Nursing Schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If you aspire to become a registered nurse (RN) and seek the perfect place to embark on your journey, look no further than Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The city's illustrious healthcare community boasts world-renowned hospitals, research centers, and diverse healthcare facilities. Aspiring nurses have the unique advantage of being immersed in a dynamic healthcare ecosystem that fosters growth, learning, and endless opportunities to significantly impact patients' lives.

From cutting-edge university programs to specialized diplomas, nursing students in Philadelphia have access to top-notch facilities, renowned faculty, and abundant clinical opportunities. Embrace the journey of becoming an RN in this historic city, where the pursuit of nursing excellence intertwines with the richness of its cultural heritage, and the promise of a fulfilling nursing career awaits.

Nursing Schools in Philadelphia

1. Community College of Philadelphia

The Community College of Philadelphia offers nursing programs with a strong foundation in nursing care and clinical skills. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, the college aims to prepare students for entry-level nursing practice and further academic pursuits. Clinical opportunities are located in hospitals, long-term care, and community-based facilities. This nursing program is accredited by the ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing).

Nursing Programs offered:

• ADN: 64 credits required for completion, $159 per credit for residents

2. Drexel University

Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions offers cutting-edge nursing programs with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. With state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical partnerships, students receive comprehensive training to excel in the dynamic healthcare industry. The nursing programs at Drexel are CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• BSN Co-op: Integrates one to three cooperative education experiences, allowing students to work as paid nurse externs. These experiences provide valuable real-world experience while you earn credits toward your bachelor's degree. The program typically spans 4-5 years.
• Accelerated BSN: The Accelerated Program spans 11 months full-time with evening and weekend classes available, a hybrid mode of learning.
• RN to BSN: 180 credits required, transfer up to 135 credits, students can apply to the MSN program while completing this curriculum
• MSN: An MSN is an advanced degree training registered nurses for roles in management, administration, and education, with specialization options like nursing education, leadership, clinical nurse leadership, acute care, or primary care.
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management
  • Quality, Safety, and Risk Management in Healthcare
  • Nurse Practitioner
• DNP: Drexel's accredited online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program prepares advanced nursing practice leaders for leadership roles and emphasizes evidence-based practice to enhance health outcomes at individual, family, and community levels.

3. Holy Family University

Holy Family University's School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions emphasizes compassionate care and ethical practice. The university's nursing programs foster critical thinking and leadership skills, preparing graduates to impact healthcare settings positively. Holy Family offers various degree programs, including a daytime accelerated BSN program and an evening and weekend accelerated BSN program, and RN to BSN, MSN, and DNP. Holy Family's nursing programs are CCNE accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• BSN: Offers two types of Accelerated Programs one for 14 months and another for 22 months
• RN to BSN: The RN to BSN program equips students with comprehensive nursing skills, focusing on management, leadership, cultural sensitivity, individual and family assessment, and nursing research. Graduates can seamlessly progress to advanced practice graduate programs.
• MSN: 30 credits for completion (equivalent to 10 courses) in a span of 18 months with a focus on quality, safety, and leadership
• DNP: 35 credits and 1,000 clinical hours for Online Post MSN-DNP Leadership, 26 credits and 1,000 clinical hours for Online Post MSN-DNP Leadership for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) that can be completed in three to four semesters

4. La Salle University

La Salle University's School of Nursing and Health Sciences provides nursing programs focusing on evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from hands-on experiences and personalized attention, preparing them for diverse nursing roles. La Salle offers various traditional and accelerated programs at all degree levels. La Salle's School of Nursing is CCNE accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• BSN: 48 months, on-campus
• RN to BSN: online, 12-24 months, 27 credits, $12,150 tuition
• MSN: 
  • FNP: 24 - 36 months, 45 credits, $41,850 total tuition
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: 20 - 36 months, 41 credits, $38,130 total tuition
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
• DNP: The institution provides personalized curricular plans, with a minimum of 500 clinical hours. Post-MSN students have the option to enroll either full-time (6 credits per semester) or part-time (3 credits per semester). The curriculum is delivered online, and the necessary clinical hours differ depending on the entry-level skills of each student.

5. Roxborough Memorial Hospital

Roxborough Memorial Hospital School of Nursing offers a hospital-based diploma program that strongly emphasizes clinical practice. A 16-month daytime program and a 22-month evening and weekend diploma program are available to meet your scheduling needs. The school provides a supportive learning environment and prepares students to deliver high-quality care in various healthcare settings. This diploma program is ACEN accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• LPN Diploma: Quality education at Roxborough Memorial Hospital School of Nursing is driven by hands-on clinical experience, expert faculty, and a low student-to-faculty ratio. Costing an average of $13,300 annually (excluding fees), it ensures affordability.

6. Temple University

Temple University's College of Public Health offers nursing programs designed to meet the demands of modern healthcare. With faculty expertise and research opportunities, students comprehensively understand nursing practice and public health principles. Temple University prepares you for a nursing career in various settings- from ICU to community health and more. These programs are CCNE accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• BSN: requires 125 credits, 48 months, tuition fee of $21,816 per annum for residents
• DNP: Accommodates part-time or full-time study 
  • BSN-DNP: 68 credit requirement plus 1,000 clinical hours, choose from  Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Clinical Track and Family-Individual Across the Lifespan Clinical Track 
  • MSN-DNP: 37 credit curriculum, 500 clinical hours, students have the choice of completing the program in five semesters as a full-time student or over eight semesters for part-time study

7. Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University's College of Nursing provides nursing programs focused on innovation and excellence and partners with the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital for clinical experiences. With a commitment to patient-centered care and inter-professional collaboration, graduates are prepared for leadership roles in nursing and healthcare. These nursing programs are CCNE accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• BSN: Prerequisites include a high school diploma and 55 college credits, also offers two accelerated pathways for non-nurses that spans 12 to 24 months
• MSN: program can be taken online or on-site, 36 credits, 12 to 24 months options available
• DNP: Offered full or part-time, the program emphasizes leadership, systems thinking, reflective practice, health policy, implementation science, and evidence-based clinical practice. It includes three practicum for hands-on application of gained knowledge.

8. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania's School of Nursing is renowned for its prestigious nursing programs and research. With a holistic approach to nursing education, students are equipped with the skills to lead and advance healthcare practice. Penn Nursing's wide range of programs are all CCNE accredited.

Nursing Programs offered:

• BSN: 48 months direct-entry program
• Accelerated BSN: 18-month flexible program that also offers evenings and weekends, full-time and on-campus only
• MSN: 12-18 months full-time or two to three years part-time
• DNP:
  • DNP in Nurse-Anesthesia (DNP-NA): 36 months full-time
  • Post-Master's DNP (DNP-PM): 10-course units that take 21 months to complete
  • DNP in Executive Leadership (DNP-EL): 11-course units in 24 months 

Nursing Program Types in Philadelphia

Many different types of nursing degrees, certificates, and diplomas are available. However, the most common programs obtained by nursing professionals include:

• LPN Programs: 12-18 months, leading to an LPN career.
• ADN Programs: 24 months, leading to an RN career.
• BSN Programs: 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• RN to BSN Programs: Nine to 48 months, leading to an RN career.
• MSN Programs: 48 months, leading to APRN careers.
• DNP Programs: 48-60 months, leading to APRN and administration careers.

Studying in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Studying nursing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers aspiring healthcare and nursing professionals a unique and enriching experience. Here's what it's like:

• Renowned Nursing Schools: Philadelphia is home to several notable nursing schools and universities known for their excellence in nursing education and research. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch faculty, and a wealth of resources to support their learning.
• Clinical Opportunities: Philadelphia's community health improvement plan provides nursing students with many clinical opportunities. Students can work in leading medical centers, hospitals, community health clinics, and specialty facilities- where they gain valuable hands-on experience with various patient populations and medical conditions.
• Cultural Diversity: Philadelphia is a culturally rich and diverse city, offering students exposure to patients from different backgrounds. Interacting with patients from diverse cultures enhances students' cultural competency and communication, helping them deliver patient-centered care.
• Emphasis on Evidence-Based Practice: Nursing programs in Philadelphia emphasize evidence-based practice and ensure that students are equipped with the latest research and best practices in healthcare. Students learn to incorporate this into their nursing care, improving outcomes.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Nursing education in Philadelphia encourages collaboration. Students have many opportunities to work alongside physicians, therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals, creating a team-oriented, holistic approach to patient care.
• Networking Opportunities: Philadelphia's healthcare industry offers nursing students plenty of networking opportunities. Through clinical rotations and healthcare events, students can connect with potential employers to increase their job prospects after graduation.
• Community Engagement: Several nursing schools in Philadelphia prioritize community service and engagement. Students can participate in health outreach programs and volunteer opportunities to gain a sense of social responsibility while positively impacting the local community.
• Cultural and Social Scene: Philadelphia's cultural and social scene is vibrant and offers students opportunities for both leisure and relaxation. The city has many historical landmarks, museums, theaters, restaurants, and recreational activities, providing a well-rounded experience beyond academics.
• Supportive Learning Environment: Nursing schools in Philadelphia provide a supportive learning environment. Faculty and staff are committed to helping students succeed. They offer academic support, mentorship, and counseling services.
• Career Opportunities: Philadelphia's healthcare industry is a major employer and provides numerous job opportunities for nursing graduates. The city's robust healthcare system ensures that nursing students have a variety of career paths to choose from after completing their degree.

Studying nursing in Philadelphia offers an excellent educational experience. Students receive a high-quality nursing education, gain diverse clinical experiences, and immerse themselves in a city with a rich heritage, preparing them for a fulfilling and successful nursing career.

Nursing Program Accreditation

The role of accreditation is critical in the field of nursing education for a multitude of reasons:

• Assurance of Educational Rigor: Accreditation is a testament to a program's adherence to high educational standards, including the caliber of the curriculum, faculty expertise, and the availability of adequate resources, all subject to ongoing assessments.
• Gateway to Licensure: Accreditation is often a prerequisite for licensure eligibility in the nursing field, making it an essential credential for those entering the profession.
• Employment Advantage: Employers tend to favor candidates from accredited nursing programs, recognizing the quality of their educational background, which aligns with established national standards and prepares them for a variety of nursing roles.
• Credit Recognition: Accreditation facilitates the transfer and acceptance of academic credits, which is crucial for students seeking to further their education or transfer their credits to other institutions.
• Professional Esteem: Holding a degree from an accredited program is indicative of comprehensive training and is held in high regard within the healthcare sector.
• Eligibility for Financial Support: Often, access to federal financial aid hinges on the accreditation status of the educational institution, which is a significant factor for many students financing their nursing education.

Students should ensure their nursing programs are accredited by respected entities like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), as this accreditation can greatly influence their educational journey and future career path in nursing.

PA NP Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for nurse practitioners is subject to state-specific regulations that delineate an NP's professional autonomy and scope of duties. Depending on the location, nurse practitioners may experience varying degrees of independence, from complete self-governance to required supervision by a physician.

In the state of Pennsylvania, nurse practitioners encounter what is termed "Reduced Practice." This means that the state's laws limit nurse practitioners in one or more aspects of practice. Under these regulations, NPs are required to maintain a structured collaborative agreement with another healthcare provider throughout their careers to deliver patient care.

For those embarking on NP education, understanding the regulatory climate of the prospective state of practice is essential, as the compatibility of program credentials with state laws is not uniform. It is vital to possess a thorough understanding of the precise scope of practice and role-specific duties in the state where one plans to practice to ensure the chosen educational program aligns with career goals and adheres to state regulatory standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the key factors when choosing a nursing school in Philadelphia?

Key factors include:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the nursing school is accredited by recognized nursing education accrediting bodies, ensuring the program meets high educational standards and prepares students for licensure and practice.
• Program Offerings: Research the nursing programs offered by the school, such as BSN, ADN, RN to BSN, MSN, and specialized nursing tracks. Choose a program that aligns with your career goals and interests.
• Clinical Opportunities: Look for nursing schools with strong affiliations with reputable healthcare facilities in Philadelphia. A school that offers diverse clinical experiences and hands-on training will better prepare you for nursing practice.
• Faculty Credentials: Consider the qualifications and expertise of the nursing faculty. Experienced and knowledgeable faculty enhance your learning experience by providing quality education and mentorship.
• Resources and Facilities: Evaluate the school's resources, including modern simulation labs, libraries, and other support services. Access to cutting-edge technology and resources can enhance your learning and educational experience.
• Student Support Services: Check if the nursing school offers academic advising, tutoring, or counseling services to support your success. A supportive environment can contribute to your academic and personal growth.
• Clinical Pass Rates: Inquire about the school's NCLEX pass rates (for BSN and ADN programs) or certification exam pass rates (for advanced nursing programs). Higher pass rates indicate that the school better prepares students for licensure or certification exams. Here is a free NCLEX study guide to help in passing the exam Best Free Online Next-Gen NCLEX-RN Study Guide.
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: A lower ratio allows for more personalized attention and engagement with professors, creating a better learning experience.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition and financial aid options different nursing schools offer. Look for scholarship opportunities and tuition assistance programs that can help offset your educational expenses.
• Alumni Success: Research the school's track record in producing successful nursing graduates. Alumni who excel in their nursing careers indicate the school's commitment to nursing education and career development.

How do nursing schools in Philadelphia support students' career development?

Philadelphia nursing schools provide various career development resources, including job placement assistance, resume-building workshops, and networking events with healthcare organizations. Many schools have strong connections with healthcare employers, which can help students' prospects for employment after graduation.