Online ABSN Programs in Pennsylvania: Top Degrees & Key Insights
Ready to transition into nursing with an accelerated BSN in Pennsylvania? If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, an online or hybrid ABSN program can help you fast-track your career. This EduMed guide covers admission requirements, costs, program length, curriculum, career opportunities, and more. Keep reading to explore top programs and take the next step toward becoming a nurse in Pennsylvania.
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In-Depth Profiles of Popular ABSN Programs in Pennsylvania
If you’re not already a licensed practical nurse or a certified nursing assistant, one of the fastest ways to become a registered nurse is through an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN). Accelerated BSN programs in PA typically take one to two years to complete, whereas a traditional BSN program takes upwards of four years. The shortened time is because these programs allow you to transfer credits from your first bachelor’s degree, which means you don’t have to retake general education or prerequisite courses.
While faster than traditional programs, accelerated programs often allow students to sit for the nursing licensure exam like graduates of a standard four-year degree. They are also usually offered online or in hybrid formats for increased flexibility. Three of the best accelerated BSN programs in PA are spotlighted below to help you know what to look for in an online or hybrid ABSN degree. Just note that all ABSN programs discussed require a bachelor’s degree as a minimum requirement.
Holy Family University
One of the top accelerated BSN programs in PA comes from Holy Family University. This online Accelerated BSN is designed to be cost-effective compared to other local programs.
Students only take nursing coursework and not general education classes. The program requires only one week of in-person residency at Holy Family’s Philadelphia campus. All other coursework can be completed online.
While clinical hours must be completed in person, the school’s clinical department helps students who don’t live in Philadelphia find a clinical site in their communities. The school also provides National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) prep resources and boasts an 89.87% NCLEX pass rate.
Duration: 14 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $50,563
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited College or University
- 3.0 cumulative GPA (2.75 GPA in math and science prerequisite courses)
- Personal statement
- 1 letter of recommendation from a supervisor or academic professor
- Students must reside in Pennsylvania (excluding the following counties: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, & Philadelphia) to apply
Curriculum:
- Nursing and Older Adult Health Promotion
- Foundations of Nursing Practice
- Nursing Care of Children
- Medical Surgical Nursing
- Transition to Professional Role
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Misericordia University
Misericordia University easily has one of the best accelerated BSN programs in PA. The online ABSN program covers the necessary nursing skills and nursing clinicals. While all class lectures are online, the program is considered hybrid because of its in-person labs at the university’s Coraopolis campus and clinical rotations with local healthcare partners.
Graduates should be prepared to sit for the NCLEX through NCLEX exam resources outside of coursework. Applicants should live near Pittsburgh, where most clinicals take place. The school offers financial support to help students pay for their degrees, and each student is automatically considered for scholarships of up to $10,000.
Duration: 16 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $62,964
Admissions Requirements:
- Prospective students must have at least 60 credits from a regionally accredited institution
- Have a GPA of 2.8 or higher
- Complete all prerequisite courses with a “C” or higher
Curriculum:
- Fundamentals of Food and Nutrition
- Foundations of Nursing
- Physical Assessment
- Functional Health Patterns Psychiatric Nursing
- Principles of Pharmacology
- Functional Health Patterns Adults
- Functional Health Patterns in Populations
- Nursing Research for Evidence Based Practice
- Functional Health Patterns Pediatrics
- Functional Health Patterns Childbearing
Wilkes University
As the first university in Pennsylvania to offer an Online ABSN, Wilkes University is well-adapted to online learning and offers one of the most rigorous accelerated BSN programs in the state. The CCNE also accredits this program.
In addition to virtual coursework, students complete nursing clinical hours in person and a one-time, on-campus residency. The school uses a competency-based assessment to better prepare them for the NCLEX than a traditional grading style does. This leads to above-national-average NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Students can also connect with some of the best healthcare organizations in the area, thanks to Wilkes University’s large network. You should also note that there are two intake periods each year.
Duration: This BSN program takes 15 months to complete.
Mode: Hybrid (on-line and in-person)
Cost: $63,000
Admissions Requirements: Successful applicants must have GPAs of 3.0 or higher and two letters of recommendation. This program also requires two prerequisite courses: microbiology and human anatomy.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 3.0 GPA
- Statement of professional goals
- Two letters of recommendation
Curriculum:
- Pharmacotherapeutics
- Nursing Practice
- Nursing Informatics
- Nursing Research
- Physical Assessment
Addressing Frequent Questions About Online Accelerated BSN Programs
It can feel daunting to begin your experience studying for an online accelerated BSN program in Pennsylvania. You will likely have several questions about the course and what happens afterward. We’ve answered these pressing questions below so you can enter the degree question-free.
What is the clinical component of an ABSN program like?
The clinical component of an ABSN program involves hands-on training in hospitals, clinics, or healthcare facilities under the eye of experienced nurses and instructors.
During the clinical component – which requires around 600 to 1000 hours –you will learn to assess vital signs, administer medication, and develop care plans. This part of your studies is when you apply your theoretical knowledge to hands-on, real-world patient scenarios.
You should also note that your clinical rotations will be varied. You will rotate through geriatrics, pediatrics, and emergency care, among other specializations, to ensure a well-rounded experience and a better idea of what avenue to explore once you are qualified.
Can I work while completing an ABSN program?
Since online ABSN programs in Pennsylvania are hybrid programs involving online and in-person practicum with a fast-tracked curriculum, full-time working isn’t recommended. You will likely be required to study 40 or more hours weekly with coursework, labs, and clinical rotations.
However, some students might find they can manage part-time positions, especially if the job offers flexible working hours. To determine if you can work and study in an online ABSN program, have a look at your schedule, your coursework details, and your personal workload capacity before enrolling in an ABSN program.
How competitive are ABSN programs in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania’s online ABSN programs are competitive, with limited study offers extended each year. This is why you’ll find that prerequisite coursework, GPA scoring, letters of recommendation, and healthcare experience significantly impact your admission chances.
You’ll likely find that most schools look for students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and prospective students who have demonstrated a commitment to nursing or have a strong background in science. In addition, some online ABSN programs in Pennsylvania require admission interviews before acceptance to assess a candidate’s readiness and motivation.
If you want to strengthen your application, we recommend gaining healthcare experience through certifications like EMT or CNA training or volunteering.
What support services are available for ABSN students?
Several support services are available for ABSN students in Pennsylvania, including tutoring, mentorship programs, NCLEX prep courses, career advising, and mental health counseling.
You might also be pleased to learn that many universities offer networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and alumni to help you get a placement after finishing your exams. In addition, specific ABSN programs in this state provide support through dedicated faculty advisors who can guide you through your clinical training and coursework.
Using these support services can improve your academic performance and ease your stress surrounding transitioning into professional nursing. So be sure to speak with the institution beforehand so that you’re aware of the help available.
What happens after completing an ABSN program?
After completing an ABSN program, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam (as you might know) to get your nursing license. Fortunately, since the online ABSN program in Pennsylvania offers NCLEX prep courses during your studies, you should have no issues passing the exam when the time comes.
After you get your license, you can pursue entry-level RN positions at clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities like nursing homes, and specialty areas such as critical care and emergency. You can also continue your education by taking an MSN or DNP program. These advanced programs could help you become a nurse practitioner, nurse anesthetist, or nurse educator.
Why Make the Career Change to Nursing in Pennsylvania
Many people are transitioning to a career in healthcare because the field offers job stability, a chance to make a meaningful impact, and career growth opportunities. For example, Pennsylvania has a high demand for nursing jobs because of a statewide shortage. With the state’s aging population, the demand for registered nurses will continue to rise.
Then, when it comes to salaries, Pennsylvania’s nursing salaries are competitive. The average RN salary in this state is $87,530 per year, which can increase based on the field of nursing you choose to practice. In addition, the skills you learn in the nursing field are transferable into roles involving communication, leadership, and problem-solving.
Moreover, you can explore career roles in administration, telehealth, public health, education, long-term care, hospice care, and hospital care after completing an online ABSN program. This gives you several opportunities to find a niche that works best for your skillset, strengths, and likes when it comes to providing healthcare.
The Best Online Accelerated BSN Programs in PA
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,967 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected La Salle University
- The Accelerated BSN program allows students to complete their degree in as little as 18 months, enabling faster entry into advanced nursing roles.
- The program offers flexible, fully online coursework designed specifically for adult learners balancing professional and personal commitments.
- Students benefit from direct access to a dedicated program Director for personalized guidance and progression planning throughout the program.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,967 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $20,439 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Holy Family University
- Holy Family University’s Accelerated BSN program offers a highly competitive tuition price point among online ABSN programs in Pennsylvania, making it financially attractive for prospective students.
- The program requires only one week of residency on the Philadelphia campus, with all clinical placements arranged locally, minimizing relocation and travel burdens for students.
- Holy Family’s clinical placement department actively assists students in securing local clinical sites, enhancing convenience and practical training opportunities close to home.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $20,439 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $13,309 Avg. Aid Amount
- 69% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Immaculata University
- Immaculata’s Accelerated BSN program offers a 15-month accelerated format with cohorts starting each January, enabling students to complete their nursing degree quickly and efficiently.
- The program features significantly lower tuition costs than most local programs, including discounted prerequisite course rates, making it more affordable for second-degree students.
- Students benefit from extensive hands-on learning in eight advanced simulation labs, practicing clinical and communication skills in realistic, safe environments with one-on-one faculty support.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $13,309 Avg. Aid Amount
- 69% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $11,950 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected York College of Pennsylvania
- York College's Accelerated BSN program can be completed in as little as 17 months, significantly reducing time to enter the nursing workforce compared to traditional programs.
- Students gain hands-on clinical experience through diverse clinical rotations and state-of-the-art simulation laboratories, enhancing practical skills and employer readiness.
- The program leverages strong clinical partnerships with local healthcare organizations, providing robust opportunities for professional networking and career placement.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $11,950 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,542 Avg. Aid Amount
- 71% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Misericordia University
- Misericordia University's Accelerated BSN program enables students to earn their degree in as little as 16 months, combining online coursework with hands-on clinical rotations at Allegheny Health Network facilities for real-world experience.
- The program features a new nursing learning center in Robinson Township, providing advanced lab and simulation experiences that enhance practical skills and readiness for healthcare careers.
- Students benefit from Misericordia’s long-standing commitment to nursing education, with faculty emphasizing leadership and clinical expertise, preparing graduates to meet rising nursing demands effectively.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,542 Avg. Aid Amount
- 71% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Pennsylvania Western University
California, PAProgram Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $3,877 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Pennsylvania Western University
- Wilkes University's Accelerated BSN program allows students to leverage their prior bachelor's degree and complete their nursing degree in as little as 12 months, offering a fast-track to a nursing career.
- The program includes a two-week hands-on residency on campus combined with clinical rotations at partner healthcare institutions in Northeastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley, ensuring extensive practical experience in real healthcare settings.
- Wilkes boasts above national-average NCLEX-RN pass rates, highlighting strong preparation for licensure and a competitive advantage in the nursing job market.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $3,877 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Gwynedd Mercy University
Gwynedd Valley, PAProgram Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,685 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Gwynedd Mercy University
- Gwynedd Mercy University’s Accelerated BSN program allows students to complete their degree in just 16 months, providing an accelerated path to nursing licensure.
- The program features hybrid coursework with access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and technology, enhancing hands-on learning and clinical preparation.
- Students benefit from membership in an active nursing community led by experienced faculty and healthcare leaders, fostering valuable professional networking and mentorship opportunities.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,685 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $24,262 Avg. Aid Amount
- 61% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Wilkes University
- Wilkes University’s Accelerated BSN offers flexible clinical placements in Northeastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley through partnerships with local healthcare institutions, enhancing real-world experience opportunities.
- The program includes a two-week immersive, hands-on residency on the Wilkes campus to develop essential clinical skills, combining online theory with practical training.
- Wilkes’ ABSN program is CCNE-accredited and designed for completion in just 15 months, providing an accelerated pathway to prepare graduates efficiently for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $24,262 Avg. Aid Amount
- 61% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,564 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Carlow University
- Carlow University’s Accelerated Second-Degree BSN program offers the lowest tuition regionally among private institutions, making it a cost-effective choice for career changers.
- The program boasts exceptional first-time NCLEX-RN exam pass rates, with recent cohorts achieving 100%, reflecting high-quality education and student support.
- Students gain premier clinical experiences at the state’s largest and most prestigious healthcare institutions, enhancing practical skills and job market readiness.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,564 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $25,349 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Chatham University
- The Accelerated RN-BSN program at Chatham University offers an online format with integrated practice experiences, allowing students to demonstrate nursing skills across diverse patient populations while maintaining flexibility through full-time or part-time study options.
- Students in the nursing programs benefit from accomplished faculty who serve as mentors and advisors, providing personalized support and leadership from experienced practitioners and scholars throughout their education.
- The program enables transfer of up to 75 college-level credit hours, allowing students with prior coursework or an associate degree to accelerate their path to a BSN by completing as few as 45 credits at Chatham University, including core nursing requirements.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $25,349 Avg. Aid Amount
- 63% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
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