Pennsylvania is home to a diverse range of nurse practitioner programs offered by reputable universities. With a strong focus on clinical excellence and patient-centered care, these programs prepare advanced practice nurses for the growing healthcare demands in both urban and rural areas. Pennsylvania is also home to a variety of CCNE-accredited NP programs that offer flexible learning formats—including in-person, hybrid, and fully online options. As healthcare continues to evolve, these nurse practitioner programs in Pennsylvania equip students with the advanced skills and clinical judgment necessary to make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.
Below are some of the top colleges and universities where you can pursue a nurse practitioner degree in the state of PA. If you’ve already decided on your specialization, make sure to check out our list of FNP programs, AGNP programs, and PNP programs in Pennsylvania. If you are looking to pursue your doctorate, be sure to review this list of Pennsylvania DNP Programs.
Pennsylvania NP Programs Quick Facts
- Universities Offering NP Programs in Pennsylvania: 27
- CCNE Accredited NP Programs in The State: 26
- ACEN Accredited NP Programs in the State: 3
- Average Tuition Costs: $35,000 to $60,000
Table of Contents
Nurse Practitioner Programs Accepting Pennsylvania Applicants
Program Overview:
Alvernia is a Franciscan university in Reading, about 65 miles northeast of Philadelphia. The John and Karen Arnold School of Nursing recently opened a new 55,000-square-foot center with expanded lab space and a state-of-the-art simulation center to enhance the education of its students. Alvernis offers one NP program.
Why Students Should Consider Alvernia’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Hybrid/Online Options: Offers flexible scheduling for working RNs.
- Clinical Placement Support: The university assists students with securing clinical placements.
- Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Allows for better mentorship and individualized guidance.
Additional Considerations:
- High Cost: Alvernia’s tuition is typically higher than that of public universities or state systems.
- Limited Options: Only the AGNP track is offered.
- Location: Lacks the academic and hospital infrastructures found in bigger PA cities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to AGNP
Program Overview:
Carlow is a private liberal arts school in the heart of Pittsburgh. Its nursing programs offer flexible classes and generous transfer policies so students can complete their program as quickly and conveniently as possible. Carlow offers several NP options.
Why Students Should Consider Carlow’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- 100% Online Coursework: Ideal for working RNs.
- Personalized Support: Known for small class sizes and a student-centered approach.
- Military Friendly® School: Supports veterans and service members.
Additional Considerations:
- Increased Costs: Carlow’s tuition is above average compared to public options.
- State Restrictions: Carlow’s online NP programs are not available to students in several states, including Florida, California, Texas, and New York.
- Catholic Affiliation: Some may prefer a secular or non-religious institution.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to FNP online
- BSN to PMHNP online
- BSN to WHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate WHNP
Program Overview:
Cedar Crest College is in Allentown, about 50 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Its nursing school offers a hands-on simulation lab that students can access 20 hours a day, and students work with a dedicated coach to ensure they get the support they need during clinical placements. Cedar Crest offers several NP tracks.
Why Students Should Consider Cedar Crest’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Offers online or hybrid formats to accommodate working RNs.
- Student Support: Offers individualized academic advising, mentoring, and career services.
- Clinical Placement Assistance: Cedar Crest helps coordinate clinical site placements.
Additional Considerations:
- Fewer Resources: Smaller simulation labs, fewer specialty tracks, and less robust academic infrastructure compared to larger universities.
- Higher Cost: Cedar Crest is a private college with higher tuition fees.
- Limited Research Opportunities: Cedar Crest is not a research-intensive institution.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to FNP DNP
- BSN to AGNP
- BSN to DNP AGNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP
Program Overview:
A small town in the northeastern part of the state, Bloomsburg Commonwealth University offers small class sizes, cutting-edge technology, and hands-on labs for students in the College of Health Professions. Students have four NP programs to choose from.
Why Students Should Consider Bloomsburg Commonwealth’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: The NP programs are delivered 100% online.
- Practical Focus: Offers only FNP and Nurse Educator tracks.
- Supportive HBCU: Strong cultural focus and faculty support.
Additional Considerations:
- ACEN Not CCNE: May limit recognition in some settings.
- Few Specialties: No psych, acute care, or DNP options.
- Tech Limitations: Reports of platform and interaction issues.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to FNP
- BSN to FNP
- RN to AGNP
- BSN to AGNP
Program Overview:
DeSales University is in Center Valley, a small community in the eastern part of the state. The newly built Gambet Center offers nursing students 77,000 square feet of simulation labs, patient labs, and the only gross anatomy lab in the area. DeSales offers several NP pathways.
Why Students Should Consider DeSales’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Multiple Modalities: DeSales provides part-time, full-time, online, and hybrid program options.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The NP programs encompass core, advanced core, specialty, and clinical courses.
- Recognition: Offers some of the best online Nursing Masters programs in the US.
Additional Considerations:
- High Cost: DeSales tends to have higher tuition rates compared to public universities.
- Limited Financial Aid: Although available, scholarships may be less abundant or competitive.
- Smaller Network: Limited exposure to diverse clinical rotations.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate AGNP
Program Overview:
Nurse training at Drexel University dates back to 1863 and was considered by many to be the country’s first state-chartered school for nursing. The College of Nursing and Health Professions at Drexel University offers students a high-tech Health Sciences Building, which includes simulation, virtual reality, and gross anatomy labs to enhance student learning. Drexel offers a number of NP options.
Why Students Should Consider Drexel’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible: Drexel’s NP programs are primarily delivered online.
- High Pass Rates: Graduates have a 100% pass rate for the ANCC and AANP board exams.
- Reputation: Drexel’s online MSN programs are considered some of the best in the nation.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: Drexel’s tuition is notably higher than many public institutions.
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Drexel requires students to secure their own preceptors and clinical sites.
- Competitive Admission: Drexel prefers applicants with strong academic backgrounds and clinical experiences.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP
- BSN to PNP Acute
- BSN to PNP Primary
- BSN to PNP Acute/Primary Dual
- BSN to PMHNP
- BSN to WHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to ENP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PNP Acute/Primary Dual Program
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to WHNP
Program Overview:
Duquesne University is one of the country’s top Catholic universities and is located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. The School of Nursing boasts a 100% pass rate on the FNP Certification Exam and a 100% Adult Acute Gerontology Nurse Practitioner first-time pass rate. The university offers several NP options.
Why Students Should Consider Duquesne’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: Adheres to high educational standards.
- Recognition: Offers some of the best online graduate nursing programs in the US.
- High Passing Rates: 100% pass rates for the three specializations offered.
Additional Considerations:
- Higher Costs: Duquesne’s tuition rates are generally higher than those of public institutions.
- Competitive Admission: Applicants must have a strong undergraduate GPA and sufficient clinical experience.
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Students are often responsible for finding their own preceptors and clinical sites.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
Gannon is a Catholic Diocesan university located in downtown Erie in the state’s northeast corner. The Villa Maria School of Nursing in the Morosky College of Health Professions and Sciences is one of the university’s most in-demand destinations. It offers two NP options.
Why Students Should Consider Gannon’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Learning: Gannon offers online courses that are complemented by hands-on training.
- Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Facilitates personalized attention and mentorship..
- CCNE-Accredited: Program quality is ensured.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Options: Only the FNP track is available.
- High Costs: Tuition costs are quite expensive.
- Small School: May have limited access to large healthcare systems for clinical rotations and job placements.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate FNP
Program Overview:
Immaculata, a private Roman Catholic university, is about 30 miles northwest of Philadelphia. The school of nursing has been educating nurses for more than 30 years. The university currently offers two options for nurses hoping to pursue a career as an NP.
Why Students Should Consider Immaculata’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Hybrid Format: Courses combine online learning with face-to-face instruction.
- CCNE-Accredited: The program meets high educational standards.
- No GRE Requirement: Admission to the program does not require GRE scores.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Options: The university only offers an FNP track.
- Clinical Placement: Students are responsible for securing their own clinical preceptors and placements.
- Higher Cost: Tuition is higher than at public universities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate FNP
Program Overview:
La Roche is a private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh. It was founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963 and is considered a Catholic university, though it welcomes students of all faiths. La Roche currently offers one NP program.
Why Students Should Consider La Roche’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Part-Time Structure: The FNP certificate program allows working professionals to balance their studies with other commitments.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program combines classroom learning, hands-on clinical experiences, and research opportunities.
- Supportive Environment: La Roche offers resources and mentorship opportunities to support student success.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Options: LaRoche only offers a post-graduate FNP program.
- ACEN Not CCNE: May limit recognition in some settings.
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Clinical assignments are often made without student input.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- Post-Graduate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
The School of Nursing and Health Sciences at LaSalle University boasts a 100% employment rate for graduates from the Nursing program. It offers students access to an Interprofessional Simulation Center and a Nursing Learning Resource Center where students can brush up on their clinical skills to prepare for their clinical and future careers. The school offers a variety of NP options.
Why Students Should Consider LaSalle’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Evidence-Based Curriculum: The program integrates advanced nursing research, theory, and clinical practice.
- Hybrid Format: Combines online coursework with on-campus components.
- Experienced Faculty: Courses are led by seasoned healthcare professionals.
Additional Considerations:
- Program Rigor: The program is known for its academic rigor, which can be demanding for some.
- Clinical Placement Issues: Students may face challenges in securing sites that are located near them/align with their interests.
- Administrative Challenges: Some students have reported difficulties with onboarding and communication.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
Located just outside the state capital in Mechanicsburg, Messiah University is a nationally ranked private Christian university founded in 1909. It offers flexible course options and an opportunity to care for patients across the lifespan from a Christian faith perspective. The school provides one option for those looking to pursue a DNP.
Why Students Should Consider Messiah’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Convenient Format: Courses are offered in 6-, 8-, 12-, and 16-week sessions, with two on-campus, three-day summer sessions.
- Comprehensive Clinical Training: Students complete 1,215 clinical hours.
- No GRE Requirement: Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores.
Additional Considerations:
- Academic Rigor: The program can be demanding for students balancing work and personal responsibilities.
- Limited Options: Messiah only offers the FNP track.
- Faith-Based Curriculum: May not fit those who prefer a secular educational environment.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP FNP
Program Overview:
Dallas, PA, located in the northeast part of the state just outside Scranton, is home to Misericordia University. The College of Health Sciences and Education offers small classes, personalized attention, and a career-focused education. There are four NP programs to choose from.
Why Students Should Consider Misericordia’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Online Learning: Ideal for working professionals and those with personal commitments.
- CCNE-Accredited: The university adheres to high educational standards.
- Experienced Faculty: Courses are taught by dedicated faculty with practical experience.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: The fees are quite substantial.
- Administrative Responsiveness: There have been reports of administrative challenges, including delayed responses to student inquiries..
- Location: Misericordia University is situated in a more rural area, where placement opportunities may be limited.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
Program Overview:
Moravian University is located in Bethlehem, just outside of Allentown in the eastern part of the state. It was founded in 1742 and has a rich educational history as one of the first schools to open its doors to women. Moravian is home to the Helen S. Breidegam School of Nursing and Public Health, which offers six NP programs.
Why Students Should Consider Moravian’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses are aligned with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Essentials.
- CCNE-Accredited: The curriculum meets high educational standards.
- Experienced Faculty: Students are mentored by experienced nurse practitioners and educators.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Fees: The cost of attendance is quite substantial.
- Intensive Curriculum: The program requires significant dedication and time management.
- On-Campus FNP: May not suit nurses with busy schedules.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
Program Overview:
Neumann is a private Franciscan Catholic university founded in 1965. It’s within a half hour of Philadelphia but boasts small class sizes and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. In 2022, Neumann’s students had a 100% pass rate on the Nurse Practitioner National Certification. The university offers six NP programs.
Why Students Should Consider Neumann’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: All NP programs are delivered online.
- High Certification Pass Rates: Students achieved a 100% pass rate in 2022.
- Experienced Faculty: Practicing faculty offer real-world insights.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Clinical Placement Support: Students have reported challenges in securing clinical placements.
- High Costs: The overall expense may be a barrier for some individuals.
- Intensive Workload: The NP programs at Neumann require significant time and dedication..
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
Program Overview:
With 24 campuses and an online campus called Penn State World, Penn State, and its graduates are a prominent part of Pennsylvania. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has a presence on 13 campuses and online and offers several programs for those wishing to pursue an NP degree.
Why Students Should Consider Penn State’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: The online delivery model is conducive for working professionals.
- CCNE-Accredited: The program meets the high educational standards for nursing.
- High Certification Pass Rates: Current NP certification pass rates are reported at 100%.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement: Students are responsible for identifying potential practicum sites and preceptors.
- Competitive Admissions: Applicants often need a high GPA and a robust academic background to be considered.
- Financial Considerations: High tuition costs and limited scholarship options for graduate nursing students.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP FNP
- BSN to DNP AGNP Acute
- BSN to DNP AGNP Primary
- BSN to DNP PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
Penn West comprises three schools: Edinboro, Clarion, California, and Penn West Global Online. With three brick-and-mortar campuses located in western Pennsylvania, students have convenient options for attending on-campus events. This university offers two NP options.
Why Students Should Consider PennWest’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Online Format: The format allows students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments.
- Affordable Cost: PennWest offers competitive tuition rates.
- Supportive Learning Environment: There is a range of support services available, including enrollment assistance, success coaching, and career planning.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement: Students are responsible for securing their clinical placements.
- Limited Options: PennWest only offers the FNP specialization.
- State-Specific: The program prepares primarily for practice in Pennsylvania.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
The School of Nursing, Education, and Human Studies at Robert Morris University is in Moon Township, north of Pittsburgh. Its state-of-the-art Regional Research and Innovation in Simulation Education (RISE) Center is one of a handful of nursing programs accredited by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare. Robert Morris offers one NP option.
Why Students Should Consider Robert Morris’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: The NP programs are primarily delivered online.
- CCNE-Accredited: Meets high educational standards.
- Supportive Environment: RMU provides access to experienced faculty, comprehensive resources, and a collaborative learning community.
Additional Considerations:
- Program Intensity: The rigorous nature of the DNP program requires a significant time commitment.
- Residency Requirements: On-campus residencies necessitate travel and accommodation arrangements.
- Clinical Placement Responsibility: Students are responsible for securing their own clinical placements.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP FNP
- BSN to DNP PMHNP
- Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate
Program Overview:
The School of Health Sciences and Education at Saint Francis University offers programs rooted in Catholic Franciscan values. It boasts that its FNP program is one of the most affordable in the state. The school offers three options.
Why Students Should Consider Saint Francis’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: SFU’s FNP programs are delivered 100% online with asynchronous coursework.
- CCNE-Accredited: Meets the standards for quality nursing education.
- No GRE or GMAT Required: Applicants are not required to submit GRE or GMAT scores.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Responsibility: Students are responsible for securing their own clinical placements.
- State Licensure Alignment: Students residing in other states should verify that the program aligns with their state’s licensure requirements.
- Computer Requirements: Students must have a device that meets or exceeds the university’s minimum computing standards.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to FNP
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
The School of Health Professions at Saint Joseph’s University is located in University City, Philadelphia, in the heart of the health science industry. More than 250 medical facilities are in the surrounding area, giving students a range of opportunities for clinical placements and future employment. The school offers four NP degree options.
Why Students Should Consider Saint Joseph’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: The hybrid format allows students to balance work commitments with academic pursuits.
- Experienced Faculty: Courses are taught by seasoned and practicing nursing professionals.
- Guaranteed Clinical Placements: SJU provides assured clinical placements.
Additional Considerations:
- Strict Clinical Experience Threshold: Applicants are expected to have 3,000 hours of nursing experience.
- Location Requirement: Clinical placements are primarily within Pennsylvania.
- Financial Considerations: Financial aid and scholarship options are limited.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
Program Overview:
Thomas Jefferson University has two Philadelphia-area campuses, and the College of Nursing boasts more than 130 years of experience educating nurses. The university has an 18-hospital health system that offers many opportunities for students in its nursing programs. The university offers several NP options.
Why Students Should Consider Thomas Jefferson’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Hybrid Learning: Combines online coursework with required on-campus sessions.
- Multiple Options: Various NP specialization tracks are offered.
- Multiple Start Dates: TJU offers three start dates per year (Fall, Spring, and Summer).
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Responsibilities: While the university provides support, students need to secure their own clinical placements.
- Geographic Licensure Restrictions: The program requires an active RN license in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware.
- High Costs: Tuition rates are on the higher end compared to public universities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- BSN to PNP Primary
- BSN to NNP
- BSN to PMHNP
- BSN to WHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to NNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to WHNP
Program Overview:
Considered an Ivy League university, Penn’s School of Nursing is one of the nation’s premier research institutions in nursing science. Some of the NP specializations offered here are not available at any other university in the state.
Why Students Should Consider UPenn’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Reputation: UPenn’s School of Nursing is recognized as one of the best in the world.
- Diverse Specializations: UPenn offers a wide range of NP programs.
- Commitment to Health Equity: Tuition-free NP initiative open to students committed to working underserved areas.
Additional Considerations:
- Tuition Costs: UPenn’s NP programs are a significant financial investment.
- Competitive Admission: Applicants should meet all prerequisites and present a strong application.
- Placement Location: Most clinical placements are in the Philadelphia area.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- BSN to NNP
- BSN to PNP Acute/Chronic
- BSN to PNP Critical Care
- BSN to PNP Oncology
- BSN to PMHNP
- BSN to WHNP
Program Overview:
Pitt offers five campuses: the main campus in the city of Pittsburgh, as well as regional campuses in Titusville, Johnstown, Greensburg, and Bradford. Many of their nursing programs are offered online, but campus visits may be required. The University of Pittsburgh offers a variety of options.
Why Students Should Consider the University of Pittsburgh’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive NP Specializations: Pitt provides a diverse range of NP specialties.
- Flexible Learning: Pitt offers both on-site and distance education formats for its BSN-to-DNP programs.
- Strong Clinical Partnerships: Students have access to a wide array of clinical settings.
Additional Considerations:
- Academic Rigor: The NP programs require significant time for coursework and clinical hours.
- Tuition Fees: Out-of-state tuition is higher.
- Competitive Admissions: Admission can be highly selective due to strong demand and program quality.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP FNP
- BSN to DNP FNP Distance Option
- BSN to DNP AGNP Acute
- BSN to DNP AGNP Primary
- MSN to DNP AGNP Acute
- MSN to DNP AGNP Primary
- BSN to DNP NNP
- BSN to DNP PNP Primary
- MSN to DNP PNP Acute
- MSN to DNP PNP Primary
- BSN to DNP PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN/DNP to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN/DNP to PNP Acute
Program Overview:
Since its founding in 1842, Villanova University has followed Augustinian Catholic values like love, unity, and truth. The M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing has been designated a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence for six consecutive years. It features a Simulation and Learning Resource Center (SLRC) that is among the first to be endorsed by the International Nursing Association of Clinical and Simulation Learning (INACSL). The college offers several NP options.
Why Students Should Consider Villanova’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Core courses are offered online, while clinical courses require in-person.
- Commitment to Service: Villanova emphasizes ethical leadership, social responsibility, and service to others.
- Clinical Partnerships: Villanova has established clinical placements in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Additional Considerations:
- High Cost: Villanova’s tuition is relatively high compared to public institutions.
- Program Intensity: The programs are academically rigorous with substantial clinical hour requirements.
- Competitive Admissions: Applicants need to have strong academic records, clinical experience, and recommendations.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- BSN to PNP Primary
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
The School of Nursing at Widener University has been recognized by the National League for Nursing (NLN) as a Center of Excellence in Advancing the Science of Nursing Education, one of only eight schools to receive this distinction. It has campuses in Chester, just outside of Philadelphia, and in the state capital of Harrisburg. Widener has six NP programs to choose from.
Why Students Should Consider Widener’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Courses combine online didactic learning with in-person clinical experiences.
- Supportive Environment: The faculty provides personalized mentorship and guidance.
- Clinical Partnerships: Widener has clinical sites and preceptors in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Additional Considerations:
- High Costs: Fees are higher compared to public institutions.
- Program Rigor: The workload and clinical hour requirements can be demanding.
- Limited Recognition: Compared to other PA universities, Widener might have less name recognition nationally.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to DNP FNP
- BSN to DNP AGNP Acute
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute
Program Overview:
The Passan School of Nursing at Wilkes University has over 40 years of experience educating nurses. It offers a Clinical Nursing Simulation Center with hands-on high- and low-fidelity mannequins that simulate real patient interactions and standardized patients – human volunteers who play the role of actual patients to help students gain real-world experience. There are several options available.
Why Students Should Consider Wilkes’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: All coursework is 100% online, while clinical placements are arranged locally.
- Clinical Placement Support: Wilkes assists students in securing quality clinical sites and preceptors.
- High Pass Rates: Graduates have achieved board certification exam pass rates above the national average.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Challenges: Students in rural or highly competitive urban areas may have difficulties securing placements.
- Online Learning Format: Students must be self-directed and have strong time management skills.
- Limited Recognition: Wilkes may not have the same name recognition as larger universities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to FNP
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP Primary
Program Overview:
York City is in the heart of a bustling mid-Atlantic region, hours away from Philadelphia, Washington DC, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh. At the Dr. Donald E. and Lois J. Myers School of Nursing and Health Professions at York College, students can access state-of-the-art simulation labs, passionate faculty, and high-quality clinical experiences. There are three NP tracks.
Why Students Should Consider York College’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: Meets the high standards of nursing education.
- Supportive Environment: Resources and support to ensure academic and professional success are provided.
- Multiple Start Dates: Offer convenience to busy nurses.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Responsibilities: Students are responsible for securing their own preceptors and sites.
- Limited Alumni Network: May limit professional networking, mentorship, or job placement support after graduation.
- Limited Recognition: Does not carry the same national prestige as larger universities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Primary
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Nurse Practitioner Licensure Requirements in Pennsylvania
Degree level needed: Board-approved master’s or postmaster’s nurse practitioner program
Supervised hours total: minimum of 500 hours
Required exams: Specific to NP specialty
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – AGPCNP, AGACNP, ENP, FNP, PNP-Primary, PMHNP
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) – AGPCNP, ENP, FNP, PMHNP
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) – AGACNP
- National Certification Corporation (NCC) – NNP, WHNP
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) – PNP-Primary, PNP-Acute
Background Check: full set of fingerprints to the Pennsylvania State Police for an FBI criminal history background check
State licensing board: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – State Board of Nursing, 2525 N 7th Street Harrisburg, PA 17110
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable nurse practitioner program in Pennsylvania?
The Edinboro and Clarion branches of Pennsylvania West University offer some of the cheapest NP programs in the state. Other affordable options include those offered by Wilkes University and the York College of Pennsylvania.
What Pennsylvania nurse practitioner program has the highest pass rate for the national certification exam?
Neumann University graduates have posted a 100% passing rate in their national certification exams. The same goes for Duquesne University graduates, who have 100% pass rates in their FNP and AGACNP board exams.
Question: What financial aid and scholarships are available to Pennsylvania residents?
- Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania Scholarships
- NEPA Healthcare Foundation Scholarship
- Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania Nursing Scholarships
- Leonard A. Lauder Community Care Nurse Practitioner Program Fellowship (University of Pennsylvania)
The State of Nursing in Pennsylvania
By 2030, Pennsylvania is projected to be short 1,039 doctors, and close to 381,00 Pennsylvania residents live in an area where there are 3,500 or more patients for every one provider.
Although state law dictates that NPs must work under the supervision of a physician, they are considered primary care providers who can work to fill these gaps in care.
The Keystone State also has several professional and networking opportunities for nurse practitioners, including the Pennsylvania Coalition of Nurse Practitioners (PCNP), the Pennsylvania Nurses Association (PSNA), and the Nurses of Pennsylvania.
Most large hospital systems are located in Philadelphia in the east and Pittsburgh in the west. Philly is home to Temple University Hospital, the largest hospital in the state, as well as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh is home to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) hospital system, which includes state-of-the-art facilities at Presbyterian Hospital and Montefiore, as well as Allegheny Health Network, which includes Allegheny General Hospital and West Penn Hospital. There are also impressive facilities serving the other areas of the state, including Reading Hospital, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, and WellSpan York Hospital.
In addition to these career opportunities, Pennsylvania offers many exciting things to keep you busy on your days off. You can visit the Rocky statue and then run up the stairs to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, visit the art installations at Randyland in Pittsburgh, explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, take in history at Gettysburg, or spend a day riding the coasters at Hershey Park.
