2024 Best Colleges for Nursing in Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,339 reviews

Sophomore: As a University of Pennsylvania student, my experience has been transformative. The academic rigor and diverse courses allowed me to explore passions and develop critical thinking. Accessible and knowledgeable faculty shaped my journey, while the vibrant campus life fostered a sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. I appreciate the emphasis on research opportunities, collaborating with renowned scholars, and Philadelphia's cultural scene, offering internships and networking. However, addressing the cost of attendance with more financial aid options and scholarships is essential for equal access. Moreover, enhancing inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups would strengthen our community further. Overall, UPenn has provided exceptional opportunities, but improvements can make it an even more accessible and inclusive institution for all students.... Read 1,339 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Villanova, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,555 reviews

Alum: Villanova is not a perfect school, but it was a great fit and wonderful experience for me! There are countless opportunities, good communication/posting of opportunities for students to be aware of and get involved in, and a great campus, relational feel to the school. Villanova is small enough to feel homey but large enough to continually meet new people or branch out and try new clubs, activities, etc. A common (and true) complaint is lack of diversity on campus. This is something to take into account but as an alum, I think the school is aware of it and has attempted to make strides to address it. I'd like to have seen the social scene change slightly; as someone who doesn't drink alcohol, it took some time to find like-minded people and find social opportunities that didn't feel centered around college drinking culture. I think this is a reality of many schools, not necessarily Villanova-specific. Overall, I loved Villanova and would choose to attend if I had to do it over again!... Read 1,555 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $33,123

• SAT range 1350-1490

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  3,148 reviews

Graduate Student: Drexel University has some awesome program directors who are committed to your success and will help you navigate their system by providing warm -handoffs to other departments if they cannot answer your questions directly. They have the student in mind, and provide tuition discounts with partnering organizations you are employed with. They have a great reputation for success and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my goal of becoming a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and address the issue of maternal mortality in the U.S., and to be a Drexel University Dragon!... Read 3,148 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $26,076

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  1,078 reviews

Freshman: I absolutely love Jefferson! I love how motivating and nice the professors are. The faculty is always there to help when you're confused, and the resources provided to students are amazing. But I think the best part of Jefferson is the community. The people here are so nice and welcoming, it feels like you always have someone to talk to or something to do when you're bored. The campus is also beautiful, especially in the fall!... Read 1,078 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $24,227

• SAT range 1130-1320

• Lemont Furnace, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  150 reviews

Freshman: Penn state Fayette is full of life and diversity. Numerous club and organizations are offered bringing people with a variety of interests together, allowing for friendships to be built. With a smaller class size, it allows more one on one time and easier access to extra help. The staff all genuinely care about you, even going out of their way to assist you if needed. Overall Penn State Fayette is a very welcoming campus.... Read 150 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $16,496

• SAT range 960-1190

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,308 reviews

Freshman: University of Pittsburgh is a great school with many diverse tools students can utilize to get the best out of their time here. From a wide range of studies to a vast option of clubs, University of Pittsburgh allows students to instantly feel connected to the school. In addition, the University of Pittsburgh has fantastic resources especially for Pre-Health related careers. With the UPMC building nearby, you can obtain your medical hours right on campus! You can easily contact a faculty member within the Pre-Health department to discuss the best academic path for you. The campus holds a variety of recreational spots including restaurants, museums, and cafes to study at. However, in the future, I hope to see the university improve their communication with their students regarding Panther Central. Panther Central is Pitt's main communication line where students can ask anything from housing to transportation. Unfortunately, the faculty takes a long time responding to students' emails.... Read 4,308 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $22,996

• SAT range 1250-1470

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,500 reviews

Alum: I love nearly everything about this school! The sports are great, there are major entertainment events, art and religion are honored, there are over 1,000 student organizations, and I have had incredible professors consistently throughout my years (although peers in other majors did not always say this). In the area, there is hiking, skiing, several summer festivals, several thrift stores, and a high proportion of restaurants with different ethnic cuisines. Recommendation for change are prioritizing updates to dorm buildings and increasing accessibility to groceries downtown, as this is where a large number of students live (without their cars). It has many international students, but is otherwise limited in diversity. It mostly reflects the state/region, so I do not see this as something that necessarily needs to change.... Read 7,500 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,498 reviews

Junior: I am a junior in Duquesne's nursing program and I cannot say enough good things about this school, at least academic wise. Professors know your name and genuinely want to see you succeed. Classwork is challenging but always helps me learn. Clinicals start early and help you feel confident in your skills by the time you enter your immersion. The campus is beautiful and in an excellent location that has allowed me to work a part-time job since my freshman year even without a car on campus. The food leaves a lot to be desired, which I why I mostly cook for myself now, as do the freshman dorms, but if you can get into Brottier or St. Martin's as an upperclassman, you're set. There are plenty of clubs and organizations on campus that have allowed me to meet friend and even serve in leadership roles. Duquesne is a great choice if you want a mid-sized, urban college where you'll get a great education!... Read 1,498 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,505

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Lancaster, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  193 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a freshman and I must admit that the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences, though expensive, it's very calm. The teachers are nice and quite comprehensive of their student's time and struggle. Nonetheless, the advisors are wonderful! They have helped me plan out my courses and destress myself since it is my first year and things seemed chaotic. Thanks to my advisor I am now confident to continue on with my following semesters. PA College of health Sciences is a very comfortable and great school.... Read 193 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 49%

• Net price $36,179

• SAT range 850-1060

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  670 reviews

Sophomore: For a variety of reasons, I like attending Scranton University. I felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and camaraderie the moment I stepped foot on campus. The warm and welcoming climate at the university develops intimate interactions with both peers and instructors, creating a conducive environment for personal growth and academic performance. The wide selection of extracurricular activities and clubs has helped me to pursue my interests and discover new ones, enriching my college experience. Furthermore, the university's commitment to service and social justice resonates well with my ideals, allowing me to make a positive difference in the world. Scranton University is more than simply a place to learn; it is a home that fosters my intellectual, social, and personal development, making every day on campus worthwhile.... Read 670 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $35,913

• SAT range 1100-1280

• Gwynedd Valley, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  375 reviews

Alum: I am so proud to say I graduated from The Respiratory Program at Gwynedd Mercy University, not only has the program prepared me for my new career but it has given me skills in everyday life, like time management and communication skills. I am so thankful for my professors because I would have not made it through without their help, they truly care about Respiratory which in turn makes us students better RRT’s once we are out working ourselves. I am so glad to hear about the success rates in the Respiratory program and I look forward to hearing more down the road!... Read 375 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $25,843

• SAT range 990-1200

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  329 reviews

Senior: Be a part of a family that knows and cares about you and your future, HFU, you belong here! A catholic private university found right in northeast Philadelphia, with one of the safest neighborhoods and approachable professors due to smaller class size that really helps with building networks and establishing connections even after graduation. A family-like institution where you get help when asked and get to enjoy year-round events and free giveaways. If you want to avoid too much money in tuition and expenses, HFU is just the right place with up to 22k merit scholarships awarded as freshmen along with named scholarships once completed a semester and get consisdred for the help for the number of years you attend.... Read 329 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $11,935

• SAT range 930-1080

• Chester, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  812 reviews

Senior: My Widener University experience has been everything but bland. The opportunities are endless, from research trips, to campus jobs, access to experiences in my field, celebrating homecoming, or cheering on our basketball team as they became 2023 MAC Commonwealth Champions this year. As an involved student, with a Physics, Secondary Education major, and a Mathematics minor, Widener made it easy for me to have success both inside and outside of the classroom. I have had opportunities in the field such as substitute teaching in a local school district, and I was able to take a research trip to another state and collaborate with other students through astronomy research. Outside of school, I have the opportunity to work on campus as an ambassador, participate in community service, and meet some of my best friends who I attend sporting events, bingo, or other activities around campus with! I appreciates Widener's dedication to academics as well as other enriching college experiences.... Read 812 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $25,343

• SAT range 1080-1240

• Bethlehem, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  509 reviews

Freshman: Moravian has provided a great environment for new students just like myself! I have found there to be a ton of activities to get involved with and feel as though I am a part of a community. Moravian offers an astounding range of clubs, classes and jobs students are able to take advantage of. They also provide great resources such as a writing center that comes in handy. I can definitely see myself here for the next four years since I feel tremendously welcome!... Read 509 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $32,020

• SAT range 1050-1200

• Center Valley, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  574 reviews

Freshman: Desales is an incredibly warm and welcome place! As someone who values close connections and a community-feel for their college, I sincerely admire Desales University's dedication to integration, volunteering, philanthropy, academic achievement, and personal growth and success. Both administration, faculty, and leading student officials truly focus on their students well-being and success, and never fail to make themselves available. Desales is a wonderful and inspiring school!... Read 574 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $27,965

• SAT range 1080-1260

• Dallas, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  610 reviews

Senior: Misericordia has felt like home since the first time I stepped on campus when I was getting recruited to play softball. Since I started at MU in the Fall of 2019, I have since seen the university make state of the art improvements including the gorgeous Henry Science Center where I attend labs, classes, study group sessions, and more. One of my favorite parts about being a student-athlete at Mis is the comradery among the student body and the devotion to service. One of my favorite volunteer opportunities was going to Patriot's Cove which is an organization that was founded by a military veteran and his spouse to empower other veterans, first responders, and their caregivers to heal and adapt to life after service. On campus, Campus Life constantly puts on events to keep students engaged such as Halloween Scavenger Hunts, Christmas Dinner, Midnight Breakfast during finals week, and numerous Welcome Week Activities to make everyone feel at home. I met some of my best friends at Mis!... Read 610 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $23,822

• SAT range 1050-1220

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.49 out of 5  888 reviews

Sophomore: I am an incoming sophomore nursing student at La Salle University. I personally really enjoy the school, campus, and my peers. The surrounding area is not the best safety wise, but the school has a great public safety team to keep us safe. The food at the school is not the best, and I hope to see a change in options in this upcoming school year. As a nursing student, I am happy to say that La Salle University has a great program! When looking for nursing schools, the NCLEX passing rate is a huge deal, and I must say that La Salle had one of the highest NCLEX average passing rates of the schools I was looking into. Another really important element is when the nursing students begin clinicals, which is real world experience in the field. La Salle starts clinicals for their students in their sophomore year of school, which means their nursing graduates will be more than ready for work when they graduate. I am very proud to say I am La Salle University nursing student!... Read 888 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $24,130

• SAT range —

• Scranton, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  600 reviews

Alum: I am a Marywood graduate & also blessed to work here. My work for the past 30+ years has been gratifying in many ways, but I want to review Marywood based on my student experience + what I observe about our current students. You will not find a more friendly, welcoming campus than Marywood. You are encouraged to learn and train in your major, but also to experience classes that broaden your mind, deepen your perspective, and open you to new experiences. You get a strong education and practical experience to obtain a job in your field, but also can discuss meaningful topics beyond your field. A Marywood education affords one a versatilie skill set that is especially needed in today's changing workforce landscape. Our students are happy, community-oriented people who love to have fun and serve others. My own love for serving others started here. Marywood has many benefits of a large university, but in a small school setting. Best of both worlds on a beautiful campus!... Read 600 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,687

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Waynesburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.43 out of 5  517 reviews

Niche User: I have been in the nursing department for a BSN and the only thing I can say is that I am glad I chose this school. At Waynesburg they will teach you the med surg classes, Pathophysiology, pharma etc. But the difference is that they make you think. If you want to be a smart nurse who will keep learning and who will be pushed to be the best nurse as possible, pick Waynesburg. I am glad I did. I work as a nurse now and I have been making great decisions in my shifts - picking up on cues when patients needed higher level of care, emergent interventions etc. That is thanks to Waynesburg! Nursing is not accomplishing tasks and carrying orders, it is about thinking critically. Let these smart teachers give you the best foundations you can get and need and you will be glad you did... Read 517 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $22,070

• SAT range 980-1170

• Abington, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  740 reviews

Sophomore: I loved my freshman year at PSU Abington! I engaged in many activities and the convenient location of campus near a major city like Philadelphia also allowed me to be actively involved in community development and my jobs. The professors at Abington are very supportive and understanding. The community at campus is very resourceful - for example, the Counseling and Psychological Services department, student services, etc are all very well equipped to support each student in succeeding!... Read 740 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $18,792

• SAT range 1010-1270

• Cresson, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  563 reviews

Senior: Very great community of students, no matter how much of an introvert you are you will walk away knowing a lot of good people. The teachers are approachable and willing to help always! The only issue some of the majors are undeveloped with the curriculum feeling underwhelming. But you can make the most of any major with the great support of the staff and teachers.... Read 563 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $21,793

• SAT range 940-1120

• Reading, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  612 reviews

Freshman: Alvernia University is a remarkable institution that prioritizes inclusivity and positivity. From the very start, it's apparent that Alvernia is a place where diversity and acceptance are both celebrated and valued. Students from various backgrounds are welcomed and supported, with an array of resources available to guarantee that everyone feels included and supported in their academic endeavors. The campus community is known for being warm and welcoming, and students can quickly find their place at Alvernia. The faculty and staff are exceptionally approachable, passionate, and committed to assisting each student to achieve their full potential. Whether it's providing academic support or offering advice on personal matters, the faculty and staff are always available to help.... Read 612 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $24,917

• SAT range 940-1130

• Erie, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  840 reviews

Junior: Gannon has a lot of great staff/faculty members and opportunities that are made available to virtually everybody on campus. There are lots of sport teams, clubs, and groups that are easy to join and exciting. Every teacher that I have had has been competent, not always enjoyable, but at bare minimum, able to educate their students. My main problem with the school is just how expensive it is. I want to be able to go to school full time, and still have enough money to enjoy my hobbies like fishing, jiu jitsu, hiking, playing instruments, making music, and travelling. Because of the cost of school, it can make it difficult for me to find the time and money to do these things that I also deeple care about.... Read 840 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $22,258

• SAT range 990-1250

• Altoona, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  949 reviews

Freshman: For my specific degree, most of my classes take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Due to this, my schedule on those days is rather busy (3-6 classes on those days). However, this has been balanced out by only having one class on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Also, this does not seem to be as common of a problem for my fellow classmates. There is a wide variety of classes offered at this campus, which allows the students to pursue their personal interests or seek out minors that they may not have known about beforehand. The professors and other students on campus are all very nice, and there are always events and clubs available for the students to attend!... Read 949 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $21,947

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Wilkes-barre, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  598 reviews

Senior: I love the staff and faculty at Wilkes University! They are so supportive of the students and their first priority really is student well-being. Everyone on campus, students and faculty/staff alike, are invested and engaged in the campus atmosphere to make the community welcoming and fun. My classes are intellectually stimulating and the professors are willing to support the students in any way that they can. Campus life keeps me active and rarely do I fend myself bored with nothing to do. After the first week on campus, it's easy to see that the faces around you quickly become familiar. Wilkes University is a home away from home due to the active student life and activities, but it as also a place to grow your academic career with diligent faculty to support you through your journey.... Read 598 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $30,155

• SAT range 1040-1250