RN Programs in Pennsylvania
Ranked RN and BSN Programs in Pennsylvania
After evaluating 1,209 ADN, 794 BSN, 2,022 campus and 383 online RN programs, we ranked RN programs against criteria nurses found to be most valuable. We spent $27,700 on this unique list that has helped tens-of-thousands of nurses apply to the right program for their career goals. Find NCLEX passing scores, tuition rates, nursing program accreditation, institution accreditation and more. Explore our RN-ADN and RN-BSN rankings for Pennsylvania in the listings below.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.
![[state_name] Best Ranked RN Programs in by RNCareers.org](https://i2.wp.com/rncareers.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/logo_head.png?w=1080&ssl=1 "[state_name] Best Ranked RN Programs in by RNCareers.org"){kind=logo}
Ranked Schools : 23
Evaluated Schools : 31
RN Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania community colleges offer a variety of nursing program; most offer RN programs. There are some that even offer bridge programs to local universities, where LPNs and RNs can either attend both schools simultaneously or attend for their BSN shortly after graduation. These options make it very easy for Pennsylvania nurses to advance their degrees.
RANKED 1
![University of Pittsburgh-Bradford RN Programs in PA [state_name]](https://i2.wp.com/rncareers.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/template1.jpg?w=1080&ssl=1 "University of Pittsburgh-Bradford RN Programs in PA [state_name]")
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 96.09%
University of Pittsburgh-Bradford
- 300 Campus Drive, Bradford, PA - 16701
- (814) 362-7500
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 is specifically an RN to BSN program.
- Campus: Bradford, PA
- Net Price: $15,613.00
- Enrollment: 1,481
- Loan Default Rate: 4.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -0.51%
- Graduation Rate: 54.20%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 2
ADN
Overall Score: 91.02%
Reading Area Community College
- 10 S Second St, Reading, PA - 19603-1706
- (610) 372-4721
Reading Area Community College is located in Reading, Pennsylvania. They offer a practical nursing program and an ADN program. RACC has a transfer center; the transfer center is where students can go if they know they eventually will want to transfer to a 4-year program. The transfer center will evaluate and help plan the courses that should be taken.
- Campus: Reading, PA
- Net Price: $10,058.00
- Enrollment: 4,538
- Transfer Out Rate: 28.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 26.40%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -1.12%
- Graduation Rate: 8.60%
- Median Borrowing: $9,500.00
- Median Payment: $99.19
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 3
ADN
Overall Score: 90.05%
Lehigh Carbon Community College
- 4525 Education Park Dr, Schnecksville, PA - 18078-2598
- (610) 799-2121
Lehigh Carbon Community College is located in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. They offer a practical nursing program and an ADN program. Entrance into the ADN program is competitive and is based on a points system; students receive points based on multiple different variables.
- Campus: Schnecksville, PA
- Net Price: $4,605.00
- Enrollment: 7,128
- Transfer Out Rate: 26.90%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.90%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 12.18%
- Graduation Rate: 13.60%
- Median Borrowing: $5,509.00
- Median Payment: $57.52
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 4
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 89.60%
Mount Aloysius College
- 7373 Admiral Peary Hwy, Cresson, PA - 16630-1999
- (814) 886-4131
Mount Aloysius College has multiple campuses in Pennsylvania. They offer a variety of nursing programs. Altoona and Johnstown campuses offer an RN to BSN program. Altoona campus offers the ADN program and a 2+2 program, meaning that students can attend for both their ADN and BSN simultaneously. The RN to BSN program can also be completed online.
- Campus: Cresson, PA
- Net Price: $20,052.00
- Enrollment: 1,781
- Loan Default Rate: 7.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 9.24%
- Graduation Rate: 37.00%
- Median Borrowing: $20,000.00
- Median Payment: $208.82
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 5
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 89.52%
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
- 410 N Lime Street, Lancaster, PA - 17602
- (717) 544-4912
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences is located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Their nursing department is vast – they offer an associate’s degree, an RN to BSN program, a 3-year BSN program and several graduate degree options. They are the only school in the region with a 3-year BSN program.
- Campus: Lancaster, PA
- Net Price: $23,048.00
- Enrollment: 1,429
- Transfer Out Rate: 19.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 2.60%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 23.21%
- Graduation Rate: 63.40%
- Median Borrowing: $17,500.00
- Median Payment: $182.72
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED 6
![Pennsylvania College of Technology RN Programs in PA [state_name]](https://www.rncareers.org/wp-content/uploads/cds_screenshots/366252_sc.jpg "Pennsylvania College of Technology RN Programs in PA [state_name]")
ADN
Overall Score: 89.51%
Pennsylvania College of Technology
- One College Ave, Williamsport, PA - 17701-5799
- (570) 326-3761
- Campus: Williamsport, PA
- Net Price: $21,263.00
- Enrollment: 5,678
- Transfer Out Rate: 7.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 12.10%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 13.04%
- Graduation Rate: 47.70%
- Median Borrowing: $19,000.00
- Median Payment: $198.38
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 7
ADN
Overall Score: 89.02%
Butler County Community College
- 107 College Drive, Butler, PA - 16002
- (724) 287-8711
- Campus: Butler, PA
- Net Price: $3,710.00
- Enrollment: 3,686
- Transfer Out Rate: 34.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.20%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -29.21%
- Graduation Rate: 18.60%
- Median Borrowing: $5,500.00
- Median Payment: $57.43
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 8
ADN
Overall Score: 88.77%
Luzerne County Community College
- 1333 South Prospect Street, Nanticoke, PA - 18634-3899
- (570) 740-0200
- Campus: Nanticoke, PA
- Net Price: $5,358.00
- Enrollment: 6,411
- Transfer Out Rate: 19.90%
- Loan Default Rate: 13.40%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -1.05%
- Graduation Rate: 17.80%
- Median Borrowing: $5,100.00
- Median Payment: $53.25
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 9
ADN
Overall Score: 88.51%
Harrisburg Area Community College-Harrisburg
- 1 HACC Dr., Harrisburg, PA - 17110-2999
- (717) 780-2300
- Campus: Harrisburg, PA
- Net Price: $10,211.00
- Enrollment: 20,780
- Transfer Out Rate: 17.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 19.40%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 21.06%
- Graduation Rate: 10.90%
- Median Borrowing: $9,500.00
- Median Payment: $99.19
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 10
ADN
Overall Score: 86.96%
University of Pittsburgh-Titusville
- 504 East Main Street, Titusville, PA - 16354
- (888) 878-0462
- Campus: Titusville, PA
- Net Price: $15,660.00
- Enrollment: 367
- Transfer Out Rate: 38.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 4.20%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 16.30%
- Graduation Rate: 11.60%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 11
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 85.50%
Lock Haven University
- 401 North Fairview Street, Lock Haven, PA - 17745-2390
- (570) 484-2011
- Campus: Lock Haven, PA
- Net Price: $12,958.00
- Enrollment: 4,855
- Loan Default Rate: 8.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.11%
- Graduation Rate: 47.70%
- Median Borrowing: $20,250.00
- Median Payment: $211.43
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 12
ADN
Overall Score: 85.25%
Community College of Beaver County
- 1 Campus Drive, Monaca, PA - 15061-2588
- (724) 480-2222
- Campus: Monaca, PA
- Net Price: $7,497.00
- Enrollment: 2,335
- Transfer Out Rate: 18.00%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.50%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 32.86%
- Graduation Rate: 22.70%
- Median Borrowing: $9,255.00
- Median Payment: $96.63
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 13
ADN
Overall Score: 85.24%
Bucks County Community College
- 275 Swamp Rd, Newtown, PA - 18940-4106
- (215) 968-8000
- Campus: Newtown, PA
- Net Price: $7,697.00
- Enrollment: 9,880
- Transfer Out Rate: 28.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 11.20%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 0.14%
- Graduation Rate: 12.40%
- Median Borrowing: $6,000.00
- Median Payment: $62.65
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 14
ADN
Overall Score: 84.86%
Montgomery County Community College
- 340 Dekalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA - 19422-0796
- (215) 641-6300
- Campus: Blue Bell, PA
- Net Price: $7,521.00
- Enrollment: 13,122
- Transfer Out Rate: 25.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.00%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 5.75%
- Graduation Rate: 16.10%
- Median Borrowing: $6,500.00
- Median Payment: $67.87
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 15
ADN
Overall Score: 83.81%
Delaware County Community College
- 901 S Media Line Rd, Media, PA - 19063-1094
- (610) 359-5000
- Campus: Media, PA
- Net Price: $6,768.00
- Enrollment: 13,198
- Transfer Out Rate: 26.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 14.00%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -16.38%
- Graduation Rate: 13.60%
- Median Borrowing: $7,250.00
- Median Payment: $75.70
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 16
ADN
Overall Score: 82.77%
Westmoreland County Community College
- 145 Pavilion Lane, Youngwood, PA - 15697-1895
- (724) 925-4000
- Campus: Youngwood, PA
- Net Price: $2,530.00
- Enrollment: 6,104
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.40%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 3.56%
- Graduation Rate: 12.40%
- Median Borrowing: $5,500.00
- Median Payment: $57.43
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 17
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 82.01%
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
- 201 Old Main, University Park, PA - 16802-1503
- (814) 865-4700
- Campus: University Park, PA
- Net Price: $23,161.00
- Enrollment: 40,085
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 11.03%
- Graduation Rate: 84.90%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 18
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 81.83%
Gwynedd Mercy University
- 1325 Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd Valley, PA - 19437-0901
- (215) 646-7300
- Campus: Gwynedd Valley, PA
- Net Price: $23,801.00
- Enrollment: 2,062
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 15.98%
- Graduation Rate: 63.20%
- Median Borrowing: $23,000.00
- Median Payment: $240.15
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 19
ADN
Overall Score: 79.60%
Community College of Allegheny County
- 800 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA - 15233-1895
- (412) 323-2323
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Net Price: $5,936.00
- Enrollment: 18,229
- Transfer Out Rate: 24.60%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.30%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 14.20%
- Graduation Rate: 9.30%
- Median Borrowing: $6,320.00
- Median Payment: $65.99
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 20
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 79.55%
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
- 840 Wood St, Clarion, PA - 16214
- (814) 393-2000
- Campus: Clarion, PA
- Net Price: $14,588.00
- Enrollment: 5,199
- Loan Default Rate: 8.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 10.90%
- Graduation Rate: 53.60%
- Median Borrowing: $20,501.00
- Median Payment: $214.05
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 21
ADN
Overall Score: 76.92%
Community College of Philadelphia
- 1700 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA - 19130-3991
- (215) 751-8000
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Net Price: $6,388.00
- Enrollment: 19,063
- Transfer Out Rate: 22.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 17.40%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 23.68%
- Graduation Rate: 9.70%
- Median Borrowing: $5,750.00
- Median Payment: $60.04
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 22
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: 72.28%
La Roche College
- 9000 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA - 15237-5898
- (412) 367-9300
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Net Price: $19,510.00
- Enrollment: 1,363
- Transfer Out Rate: 32.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 6.50%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 5.03%
- Graduation Rate: 44.70%
- Median Borrowing: $19,659.00
- Median Payment: $205.26
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 23
ADN
Overall Score: 69.21%
Harcum College
- 750 Montgomery Ave, Bryn Mawr, PA - 19010-3470
- (610) 525-4100
- Campus: Bryn Mawr, PA
- Net Price: $21,304.00
- Enrollment: 1,627
- Loan Default Rate: 12.40%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -11.12%
- Graduation Rate: 30.40%
- Median Borrowing: $15,742.00
- Median Payment: $164.36
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Worthington Scranton
- 120 Ridge View Drive, Dunmore, PA - 18512-1602
- (570) 963-2500
- Campus: Dunmore, PA
- Net Price: $13,617.00
- Enrollment: 1,178
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 12.25%
- Graduation Rate: 47.60%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
California University of Pennsylvania
- 250 University Ave, California, PA - 15419-1394
- (724) 938-4400
- Campus: California, PA
- Net Price: $16,829.00
- Enrollment: 6,450
- Loan Default Rate: 8.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -5.86%
- Graduation Rate: 53.20%
- Median Borrowing: $21,275.00
- Median Payment: $222.14
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED N/A
ADN
Overall Score: N/A
Northampton County Area Community College
- 3835 Green Pond Rd, Bethlehem, PA - 18020-7599
- (610) 861-5300
- Campus: Bethlehem, PA
- Net Price: $5,395.00
- Enrollment: 10,666
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.90%
- Loan Default Rate: 15.50%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -11.47%
- Graduation Rate: 17.30%
- Median Borrowing: $6,990.00
- Median Payment: $72.98
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
- 3000 Ivyside Park, Altoona, PA - 16601-3777
- (814) 949-5000
- Campus: Altoona, PA
- Net Price: $20,250.00
- Enrollment: 3,861
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.16%
- Graduation Rate: 70.90%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Fayette- Eberly
- 2201 University Drive, Lemont Furnace, PA - 15456-1025
- (724) 430-4100
- Campus: Lemont Furnace, PA
- Net Price: $12,904.00
- Enrollment: 846
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 9.31%
- Graduation Rate: 46.80%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto
- 1 Campus Drive, Mont Alto, PA - 17237-9700
- (717) 749-6000
- Campus: Mont Alto, PA
- Net Price: $19,165.00
- Enrollment: 1,022
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 10.84%
- Graduation Rate: 52.00%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN
Overall Score: N/A
Mercyhurst University-North East Campus
- 16 W Division St, North East, PA - 16428
- (814) 725-6100
- Campus: North East, PA
- Net Price: $13,822.00
- Enrollment: 1,032
- Loan Default Rate: 12.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Graduation Rate: 38.20%
- Median Borrowing: $18,848.00
- Median Payment: $196.79
- Award Levels: Associate
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College
- 4701 College Drive, Erie, PA - 16563-4117
- (814) 898-6000
- Campus: Erie, PA
- Net Price: $20,587.00
- Enrollment: 3,943
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 4.15%
- Graduation Rate: 69.40%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
Data sources: IPEDS, National Center of Educational Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences (ERIC), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 2,401 Nursing Schools, 50 State Boards of Nursing, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
See our methodology for ranking ADN and BSN programs.
Find RN Programs in Pennsylvania | BSN Programs in Pennsylvania | RN Programs in the United States | LPN to RN Program Guide: LPN to RN Guide | LPN to BSN Program Guide: LPN to BSN Program Guide | RN to BSN Program Guide RN to BSN Program Guide | RN Jobs RN Jobs
Pennsylvania RN Licensing Requirements
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.
Helpful Nursing Resources
![[state_name] Best Ranked RN and BSN Programs in by RNCareers.org](https://i0.wp.com/rncareers.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/BSNseal-1.png?w=1080&ssl=1 "[state_name] Best Ranked RN and BSN Programs in by RNCareers.org")
Ranked Schools : 31
Evaluated Schools : 56
BSN Programs in Pennsylvania
Nurses are encouraged to seek out information from multiple schools in order to ensure they find the program that best fits their needs. BSN programs in Pennsylvania are designed to help nurses advance their diagnostic reasoning, health assessment skills, leadership abilities, and management strategies. Courses in a typical BSN program may include (but are not limited to):
- Health policies and professional issues
- Effective nursing management, leadership, and mentoring
- Baccalaureate nursing practice
- Cultural diversity and public health
- Health policies and professional issues
A program can typically be completed in 20 months. There is also a clinical practicum required that consists of 15-20 weeks of a full time class.
RANKED 1
BSN
Overall Score: 99.49%
Waynesburg University
- 51 W College St, Waynesburg, PA - 15370-1257
- (724) 627-8191
- Campus: Waynesburg, PA
- Net Price: $16,768.00
- Enrollment: 1,598
- Transfer Out Rate: 34.30%
- Loan Default Rate: 5.10%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 10.01%
- Graduation Rate: 54.00%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 2
BSN
Overall Score: 97.66%
Drexel University
- 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA - 19104
- (215) 895-2000
Drexel University is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Their nursing programs are unique; their traditional BSN option is not so traditional. Students are eligible for 3 paid, 6-month cooperative education experiences. They also offer an accelerated BSN option, which is available to students with a prior bachelor’s degree. This can be completed in 11 months for students attending full-time or 24 months for students attending part-time.
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Net Price: $36,049.00
- Enrollment: 16,616
- Loan Default Rate: 3.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 4.01%
- Graduation Rate: 69.50%
- Median Borrowing: $23,000.00
- Median Payment: $240.15
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 3
BSN
Overall Score: 97.00%
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
- 400 E Second St, Bloomsburg, PA - 17815
- (570) 389-4000
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania is located in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. They offer a BSN program and an RN to BSN program. Their RN to BSN program is offered entirely online; at this time, their online program is available only to PA residents but they are seeking to expand to non-PA residents in the very near future.
- Campus: Bloomsburg, PA
- Net Price: $16,343.00
- Enrollment: 9,416
- Loan Default Rate: 6.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 15.52%
- Graduation Rate: 61.80%
- Median Borrowing: $19,936.00
- Median Payment: $208.15
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 4
BSN
Overall Score: 94.87%
Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus
- 1011 South Dr 201 Sutton Hall, Indiana, PA - 15705-1098
- (724) 357-2100
Indiana University of Pennsylvania is located in Indiana, Pennsylvania. They offer a traditional BSN program. They also offer an LPN to BSN program. Per their website, “The track for licensed practical nurses provides an alternative curriculum accounting for prior work completed in a practical nursing program.” This program is an ideal option for LPNs seeking a BSN degree.
- Campus: Indiana, PA
- Net Price: $16,704.00
- Enrollment: 12,668
- Loan Default Rate: 8.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 13.59%
- Graduation Rate: 51.20%
- Median Borrowing: $22,624.00
- Median Payment: $236.22
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 5
BSN
Overall Score: 92.32%
Neumann University
- One Neumann Drive, Aston, PA - 19014-1298
- (610) 459-0905
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.
- Campus: Aston, PA
- Net Price: $25,221.00
- Enrollment: 2,573
- Transfer Out Rate: 20.00%
- Loan Default Rate: 9.30%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursin, Registered Nursing
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -2.49%
- Graduation Rate: 50.20%
- Median Borrowing: $23,682.00
- Median Payment: $247.27
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 6
BSN
Overall Score: 91.72%
University of Pennsylvania
- 34th & Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA - 19104-6303
- (215) 898-5000
University of Pennsylvania is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 2017 US News & World Report noted that Penn Nursing was second in the nation, with the university as a whole ranking number nine. Their undergraduate nursing program offers a BSN degree. They also offer a second degree program, where students can obtain their BSN degree if they already have a bachelor’s degree. They also have a unique option – a dual degree, where the student attends for their BSN degree and Healthcare Management degree simultaneously. The degree in Healthcare Management is obtained through a partnership with The Wharton School.
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Net Price: $21,994.00
- Enrollment: 11,525
- Loan Default Rate: 1.30%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 6.81%
- Graduation Rate: 95.70%
- Median Borrowing: $21,500.00
- Median Payment: $224.48
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 7
BSN
Overall Score: 91.57%
University of Scranton
- 800 Linden Street, Scranton, PA - 18510-4629
- (570) 941-7400
University of Scranton is located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. BSN students have several options at Scranton University; they offer a traditional BSN degree, an LPN to BSN option, an RN to BSN option, an accelerated BSN (for students with a prior bachelor’s degree) and an RN to MSN option.
- Campus: Scranton, PA
- Net Price: $32,348.00
- Enrollment: 3,942
- Loan Default Rate: 4.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 9.75%
- Graduation Rate: 81.80%
- Median Borrowing: $28,000.00
- Median Payment: $292.35
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 8
BSN
Overall Score: 90.71%
Saint Francis University
- 117 Evergreen Dr, Loretto, PA - 15940
- (814) 472-3000
Saint Francis University is located in Loretto, Pennsylvania. In terms of undergraduate programs, they offer a BSN program and an RN to BSN program. They also are extremely proud of the fact that their faculty to student ratio is 8:1 in the clinical setting. Their faculty and nursing students regularly volunteer in clinics for underserved populations.
- Campus: Loretto, PA
- Net Price: $23,747.00
- Enrollment: 1,694
- Loan Default Rate: 4.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 9.44%
- Graduation Rate: 71.50%
- Median Borrowing: $27,000.00
- Median Payment: $281.91
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 9
BSN
Overall Score: 90.32%
Temple University
- 1801 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA - 19122-6096
- (215) 204-7000
Temple University is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They currently offer a BSN program with an RN to BSN option. Freshman students are eligible for entrance into the BSN program if they are highly qualified. They also have a DNP option. Their MSN program is not currently taking applications.
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Net Price: $20,670.00
- Enrollment: 28,068
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.30%
- Loan Default Rate: 5.60%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 7.94%
- Graduation Rate: 66.30%
- Median Borrowing: $24,000.00
- Median Payment: $250.59
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 10
BSN
Overall Score: 90.25%
Cedar Crest College
- 100 College Drive, Allentown, PA - 18104-6196
- (610) 606-4666
Cedar Crest College is located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. They offer a BSN program and an BSN Completion Program for RNs. Unique to Cedar Crest College is the School Nurse Certification that is offered; it can be completed on-campus, online or a combination of the two. It can be completed in 18 months to 2 years.
- Campus: Allentown, PA
- Net Price: $19,225.00
- Enrollment: 1,286
- Transfer Out Rate: 7.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 7.30%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursin, Registered Nursing, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 2.08%
- Graduation Rate: 59.90%
- Median Borrowing: $27,000.00
- Median Payment: $281.91
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 11
BSN
Overall Score: 90.13%
Gannon University
- 109 W Sixth St, Erie, PA - 16541-0001
- (814) 871-7000
Gannon University is located in Erie, Pennsylvania. The Villa Maria School of Nursing offers a BSN degree, an RN to MSN degree and a School Nurse Certificate. The RN to MSN program is suggested to RNs with leadership skills and who have advanced experience as a nurse.
- Campus: Erie, PA
- Net Price: $20,485.00
- Enrollment: 3,111
- Transfer Out Rate: 28.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 7.50%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 8.53%
- Graduation Rate: 64.30%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 12
BSN
Overall Score: 89.59%
Villanova University
- 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA - 19085-1699
- (610) 519-4500
- Campus: Villanova, PA
- Net Price: $30,587.00
- Enrollment: 7,042
- Loan Default Rate: 2.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 6.08%
- Graduation Rate: 90.10%
- Median Borrowing: $27,000.00
- Median Payment: $281.91
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 13
BSN
Overall Score: 89.36%
DeSales University
- 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley, PA - 18034-9568
- (610) 282-1100
- Campus: Center Valley, PA
- Net Price: $27,943.00
- Enrollment: 2,482
- Loan Default Rate: 3.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 5.47%
- Graduation Rate: 70.30%
- Median Borrowing: $20,832.00
- Median Payment: $217.51
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 14
BSN
Overall Score: 88.42%
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
- 4200 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA - 15260
- (412) 624-4141
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Net Price: $22,341.00
- Enrollment: 18,615
- Loan Default Rate: 4.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 11.28%
- Graduation Rate: 80.40%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 15
BSN
Overall Score: 88.32%
Holy Family University
- 9801 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA - 19114-2009
- (215) 637-7700
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Net Price: $15,730.00
- Enrollment: 2,182
- Transfer Out Rate: 29.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 4.40%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 9.47%
- Graduation Rate: 53.70%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 16
BSN
Overall Score: 88.26%
Misericordia University
- 301 Lake St, Dallas, PA - 18612-1098
- (570) 674-6400
- Campus: Dallas, PA
- Net Price: $24,545.00
- Enrollment: 2,417
- Transfer Out Rate: 24.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 6.80%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 13.01%
- Graduation Rate: 69.20%
- Median Borrowing: $25,250.00
- Median Payment: $263.64
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 17
BSN
Overall Score: 88.06%
Messiah College
- One College Ave, Mechanicsburg, PA - 17055
- (717) 766-2511
- Campus: Mechanicsburg, PA
- Net Price: $25,639.00
- Enrollment: 2,772
- Loan Default Rate: 2.60%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 5.41%
- Graduation Rate: 75.80%
- Median Borrowing: $26,000.00
- Median Payment: $271.47
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 18
BSN
Overall Score: 87.58%
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
- University Avenue and High Street, West Chester, PA - 19383
- (610) 436-1000
- Campus: West Chester, PA
- Net Price: $19,407.00
- Enrollment: 13,711
- Loan Default Rate: 5.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.24%
- Graduation Rate: 68.60%
- Median Borrowing: $21,500.00
- Median Payment: $224.48
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 19
BSN
Overall Score: 87.16%
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
- Academy Street, Mansfield, PA - 16933
- (570) 662-4000
- Campus: Mansfield, PA
- Net Price: $15,520.00
- Enrollment: 2,717
- Loan Default Rate: 10.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 16.15%
- Graduation Rate: 50.70%
- Median Borrowing: $22,036.00
- Median Payment: $230.08
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 20
BSN
Overall Score: 87.09%
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania
- 219 Meadville Street, Edinboro, PA - 16444-0001
- (814) 732-2000
- Campus: Edinboro, PA
- Net Price: $13,833.00
- Enrollment: 5,864
- Loan Default Rate: 10.50%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -4.18%
- Graduation Rate: 45.90%
- Median Borrowing: $21,424.00
- Median Payment: $223.69
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 21
BSN
Overall Score: 86.84%
Moravian College
- 1200 Main St, Bethlehem, PA - 18018-6650
- (610) 861-1360
- Campus: Bethlehem, PA
- Net Price: $25,540.00
- Enrollment: 1,553
- Transfer Out Rate: 21.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 3.30%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursin
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -2.17%
- Graduation Rate: 74.10%
- Median Borrowing: $27,000.00
- Median Payment: $281.91
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 22
BSN
Overall Score: 86.42%
York College Pennsylvania
- 441 Country Club Rd, York, PA - 17403-3651
- (717) 846-7788
- Campus: York, PA
- Net Price: $21,661.00
- Enrollment: 5,010
- Transfer Out Rate: 29.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 4.90%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 9.58%
- Graduation Rate: 57.30%
- Median Borrowing: $22,813.00
- Median Payment: $238.19
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 23
BSN
Overall Score: 85.28%
Widener University-Main Campus
- One University Place, Chester, PA - 19013-5792
- (610) 499-4000
- Campus: Chester, PA
- Net Price: $27,663.00
- Enrollment: 3,424
- Transfer Out Rate: 28.80%
- Loan Default Rate: 5.80%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 3.70%
- Graduation Rate: 56.00%
- Median Borrowing: $25,750.00
- Median Payment: $268.86
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 24
BSN
Overall Score: 84.56%
Carlow University
- 3333 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA - 15213-3165
- (412) 578-6000
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Net Price: $18,703.00
- Enrollment: 2,100
- Loan Default Rate: 5.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 26.42%
- Graduation Rate: 62.30%
- Median Borrowing: $24,018.00
- Median Payment: $250.78
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 25
BSN
Overall Score: 84.13%
Alvernia University
- 400 Saint Bernardine St, Reading, PA - 19607-1799
- (610) 796-8200
- Campus: Reading, PA
- Net Price: $26,264.00
- Enrollment: 2,371
- Transfer Out Rate: 37.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 6.90%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 2.70%
- Graduation Rate: 51.30%
- Median Borrowing: $27,000.00
- Median Payment: $281.91
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 26
BSN
Overall Score: 84.08%
Eastern University
- 1300 Eagle Rd, Saint Davids, PA - 19087-3696
- (610) 341-5800
- Campus: Saint Davids, PA
- Net Price: $23,361.00
- Enrollment: 2,541
- Loan Default Rate: 8.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 3.36%
- Graduation Rate: 55.00%
- Median Borrowing: $22,500.00
- Median Payment: $234.93
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 27
BSN
Overall Score: 81.35%
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
- 200 Prospect Street, East Stroudsburg, PA - 18301-2999
- (570) 422-3211
- Campus: East Stroudsburg, PA
- Net Price: $14,437.00
- Enrollment: 6,186
- Loan Default Rate: 5.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 18.75%
- Graduation Rate: 56.00%
- Median Borrowing: $19,500.00
- Median Payment: $203.60
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED 28
BSN
Overall Score: 80.72%
Robert Morris University
- 6001 University Boulevard, Moon Township, PA - 15108-1189
- (800) 762-0097
- Campus: Moon Township, PA
- Net Price: $23,414.00
- Enrollment: 4,496
- Transfer Out Rate: 31.00%
- Loan Default Rate: 4.90%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 8.53%
- Graduation Rate: 55.90%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 29
BSN
Overall Score: 79.59%
Wilkes University
- 84 West South Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA - 18766
- (570) 408-5000
- Campus: Wilkes-Barre, PA
- Net Price: $24,787.00
- Enrollment: 2,388
- Transfer Out Rate: 29.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 5.10%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 8.84%
- Graduation Rate: 57.90%
- Median Borrowing: $24,000.00
- Median Payment: $250.59
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED 30
BSN
Overall Score: 79.20%
Marywood University
- 2300 Adams Ave, Scranton, PA - 18509-1598
- (570) 348-6211
- Campus: Scranton, PA
- Net Price: $22,796.00
- Enrollment: 2,148
- Transfer Out Rate: 16.20%
- Loan Default Rate: 7.10%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 10.18%
- Graduation Rate: 65.10%
- Median Borrowing: $27,000.00
- Median Payment: $281.91
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED 31
BSN
Overall Score: 76.27%
La Salle University
- 1900 W Olney Ave, Philadelphia, PA - 19141-1199
- (215) 951-1000
- Campus: Philadelphia, PA
- Net Price: $24,015.00
- Enrollment: 4,409
- Loan Default Rate: 3.80%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 2.55%
- Graduation Rate: 64.70%
- Median Borrowing: $23,000.00
- Median Payment: $240.15
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Immaculata University
- 1145 King Rd, Immaculata, PA - 19345-0702
- (610) 647-4400
- Campus: Immaculata, PA
- Net Price: $28,927.00
- Enrollment: 2,560
- Transfer Out Rate: 42.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 6.10%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 4.52%
- Graduation Rate: 48.30%
- Median Borrowing: $25,162.00
- Median Payment: $262.72
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango
- 147 Shenango Avenue, Sharon, PA - 16146-1537
- (724) 983-2803
- Campus: Sharon, PA
- Net Price: $14,122.00
- Enrollment: 568
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 7.83%
- Graduation Rate: 31.30%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
- 201 Old Main, University Park, PA - 16802-1503
- (814) 865-4700
- Campus: University Park, PA
- Net Price: $23,161.00
- Enrollment: 40,085
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 11.03%
- Graduation Rate: 84.90%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN, CCNE
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Worthington Scranton
- 120 Ridge View Drive, Dunmore, PA - 18512-1602
- (570) 963-2500
- Campus: Dunmore, PA
- Net Price: $13,617.00
- Enrollment: 1,178
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 12.25%
- Graduation Rate: 47.60%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
La Roche College
- 9000 Babcock Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA - 15237-5898
- (412) 367-9300
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Net Price: $19,510.00
- Enrollment: 1,363
- Transfer Out Rate: 32.40%
- Loan Default Rate: 6.50%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 5.03%
- Graduation Rate: 44.70%
- Median Borrowing: $19,659.00
- Median Payment: $205.26
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
- 3000 Ivyside Park, Altoona, PA - 16601-3777
- (814) 949-5000
- Campus: Altoona, PA
- Net Price: $20,250.00
- Enrollment: 3,861
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.16%
- Graduation Rate: 70.90%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
University of Pittsburgh-Bradford
- 300 Campus Drive, Bradford, PA - 16701
- (814) 362-7500
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 is specifically an RN to BSN program.
- Campus: Bradford, PA
- Net Price: $15,613.00
- Enrollment: 1,481
- Loan Default Rate: 4.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -0.51%
- Graduation Rate: 54.20%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Chatham University
- Woodland Rd, Pittsburgh, PA - 15232
- (412) 365-1100
- Campus: Pittsburgh, PA
- Net Price: $21,602.00
- Enrollment: 973
- Transfer Out Rate: 41.10%
- Loan Default Rate: 2.30%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -1.09%
- Graduation Rate: 50.30%
- Median Borrowing: $19,791.00
- Median Payment: $206.64
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg
- 777 West Harrisburg Pike, Middletown, PA - 17057-4846
- (717) 948-6452
- Campus: Middletown, PA
- Net Price: $19,394.00
- Enrollment: 3,577
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 10.73%
- Graduation Rate: 60.90%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
- 840 Wood St, Clarion, PA - 16214
- (814) 393-2000
- Campus: Clarion, PA
- Net Price: $14,588.00
- Enrollment: 5,199
- Loan Default Rate: 8.10%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 10.90%
- Graduation Rate: 53.60%
- Median Borrowing: $20,501.00
- Median Payment: $214.05
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Lock Haven University
- 401 North Fairview Street, Lock Haven, PA - 17745-2390
- (570) 484-2011
- Campus: Lock Haven, PA
- Net Price: $12,958.00
- Enrollment: 4,855
- Loan Default Rate: 8.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.11%
- Graduation Rate: 47.70%
- Median Borrowing: $20,250.00
- Median Payment: $211.43
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Fayette- Eberly
- 2201 University Drive, Lemont Furnace, PA - 15456-1025
- (724) 430-4100
- Campus: Lemont Furnace, PA
- Net Price: $12,904.00
- Enrollment: 846
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 9.31%
- Graduation Rate: 46.80%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Gwynedd Mercy University
- 1325 Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd Valley, PA - 19437-0901
- (215) 646-7300
- Campus: Gwynedd Valley, PA
- Net Price: $23,801.00
- Enrollment: 2,062
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 15.98%
- Graduation Rate: 63.20%
- Median Borrowing: $23,000.00
- Median Payment: $240.15
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto
- 1 Campus Drive, Mont Alto, PA - 17237-9700
- (717) 749-6000
- Campus: Mont Alto, PA
- Net Price: $19,165.00
- Enrollment: 1,022
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 10.84%
- Graduation Rate: 52.00%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
- 15200 Kutztown Rd, Kutztown, PA - 19530-0730
- (610) 683-4000
- Campus: Kutztown, PA
- Net Price: $17,009.00
- Enrollment: 8,815
- Loan Default Rate: 6.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 28.90%
- Graduation Rate: 54.80%
- Median Borrowing: $19,500.00
- Median Payment: $203.60
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington
- 1600 Woodland Road, Abington, PA - 19001-3918
- (215) 881-7300
- Campus: Abington, PA
- Net Price: $12,123.00
- Enrollment: 3,690
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 7.27%
- Graduation Rate: 48.50%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Mercyhurst University
- 501 E 38th St, Erie, PA - 16546
- (814) 824-2000
- Campus: Erie, PA
- Net Price: $20,752.00
- Enrollment: 2,680
- Loan Default Rate: 12.90%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: -14.55%
- Graduation Rate: 59.70%
- Median Borrowing: $18,848.00
- Median Payment: $196.79
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Schuylkill
- 200 University Drive, Schuylkill Haven, PA - 17972-2202
- (570) 385-6000
- Campus: Schuylkill Haven, PA
- Net Price: $16,759.00
- Enrollment: 837
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 8.52%
- Graduation Rate: 45.10%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- 1 Morrow Way, Slippery Rock, PA - 16057-1383
- (724) 738-9000
- Campus: Slippery Rock, PA
- Net Price: $15,354.00
- Enrollment: 7,595
- Loan Default Rate: 5.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 11.00%
- Graduation Rate: 62.60%
- Median Borrowing: $23,000.00
- Median Payment: $240.15
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
- 410 N Lime Street, Lancaster, PA - 17602
- (717) 544-4912
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences is located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Their nursing department is vast – they offer an associate’s degree, an RN to BSN program, a 3-year BSN program and several graduate degree options. They are the only school in the region with a 3-year BSN program.
- Campus: Lancaster, PA
- Net Price: $23,048.00
- Enrollment: 1,429
- Transfer Out Rate: 19.70%
- Loan Default Rate: 2.60%
- Institution Accreditation: MSCHE
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 23.21%
- Graduation Rate: 63.40%
- Median Borrowing: $17,500.00
- Median Payment: $182.72
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College
- 4701 College Drive, Erie, PA - 16563-4117
- (814) 898-6000
- Campus: Erie, PA
- Net Price: $20,587.00
- Enrollment: 3,943
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 4.15%
- Graduation Rate: 69.40%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
- 128 Outreach Building, University Park, PA - 16802-1503
- (814) 865-4700
- Campus: University Park, PA
- Net Price: $18,565.00
- Enrollment: 5,389
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Public
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State New Kensington
- 3550 Seventh Street Road, New Kensington, PA - 15068-1765
- (724) 334-5466
- Campus: New Kensington, PA
- Net Price: $14,754.00
- Enrollment: 680
- Loan Default Rate: 7.70%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: 12.52%
- Graduation Rate: 55.40%
- Median Borrowing: $25,000.00
- Median Payment: $261.03
- Award Levels: Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) :
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
Mount Aloysius College
- 7373 Admiral Peary Hwy, Cresson, PA - 16630-1999
- (814) 886-4131
Mount Aloysius College has multiple campuses in Pennsylvania. They offer a variety of nursing programs. Altoona and Johnstown campuses offer an RN to BSN program. Altoona campus offers the ADN program and a 2+2 program, meaning that students can attend for both their ADN and BSN simultaneously. The RN to BSN program can also be completed online.
- Campus: Cresson, PA
- Net Price: $20,052.00
- Enrollment: 1,781
- Loan Default Rate: 7.20%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus, Online
- Type: Private Not-For-Profit
- Net Price Change: 9.24%
- Graduation Rate: 37.00%
- Median Borrowing: $20,000.00
- Median Payment: $208.82
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : ACEN
RANKED N/A
ADN / BSN
Overall Score: N/A
California University of Pennsylvania
- 250 University Ave, California, PA - 15419-1394
- (724) 938-4400
- Campus: California, PA
- Net Price: $16,829.00
- Enrollment: 6,450
- Loan Default Rate: 8.00%
- Programs: Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
- Offered as: Campus
- Type: Public
- Net Price Change: -5.86%
- Graduation Rate: 53.20%
- Median Borrowing: $21,275.00
- Median Payment: $222.14
- Award Levels: Associate, Bachelor
- Program Accreditation(s) : CCNE
Data sources: IPEDS, National Center of Educational Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences (ERIC), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 2,401 Nursing Schools, 50 State Boards of Nursing, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
See our methodology for ranking ADN and BSN programs.
Find RN Programs in Pennsylvania | BSN Programs in Pennsylvania | RN Programs in the United States | LPN to RN Program Guide: LPN to RN Guide | LPN to BSN Program Guide: LPN to BSN Program Guide | RN to BSN Program Guide RN to BSN Program Guide | RN Jobs RN Jobs
Pennsylvania RN Licensing Requirements
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.
Helpful Nursing Resources
Pennsylvania RN Job Outlook
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 Nursing Jobs
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.
| Area name | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual median wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | 8,350 | $31.76 | $64,670 |
| Erie, PA | 3,100 | $27.49 | $55,320 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | 7,050 | $31.73 | $63,590 |
| Johnstown, PA | 1,810 | $29.87 | $62,860 |
| Lancaster, PA | 3,290 | $32.98 | $65,270 |
| Lebanon, PA | 910 | $31.84 | $66,440 |
| Philadelphia, PA Metropolitan Division | 43,040 | $35.66 | $74,030 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 62,750 | $35.68 | $74,140 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | 30,410 | $30.03 | $61,220 |
| Reading, PA | 3,510 | $29.35 | $59,940 |
| Scranton–Wilkes-Barre, PA | 5,690 | $28.44 | $58,700 |
| State College, PA | 1,090 | $28.68 | $61,810 |
| Williamsport, PA | 1,100 | $31.60 | $65,850 |
| York-Hanover, PA | 3,450 | $32.91 | $67,880 |
| Far Western Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area | 2,980 | $27.24 | $56,850 |
| West Central Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area | 2,740 | $27.13 | $56,300 |
| Northeastern Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area | 2,640 | $30.82 | $64,380 |
| East Central Pennsylvania nonmetropolitan area | 5,330 | $30.47 | $63,960 |
Source: http://www.dol.gov/, 2014 Data