healthcare

Best Colleges for Nursing Students in Pennsylvania

Goodwork author

01 May 2025 — 2 min read

🏆 Top Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania (2025)

1. University of Pennsylvania – School of Nursing

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Consistently ranked among the top nursing schools nationally, Penn Nursing boasts a 95% graduation rate and a 93% NCLEX pass rate. The school is renowned for its research initiatives and has received substantial funding to support nursing education.

2. University of Pittsburgh – School of Nursing

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Ranked #11 nationally for nursing, Pitt Nursing offers comprehensive programs with a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.

3. Villanova University – M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing

Location: Villanova, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Villanova's nursing program is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic nursing education.

4. Drexel University – College of Nursing and Health Professions

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Drexel offers innovative programs with a focus on technology and experiential learning, preparing students for diverse healthcare settings.

5. Pennsylvania State University – Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing

Location: University Park, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Penn State's nursing program emphasizes research, leadership, and community engagement, offering students a well-rounded education.

6. Thomas Jefferson University – Jefferson College of Nursing

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Jefferson's nursing programs are known for their clinical excellence and integration of cutting-edge healthcare technologies.

7. Duquesne University – School of Nursing

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
Highlights: Duquesne offers a range of nursing programs with a strong emphasis on ethical practice and community service.

8. University of Scranton – Department of Nursing

Location: Scranton, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP
Highlights: Scranton's nursing programs focus on personalized education and have a strong track record of student success.

9. Messiah University – Department of Nursing

Location: Mechanicsburg, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP
Highlights: Messiah offers faith-based nursing education with a commitment to service and leadership in healthcare.

10. Carlow University – College of Health and Wellness

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Programs Offered: BSN, MSN, DNP
Highlights: Carlow provides a supportive learning environment with a focus on social justice and compassionate care.

🎓 Choosing the Right Nursing Program

When selecting a nursing program in Pennsylvania, consider the following factors:

Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
NCLEX Pass Rates: High pass rates indicate the program's effectiveness in preparing students for licensure.
Program Offerings: Choose a program that aligns with your career goals, whether it's a BSN, MSN, DNP, or PhD.
Clinical Opportunities: Look for programs that offer diverse clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
Faculty Expertise: Experienced and qualified faculty can enhance your learning experience.
Location and Campus Resources: Consider the campus environment, resources, and support services available to students.

Our data was sourced from reliable outlets, including university websites, state nursing boards, the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard, and U.S. News Best Colleges, providing comprehensive insights for students pursuing higher education.

For more information on nursing programs and to explore job opportunities in Pennsylvania, visit GoodWork.