The healthcare system in Pennsylvania is currently in need of highly skilled nurses. A nursing degree can provide higher pay scales and can poise you for a successful and rewarding career in the booming healthcare industry. The state has an approximate annual need of 4,800 nurses. Combine this with the fact that the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average annual salary for a registered nurse in the state at roughly $76,000, and a career in registered nursing starts to look very enticing.

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Cities in Pennsylvania

Best RN Programs in Pennsylvania

Selecting the best nursing school in Pennsylvania can be difficult. To make the process easier first look for a school that supports students towards licensure and beyond. A great way to measure this is through NCLEX-RN "pass rates." We have ranked the top 20 nursing schools in Pennsylvania by analyzing current and historical NCLEX-RN "pass rates", meaning the percentage of graduates who pass the exam, out of the 77 RN programs in the state. Programs reviewed include schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN Degree.

For more information on our top nursing school rankings, see our Methodology Page (https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

1.

One University Avenue, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

Score: 98.32

The Messiah University Department of Nursing facilitates nursing practice with a Christian whole-person philosophy. Located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, compassion, excellence, critical thinking, and cultural awareness are all facets of the Messiah undergraduate BSN program.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (717) 766-2511
2.

1 College Ave, Williamsport, PA 17701

Score: 98.14

The Pennsylvania College of Technology (Penn College)’s undergraduate nursing degrees, which include both associate's and bachelor's pathways, are led by MSN and doctorally-prepared RN instructors with a passion for helping their students succeed. With online and traditional pathways, nursing students have the flexibility to choose their preferred learning style through Penn College.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
  • Phone: (800) 367-9222
3.

25 Heckel Rd, Kennedy Township, PA 15136

Score: 97.73

The Heritage Valley Kennedy (formerly Ohio Valley Hospital) School of Nursing, located on the Heritage Valley Kennedy campus, has been educating registered nurses through its diploma program since 1901. With small class sizes and personalized instruction, students gain the knowledge and skills needed for nursing excellence. The program can be completed in just 20 months of study.

Program Details

  • Programs: Diploma
  • Phone: (412) 777-6161
4.

3333 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Score: 97.28

Carlow University in Pittsburgh offers multiple BSN degrees that foster lifelong learning to better adapt to the changing world of health care. Small class sizes, life-like simulations, and multidisciplinary practices make a well-rounded, successful nursing professional.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (800) 333-2275
5.

117 Evergreen Drive, Loretto, PA 15940

Score: 97.23

With an outstanding lineup of nursing programs, Saint Francis University is committed to nursing student success. Enrollees of SFU's BSN program are provided with theoretical and practical learning components, and the program also fosters a Judeo-Christian perspective to the critical thinking process to give graduates a diverse outlook. Small class sizes and individualized attention make SFU's nursing department stand out.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (814) 472-3000
6.

504 E Main St, Titusville, PA 16354

Score: 96.57

The University of Pittsburgh - Titusville is home to several RN programs. Not only do they offer a traditional 2-year ADN program, but they also provide an LPN to RN option. Classroom learning, simulations, and learning skills labs give students the knowledge required for success in the field.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN to RN
  • Phone: (814) 827-4400
7.

850 Greenfield Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601

Score: 95.43

Lancaster's Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences serves students with several outstanding nursing programs, including an associate's degree and both a traditional and accelerated BSN. All of the college's programs including clinical experiences, state-of-the-art simulation labs, flexible course scheduling, and an emphasis on collaborative learning.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
  • Phone: (800) 622-5443
8.

700 S High St, West Chester, PA 19382

Score: 95.21

West Chester University prepares the next generation of skilled and caring RNs through its BSN degree offerings. Pre-licensure students can choose between the traditional BSN program and the accelerated second-degree BSN program (for those who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree).

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (610) 436-1000
9.

100 College Dr, Allentown, PA 18104

Score: 95.10

Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pennsylvania is home to a BSN program that offers clinical experiences in a multitude of venues. Degrees earned at CCC have a foundational belief that a liberal arts degree makes for a more comprehensive and curious nursing professional.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (610) 437-4471
10.

1601 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Score: 95.03

Drexel University is situated in the robust city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. DU's College of Nursing and Health Professions offers multiple co-operative undergrad nursing programs. with flexible BSN options for both freshman and transfer students.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (215) 895-2000
11.

418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Score: 94.92

Penn Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania boasts state-of-the art technology, simulation centers, and rigorous curricula that allow curiosity to evolve into critical thinking. Graduates of the traditional BSN and accelerated BSN programs are given the skills and confidence necessary to perform as outstanding additions to the healthcare field.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (215) 898-4271
12.

800 E. Lancaster Ave, Villanova, PA 19085

Score: 94.91

Villanova University’s M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing offers a variety of quality nursing degree options. Curricula for these programs, which includes a traditional 4-year BSN degree, integrate the concern for spiritual health in addition to mind and body health, and emphasize nursing as a healing art as well as an applied science discipline.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (610) 519-4500
13.

400 E 2nd St, Bloomsburg, PA 17815

Score: 94.86

Bloomsburg University offers multiple quality nursing degree programs. The BSN pathway is rigorous and demanding, but offers real-world clinical labs, patient-based theory, and supportive faculty. Nursing graduates are prepared for clinical practice in an array of situations.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (570) 389-4000
14.

7373 Admiral Peary Hwy, Cresson, PA 16630

Score: 94.86

Situated in the town of Cresson, just east of Pittsburgh, lies the campus of Mount Aloysius College. The school offers an accelerated BSN program as well as a "2+2" option that can culminate in both an ADN and BSN degree. Theory classes, simulations, and clinical experiences are all ways in which MAC prepares graduates to become some of the best in the field of nursing.

Program Details

  • Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
  • Phone: (888) 823-2220
15.

155 Wilson Avenue, Washington, PA 15301

Score: 94.82

Washington Health System School of Nursing is designed to serve the community of southwestern Pennsylvania. Students are provided the most up-to-date technology and practices in the nursing field, making the transition into a professional life one of ease.

Program Details

  • Programs: Diploma
  • Phone: (724) 225-7000
16.

2755 Station Ave., Center Valley, PA 18034

Score: 94.59

DeSales University's Department of Nursing has a variety of options available for those looking to enter the ranks of registered nursing. Graduates of the full-time BSN program are given the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the healthcare field and become leaders within their organizations.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (610) 282-1100 x2838
17.

1300 Eagle Rd, St. Davids, PA 19087

Score: 94.44

Located near Philadelphia, Eastern University offers students an outstanding lineup of BSN programs, including a traditional pre-licensure option as well as a 2nd degree pathway. While learning the concepts and practices of the nursing field, graduates will also learn how to incorporate Christian values and ethics into their professional lives.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (610) 341-5800
18.

201 Nursing Sciences Building, University Park, PA 16802

Score: 94.43

With multiple undergraduate pathways, Penn State’s College of Nursing prepares students for a myriad of career opportunities in the nursing field. With a broad liberal arts and science foundation, the BSN programs offered prepare students to provide care in a broad array of settings, including rural hospitals, prisons, community health agencies, and more.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (814) 863-0245
19.

400 Highland Ave, Lewistown, PA 17044

Score: 94.41

The RN diploma program from the Geisinger Lewistown Hospital School of Nursing is theory-guided and evidence-based, with clinical and theoretical components that will ensure graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the nursing field. The 2-year program boasts a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate.

Program Details

  • Programs: Diploma
  • Phone: (717) 242-7930
20.

The Estate, Scranton, PA 18510

Score: 93.59

The University of Scranton Department of Nursing has deep values of Catholic and Jesuit beliefs interwoven into the BSN degree curriculum. Family and patient-centered nursing are emphasized in the program, and diverse clinical experiences and collaborative learning ensure that program grads are well-prepared for practice.

Program Details

  • Programs: BSN
  • Phone: (570) 941-7572

ADN Programs in Pennsylvania

A starting point for many in the nursing industry is an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN). At 2 years in length, an ADN is a fairly quick program, making it great for those who have limited time for school. You will typically find ADN programs offered at smaller schools like junior colleges and technical schools, which makes it a widely accessible program no matter where in the state you are located.

Over 25 schools in Pennsylvania offer ADN programs, making it easier than ever to earn your nursing degree.

What to Look For in an ADN Program in Pennsylvania

With an abundance of ADN programs to choose from, it's wise to look for some of the following things when comparing schools:

Accreditation

Accreditation lends credibility and legitimacy to programs. It's good to check that organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and/or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) fully endorse the program. In addition to this, it's important to be sure the program is approved by the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing.

Licensing

Your ADN program of choice should prepare you to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which is the test you'll need to pass in order to apply for your nursing license.

Program Outcomes

One of the best ways to ensure that the program you are interested in is a good one is to check out their post-program statistics, paying particular attention to things like:

  • Graduation rate
  • Licensure exam pass rate
  • Graduate satisfaction
  • Employment rate

The Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences in Lancaster is one example of a school in the state that offers an accredited ADN program.

ADN Program Admission Requirements in Pennsylvania

Specific program admission requirements vary; check with any prospective college as to what they require. Here is a sample of common requirements to give you an idea of what to expect:

  • Two years of high school algebra with a grade of C or better
  • Submit TEAS V test results
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0

Tuition and Costs of ADN Programs in Pennsylvania

Breaking down the costs of an ADN program can be confusing. First, you'll need to factor in the cost of your school's tuition. In addition to this, you'll have extra fees that may or may not be rolled into the tuition cost, like textbooks, uniforms, lab fees, and other miscellaneous fees. You'll also need to factor in room and board costs if this applies to you. These costs are typically separate from tuition.

To give you an example of cost, a full-time ADN student at the Reading Area Community College in Reading, PA can expect tuition costs of $3,030 per semester if they are a resident of Berks County, and $5,235 per semester if they are a resident of another Pennsylvania county.

Advantages of ADN Programs

The main advantages of ADN programs are the length of duration and cost. At 2 years, an ADN takes half the time of a traditional bachelor's degree in nursing, making it ideal for those who want to enter the workforce as soon as possible. Because of this shorter length, along with the fact that ADN programs tend to be offered at community colleges, they tend to be much more affordable as well. If time and budget are big considerations, an ADN might be the perfect route to becoming a registered nurse.

LPN to RN Programs in Pennsylvania

There are specialized programs available for current Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who wish to become RNs. These LPN to RN transition programs build upon the knowledge and experience that LPNs already possess, making for an overall shorter pathway to registered nursing.

LPN to ADN/BSN Programs

Depending on the nurse’s goals, they may wish to enter either the more basic LPN to ADN program, or the slightly more advanced LPN to BSN option. LPN to ADN programs usually take just a few semesters to complete, such as the one offered through Harrisburg Area Community College. LPN to BSN programs may be a bit longer in length but result in the coveted bachelor’s degree in nursing. The Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers an LPN to BSN program which emphasizes a smooth transition into registered nursing care.

LPN to RN programs may have the following admissions requirements:

  • Graduate of an approved LPN program
  • Current, active LPN license
  • Completion of any prerequisite courses

BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

A Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the classic 4-year route to a nursing degree. Typically found at larger universities, these programs are ideal for those looking for more advanced nursing careers with larger paychecks. Many schools also offer shorter RN to BSN programs for those who already hold a nursing license and want to advance.

Pennsylvania boasts an astonishing 40+ schools that offer a BSN program.

What To Look For in a BSN Program in Pennsylvania

When comparing BSN programs, you'll need to consider the essentials like cost, accreditation, program outcomes, and more. Because there are so many BSN programs scattered throughout the state, the location may also be a factor, as you may want to choose a school that's close to your current location. If you are already a licensed nurse via an ADN or LPN, you'll want to find out if your school of choice offers an RN to BSN program. Finally, if you have a bachelor's degree in another field, you may be eligible to take an accelerated BSN program, so you'll need to find a school that offers this option.

Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, PA, is an excellent example of a school in the state that offers accredited programs for traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, and LPN to BSN.

BSN Program Length in Pennsylvania

You can expect a traditional BSN to take 4 years to complete. An accelerated BSN can take as little as 16 months to complete in some cases, and RN to BSN programs can take around 2 years from start to finish, depending on the school. It's always advised to check with your prospective school to see how long each of their BSN options will take to complete.

BSN Program Admission Requirements in Pennsylvania

Admission requirements for BSN programs can vary, but here is a sampling of what you can expect:

  • Minimum 1450 combined SAT (or ACT score of 21 or higher)
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Submit official high school and/or university transcripts with GPA

Tuition and Costs of BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

Paying for college can be stressful. Remember that you'll need to budget for tuition fees as well as other miscellaneous fees including books and lab fees. Most schools will give you a general breakdown of additional mandatory fees that aren't covered under tuition.

As an example, the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing's BSN program will cost you approximately $56,212 – not including additional fees or housing.

Advantages of BSN Programs

Earning your BSN will give you the opportunity to gain more advanced nursing jobs, and greatly increase your salary range. There are excellent nursing programs at world-class universities all throughout the state, making it ideal for someone wanting a traditional college experience. There are also a multitude of ways to earn your BSN, whether it's the classic program, the RN to BSN program, or even an accelerated program.

MSN Programs in Pennsylvania

If you're really looking for an advanced nursing degree, a Master's of Science in Nursing degree (MSN) is the route for you. You'll need an MSN to land nursing jobs such as Clinical Nurse Specialist, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Nurse Practitioner, among other specialties. The pay scale for these types of jobs will also increase exponentially.

Over 25 schools in the state of Pennsylvania offer properly accredited MSN programs.

MSN Program Length in Pennsylvania

You can expect a typical MSN program to last roughly 2-3 years. This can vary as many schools offer flexible programs designed around the schedules of busy working nurses. Online and night courses are often available at many of the universities offering this type of program.

MSN Admission Requirements in Pennsylvania

While requirements vary, you can expect to find one or more of the following for most MSN programs in the state:

  • Minimum 3.0 undergrad GPA
  • Official transcript verifying completion of BSN degree
  • Copies of a current resume and valid RN license
  • Admissions essay

Tuition and Costs of MSN Programs in Pennsylvania

Costs for MSN programs can vary wildly, depending on the type of school you choose and the type of MSN program. Generally speaking, you'll need to pay for tuition costs and various miscellaneous expenses like textbooks and lab fees. The tuition for the MSN program at Chatham University, located in Pittsburgh, PA, will run you an estimated $822 per credit hour, or approximately $27,126 total.

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Getting a Pennsylvania Nursing License

Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing regulations are clearly laid out and require candidates to provide pertinent information regarding applying by examination or endorsement.

If you are applying by examination you will need to complete the appropriate application and provide this documentation:

  • Registration of NCLEX exam - with eventual successful completion
  • Education verification - sent directly from the school to the state Board
  • Criminal History Records Check

When applying by endorsement you are required to send these documents:

  • Verification of education - official transcripts sent directly to the Board via the school
  • Verification of Licensure
  • Criminal History Records Check

Learn more and PA RN license information at the Pennsylvania Department of State.

Accelerated Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania state has several options for accelerated BSN/MSN programs, as well as options for bridging your degree. An accelerated program can be expected to run up to 18 months in certain colleges and is offered on a full-time basis. While the direct entry to an MSN program can be taken full-time or part-time, it has to be completed within 5 years. To proceed directly into the programs there are required courses that must be completed prior to the start date, as each program is a bit different so are their prerequisite courses. Fees associated with the programs can vary depending on these courses, and other factors such as required housing.

Continued List of All RN Programs in Pennsylvania

Here is a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs a continued list of all RN Programs.

RankedSchoolProgramScoreWebsite
21.
Pittsburgh, PA 15282 | Phone: (412) 396-6000
Programs: BSN
93.34
22.
Johnstown, PA 15905 | Phone: (814) 534-9000
Programs: Diploma
93.34
23.
Edinboro, PA 16444 | Phone: (814) 732-2000
Programs: BSN
93.32
24.
Nanticoke, PA 18634 | Phone: (800) 377-5222
Programs: Associate in Applied Science in Nursing
93.30
25.
Blue Bell, PA 19422 | Phone: (215) 641-6300
Programs: Associate in Nursing
93.29
26.
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 | Phone: (610) 525-4100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
92.99
27.
Philadelphia, PA 19128 | Phone: (215) 487-4344
Programs: Diploma
92.80
28.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212 | Phone: (412) 237-2525
Programs: Associate in Nursing
92.62
29.
Pittsburgh, PA 15261 | Phone: (412) 624-4586
Programs: BSN
92.53
30.
Philadelphia, PA 19141 | Phone: (215) 951-1000
Programs: BSN
92.49
31.
Bethlehem, PA 18015 | Phone: (484) 526-3400
Programs: Diploma
92.47
32.
York, PA 17403 | Phone: (717) 815-1243
Programs: BSN
92.18
33.
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | Phone: (570) 408-4086
Programs: BSN
91.96
34.
Bethlehem, PA 18020 | Phone: (610) 861-5300
Programs: Associate in Nursing
91.92
35.
Mansfield, PA 16933 | Phone: (570) 662-4000
Programs: BSN
91.85
36.
Indiana, PA 15705 | Phone: (724) 357-2557
Programs: BSN
91.79
37.
Newtown, PA 18940 | Phone: (215) 968-8000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
91.74
38.
Erie, PA 16501 | Phone: (814) 871-7000
Programs: BSN
91.59
39.
Aston, PA 19014 | Phone: (610) 558-5616
Programs: BSN
91.51
40.
Immaculata, PA 19345 | Phone: (610) 647-4400
Programs: BSN
91.42
41.
Philadelphia, PA 19114 | Phone: (215) 637-7700
Programs: BSN
90.77
42.
Reading, PA 19607 | Phone: (610) 796-8200
Programs: BSN
90.46
43.
Bethlehem, PA 18018 | Phone: (610) 861-1320
Programs: BSN
90.17
44.
Reading, PA 19611 | Phone: (484) 628-0100
Programs: Diploma
90.03
45.
Butler, PA 16002 | Phone: (724) 287-8711
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.90
46.
New Kensington, PA 15068 | Phone: (724) 337-5090
Programs: Diploma
89.84
47.
Harrisburg, PA 17110 | Phone: (717) 780-3207
Programs: Associate in Nursing
89.78
48.
Moon Township, PA 15108 | Phone: (800) 762-0097
Programs: BSN
89.43
49.
Philadelphia, PA 19107 | Phone: (215) 503-8890
Programs: BSN
89.37
50.
Dallas, PA 18612 | Phone: (570) 674-6400
Programs: BSN
89.00
51.
Waynesburg, PA 15370 | Phone: (800) 225-7393
Programs: BSN
88.70
52.
Philadelphia, PA 19130 | Phone: (215) 751-8000
Programs: A.A.S.
88.55
53.
Scranton, PA 18509 | Phone: (570) 348-6211
Programs: BSN
88.51
54.
Philadelphia, PA 19122 | Phone: (215) 707-4687
Programs: BSN
87.65
55.
Chambersburg, PA 17201 | Phone: (717) 264-4141
Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN
87.23
56.
Monaca, PA 15061 | Phone: (724) 480-2222
Programs: Associate in Nursing
87.16
57.
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 | Phone: (412) 623-2950
Programs: Diploma
86.44
58.
Media, PA 19063 | Phone: (610) 359-5000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
86.08
59.
Reading, PA 19603 | Phone: (610) 372-4721
Programs: Associate in Nursing
85.87
60.
Youngwood, PA 15697 | Phone: (724) 925-4000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
84.72
61.
Schnecksville, PA 18078 | Phone: (610) 799-2121
Programs: Associate in Nursing
84.65
62.
Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437 | Phone: (800) 342-5462
Programs: BSN
84.27
63.
Lock Haven, PA 17745 | Phone: (570) 484-2011
Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN Advanced Placement ADN
84.17
64.
Chester, PA 19013 | Phone: (610) 499-4212
Programs: BSN
84.15
65.
Clarion, PA 16214 | Phone: (814) 393-2000
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.88
66.
Everett, PA 15537 | Phone: (814) 652-9528
Programs: Associate in Nursing
83.80
67.
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 | Phone: (570) 422-3211
Programs: BSN
82.78
68.
Pittsburgh, PA 15224 | Phone: (412) 578-5205
Programs: Diploma
82.73
69.
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 | Phone: (412) 367-9300
Programs: Associate in Nursing
82.70
70.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219 | Phone: (412) 232-7950
Programs: Diploma
81.98
71.
Bradford, PA 16701 | Phone: (814) 362-7500
Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN
81.83
72.
Pittsburgh, PA 15238 | Phone: (412) 784-4980
Programs: Diploma
81.61
73.
North East, PA 16428 | Phone: (814) 725-6100
Programs: Associate in Nursing
81.53
74.
New Castle, PA 16105 | Phone: (724) 658-9001
Programs: Diploma
79.05
75.
Pottsville, PA 17901 | Phone: (570) 621-5035
Programs: Diploma
77.77
76.
Lincoln University, PA 19352 | Phone: (484) 365-8000
Programs: BSN
63.01
77.
Strafford, PA 19087 | Phone: (610) 902-8100
Programs: BSN
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