the program offers a fast track to RN licensure. State-of-the-art simulation labs in the Health Sciences Building provide hands?on practice. Rolling admissions with fall and spring starts let you begin when ready.

CCNE accredited
$54,912 total program tuition
11-Month program
Rolling admissions
2 start dates per year
Starts fall/spring
3.0 GPA minimum
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX
Financial aid available

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Non-Co-op for Transfer Students)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Drexel University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) designed for both traditional and transfer students. The curriculum provides intensive immersion in nursing science with faculty-guided clinical experiences across adult health, pediatrics, psychiatric and mental health, and critical care. Students develop critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice skills. Drexel's BSN boasts a first-time NCLEX pass rate of 96-100% and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Transfer students can complete the program in two years through a non-co-op track, while freshmen can choose co-op options with 4-year or 5-year plans that include paid work experiences. All programs are full-time and on-campus. Graduates are prepared for nursing practice and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
2-Year program
Full-time enrollment
96% licensure pass rate
Prerequisite courses required
Prepares for NCLEX-RN
First time NCLEX pass rate 96-100%
CCNE accredited
Prerequisite coursework required
2-year full-time on-campus program

Show 2 More Programs ˅

Villanova University

Villanova, PA - Private 4-year - villanova.edu

Bachelor's - Traditional 4-Year BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Villanova University's Traditional 4-Year BSN program, offered by the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, prepares students to become innovative leaders in clinical practice, research, education, and administration. The fully accredited curriculum emphasizes expert faculty mentoring, leadership development, and research opportunities with a global perspective. Clinical experiences begin in the second year, providing hands-on learning in diverse settings, complemented by the state-of-the-art Simulation and Learning Resource Center. Students also participate in the LEAD professional development program, designed to enhance professional skills. Graduates are well-prepared for seamless transition into nursing roles or advanced graduate education, with a strong foundation in patient care and evidence-based practice. The program's designation as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence reflects its commitment to academic and clinical excellence.

4-Year program
Expert faculty mentoring
Leadership and research opportunities
Global perspective
State-of-the-art simulation center
LEAD professional development program
Clinical experiences from second year
Foundation for graduate education
National League for Nursing Center of Excellence

*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2025 Final Release Data.

Entry-Level ADN & BSN Programs in Philadelphia, PA

Some vocations are more difficult to enter than others. In order to attract career changers, two-year colleges in Philadelphia, PA are offering fuss-free enrollment. Area colleges are enticing career changers and others to nursing by making it easy to apply to their Associate Degree in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs.

ADN Programs

Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs are popular entry points for nurses. Within reach of most high school graduates, ADN programs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania can be completed in two years. ADN programs educate students to test for the NCLEX. The Community College of Philadelphia, named a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing, offers an Associate of Applied Science degree. Using state of the art medical equipment and technology, it prepares students to pass the NCLEX exam.

Direct-Entry Accelerated BSN Programs

With so many different ways to earn a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree in Philadelphia, PA, working RNs are likely to find the program and format that works best for them. Jefferson College of Nursing, a premier academic healthcare center, offers both accelerated and traditional BSN paths for those with some college, no college, and a non-nursing bachelor degree. All programs are offered in an accelerated format; even the traditional BSN path can be completed in 2 years.

Find out more about Pennsylvania Accelerated BSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in Philadelphia, PA

For most lines of work, getting ahead in your career usually means going back to school and attaining a degree. Registered Nurses can take advantage of the demand by employers in Philadelphia, PA and enroll in accelerated RN to BSN or RN to MSN speed-track program.

RN to BSN Programs

Because they are built off coursework you have previously earned, RN to BSN pathways are commonly completed in less than 18 months allowing nurses to rev up their careers in a short period of time. Holy Family University, a Catholic institution of higher learning in Philly, offers a “RAPID” RN to BSN path for current RNs. Those who are able to transfer the right number of credit hours can complete the program in 15 months.

Find out more about Pennsylvania RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

Created for those comfortable moving at a fast pace, RN to MSN programs enable registered nurses in Philadelphia, PA to obtain their Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) without disrupting work. LaSalle University, a Catholic university, has two pathways RNs can follow to earn their MSN. One allows students to complete master’s level coursework in the BSN program and the other allows those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to fast-track to an MSN.

Find out more about Pennsylvania RN to MSN Programs

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

We’ve put together a comprehensive list of RN to BSN and RN to MSN programs to help find the right fit. The table below includes each school’s city and state, program highlights, and a direct link to the program page. Take a look and see which options match career goals. There are many factors to consider, from online options to clinical requirements, so this list makes comparing easier.

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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

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

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.

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.

*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2025.

APRN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in Philadelphia, PA

Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Philadelphia are leaders in the field. and are tasked with performing higher level, patient-focused roles in healthcare. For RNs who are up for the challenge, earning a Master's of Science in Nursing degree, post-graduate certificate or doctorate degree can be done in a more convenient format of online and on-ground learning.

MSN Programs

Leading others to serve can often be just as much as a calling as becoming a nurse. Veteran RNs who seek to lead, teach, or take on administrative roles can earn their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). The University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League school, offers MSN programs in a number of specialties, including Nurse Practitioner, Advanced Specialty, and Administration. The research-based university partners with the best hospitals in the larger Philadelphia community giving students a second-to-none experience.

Find out more about Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Nurses who have an advanced degree can complete a post-grad certificate in highly specialized areas. Located outside of Philly, Gwynedd Mercy University offers a one-year Nurse Practitioner Certificate that can be completed in a mix of online and in-person instruction. The intensive program has three specialties including Adult-Gerontology, Primary Care, and Pediatric Primary Care. A precepted clinical practice is included in the program.

Find out more about Pennsylvania Post-Master's Certificate Programs

DNP & Ph.D. Programs

Nurses can complete their terminal level of study from Philadelphia area universities. With a focus on research, academia, or advanced practice, these doctoral programs elevate the nursing profession. Drexel University offers Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy degrees to prepare nurses for executive positions and to apply modern evidence-based practice to the clinical healthcare setting.

Find out more about Pennsylvania DNP Programs

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

Looking for advanced practice registered nurse programs in Philadelphia? This list covers MSN, DNP, and NP options at local schools. Each entry shows the city and state, highlights what makes the program stand out, and links to the official program page for details. Whether starting or advancing a career, these APRN pathways offer flexible and rigorous training. Explore the table to compare choices and find the right fit.

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