Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Explore the most affordable nursing degrees in Pennsylvania. Compare tuition rates, prerequisites, and concentrations.
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Updated January 11, 2023

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Nurses play an important and sometimes thankless role in the health of every nation.

Recently, due to the increase in demand for nurses, there have been initiatives to raise the level of college education of American nurses. This includes the Institute of Medicine's goal to reach an 80 per cent level of registered nurses (RNs) who hold a bachelor's degree in nursing.

What kind of Nursing Degree in Pennsylvania should you get?

In short, you should earn an affordable nursing degree! Given the short-term importance of the Institute of Medicine's goal in particular, we're kicking off a series on the most affordable bachelor's of nursing programs by state (and have ranking the Most Affordable Online Schools as well), to help students seeking suitable programs in a particular state. Schools are ranked in each state by increasing value of the sum of the published in-state tuition and mandatory fees. We're starting with Pennsylvania!

How much money can you make with a Nursing Degree in Pennsylvania?

Not surprisingly, nursing is one of the fastest growing fields for job growth in the United States into the near future. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates a 16 percent job increase between 2014 and 2024 for registered nurses alone.

According to BLS data, the state of Pennsylvania is #5 in the number of employed Registered Nurses, with 136,090 compared to #1 California's 255,010 such nurses. However, Pennsylvania employs more nurses per thousand jobs than the top four states for employed RNs (CA, TX, NY, FL). Even more, Registered Nurses in Pennsylvania make on average $34.44/hour, which is 6 percent higher than the national average.

What are the Most Affordable Nursing degrees in Pennsylvania?

A query of NCES CollegeNavigator shows that Pennsylvania has 57 colleges/ universities listed as offering a bachelor's degree in nursing. In actual fact, some programs may be temporarily or permanently closed. Others had their host institution merged with another college. Finally, if a nursing program was only available at a branch campus significantly far away from the main campus, it was also excluded. Our data comes from online sites, the National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS database, U.S. News and World Report, and PayScale. So look no further. Here are the Most Affordable Nursing Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania!

Most Affordable Nursing Degrees in Pennsylvania

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

  • Bloomsburg, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania offers 44 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in nursing that prioritizes flexibility. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in many different industries. Bachelor's graduates can also continue their education in master's programs.

The curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in nursing. Undergraduates also complete general education courses, gaining widely applicable skills such as writing, communication, and critical thinking. Learners can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. For example, career counselors connect enrollees with job fairs and internship opportunities.

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Location: Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 84%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,290

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$19,290
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
8,574
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

  • West Chester, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in nursing at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, a public institution, stands out for its quality. Degree-seekers can choose from in-person classes offered on the West Chester campus and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from strong student support services and rigorous academics.

Learners earn a bachelor's after completing nursing and general education courses. The general education curriculum introduces major academic subjects, including humanities, math, and natural sciences. Degree candidates take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of nursing, preparing them for the job market.

West Chester University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 75%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 50

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,290

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,324

Graduation Rate: 77%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $39,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$19,290
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
17,669
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania

  • Edinboro, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania offers 42 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in nursing that prioritizes flexibility. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in many different industries. Bachelor's degree-holders can also continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.

The curriculum introduces core nursing topics and methods. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students can explore other academic and professional interests by declaring a minor or a second major.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from the school's strong student services support. For example, financial aid counselors work with learners to determine sources of educational funding such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

Edinboro University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Location: Edinboro, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 83%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,574

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
4,646
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

  • Slippery Rock, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers 46 bachelor's degrees, including an RN-to-BSN program that prioritizes flexibility. The degree prepares students for careers in diverse fields. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for additional degrees, such as a master's or doctorate.

The curriculum trains learners in foundational nursing knowledge and practices. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Enrollees can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. For example, career counselors review job opportunities and connect degree candidates with employment opportunities.

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Location: Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 71%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,574

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
8,778
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

California University of Pennsylvania

  • California, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, California University of Pennsylvania offers a top-ranked RN-to-BSN program. Degree-seekers enroll in online classes and take in-person courses on the California campus. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

The program incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. Learners take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. The major curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in diverse industries.

California University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 97%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 50

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,574

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,159

Graduation Rate: 50%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $35,100

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
6,842
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus

  • Indiana, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus offers a bachelor's in nursing as one of its 63 bachelor's programs. The degree may lead to career opportunities in many different industries. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for master's and doctoral programs.

The curriculum covers foundational and advanced nursing topics. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Learners can gain interdisciplinary training by choosing a minor or second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates thrive in their bachelor's program. For example, career counselors meet with learners to conduct career assessments and mock interviews.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus at a Glance:

Location: Indiana, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 93%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,570

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,890

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,570
Out-of-state
$13,890
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
10,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Clarion University of Pennsylvania

  • Clarion, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in nursing at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, a public institution, prepares graduates for the workforce. The school offers on-campus and online courses. Undergraduates benefit from flexible program options, rigorous academics, and the school's support services.

The curriculum includes nursing and general education courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Upper-division nursing classes explore theoretical and practical issues in the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles or further education.

Clarion University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 95%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 53

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,574

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $6,065

Graduation Rate: 52%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $33,200

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$10,026
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
4,700
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Lincoln University

  • Lincoln University, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The pre-licensure bachelor of science in nursing at Lincoln University, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. From its campus in Lincoln University, the school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and career advising.

The program includes general education and major courses that emphasize key skills and knowledge. Students complete general education requirements by taking classes in the social sciences, STEM, and humanities. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced nursing courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

Lincoln University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 83%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 41

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,026

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,396

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,715

Graduation Rate: 47%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $26,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,026
Out-of-state
$13,396
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,106
Out-of-state
$17,636
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
2,241
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango

  • Sharon, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The RN-to-BSN program at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango is one of the school's seven bachelor's programs. This nursing program incorporates knowledge and skills that prepare students for many careers. Bachelor's degree-holders can also apply to master's programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The curriculum introduces foundational and advanced principles in nursing. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Students can explore other interests by declaring a complementary minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates receive strong support from the school's student services. For example, financial aid counselors work with enrollees to determine sources of educational funding such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango at a Glance:

Location: Sharon, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 76%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,474

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,898

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,474
Out-of-state
$20,898
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,438
Out-of-state
$26,024
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees By State

University of Pittsburgh-Bradford

  • Bradford, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The RN-to-BSN program at University of Pittsburgh-Bradford ranks high among programs of its type. The program prepares students for a variety of career paths in many different industries. A bachelor's degree can also lead to higher education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.

The curriculum introduces key nursing topics and principles. Undergraduates also complete general education courses, gaining widely applicable skills such as writing, communication, and critical thinking. Degree-seekers can explore other academic and professional interests by declaring a minor or a second major.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from the school's strong student services support. For example, career counselors recommend job training workshops and offer career assessments.

University of Pittsburgh-Bradford at a Glance:

Location: Bradford, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 73%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $13,198

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,666

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,198
Out-of-state
$24,666
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
1,326
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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