The Best Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs
Credit: S. Greg Panosian / E+ / Getty ImagesSome registered nurses (RN) choose to advance their careers by becoming nurse practitioners (NPs). These professionals work in advanced practice roles more independently than their RN colleagues.
To become an NP, nurses must complete a graduate degree. Nurse practitioner programs in Pennsylvania train students through advanced-level classes and supervised clinical hours.
It can be challenging to find the best master of science in nursing (MSN) degree that best fits your career ambitions and previous education and work experiences. This ranking offers guidance so you can find the best nurse practitioner program in Pennsylvania for your goals.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best Pennsylvania nurse practitioner programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
At a Glance: The Top Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Villanova University
- University of Scranton
- Thomas Jefferson University
- DeSales University
- La Salle University
How Do Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs Work?
Nurse practitioner programs in Pennsylvania vary by course requirements and offered concentrations. The curriculum includes advanced level nursing courses and supervised clinical hours. Schools may offer online, on-campus, or hybrid programs. Students usually graduate in 2-3 years, or even one year if they enroll in an accelerated degree.
Common specializations include:
- Family nurse practitioner
- Nurse midwifery
- Nurse anesthesia
- Acute care nurse practitioner
- Adult-gerontology nurse practitioner
Some universities facilitate RN-to-MSN programs for registered nurses without a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). These programs cover both undergraduate and graduate-level coursework that nurses need to pass their nurse practitioner exams.
Applying to a Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Program
Since nurse practitioner programs in Pennsylvania offer advanced nursing coursework, applicants need an RN licensure, previous work experience, and a BSN to qualify for entry. Some RN-to-BSN programs accept candidates with RN licensure but no bachelor’s degree. Although requirements vary for each program, prospective students can generally expect the following:
Admission Materials
BSN transcripts from an accredited college or university for traditional MSN programs; a current unencumbered RN license; a resume showing previous nursing experience; a personal statement; typically at least two recommendation letters; a background check. Some schools require completion of an undergraduate statistics course with at least a “C” grade.GPA Requirement
Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0Other Requirement
Most programs require at least one year of nursing experience; international students usually must submit language test scores from exams, such as the TOEFL or IELTS
Why Is Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Program Accreditation Important?
When looking for nurse practitioner programs in Pennsylvania, always look for a program’s accreditation status. Independent, objective representatives from accreditation agencies review academic programs to ensure coursework offers students a high-quality education. Every Pennsylvania nurse practitioner program on this list holds accreditation
Accreditation remains important for many other reasons. Graduates from non-accredited programs may have trouble applying for advanced practice credentials. Other schools may not take transfer credits from non-accredited programs, and employers look for potential hires with accredited degrees. Scholarship opportunities are typically open to students attending accredited universities. Finally, nurses with non-accredited degrees may not be able to transfer their licensure through reciprocity.
Learn More About the Best Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs and Schools
Villanova University
Villanova, PA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Villanova University's Fitzpatrick College of Nursing offers online and on-campus nurse practitioner programs, with specializations in primary care adult gerontology, primary care pediatrics, primary care family nursing, or psychiatric-mental health.
The core courses blend clinical ethics, nursing research, leadership strategies, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and physical assessment. Clinical placements emphasize family care with sites in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. The 12,000-square-foot Simulation and Learning Resource Center lets you build your nursing practice skills in simulation labs.
This degree prepares you for entry into the post-master's doctorate of nursing practice.
- Program: Master of science in nursing
- Campus: Villanova
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $995 per credit for Pennsylvania residents; $995 for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree from a NLNAC- or CCNE-accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA, personal goal statement, a resume, three letters of recommendation, RN license, two years of clinical experience
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 88.69% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $165,766 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
- In-State$56,730
- Out-of-state$56,730
- In-State$20,619
- Out-of-state$20,619
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate31%
- Students Enrolled11,032
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment95%
- AccreditationYes
University of Scranton
- Scranton, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Scranton's family nurse practitioner program, approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing, delivers a hybrid curriculum that emphasizes the school's Jesuit values.
The Panuska College of Professional Studies' family NP program comprises 36 credits. Courses cover advanced physiology and pathophysiology, clinical assessments, family health promotion, pharmacology, and research methodology to prepare learners for primary care settings.
Students take four practicums to complete 875 hours within three semesters.
- Program: Master of science in nursing
- Campus: Scranton
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $965 per credit
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor's in nursing degree from a CCNE-, ACEN- or CNEA-accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA, three references, a personal statement and interview, RN license in Pennsylvania
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 86.30% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $88,506 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
- In-State$46,684
- Out-of-state$46,684
- In-State$11,580
- Out-of-state$11,580
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled4,957
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
Thomas Jefferson University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Thomas Jefferson University's College of Nursing, with more than 130 years of nursing education, offers multiple nurse practitioner tracks with online and on-campus courses.
NP programs offer specializations in adult gerontology acute care, adult gerontology primary care, family-individual across the lifespan, neonatal, pediatric primary care, psychiatric and mental health, and women's health. All nurse practitioner tracks require that you take 12 courses or 36 core credits and 672 clinical experiential hours.
Required subjects include health policy, research for advanced practice, leadership and critical decision making, comprehensive assessments, and advanced pathophysiology and pharmacotherapeutics.
- Program: Master of science in nursing
- Campus: Philadelphia
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $1,355 per credit
- Admission Requirements: BSN degree from an accredited school, minimum 3.0 GPA, one year of work experience in your specialized area, completed prerequisites, official transcripts, personal statement, two letters of reference, resume, current RN license
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $102,706 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
- In-State$40,680
- Out-of-state$40,680
- In-State$21,420
- Out-of-state$21,420
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled8,286
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment79%
- AccreditationYes
DeSales University
- Center Valley, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
DeSales University, which has awarded master of science in nursing (MSN) degrees since 1984, offers three nurse practitioner degrees with concentrations in adult-gerontology acute care, family nursing care, and psychiatric and mental health.
The MSN core courses cover applied research, clinical prevention in population health, health informatics, health policy, and principles of epidemiology. The advanced curriculum explores advanced physical assessments, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.
To gain advanced practice, you must complete 675 clinical practicum hours.
- Program: Master of science in nursing
- Campus: Center Valley
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $140-$475 per credit for Pennsylvania residents for out-of-state students
- Admission Requirements: BSN degree from an ACEN or CCNE accredited school, minimum 3.0 GPA, RN license, 12-24 months of work experience, official transcripts
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: Yes
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 87.50% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $99,251 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
- In-State$38,500
- Out-of-state$38,500
- In-State$20,520
- Out-of-state$20,520
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled3,302
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
La Salle University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
La Salle University's online nurse practitioner students can graduate in 24-36 months with a concentration in family nursing or adult-gerontology primary care.
This private Catholic college offers convenient online courses. The program comprises 45 credits, including nine core courses in subjects, such as nursing research, advanced nursing roles, and nursing practice for population-based care. The 12 advanced core credits survey family system concepts, advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessments.
Learners train in their specialty area to complete 692 clinical hours.
- Program: Master of science in nursing
- Campus: Philadelphia
- Type: Private
- Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Tuition: $930 per credit
- Admission Requirements: BSN, minimum 3.2 GPA, current RN license, one year clinical experience, a personal statement, a resume, one letter of reference
- Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
- On-Campus Requirements: No
- School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2021/2022): 91.59% first-time pass rate
- Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $111,992 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
- In-State$31,350
- Out-of-state$31,350
- In-State$25,680
- Out-of-state$25,680
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled4,624
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment91%
- AccreditationYes
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Nurse Practitioner Programs
How long does it take to get an NP license in Pennsylvania?
Nurses must obtain an MSN before they qualify for NP licensure in Pennsylvania, which often takes two years to complete. However, this timeframe can vary based on several factors. Some nurses may enroll in accelerated programs and can graduate in one year, while others enroll part time and need three years of study. RN-to-MSN programs typically take longer as well.
Do nurse practitioners have full practice authority in Pennsylvania?
Nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania have reduced practice authority. Although NPs can independently perform many of their duties, they need a collaborative agreement with a physician to prescribe and dispense medication.
How much do nurse practitioners make in Pennsylvania?
NPs in Pennsylvania earned a mean salary of $117,260, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nurse practitioners in metropolitan areas tend to make more, with NPs in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia earning average wages of over $120,000, BLS statistics show.
Is becoming a nurse practitioner in Pennsylvania worth it?
For many NPs, becoming a nurse practitioner in Pennsylvania is worth it. The position leads to advancement in the nursing career, higher salaries, greater responsibilities, and the opportunity to practice with greater independence. NPs who prefer full practice authority, however, may prefer to earn licensure in another state.
