If you’re looking for a great place to start your nursing career, Pennsylvania offers plenty of opportunities. The state is home to a wide range of reputable nursing programs, offering options for everyone—from those just starting out to those aiming to further their education with advanced degrees. No matter where you are in your nursing journey, you’ll find a program that suits your goals. The outlook for nurses in Pennsylvania is promising, with projections showing a steady demand for nursing professionals in the coming years. To learn more about nursing programs and the steps to become a nurse in Pennsylvania, explore the sections below.

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Cities in Pennsylvania

Best RN Programs in Pennsylvania

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

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

1.

One University Avenue, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

Score: 98.32

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

Program Details

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

1 College Ave, Williamsport, PA 17701

Score: 98.14

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

Program Details

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

25 Heckel Rd, Kennedy Township, PA 15136

Score: 97.73

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

Program Details

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

3333 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Score: 97.28

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

Program Details

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

117 Evergreen Drive, Loretto, PA 15940

Score: 97.23

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

Program Details

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

504 E Main St, Titusville, PA 16354

Score: 96.57

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

Program Details

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

850 Greenfield Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601

Score: 95.43

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

Program Details

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

700 S High St, West Chester, PA 19382

Score: 95.21

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

Program Details

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

100 College Dr, Allentown, PA 18104

Score: 95.10

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

Program Details

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

1601 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Score: 95.03

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

Program Details

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

418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Score: 94.92

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

Program Details

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

800 E. Lancaster Ave, Villanova, PA 19085

Score: 94.91

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

Program Details

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

400 E 2nd St, Bloomsburg, PA 17815

Score: 94.86

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

Program Details

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

7373 Admiral Peary Hwy, Cresson, PA 16630

Score: 94.86

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

Program Details

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

155 Wilson Avenue, Washington, PA 15301

Score: 94.82

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

Program Details

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

2755 Station Ave., Center Valley, PA 18034

Score: 94.59

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

Program Details

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

1300 Eagle Rd, St. Davids, PA 19087

Score: 94.44

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

Program Details

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

201 Nursing Sciences Building, University Park, PA 16802

Score: 94.43

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

Program Details

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

400 Highland Ave, Lewistown, PA 17044

Score: 94.41

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

Program Details

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

The Estate, Scranton, PA 18510

Score: 93.59

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

Program Details

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

Pennsylvania Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees

For those interested in pursuing a career as a registered nurse, Pennsylvania offers various pathways to enter the nursing field. Aspiring nurses can choose from different foundational degree programs, each designed to provide the essential skills and knowledge needed for success. Many students start their nursing careers with an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a nursing diploma, which provides a quick route into healthcare settings. Others opt for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which offers greater job opportunities and serves as a solid foundation for further education. Keep reading to explore these entry-level nursing degree options and find the best fit for your career goals.

Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs

The quickest route to becoming a registered nurse in Pennsylvania is through an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), which can be completed in just two years. Alternatively, students may consider an RN diploma, often available through specialized nursing schools and hospitals, typically taking one to two years to complete. The primary difference between an ADN and an RN diploma is that an ADN program includes general education courses, while the diploma focuses solely on essential nursing skills. For those who are already Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), the LPN to RN bridge program is another strong option, allowing students to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These affordable options provide pathways to entry-level nursing careers, but it's essential to choose an accredited program to ensure eligibility for licensure, career advancement, and future educational opportunities.

Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Pennsylvania include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
  • Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment

For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.

More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:

ProgramEstimated TuitionEstimated CreditsOnline Availability
ADN$6,000 – $15,00060-72 creditsLimited online courses, primarily on-campus
LPN to RN$4,000 – $10,00030-45 creditsOften hybrid; some online courses
RN Diploma$5,000 – $12,00040-60 creditsRarely online; primarily on-campus

ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Pennsylvania.

Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs

If you’re looking to invest more time in your nursing education, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Pennsylvania could be the right path for you. A traditional BSN program typically takes four years to complete, offering a well-rounded education in nursing and healthcare. However, if you already have nursing experience and hold an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), you may be eligible for an RN to BSN program, which allows you to earn your BSN in as little as two years. Additionally, if you already have a bachelor's degree in another field and want to transition into nursing, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program is a great option. This fast-track program builds on your existing education, enabling you to complete your BSN in as little as one year.

Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Pennsylvania typically include:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • Completion of prerequisite courses

For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.

Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:

ProgramLengthEstimated TuitionEntrance Level
Traditional BSN4 years (120-126 credits)$20,000 – $50,000First-time college students
RN to BSN1-2 years (30-35 credits)$10,000 – $20,000Licensed RNs with an ADN
ABSN12-18 months (50-60 credits)$25,000 – $40,000Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders

RN to BSN

A Pennsylvania RN to BSN program provides a quicker pathway to earning your BSN, allowing you to complete the degree in just two years, compared to the four years typically required for a traditional BSN program. To qualify for an RN to BSN program, you must have an active RN license and have completed an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN).

Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

Considering a career change to nursing later in life? If you already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and want to earn your BSN without committing to another four years, a Pennsylvania ABSN program could be the ideal option. These accelerated bridge programs allow you to complete your BSN in just one year, leveraging your previous education to fast-track your transition into nursing.

Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs

Students in Pennsylvania who aspire to become nurse practitioners or advanced practice nurses have various educational pathways to choose from. Whether you’re interested in earning a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP, there are several options available. Most of these advanced programs require applicants to already have a BSN or MSN, maintain an active, unencumbered RN license, and meet the specific entry requirements for each program.

Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Pennsylvania:

Getting an RN License in Pennsylvania

In addition to the educational requirements for becoming a registered nurse, there are specific licensure steps to follow in Pennsylvania. To obtain your RN license in Pennsylvania, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and submit a formal application, along with the required fee, to the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. After obtaining your license, you will need to complete continuing education courses to maintain your RN license and stay updated with current nursing practices.

Requirements for RN Licensure in Pennsylvania

  • Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
  • Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Application to the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing
  • Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance

Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?

In simple terms, graduates from non-accredited schools are ineligible for licensure, which is required for all nurses in Pennsylvania. As you search for the right nursing program, make sure it has RN program accreditation by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards set by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing, confirming that you will be eligible for licensure upon graduation.

Continued List of All RN Programs in Pennsylvania

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

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