11 Best Accelerated Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania- 2024

TCA Editorial Staff

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Are you considering switching to nursing in PA?

We’ve listed the top 11 accelerated nursing programs in Pennsylvania that are credible, accredited, and with good NCLEX-RN pass rates.

Our list includes the 9 best Accelerated BSN programs & 2 best Direct Entry MSN/entry-level masters programs in Pennsylvania.

All these programs are CCNE-accredited and approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

But first, here is a visual graphic for:

Best 10 Accelerated Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania, Ranked by NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

Table of Contents

Here’s a List of The 9 Best Accelerated BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

1. Pennsylvania State University- Second Degree Nursing

The Penn State Second Degree Nursing is an ABSN program that takes 16 months to complete. It consists of 60 credits and begins every fall semester. You can attend the program at either of two Penn State campuses – Altoona and Harrisburg, with each cohort admitting up to 35 students.

Duration: 16 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Altoona or Middletown, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experience

You get hands-on training at clinical facilities located within a 50-mile radius of the campus.

About Penn State Nursing

Penn State, a public research university established in 1855, has multiple campuses across Pennsylvania. Its nursing department, founded in 1964, was renamed the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing in 2013. It now serves over 2000 students across 13 campuses.

Over the past four years, Penn State’s BSN program has had an average first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 92.24%.

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2. University of Pittsburg- Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN

The University of Pittsburgh’s ABSN takes just three consecutive terms, with a 54-credit course load. The program operates on a bi-annual admission schedule, welcoming a new cohort of students in both the Fall Term (August) and Spring Term (January). The target size for each cohort is around 42 students.

Duration: 15 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experiences

You’ll get 810 hours of hands-on clinical experience across diverse settings across the region, including Pittsburgh’s six major teaching hospitals and more than 50 healthcare facilities- from a top-tier Trauma 1 medical center to community hospitals to non-profit clinics. Some of these rotations take place in the suburban areas of Pittsburgh.

About Pitt Nursing

Founded in 1939, Pitt School of Nursing focuses on training top-notch nurses to provide care for individuals, families, and communities. This school, consistently ranked among the country’s top 10, aims to contribute to the scientific understanding of care across different populations.

Over the past four years, Pitt Nursing’s BSN students have achieved an average NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 90.99%.

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3. Wilkes University- Online Accelerated BSN

Wilkes University’s Online ABSN program transitions you into nursing in just 12 months, with 48 credit hours. It’s among the shortest (fastest) accelerated nursing programs in Pennsylvania. The program has three start dates in the year.

Duration: 12 months

Format: Online

Location: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experience

The placement team at Wilkes takes on the task of handling your clinical placement. They’ll assign a clinical placement group to you and secure a suitable clinical site, along with a preceptor.

About Wilkes- Passan School of Nursing

Wilkes University is a private institution established in 1933. Wilkes’ Passan School of Nursing has been training nurses for over 40 years. The school’s mission is to prepare professional nurses capable of providing quality, patient-centered healthcare to diverse populations using evidence-based practices.

In the last four years, Wilkes’ BSN program has recorded an average NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 89.22%.

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4. DeSales University- Accelerated BSN

DeSales University’s ABSN program is designed to be completed in 15 months. It begins in May.

Duration: 15 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Center Valley, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experience

The program includes 60 laboratory hours, 630 clinical hours, and 180 hours dedicated to a clinical internship. Clinicals are held in Lehigh Valley locations and surrounding areas, including nursing homes, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities.

About DeSales Dept of Nursing

DeSales University is a private Catholic university founded in 1964. DeSales Department of Nursing and Health was later established in 1974. The department’s mission is to prepare nursing students to improve health outcomes, following the Salesian tradition of Christian humanism, which emphasizes caring and competency.

Over the past four years, DeSales’ BSN program has recorded an average NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 92.27%.

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5. Misericordia University- Accelerated BSN

Misericordia University’s ABSN program transitions you into nursing in 16 months, after completing 54 credit hours. The program has three start dates throughout the year- January, May, or August.

Duration: 16 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Coraopolis, Pennsylvania

If you prefer a more flexible schedule, especially if you’ve got commitments, then consider Misericordia’s Part-Time Evening Accelerated Nursing Program. Here, the classes begin at about 4 or 5pm on Mondays and Wednesdays.

You’ll cover the same 54 credit hours and graduate with a BSN.

Clinical Experience

One of the highlights of this program is the vast clinical exposure it offers. You’ll undergo clinical rotations at top hospitals and clinical agencies in the region. This includes the well-regarded Allegheny Health Network and an array of other healthcare facilities scattered throughout Pittsburgh.

About Misericordia University

Misericordia University is a private Roman Catholic university that was established in 1924 by the Religious Sisters of Mercy. Its Department of Nursing aims to deliver quality education to students, drawing on the principles of mercy, service, justice, and hospitality, which are core to its curriculum.

Over the past four years, Misericordia’s BSN program has recorded an average first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 86.68%.

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6. Thomas Jefferson University- Accelerated BSN

Jefferson’s Accelerated BSN program provides you with two distinct tracks to suit your learning pace and commitments- the 12-month track, which begins in pre-fall, or the 24-month track, which begins in the fall. You will complete 60 credits in each track.

Duration: 12 or 24 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Philadelphia or Horsham, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experience

This Jefferson accelerated nursing program offers enriching clinical practice experiences at the Jefferson Health Hospitals, providing real-world exposure to prepare you for the challenging and rewarding world of nursing.

A Stepping Stone to Advanced Specialties

One of the standout features of the Jefferson ABSN program is the guaranteed admission to any MSN or DNP specialty, excluding Nurse Anesthesia. This offer is valid for up to two years after completing your BSN, provided you maintain a minimum 3.20 cumulative GPA.

About Jefferson College of Nursing

Thomas Jefferson University was established in 1824 and merged with Philadelphia University in 2017. It has been training nursing professionals since 1891. Jefferson College of Nursing is focused on reimagining, transforming, and disrupting the way nurses lead and impact society.

Jefferson’s BSN program has recorded an average first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 87.49% over the past four years.

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7. Villanova University- Second Degree Accelerated BSN

The program offers two options to suit your unique circumstances.

If you’re looking for an intense, full-time program, the 14-Month Express Track might be your fit. Starts in May until August of the following year.
If you’d prefer to juggle part-time work or other responsibilities while studying, the 23-Month Flex Track could be a better option. Begins in August.

Duration: 14 or 23 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Villanova, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experience

Villanova University partners with over 70 healthcare providers, including hospitals and community agencies. This gives you excellent clinical experience opportunities. Also, being an ABSN student, you can apply to gain health promotion experience with the Blackfeet Nation in Montana.

About Villanova University

Villanova University is a private Catholic university established in 1842. The university’s nursing school embodies Augustinian values, viewing nursing as not just a job, but a mission and healing service for diverse communities.

Over the past four years, Villanova nursing first-time students have achieved a 93.85% average pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.

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8. Drexel University- BSN (Accelerated Career Entry)

Drexel University’s Accelerated BSN is a record 11-month full-time program. It lets you fast-track your nursing career by compressing the curriculum into four consecutive 10-week terms.

You’ll graduate in less than a year from this Drexel accelerated nursing program!

Duration: 11 months

Format: On-campus (& very few online elements)

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Clinical Experience

The Drexel ABSN program offers you access to a wealth of clinical affiliations and simulated healthcare scenarios. These hands-on experiences should equip you with a practical understanding of your future nursing work environment.

About Drexel University

Drexel University is a private research institution founded in 1891. Drexel’s College of Nursing & Health Professions prepares its nursing students for successful careers through hands-on learning and collaborative research. The college specifically aims to improve health equality in Philadelphia and worldwide.

Over the past four years, the first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam for BSN students has been 93.85% on average.

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9. Gwynedd Mercy University- Accelerated BSN

The GMercyU ABSN is a 67-credit program that can be completed in 4 semesters or 16 months. If you prefer a slower pace, then you should consider GMercyU’s Part-time Weekend BSN program instead – takes about 3 years to complete.

Duration: 16 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania

Clinical Experience

GMercyU has a broad network of healthcare partnerships. As a GMercyU ABSN student, you will do clinicals at a variety of notable healthcare facilities, including Abington Jefferson Health, Doylestown Hospital, Grand View Hospital, Chestnut Hill Hospital, etc.

About GMercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University, also known as GMercyU, is a private Roman Catholic institution founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1948. GMercyU’s Frances M. Maguire School of Nursing and Health Professions aims to educate healthcare professionals within a community that’s rooted in the Sisters of Mercy tradition and Gospel values.

Over the past four years, GMercyU’s BSN program has seen an average first-time pass rate of 83.21% on the NCLEX-RN exam.

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Here’s a List of The 2 Best Direct Entry MSN/Entry Level Masters Programs in Pennsylvania

1. University of Pennsylvania- Master of Professional Nursing (MPN) Degree

The UPenn MPN degree is a new entry-level master’s nursing program meant to replace UPenn’s ABSN program. This Upenn accelerated nursing program is full-time and designed to transform you into an RN in 15 months. It begins in late August each year and ends in December of the following year.

Duration: 15 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

To also become an NP, you can enroll in the MPN/MSN program. After the MPN bit is done and you are an RN, you will continue to the MSN (NP) portion, which takes about 12-18 months full-time or 2-3 years part-time.

While this program is meant for people with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you can still apply if you have an associate’s degree in nursing. However, even if you have an associate’s degree in nursing, you’ll still need to redo clinicals and placement exams.

Clinical Experience

You’ll participate in rigorous clinical experiences with renowned UPenn hospital partners like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, the Penn Medicine research complex, and the Philadelphia Veteran’s Administration Medical Center.

About Penn Nursing

Penn Nursing was founded in 1885 as a training school for nurses. The BSN program was recognized as the top undergrad nursing program in the country, as voted by deans and leading faculty in nursing programs. By attending Penn Nursing, you get an Ivy League education.

Over the past four years, Penn Nursing has recorded an impressive average NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 93.58%.

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2. Gwynedd Mercy University- Direct Entry MSN

GMercy University’s Direct Entry MSN is a full-time program spanning 24 months. It consists of 79 credits, and is designed to transform your non-nursing background into a master’s trained RN.

Duration: 24 months

Format: On-campus

Location: Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania

Eligibility for Clinical Nurse Leader Certification

One of the unique benefits of earning GMercyU’s DEMSN is you also become eligible for certification as a Clinical Nurse Leader. This valuable certification sets you apart and expands your career prospects.

Clinical Experience

GMercy University’s Direct Entry MSN program requires 765 hours of clinical practice experience, made up of two parts. You’ll spend 405 hours honing your general nursing skills, and 360 hours focused on the specific responsibilities of a Clinical Nurse Leader.

The program is enriched through the school’s network of more than 100 regional healthcare partners, providing you with ample opportunities for clinicals.

Partners include renowned facilities like Abington Jefferson Health, Doylestown Hospital, Grand View Hospital, and Chestnut Hill Hospital, among others.

About GMercy University

Over the past four years, GMercyU’s BSN program has seen an average first-time pass rate of 83.21% on the NCLEX-RN exam.

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Typical Entrance Requirements for Accelerated Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania

Bachelor’s Degree: A non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Prerequisite Courses: Completion of specific courses like Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Statistics, etc.
Minimum GPA: Usually a minimum GPA is around 3.0, but can vary by program.
Entrance Exam: Some programs may require the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI exam.
Letters of Recommendation: From academic advisors, professors, or employers.
Personal Statement or Essay: Describing your interest in nursing and career goals.
Background Check: Due to the sensitive nature of nursing clinicals.
Health Requirements: Such as immunization records, physical examination, and proof of health insurance.

These requirements will vary from program to program, so check with the specific program for the most up-to-date info.

Why Pursue Accelerated Nursing Programs in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania is currently facing a serious nursing shortage, in fact, one of the worst nationwide, according to the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP). HAP reports that there is a 31% RN vacancy rate across PA hospitals.

So, why should this concern you?

Because this crisis creates an opportunity, especially if you’ve been considering a career in nursing. Now, more than ever, Pennsylvania needs skilled nurses to fill these vacant roles.

To tackle this shortage, HAP has suggested making healthcare education more affordable and easily accessible.

This includes offering scholarships, expanding loan forgiveness, investing more in healthcare education programs, and providing incentives for healthcare professionals to serve as faculty and mentors.

Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Chancellor, Dan Greenstein, has even sought $112 million in state funds, much of which would be earmarked directly for nursing students.

He stated, “The biggest obstacle to getting more nurses in the door is the net price of attendance… most of that money is to get into the hands of students.”

This could potentially mean up to $5,000 off tuition for you if you’re pursuing nursing. This expected subsidy is predicted to considerably boost enrollment.

Plus, Gov. Josh Shapiro has proposed a bill, which is already making its way through the PA state legislature, offering a state tax refund for new nurses. If this bill passes, you could stand to receive up to $2,500 a year for three years.

With these steps being taken to combat the nursing shortage, it’s a fantastic time to consider accelerated nursing programs in Pennsylvania. It’s an excellent pathway to transition into a rewarding and in-demand career in nursing- while potentially benefiting from the financial incentives being proposed.

Disclaimer:

Information on these programs may change without notice. So, we cannot guarantee their authenticity and accuracy. You’d have to check with the school and do further research. Our review list is simply for guidance and cannot be relied upon exclusively without research on your part.
Before enrollment, check with your state regarding licensing rules or whether your desired program meets your home state’s certification requirements and licensure.
If you are an administrator/staff for one of the schools listed in this article, and you would like to issue corrections or updates on your program’s information, please contact us here.

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