These Are the Top 10 Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania (PA)

Pennsylvania has a wide range of nursing schools offering undergraduate programs for students interested in becoming registered nurses (RNs). These institutions provide opportunities to study nursing, develop clinical skills and prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Choosing a nursing school involves more than looking at its reputation. Students should also consider NCLEX pass rates, tuition costs, graduation outcomes, clinical training opportunities and employment prospects.

According to NurseSavvy's 2026 Pennsylvania nursing school ranking, which evaluates publicly available performance and affordability data, the following are 10 baccalaureate nursing programs worth comparing.

1. Cedar Crest College

Location: Allentown, Pennsylvania

Cedar Crest College ranks first in NurseSavvy's 2026 Pennsylvania nursing program comparison. Its baccalaureate nursing program recorded a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 47 test-takers in the reported data.

Students interested in nursing can explore undergraduate education and clinical learning opportunities designed to prepare them for professional nursing practice.

Reported annual net price: $18,659

2. York College of Pennsylvania

Location: York, Pennsylvania

York College of Pennsylvania offers undergraduate nursing education for students preparing for careers in healthcare.

Its nursing program recorded a 96.7% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 92 test-takers in the 2025 data used by NurseSavvy.

The college is another option for students comparing nursing education, clinical preparation and affordability.

Reported annual net price: $18,556

3. Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Location: Indiana, Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers nursing education through its undergraduate academic programs.

Its baccalaureate nursing program recorded a 97.1% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 137 test-takers.

Students can explore nursing coursework, clinical experiences and opportunities to develop skills needed for professional healthcare settings.

Reported annual net price: $16,804

4. West Chester University

Location: West Chester, Pennsylvania

West Chester University offers undergraduate nursing education for students interested in becoming registered nurses.

Its nursing program recorded a 96.1% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 76 test-takers in the reported data.

Students should review admission requirements, clinical placement arrangements and available financial assistance when considering the program.

5. Marywood University

Location: Dunmore, Pennsylvania

Marywood University provides undergraduate nursing education with an emphasis on academic preparation and professional development.

Its baccalaureate nursing program recorded a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 31 test-takers in the 2025 data used for the ranking.

Students can explore the university's nursing curriculum and clinical learning opportunities.

Reported annual net price: $23,388

6. Alvernia University

Location: Reading, Pennsylvania

Alvernia University offers nursing education for students interested in patient care and healthcare careers.

Its baccalaureate nursing program recorded a 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 35 test-takers.

Prospective students can compare its curriculum, clinical experiences, admission requirements and financial aid options.

Reported annual net price: $28,138

7. Neumann University

Location: Aston, Pennsylvania

Neumann University offers undergraduate nursing education for students preparing to enter the healthcare profession.

Its nursing program recorded a 96.2% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 53 test-takers.

Students should examine the program's clinical training arrangements, academic requirements and opportunities for professional development.

Reported annual net price: $27,804

8. Eastern University

Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania

Eastern University provides undergraduate education for students interested in nursing and healthcare careers.

Its baccalaureate nursing program recorded a 94.7% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 38 test-takers in the reported data.

Students can compare its academic curriculum, clinical preparation and available student support services.

Reported annual net price: $26,662

9. East Stroudsburg University

Location: East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

East Stroudsburg University offers undergraduate nursing education for students interested in professional nursing practice.

Its nursing program recorded a 95% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 20 test-takers.

Prospective students should review the university's admission criteria, clinical learning opportunities and program requirements.

10. Jefferson College of Nursing

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Jefferson College of Nursing offers nursing education within a university and healthcare-focused academic environment.

Its baccalaureate nursing program recorded a 92.4% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate among 366 test-takers in the reported 2025 data.

Students interested in this institution can explore its undergraduate nursing pathways, clinical education and opportunities to learn within a healthcare-focused setting.

What Should Students Consider Before Choosing a Nursing School?

A ranking can help create a shortlist, but students should compare several important factors before applying.

1. NCLEX-RN pass rates: Review the percentage of graduates who pass the licensing examination on their first attempt. Also consider the number of students who took the exam.

2. Accreditation and state approval: Check whether the nursing program has appropriate CCNE or ACEN accreditation and approval from the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

3. Tuition and financial aid: Compare tuition, fees, accommodation, books and other educational expenses. Check scholarship and financial aid eligibility.

4. Clinical experience: Look into the hospitals and healthcare facilities where students complete their clinical training.

5. Graduation outcomes: Ask about program completion rates, student support and the time required to complete the degree.

6. Career opportunities: Research graduate employment outcomes, career services and opportunities for professional development.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania offers several undergraduate nursing programs for students preparing for careers as registered nurses. Cedar Crest College, York College of Pennsylvania, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, West Chester University and other institutions on this list provide options worth researching.

Before making a decision, compare nursing program accreditation, NCLEX-RN results, tuition, clinical training and admission requirements. The most suitable school will depend on your academic background, financial circumstances and career goals.