2022 - Best Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania

Overview of Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania

About Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania

Nursing requires a certain level of scientific expertise, compassion, and hands-on skills. Now is a great time for registered nurses to pursue higher education and obtain a bachelor’s of science in nursing degree. Nurses will be able complete programs both online and in a traditional campus setting. With the healthcare reform, advanced medical interventions, and preventative medicine, the role of registered nurses is expanding. Education beyond an associate’s degree is necessary for nurses to achieve optimal patient care. There have been many stories about how hospitals require nurses to have their BSN and give preference to those who do.

In our Pennsylvania RN program guide, find rankings for both ADN and BSN Degree programs, tuition costs, NCLEX passing rates, and more. Research key Pennsylvania RN Program information to help you compare program metrics and to apply to best RN program for your career in nursing.

In the State of Pennsylvania, nurses are helping to change the face of healthcare. To ensure that they have the best education and preparation for future health care challenges, registered nurses need to graduate from a state-approved associate's degree in nursing program or a BSN degree program.

Nurses who graduate from an RN program can obtain certification in over 100 nursing specialties, go on to earn an RN to BSN or RN to MSN degree.

BSN degree holders have options to earn an Advance Practice Register Nursing (APRN) degree and become a Nurse Practitioner (NP), or earn an advanced degree for a career in any number of nursing leadership roles such Nurse Educator or Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Pennsylvania RN Program Comparisons: ADN vs BSN

Nursing Programs Offered by Pennsylvania Nursing Schools

• Registered Nursing: 73
• Family Nurse Practitioner: 17
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 14
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 6
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 5
• CNL: 5
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: 4
• Nursing Administration: 4
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner: 2
• Practical Nursing: 2
• Nurse Educator: 2
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 2
• Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing: 2
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner: 2
• Adult Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: 1
• Adult Nurse Practitioner: 1
• Administration, Research or Clinical Nursing: 1

Pennsylvania Nursing Schools with the Most Degree Types

• University of Pittsburgh: 10
• Drexel University: 9
• Duquesne University: 8
• Pennsylvania State University: 6
• DeSales University: 4
• La Salle University: 4
• Moravian College: 4
• Villanova University: 4
• Robert Morris University: 4
• Wilkes University: 4

Best Ranked RN Programs in Pennsylvania

To help nursing students in their search for a top RN program, the education experts at RNCareers.org publish their annual findings of the best nursing schools for both Pennsylvania and the country. Schools ranked on our list have proven their ability to educate highly competent nurses.

To create our rankings, we evaluated 22 ADN degree programs and 39 BSN degree programs in Pennsylvania. We obtained each institution’s first-time NCLEX-RN passing rates, the number of students taking the test, the program nursing accreditation and more. We then compared the results against other nursing programs in Pennsylvania to provide our state rankings. View our methodology.

Best Nursing Schools (BSN) in Pennsylvania

Messiah University

Department of Nursing

99.12% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  One University Avenue, Mechanicsburg, PA - 17055
• 
  (717) 766-2511

Nurse Admin: Kimberly Fenstermacher, PhD, RN

Title: Associate Professor Of Nursing And Chairperson

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 99.12%
• Programs: Nursing Administration, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, RN to MSN

Messiah University is a private Christian educational institution in Mechanicsburg. This MSCHE-accredited university has an average class size of 20 and a student to faculty ratio of 12:1. In terms of accreditation, its nursing baccalaureate, master’s and DNP programs under the Department of Nursing are CCNE-accredited. This Department equips nurses

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 195
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,260
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $19,997
• Percent Admitted: 78%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 31%
• Graduation Rate: N/A

Saint Francis University

Department of Nursing

97.09% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  117 Evergreen Dr, Loretto, PA - 15940
• 
  (814) 472-3000

Nurse Admin: Rita Trofino, DNP, RN

Title: Department Chair And Professor; Associate Dean, School Of Health Sciences

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 97.09%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, RN to MSN

Saint Francis University (SFU) is a private liberal arts educational institution in Loretto. It is one of the nation’s first Catholic coeducational universities. Its School of Health Sciences and Education houses its Department of Nursing. The said department provides opportunities for hands-on and innovative learning opportunities through its DiSepio Institute

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 113
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,000
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $21,502
• Percent Admitted: 59%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 29%
• Graduation Rate: 63%

Carlow University

School of Nursing

96.73% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  3333 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA - 15213-3165
• 
  (412) 578-6000

Nurse Admin: Lynn George, PhD, RN, CNE

Title: Dean

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.73%
• Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate

Founded in 1929, Carlow University is a Catholic educational institution in Pittsburgh. This private university also has satellite locations in Greensburg and Cranberry. Carlow offers various nursing programs ranging from baccalaureate to masters to doctorate to cater to student’s different academic, career, and professional goals. Nursing Major (BSN) - With

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 109
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,400
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $16,561
• Percent Admitted: 94%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 34%
• Graduation Rate: 58%

Waynesburg University

Department of Nursing

96.72% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  51 W College St, Waynesburg, PA - 15370-1257
• 
  (724) 627-8191

Nurse Admin: Kathy A. Stolfer, EdD, RN, CNE

Title: Chair And Director/professor

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.72%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP

Named after its location, Waynesburg University is an MSCHE-accredited private educational institution. Aside from its Main Campus in Waynesburg, this non-profit university also has a Southpointe Center in Canonsburg. Students in its Department of Nursing will receive one-on-one attention from full-time nursing faculty. The department’s nursing baccalaureate and master’s degree

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 81
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,500
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $17,148
• Percent Admitted: 90%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 23%
• Graduation Rate: 65%

Pennsylvania College of Technology

School of Nursing & Health Sciences

96.57% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  One College Ave, Williamsport, PA - 17701-5799
• 
  (570) 326-3761

Nurse Admin: Valerie Myers, EdD, MSN, RN

Title: Assitant Dean, Nursing

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.57%
• Programs: Nurse Educator, Practical Nursing, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN

Pennsylvania College of Technology (PCT) is a two-year public educational institution in Williamsport. This MSCHE-accredited college has an average class size of 16. Moreover, it places emphasis on hands-on learning which has been its legacy for more than 100 years. Students in its nursing programs have the opportunity for international

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 279
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $17,610
• Book and Supplies: $1,549
• Percent Received Aid: 88%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,403
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 47%

Cedar Crest College

School of Nursing

95.70% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  100 College Drive, Allentown, PA - 18104-6196
• 
  (610) 606-4666

Nurse Admin: Wendy J. Robb, PhD, RN, CNE

Title: Dean

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.70%
• Programs: Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursingg, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN

Located in Allentown, Cedar Crest College is a four-year private educational institution initially known as Allentown Female College. This liberal arts college was founded in 1867. The college has a small class size with an average of 15 and a student to faculty ratio of 10:1. Moreover, its School of

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 75
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $3,000
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 98%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $20,664
• Percent Admitted: 52%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
• Graduation Rate: 62%

Pennsylvania State University

95.67% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  201 Old Main, University Park, PA - 16802-1503
• 
  8148654700

Nurse Admin: Kelly Wolgast,

Title: Program Director

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.67%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nursing Administration, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate

Situated in University Park, Pennsylvania State University (PSU) is the state’s sole land-grant university. It has several campuses and has been providing educational service to the area for more than 150 years. PSU’s Penn State’s Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing houses several laboratories (pediatric, critical care, maternity, etc.)

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University Information

• Total Faculty:
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: N/A
• Average Grant or Scholarship: N/A
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: N/A

Villanova University

M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing

95.56% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA - 19085-1699
• 
  (610) 519-4500

Nurse Admin: Donna S. Havens, PhD, RN, FAAN

Title: Connelly Endowed Dean

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.56%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate

Named after its location, Villanova University is the nation’s sole Augustinian Catholic university. This liberal arts institution of higher education was founded in 1842. Its M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing develops nurses who are problem solvers and independent thinkers. In fact, it received a Center of Excellence recognition from

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 732
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,100
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 64%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $32,435
• Percent Admitted: 31%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 25%
• Graduation Rate: 92%

Drexel University

College of Nursing and Health Professions

95.52% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA - 19104
• 
  (215) 895-2000

Nurse Admin: Kymberlee Montgomery, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, CNE, FAANP, FAAN

Title: Chair

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.52%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to MSN

Drexel University is a private R1-level research university in Philadelphia. This comprehensive educational institution has its foundation on experiential learning.  Its College of Nursing and Health Professions (CNHP) started as the Hahnemann Hospital Training School for Nurses. Currently, it has provided academic service for more than 100 years. Students in

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 1294
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,700
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $25,373
• Percent Admitted: 77%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 10%
• Graduation Rate: 71%

Eastern University

Department of Nursing

95.01% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  1300 Eagle Rd, Saint Davids, PA - 19087-3696
• 
  (610) 341-5800

Nurse Admin: Melissa J. Snyder, EdD, FNP, CNE

Title: Chief Nurse Administrator

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.01%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN

Eastern University is a Christian university in St. David's. Aside from its main campus in St. David's, it also has centers in Harrisburg and Philadelphia. The university was initially named Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary when it was founded in 1925. Its programs under the School of Nursing are fully-accredited. Moreover,

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 96
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,368
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $18,997
• Percent Admitted: 64%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 28%
• Graduation Rate: 58%

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Department of Nursing

94.43% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  400 E Second St, Bloomsburg, PA - 17815
• 
  (570) 389-4000

Nurse Admin: Lori M. Metzger, PhD, CRNP, RN-BC

Title: Chairperson

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.43%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN

Named after its location, Bloomsburg University (BU) is a comprehensive public university founded in 1839. Its Department of Nursing under the College of Science and Technology has CCNE-accredited nursing programs in the baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral level. Moreover, the said department offers a Simulated Learning Lab (SLL) which has several

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 352
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,982
• Book and Supplies: $1,200
• Percent Received Aid: 93%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $5,647
• Percent Admitted: 89%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 25%
• Graduation Rate: 58%

DeSales University

Division of Nursing

93.86% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PA - 18034-9568
• 
  (610) 282-1100

Nurse Admin: Mary Elizabeth Tadduni, PhD, MBA, RN

Title: Division Head And Associate Professor

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.86%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to MSN

DeSales University is a Catholic institution of higher education in Center Valley. The university houses an advanced simulation technology. In terms of student to faculty ratio, it has an impressive number of 13:1. Moreover, the Division of Nursing’s baccalaureate, master’s, DNP and post-graduate APRN certificate programs are CCNE-accredited. Nursing —

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 133
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,468
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $20,592
• Percent Admitted: 82%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
• Graduation Rate: 65%

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

Department of Nursing

93.82% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  219 Meadville Street, Edinboro, PA - 16444-0001
• 
  (814) 732-2000

Nurse Admin: Victoria Hedderick, DEd, RN

Title: Professor And Chair

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.82%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania is a comprehensive public educational institution in Edinboro. The university was founded in 1857 and is now one of the distinguished centers of research and learning in the state. Its Nursing Department under the College of Science and Health Professions has accreditations from different agencies. The

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 227
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,544
• Book and Supplies: $1,400
• Percent Received Aid: 95%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $7,086
• Percent Admitted: 85%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 23%
• Graduation Rate: 43%

Duquesne University

School of Nursing

93.61% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  Administration Bldg 600 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA - 15282
• 
  (412) 396-6000

Nurse Admin: Mary Ellen Glasgow, PhD, ACNS-BC, FAAN, ANEF

Title: Dean

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.61%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
• Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate

Duquesne University is a top Catholic University in Pittsburgh. With more than 140 years of educational service since it was founded in 1878 by Spiritans, this university continues to provide a well-rounded education to its students. It has a faculty to student ratio of 14:1 with around half of its

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 478
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,400
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $22,575
• Percent Admitted: 77%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 19%
• Graduation Rate: 79%

University of Scranton

Department of Nursing

93.22% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  800 Linden Street, Scranton, PA - 18510-4699
• 
  (570) 941-7400

Nurse Admin: Teresa M. Conte, PhD, RN, CPNP-PC

Title: Chair

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.22%
• Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to MSN

Founded in 1888, University of Scranton is a Catholic and Jesuit University named after its location. The university has several accreditations from various accrediting agencies. In fact, its Department of Nursing has several programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The said department has a strong clinical focus

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 281
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,300
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 99%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $24,463
• Percent Admitted: 79%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 12%
• Graduation Rate: 82%

La Salle University

School of Nursing and Health Sciences

92.27% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  1900 W Olney Ave, Philadelphia, PA - 19141-1199
• 
  (215) 951-1000

Nurse Admin: Kathleen Czekanski, PhD, RN, CNE

Title: Dean

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.27%
• Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: APRN Certificate, Bachelor, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate

Founded in 1863, La Salle University is a Catholic educational institution located in Philadelphia. The programs in La Salle University are founded in experiential, innovative and evidence-based practice. The university’s baccalaureate and master’s degree in nursing as well as its DNP and post-master’s certificate programs received full accreditation from CCNE.

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 196
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,000
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 98%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $18,492
• Percent Admitted: 76%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 12%
• Graduation Rate: 65%

University of Pittsburgh-Bradford

Department of Nursing

92.16% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  300 Campus Drive, Bradford, PA - 16701
• 
  (814) 362-7500

Nurse Admin: Jean Truman, DNP, RN, CNE

Title: Director Of Nursing

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.16%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor

University of Pittsburgh - Bradford is located in Bradford, Pennsylvania.  University of Pittsburgh has received many awards, one of which is one of the "150 Best Value Colleges in the United States" in 2012 by the Princeton Review.  They offer both an ADN degree and a BSN degree.  Their BSN degree

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 70
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $14,354
• Book and Supplies: $759
• Percent Received Aid: 99%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $13,331
• Percent Admitted: 79%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 12%
• Graduation Rate: 43%

Immaculata University

Division of Nursing

91.68% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  1145 King Road, Immaculata, PA - 19345
• 
  (610) 647-4400

Nurse Admin: Jane Tang, PhD, RN, NE-BC

Title: Chair And Professor

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.68%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN

University Information

• Total Faculty: 73
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,166
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $11,858
• Percent Admitted: 82%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 15%
• Graduation Rate: 70%

Mansfield University of Pennsylvania

Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Mansfield University Nursing Program at the Robert Packer Hospital

91.52% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  5 Swan Street, Mansfield, PA - 16933
• 
  (570) 662-4000

Nurse Admin: Jamie Klesh, PhD, RN, CNE

Title: Nursing Program Director

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.52%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor

Mansfield University (MU) is a public university in Mansfield. Its baccalaureate nursing program under the Nursing and Allied Health Sciences Department is accredited by ACEN with Continuing Accreditation as the most recent decision. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - This BSN program equips students with the knowledge, competencies and

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 89
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,682
• Book and Supplies: $2,000
• Percent Received Aid: 100%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $9,406
• Percent Admitted: 96%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
• Graduation Rate: 51%

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Department of Nursing and Allied Health Professions

91.32% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  1011 South Dr 201 Sutton Hall, Indiana, PA - 15705-1098
• 
  (724) 357-2100

Nurse Admin: Theresa M. Gropelli, PhD, RN

Title: Chair

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.32%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN

Founded in 1875, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) is a comprehensive public university in Indiana. This research-based educational institution is accredited by the Middle States Association Commission on Higher Education. Its Department of Nursing and Allied Health profession offers high-quality nursing degree programs in various levels. Nursing, BS - This

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 477
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $13,144
• Book and Supplies: $1,100
• Percent Received Aid: 92%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $6,487
• Percent Admitted: 93%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 22%
• Graduation Rate: 54%

Neumann University

Division of Nursing & Health Sciences

91.25% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  One Neumann Drive, Aston, PA - 19014-1298
• 
  (610) 459-0905

Nurse Admin: Theresa Pietsch, PhD, RN, CNE, CRRN

Title: Dean, School Of Nursing & Health Sciences

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 91.25%
• Programs: Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursingg, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Bachelor, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate

Neumann University is located in Aston, Pennsylvania.  They offer a BSN degree.  Neumann University is proud to note that their student to faculty ratio is 14:1, allowing professors to give personal attention to their students.

University Information

• Total Faculty: 95
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,400
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 99%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $17,296
• Percent Admitted: 80%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 15%
• Graduation Rate: 51%

Best Nursing Schools (ADN) in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania College of Technology

School of Nursing & Health Sciences

99.30% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  One College Ave, Williamsport, PA - 17701-5799
• 
  (570) 326-3761

Nurse Admin: Valerie Myers, EdD, MSN, RN

Title: Assitant Dean, Nursing

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 99.30%
• Programs: Nurse Educator, Practical Nursing, Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN

Pennsylvania College of Technology (PCT) is a two-year public educational institution in Williamsport. This MSCHE-accredited college has an average class size of 16. Moreover, it places emphasis on hands-on learning which has been its legacy for more than 100 years. Students in its nursing programs have the opportunity for international

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 279
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $17,610
• Book and Supplies: $1,549
• Percent Received Aid: 88%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,403
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 47%

Harcum College

96.50% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  750 Montgomery Ave, Bryn Mawr, PA - 19010-3476
• 
  (610) 525-4100

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.50%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate

University Information

• Total Faculty: 64
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,500
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 92%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $12,693
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 34%

Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

96.06% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  410 N Lime Street, Lancaster, PA - 17602
• 
  7175444912

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 96.06%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor, MSN

Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, College of Health Sciences is a private educational institution. It is the only college with an exclusive focus on health sciences in the area. The college was originally founded as a nursing school, around 100 years ago. Presently, it holds an accreditation from the Middle States

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University Information

• Total Faculty:
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: N/A
• Average Grant or Scholarship: N/A
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: N/A

Mount Aloysius College

School of Nursing

95.20% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  7373 Admiral Peary Hwy, Cresson, PA - 16630-1999
• 
  (814) 886-4131

Nurse Admin: Nicole Custer, PhD, RN, CCRN-K

Title: Chairperson, Department Of Nursing

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 95.20%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor

Mount Aloysius College (MAC) is a private educational institution in Cresson. This Catholic college was founded by the Religious Sisters of Mercy. MAC has an average class size of 14 and a student to faculty ratio of 11:1. In terms of its Nursing Program, it has provided Nursing Excellence for

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 59
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,500
• Book and Supplies: N/A
• Percent Received Aid: 99%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $12,364
• Percent Admitted: 95%
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 18%
• Graduation Rate: 46%

Luzerne County Community College

94.90% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  521 Trailblazer Drive, Nanticoke, PA - 18634
• 
  (570) 740-0200

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.90%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate

University Information

• Total Faculty: 103
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,670
• Book and Supplies: $14,370
• Percent Received Aid: 82%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,952
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 20%

Montgomery County Community College

94.10% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  340 Dekalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA - 19422-0796
• 
  (215) 641-6300

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 94.10%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate

Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) is a public college in Blue Bell with satellite campuses in Pottstown and Lansdale. It was founded in 1964 and is presently recognized in areas of faculty credentials and technological advancement. In terms of accreditation, MCCC is MSCHE-accredited. Its associate’s degree program is also accredited

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 160
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,730
• Book and Supplies: $14,970
• Percent Received Aid: 62%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,988
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 25%

Community College of Allegheny County

93.00% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  800 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA - 15233-1895
• 
  (412) 323-2323

Nurse Admin: Amber Reed,

Title: Director of Nursing Admissions

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 93.00%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate

Located in Pittsburgh, Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) is a public educational institution with four satellite campuses and four centers. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MS-CHE). Students in its Nursing Programs will have access to scholarships such as: Pittsburgh Foundation Nursing Scholarships, Edward

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University Information

• Total Faculty: 227
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,602
• Book and Supplies: $11,863
• Percent Received Aid: 74%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,992
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 16%

Bucks County Community College

92.30% 3-Year
Pass Rate

• 
  275 Swamp Rd, Newtown, PA - 18940-4106
• 
  (215) 968-8000

• NCLEX Passing Rate: (A) 92.30%
• Programs: Registered Nursing
• Award Levels: Associate

University Information

• Total Faculty: 130
• In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,898
• Book and Supplies: $13,298
• Percent Received Aid: 51%
• Average Grant or Scholarship: $3,971
• Percent Admitted: N/A
• Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
• Graduation Rate: 25%

Become an Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Pennsylvania

RNs who wish to become advanced practice registered nurses will want to pursue any number of avenues to earn Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Earning a Master of Science in Nursing consists of graduate-level coursework and clinical practice for those nurses who wish to direct patient roles such as a nurse practitioner. You can also pursue indirect patient roles such as teaching or leadership roles, or become involved in policy, state-wide health initiatives or community engagement. There are many clinical and non-clinical avenues that an RN with MSN can pursue.

Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Pennsylvania

Learn how to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) and research schools in Pennsylvania offering the following high paying nurse practitioner specialties:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

Learn about Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Degree.

Pennsylvania  RN Licensing Requirements

Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
PO Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
(717) 783-7142

Fees:
Initial licensing fee, RN: $35
License renewal (every two years), RN: $65; LPN: $60

Continuing Education Requirements:
RNs: 30 contact hours every renewal period; LPNs: None

RN Licensure by Exams

After completing an approved nursing program, nursing candidates will submit an application to the board. Temporary practice permits can be issued to graduates who apply within a year after graduation. Nurses working under a temporary permit must be under direct supervision of an experienced registered nurse. In addition to the application, candidates must also provide transcripts, and in some cases, verification of program completion. There is a $35 fee for the materials to be processed and an addition $35 for a temporary permit if the candidate wishes to have one. There is a $200 fee that will be paid to Pearson VUE, the company that runs the NCLEX exam. Results will be sent to the examinees within 2-30 days. There is a 45-day waiting period for candidates who wish to retake the NCLEX. The candidate will then need to reapply and pay additional fees.

RN Licensure by Endorsement

Registered nurses who obtained licensure in one of the other fifty states will need to complete the requirements as stated above in addition to paying a $100 fee.

RN License for Nurses Educated Abroad

Nurses who have been educated in a country outside of the United States and have not taken the NCLEX must apply for CGNFS certification before applying for licensure. Upon receiving certification, candidates may apply to the Pennsylvania Board using the appropriate application online. Nurses must also register to take the NCLEX exam through the Pearson VUE website.

RN Salaries in Pennsylvania

There are many opportunities in hospitals, home health, and non-hospital work environments for registered nurses in Pennsylvania. Positions available to baccalaureate prepared nurses include:

• Informatics works such as ICUs, maternity wards, cardiac care, and emergency departments
• Nursing administrators and directors
• Mental health
• Nurse researchers

There are approximately 130,000 nurses licensed nurses in the state of Pennsylvania. Despite this, there is a huge shortage expected within the state. Pennsylvania will need an additional 54,000 registered nurses by the year 2020 to meet this great need. Nursing is predicted to be the fastest-growing occupation so now is a better time than ever to become a registered nurse.

Pennsylvania Registered Nursing Salaries

The Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington Metropolitan area has the highest employment rate of registered nurses as well as the highest hourly mean wage and annual median wage.
Source: BLS, Department of Education, State Board of Nursing, Nursing School Websites.