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/).
Messiah University
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
Pennsylvania College of Technology
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
Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Nursing
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
Carlow University
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
Saint Francis University
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
University of Pittsburgh - Titusville
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
Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences
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
West Chester University
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
Cedar Crest College
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
Drexel University
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
University of Pennsylvania
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
Villanova University
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
Bloomsburg University
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
Mount Aloysius College
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
Washington Health System School of Nursing
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
DeSales University
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
Eastern University
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
Pennsylvania State University
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
Geisinger Lewistown Hospital School of Nursing
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
University of Scranton
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:
Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
---|---|---|---|
ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely 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:
Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
---|---|---|---|
Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-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)
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:
- Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Pennsylvania MSN Program
- Pennsylvania RN to MSN Programs
- Pennsylvania Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Pennsylvania DNP Programs
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.
Ranked | School | Program | Score | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|
21. | Duquesne University Pittsburgh, PA 15282 | Phone: (412) 396-6000 | Programs: BSN | 93.34 | duq.edu |
22. | Conemaugh School of Nursing Johnstown, PA 15905 | Phone: (814) 534-9000 | Programs: Diploma | 93.34 | conemaugh.org |
23. | Edinboro University Edinboro, PA 16444 | Phone: (814) 732-2000 | Programs: BSN | 93.32 | edinboro.edu |
24. | Luzerne County Community College Nanticoke, PA 18634 | Phone: (800) 377-5222 | Programs: Associate in Applied Science in Nursing | 93.30 | luzerne.edu |
25. | Montgomery County Community College Blue Bell, PA 19422 | Phone: (215) 641-6300 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 93.29 | mc3.edu |
26. | Harcum College Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 | Phone: (610) 525-4100 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.99 | harcum.edu |
27. | Roxborough Memorial Hospital Philadelphia, PA 19128 | Phone: (215) 487-4344 | Programs: Diploma | 92.80 | roxboroughmemorial.com |
28. | Community College of Allegheny County Pittsburgh, PA 15212 | Phone: (412) 237-2525 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 92.62 | ccac.edu |
29. | University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA 15261 | Phone: (412) 624-4586 | Programs: BSN | 92.53 | nursing.pitt.edu |
30. | La Salle University Philadelphia, PA 19141 | Phone: (215) 951-1000 | Programs: BSN | 92.49 | lasalle.edu |
31. | St. Luke’s School of Nursing Bethlehem, PA 18015 | Phone: (484) 526-3400 | Programs: Diploma | 92.47 | slhn.org |
32. | York College of Pennsylvania York, PA 17403 | Phone: (717) 815-1243 | Programs: BSN | 92.18 | ycp.edu |
33. | Wilkes University Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 | Phone: (570) 408-4086 | Programs: BSN | 91.96 | wilkes.edu |
34. | Northampton Community College Bethlehem, PA 18020 | Phone: (610) 861-5300 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 91.92 | northampton.edu |
35. | Mansfield University Mansfield, PA 16933 | Phone: (570) 662-4000 | Programs: BSN | 91.85 | iup.edu |
36. | Indiana University of Pennsylvania Indiana, PA 15705 | Phone: (724) 357-2557 | Programs: BSN | 91.79 | iup.edu |
37. | Bucks County Community College Newtown, PA 18940 | Phone: (215) 968-8000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 91.74 | bucks.edu |
38. | Gannon University Erie, PA 16501 | Phone: (814) 871-7000 | Programs: BSN | 91.59 | gannon.edu |
39. | Neumann University Aston, PA 19014 | Phone: (610) 558-5616 | Programs: BSN | 91.51 | neumann.edu |
40. | Immaculata University Immaculata, PA 19345 | Phone: (610) 647-4400 | Programs: BSN | 91.42 | immaculata.edu |
41. | Holy Family University Philadelphia, PA 19114 | Phone: (215) 637-7700 | Programs: BSN | 90.77 | holyfamily.edu |
42. | Alvernia University Reading, PA 19607 | Phone: (610) 796-8200 | Programs: BSN | 90.46 | alvernia.edu |
43. | Moravian College Bethlehem, PA 18018 | Phone: (610) 861-1320 | Programs: BSN | 90.17 | moravian.edu |
44. | Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences Reading, PA 19611 | Phone: (484) 628-0100 | Programs: Diploma | 90.03 | reading.towerhealth.org |
45. | Butler Community College Butler, PA 16002 | Phone: (724) 287-8711 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 89.90 | bc3.edu |
46. | Citizens School of Nursing New Kensington, PA 15068 | Phone: (724) 337-5090 | Programs: Diploma | 89.84 | ahn.org |
47. | Harrisburg Area Community College Harrisburg, PA 17110 | Phone: (717) 780-3207 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 89.78 | hacc.edu |
48. | Robert Morris University Moon Township, PA 15108 | Phone: (800) 762-0097 | Programs: BSN | 89.43 | rmu.edu |
49. | Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA 19107 | Phone: (215) 503-8890 | Programs: BSN | 89.37 | jefferson.edu |
50. | Misericordia University Dallas, PA 18612 | Phone: (570) 674-6400 | Programs: BSN | 89.00 | misericordia.edu |
51. | Waynesburg University Waynesburg, PA 15370 | Phone: (800) 225-7393 | Programs: BSN | 88.70 | waynesburg.edu |
52. | Community College of Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA 19130 | Phone: (215) 751-8000 | Programs: A.A.S. | 88.55 | ccp.edu |
53. | Marywood University Scranton, PA 18509 | Phone: (570) 348-6211 | Programs: BSN | 88.51 | marywood.edu |
54. | Temple University Philadelphia, PA 19122 | Phone: (215) 707-4687 | Programs: BSN | 87.65 | cph.temple.edu |
55. | Wilson College Chambersburg, PA 17201 | Phone: (717) 264-4141 | Programs: BSN, LPN to BSN | 87.23 | wilson.edu |
56. | Community College of Beaver County Monaca, PA 15061 | Phone: (724) 480-2222 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 87.16 | ccbc.edu |
57. | UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing Pittsburgh, PA 15206 | Phone: (412) 623-2950 | Programs: Diploma | 86.44 | upmc.com |
58. | Delaware County Community College Media, PA 19063 | Phone: (610) 359-5000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 86.08 | dccc.edu |
59. | Reading Area Community College Reading, PA 19603 | Phone: (610) 372-4721 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 85.87 | racc.edu |
60. | Westmoreland County Community College Youngwood, PA 15697 | Phone: (724) 925-4000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.72 | westmoreland.edu |
61. | Lehigh-Carbon Community College Schnecksville, PA 18078 | Phone: (610) 799-2121 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 84.65 | lccc.edu |
62. | Gwynedd Mercy University Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437 | Phone: (800) 342-5462 | Programs: BSN | 84.27 | gmercyu.edu |
63. | Lock Haven University Lock Haven, PA 17745 | Phone: (570) 484-2011 | Programs: Associate in Nursing, LPN Advanced Placement ADN | 84.17 | lockhaven.edu |
64. | Widener University Chester, PA 19013 | Phone: (610) 499-4212 | Programs: BSN | 84.15 | widener.edu |
65. | Clarion University Clarion, PA 16214 | Phone: (814) 393-2000 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.88 | widener.edu |
66. | Allegany College of Maryland Everett, PA 15537 | Phone: (814) 652-9528 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 83.80 | allegany.edu |
67. | East Stroudsburg University East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 | Phone: (570) 422-3211 | Programs: BSN | 82.78 | esu.edu |
68. | West Penn Hospital School of Nursing Pittsburgh, PA 15224 | Phone: (412) 578-5205 | Programs: Diploma | 82.73 | ahn.org |
69. | La Roche University Pittsburgh, PA 15237 | Phone: (412) 367-9300 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 82.70 | laroche.edu |
70. | UPMC Mercy Hospital School of Nursing Pittsburgh, PA 15219 | Phone: (412) 232-7950 | Programs: Diploma | 81.98 | upmc.com |
71. | University of Pittsburgh - Bradford Bradford, PA 16701 | Phone: (814) 362-7500 | Programs: Associate in Nursing, BSN | 81.83 | upb.pitt.edu |
72. | UPMC St. Margaret School of Nursing Pittsburgh, PA 15238 | Phone: (412) 784-4980 | Programs: Diploma | 81.61 | upmc.com |
73. | Mercyhurst University - North East North East, PA 16428 | Phone: (814) 725-6100 | Programs: Associate in Nursing | 81.53 | northeast.mercyhurst.edu |
74. | UPMC Jameson New Castle, PA 16105 | Phone: (724) 658-9001 | Programs: Diploma | 79.05 | upmcjameson.com |
75. | Joseph F. McCloskey School of Nursing Pottsville, PA 17901 | Phone: (570) 621-5035 | Programs: Diploma | 77.77 | schuylkillhealthschoolofnursing.com |
76. | Lincoln University of Pennsylvania Lincoln University, PA 19352 | Phone: (484) 365-8000 | Programs: BSN | 63.01 | lincoln.edu |
77. | Cabrini University Strafford, PA 19087 | Phone: (610) 902-8100 | Programs: BSN | - | cabrini.edu |
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