Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

There are various duties that could be assigned to a registered nurse, or RN, depending on where they choose to work. However, the role of a nurse usually includes providing direct patient care and filling some administrative tasks. In order to access more complex and lucrative parts of nursing, like leading public health education campaigns and assisting physicians in the ER or OR, nurses often must upgrade their qualifications to include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Many colleges and universities in Pennsylvania have RN to BSN programs.

2024 - Best Online RN to BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

As many hospitals and medical clinics push to hire BSN-educated RNs, registered nurses who hold an ADN or diploma often consider returning to school to complete a bachelor's degree in nursing. RN to BSN completion programs were created to meet this demand, offering a convenient and quick pathway to a baccalaureate degree for active RNs. For those wanting even more flexibility, online RN to BSN programs are available. To help students choose the right program, we have ranked the top online RN to BSN programs in the state of Pennsylvania below. Peruse our listings and find a great program today!

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

1.

Waynesburg University

Waynesburg, PA

Waynesburg University, located in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, offers a top-tier online RN-to-BSN program. Tailored for working nurses, the program combines flexibility with academic rigor, preparing students for leadership roles in nursing. With experienced faculty and a supportive online platform, Waynesburg University provides a quality learning experience.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Quick Facts:

• BSN in as little as 12 months - 16 months
• 100% online option
• 33-39 credit hours

2.

Immaculata University

Immaculata, PA

Immaculata University, nestled in the picturesque town of Immaculata, Pennsylvania, hosts a renowned online RN-to-BSN program. Tailored for busy nurses, the program champions career progression and leadership acumen. With seasoned faculty and an interactive virtual platform, Immaculata equips nurses for success in today's dynamic healthcare arena.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Quick Facts:

• Face-to-face or online instruction
• Accelerated seven to eight week courses
• Completion in two years or less

3.

York College of Pennsylvania

York, PA

Nurses working in the field can benefit from York College of Pennsylvania's RN to BSN online program. By amplifying the level of care they provide to their patients and by advancing their own career aspirations, working RNs can go farther in less time in this leadership and community health-focused program.

• RN to BSN Online/Hybrid

Quick Facts:

• One year degree completion
• Less than $10,000 in total tuition costs
• A small liberal arts college

4.

Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

Lancaster, PA

Earn more as a nurse by completing the online RN to BSN degree at Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences. Built for working RNs, the flexible program covers fundamentals such as Comprehensive Health Assessment and refreshed courses such as Diversity and Cultural Care in Nursing.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Quick Facts:

• Customized schedules allow maximum flexibility
• Most courses are offered online
• One-day classes at the Lancaster, PA campus may be required

5.

Moravian University

Bethlehem, PA

Created for RNs with multiple obligations, the online RN to BSN at Moravian University produces graduates who can perform at the highest levels. From performing holistic health assessments to caring for challenging populations, graduates become more confident and capable RNs.

• RN to BSN Online Campus

Quick Facts:

• No-cost online application
• Rolling admissions for flexibility
• An inclusive college founded in 1742

Fast & Affordable Program Options

“Fast” and “affordable” are two common words used to describe RN to BSN programs because they are much easier to afford and faster to complete than a traditional RN to BSN program. These bridge programs work with students to receive their degree as fast as possible, working off of their existing training and knowledge.

Fastest Online RN to BSN Degree Options

As a fast-tracked nursing bachelor’s degree, you can count on an RN to BSN program to be much faster than a typical BSN program. While BSN programs take 4-years or longer to complete. if you already have an associate degree and a few years in the field, you are eligible to get your BSN in as little as two years or even less. Here are a few of the fastest options for RN to BSN programs in Pennsylvania.

Learn more about the Fastest RN to BSN Programs.

Do 6-month RN to BSN Programs Exist?

While there are currently no 6-month RN to BSN programs based in Pennsylvania, these programs (though rare) exist in other states. If you’re looking in other areas (other than Pennsylvania) for your RN to BSN program, you may be eligible to get your BSN degree in this amount of time if you have an ASN or ADN and a large number of transferable credits. If you have questions, you can contact your prospective school’s registrar.

Affordable Online RN to BSN Options

As mentioned, RN to BSN programs can be extremely affordable, but it’s good to be aware of the individual costs involved, especially when relocating to Pennsylvania from another state. Many schools (particularly state schools) divide their tuition rates by whether or not you are a resident of Pennsylvania or if you are an online student. Additionally, you may find that technology fees in combination with the cost of textbooks and room and board may add up to the cost of your total tuition. That being said, there are a few RN to BSN programs in the state that offer the lowest tuition rates:

Learn more about Affordable RN to BSN Degrees.

Admissions Requirements for Accredited RN to BSN Programs

While institutions do vary, there are a number of similarities between schools in the state when it comes to admission requirements for accredited RN to BSN programs. With a list of clearly articulated admission criteria, each university can practice due diligence to ensure that they admit only the best candidates to earn their BSN. Below, we’ve listed some of the more common admissions requirements:

• GPA 2.5 or greater cumulative average for all prerequisite courses
• Submission of the completed application form
• Official transcripts from the ADN program and secondary school (if less than 5 years ago) should be sent directly to the office of the registrar
• Provide proof of a successful background screen and ‘negative’ drug screening
• Proof of RN license for the state, without encumbrances
• Submit a professional resume

Classes & Courses: What is the Curriculum Like?

At West Chester University in West Chester, RNs who are pursuing their BSN degree can expect to take upper-level courses like the following in order to expand their base of theoretical knowledge:

• HEA 206 Human Development
• PSY 210 Developmental Psychology: Lifespan
• NSG 310 Human Response to Disease
• NTD 303 Introductory Principles of Human Nutrition

2024 List of RN to BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

Learn about Pennsylvania's best accredited RN to BSN programs by looking at the listings below.

Find RN to BSN Programs By City:

• Philadelphia RN to BSN Programs
• Pittsburgh RN to BSN Programs

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