Are you considering a career as an Advanced Practice Nurse, Nurse Educator, or Nurse Leader/Administrator? Registered Nurses in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have many options when selecting a college or university offering nationally accredited Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. If you are researching MSN programs in Pennsylvania then the list of nationally accredited programs that we have compiled below should prove very useful in your search.


Alvernia University Department of Nursing

Alvernia University’s Department of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program in Nursing Education. Courses are offered in a hybrid format with some course work delivered online and other work delivered in a live classroom setting. The program can be completed in three years by taking two classes per semester. A five year course rotation schedule is also available.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program. They must also have completed undergraduate courses in both Statistics and Nursing Research with grades of “C” or better in both. Generally, students should have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Otherwise, students will be required to have completed the GRE or MAT in the last five years. Candidates should be licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN) and have a minimum of one year of recent relevant practice as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

400 Saint Bernardine Street
Reading, PA 19607
(610) 796-8460

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Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Department of Nursing

The Department of Nursing at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: an RN to MSN pathway and a traditional BSN to MSN pathway.

MSN programs are offered in several specializations and roles including the following:

  • Adult Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Community Health (Concentrations available in Administration as well as School Health)
  • Gerontology Primary Care
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nurse Anesthesia

The programs are offered on both a full-time or part-time basis. Courses are offered in the late afternoon and evenings. All core courses can be completed online.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN program must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally accredited program with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. They must hold a license as a professional Registered Nurse in the state of Pennsylvania with a minimum of one year of post baccalaureate direct care clinical practice within the last two years in their chosen clinical specialty area. Candidates must have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics, Nursing Research, and Health/Physical Assessment.

Those entering the Nurse Anesthesia program must have a minimum of one year of recent ICU, CCU, PICU, or NICU critical care experience. They must hold a current ACLS and PALS certification.

Applicants to an RN to MSN program have to meet all of the same requirements as those for the BSN to MSN program except they are not required to hold a Bachelor’s degree (a nursing diploma and/or Associate’s degree in nursing is sufficient) and they are not required to have taken the required undergraduate Statistics, Nursing Research, and Health Assessment courses. Students are evaluated on a case-by-case bases and placed according to the university’s articulation model.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

400 East Second Street
McCormick Building, Room 3109
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
(570) 389-4615

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Carlow University School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at Carlow University offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in two roles and specialty areas:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Education and Leadership

A dual degree option is also available allowing students to earn both MSN and MBA degrees. All programs provide a basis for doctoral studies in nursing.

The Family Nurse Practitioner program requires 49 credit hours for completion. Classes are offered in a hybrid format (combination of classroom and online courses). Students can complete the program in 2 years if enrolled full-time or 4 years if enrolled part-time.

The Education and Leadership program prepares nurses for leadership roles in administration, education, or clinical practice. The 30 credit hour program can be completed in 12 months with one day of class per week or 20-24 months with evening classes. It can also be completed totally online.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. They must hold a current license as an RN (must be licensed as an RN in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for clinical coursework completed in the state).

Those entering the Family Nurse Practitioner program must also have completed a graduate course in Statistics within the last 6 years. They must also have one or more years of recent experience in clinical bedside nursing.

Those entering the Education and Leadership MSN program are required to have completed an undergraduate Statistics course sometime in the last 6 years.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3333 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(412) 578-6108

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Cedar Crest CollegeNursing Department

Cedar Crest College’s Nursing Department offers two Master of Science in Nursing programs to prepare nurses for advanced practice. Students can choose from the following specialization areas:

  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Administrator

The programs can be completed in two, three, or four years and require only one evening per week of classroom time.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

100 College Drive
Allentown, PA 18104
(800) 360-1222

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Chatham University Nursing Department

The Nursing Department of Chatham University offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in several specialty areas. Students can choose from three specializations:

  • Nursing Leadership
  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Informatics

Each of the above programs require a total of 36 credit hours: 21 credits of MSN core courses and 15 credits in the chosen specialty area. All specializations require 250 clinical hours which can be applied towards the 500 hours of clinical work required for a DNP degree should the student go on to pursue their doctorate. The programs are completed in four semesters of full-time work (9 credit hours per semester).

Applicants to Chatham MSN programs must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. They must hold a valid license as a Registered Nurse.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1 Woodland Road
Coolidge 119
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
(412) 365-2746

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Desales UniversityDepartment of Nursing and Health

Desales University’s Department of Nursing and Health offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: an accelerated RN to MSN pathway and a traditional BSN to MSN pathway.

Licensed RNs with a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing can earn both a BSN and MSN degree by entering the RN to MSN pathway. Up to 5 graduate nursing courses can be applied towards the BSN degree shortening the time required to earn both an undergraduate and graduate nursing degree.

MSN programs are offered in the following specializations and roles:

  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Family Nurse Practitioner

A dual MSN/MBA Nurse Executive program is also available.

Applicants to BSN to MSN programs must hold a BSN degree from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. They must have completed an undergraduate course in Statistics in the past seven years with a minimum grade of “C”. All candidates except those entering the dual MSN/MBA Nurse Executive program must have completed an undergraduate Health/Physical Assessment course. Students must be licensed as an RN in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with a minimum of one year of experience practicing as an RN in the last five years.

Applicants to the RN to MSN program must have an Associate’s degree in nursing or a nursing diploma from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited program. RNs must confirm their nursing knowledge by one of the following methods:

  • Validating graduation from their diploma or Associate’s nursing program within the past three years OR
  • Validating graduation from their diploma or Associate’s nursing program within the past ten years and have at least 1000 hours of practice as an RN within the past three years OR
  • Validating recent successful completion of a refresher course approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing

Applicants to the RN to MSN program must hold a current license as an RN in the U.S. or one of its territories and be eligible for licensure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. They must hold their Pennsylvania license as an RN prior to beginning project practicum experiences.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

2755 Station Avenue
Gambet Hall 246
Center Valley, PA 18034
(610) 282-1100

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Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions

Multiple pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are offered at Drexel University through its College of Nursing and Health Professions. Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree can earn their MSN through a traditional BSN to MSN program. RNs with a nursing diploma and/or Associate’s degree as well as a Bachelors degree in a non-nursing field can earn their MSN through Drexel’s RN to MSN Bridge program.

The RN to MSN Bridge program allows RNs without a BSN to be provisionally accepted to an MSN program pending successful completion of three undergraduate bridge programs (or a qualifying portfolio).

Drexel offers MSN programs in a wide variety of specializations and roles including the following:

  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Clinical Trials Research
  • Innovation and Intra/Entrepreneurship in Advanced Nursing Practice
  • Nursing Education and Faculty Role
  • Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs must hold a BSN from a regionally accredited program with either a GPA of 3.0 or higher on all undergraduate course work or a 3.25 or higher GPA on the last 60 hours of BSN course work. Some programs require additional recent relevant work experience.

Applicants via the RN to MSN Bridge pathway must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. They must meet all other non-degree requirements of the MSN program to which they are applying.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

245 North 15th Street
Bellet Building, 2nd Floor, MS 501
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 762-3845

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Duquesne University School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at Duquesne University offers programs leading to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. Those programs are offered in three roles and specialty areas:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Forensic Nursing
  • Nursing Education

The program is an online program, though some campus visits are required. All new MSN students must attend a 2-day an orientation on campus. Certain courses may also require as much as 40 hours of course work on campus.

Applicants to the program just hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. They must hold a current unencumbered license as an RN, and have a minimum of 1 year full-time work experience as an RN prior to enrolling in clinical or specialty courses.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

600 Forbes Avenue
Fifth Floor Fisher Hall
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
(412) 396-6550

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Gannon University Villa Maria School of Nursing

Gannon University through its Villa Maria School of Nursing offers multiple pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. They offer both a traditional BSN to MSN pathway and an RN to MSN pathway.

MSN programs are offered in the following specializations and roles:

  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nursing Administration

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited program. They must have completed undergraduate courses in both Statistics and Nursing Research with a grade of “B” or better in both. Candidates must hold a license as a Registered Nurse. Competitive GRE scores are required.

There are additional requirements for acceptance into the Nurse Anesthesia program. At least two years of clinical experience is required in which critical judgments are maid (critical care, emergency room, etc.). They must also have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher for all undergraduate math and science courses as well as for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work.

Applicants to the RN to MSN program must have an Associate’s degree in nursing or nursing diploma from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited program. They will complete undergraduate nursing requirements prior to selecting a specialization in the graduate nursing program.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

109 University Square
Erie, PA 16541
(814) 871-5547

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Gwynedd-Mercy CollegeFrances M. Maguire School of Nursing and Health Professions

The Frances M. Maguire School of Nursing and Health Professions at Gwynedd-Mercy College offers both a BSN to MSN pathway and RN to MSN pathway to a Master of Science in Nursing degree.

Students enrolled in Gwynedd-Mercy’s MSN programs can choose from the following specializations:

  • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Educator
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

The RN to MSN program is an accelerated program for those RNs without a Bachelor’s in nursing who are seeking an MSN degree. Students in the program are allowed to take 2 graduate programs and apply 6 credit hours to both their BSN and MSN degree.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing. RNs with a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field can gain admission by taking and passing the ACEN/NLN Baccalaureate Achievement Exam. Students are required to have completed undergraduate courses in both Statistics and Health/Physical Assessment. Candidates must hold a license as an RN. The GRE or MAT is required, but can be waived for those applicants with a 3.6 or higher GPA on their undergraduate nursing courses. Those entering the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program are required to have current pediatric experience.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

1325 Sumneytown Pike
Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437
(215) 646-7300

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Holy Family University School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions

Holy Family University’s School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: a traditional BSN to MSN pathway and an RN to MSN pathway.

Nurses entering the Holy Family MSN program can choose from three areas in which to specialize:

  • Community Health Nursing
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education

Applicants entering the program via the RN to MSN pathway must have a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited program as well as a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. They must meet BSN competencies in nursing leadership, nursing research, and community health prior to registering for certain courses.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a BSN from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited nursing program at a regionally accredited institution.

All applicants (regardless of pathway) must have an undergraduate 3.0 or higher GPA on a 4.0 scale unless they are admitted on probation. They should have completed an undergraduate statistics course with a grade of “C” or better prior to enrolling in graduate research courses. Candidates should be licensed as a registered nurse within the U.S.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

9801 Frankford Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19114
(267) 341-3374

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Immaculata University Division of Nursing

The Division of Nursing at Immaculata University offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree in two specialization areas:

  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education

Two pathways to entry are offered: a BSN to MSN and an RN to MSN pathway.

Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited school. RNs with an ACEN/NLNAC nursing diploma or an Associate’s degree in nursing who also have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing can be admitted, but must meet BSN equivalent competencies. This can be done by demonstrating such competencies through a professional portfolio or by successfully completing an undergraduate bridge course in Nursing Leadership, Nursing Research, or Community Health.

Applicants must also have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. For those with a lower GPA, they can be admitted if they submit acceptable scores on the MAT or GRE. Candidates must be licensed as an RN in the US.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1145 King Road
PO Box 691
Immaculata, PA 19345
(610) 647-4400 Ext 3475

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Indiana University of Pennsylvania Department of Nursing and Allied Health Professions

A Master of Science in Nursing degree can be pursued through Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Nursing and Allied Health Professions. The university offers the MSN program to BSN prepared nurses as well as diploma or Associate’s prepared nurses who hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.

The MSN degree is offered in two specialty areas:

  • Nursing Education
  • Nursing Administration

The program requires 36 credit hours: 24 credits in core nursing courses and 12 credit hours in the specialization.

Applicants should hold either a) a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited nursing program or b) a diploma or Associate’s in nursing from an accredited program as well as a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. For those who received they Bachelor’s within the last five years, they are required to have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Those who received their Bachelor’s more than five years ago, a minimum GPA of 2.6 or higher is required. Students are required to have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics and Nursing Research. Candidates should hold a current license as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1010 Oakland Avenue
Johnson Hall, Room 210
Indiana, PA 15705
(724) 357-7647

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La Roche CollegeNursing Department

La Roche College’s Nursing Department offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree in two areas of specialization including:

  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education

Both specializations are offered in an online format. The Nursing Administration MSN requires 36 credits. The Nursing Education MSN program requires 34 credits.

Applicants to the programs should have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program (or the equivalent for international applicants) with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Candidates should hold a current license as an RN in the U.S. or one of its territories with at least one year of practice experience as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

9000 Babcock Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
(412) 367-9300

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La Salle University School of Nursing and Health Sciences

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences at La Salle University offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. They offer a traditional BSN to MSN pathway as well as an accelerated RN to MSN Bridge pathway.

La Salle’s RN to MSN pathway is designed for nurses that hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing. The program accelerates the student’s completion of the BSN and MSN programs by allowing them to take selected graduate level courses and applying those to both degrees.

Those pursuing an MSN at La Salle are offered a variety of specializations from which to choose including:

  • Adult Health and Illness Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Anesthetist
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Public Health Nursing
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Service Administration (with prior MBA)

They also offer two dual degree programs. They offer a Public Health Nursing MSN/Master of Public Health dual program as well as a Nursing Administration MSN/MBA dual degree program.

Applicants entering an MSN program via the RN to MSN Bridge program must hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing with a current RN license in Pennsylvania.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program with a 3.2 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale. Those with GPAs lower than 3.2 can be admitted with acceptable scores on the MAT, GRE, or GMAT. Candidates should have completed undergraduate courses both in Statistics and Nursing Research. They must hold a current license as an RN in Pennsylvania with at least one year of work experience as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1900 West Olney Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19141
(215) 951-1322

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Millersville UniversityDepartment of Nursing

The Master of Science in Nursing degree program offered by Millersville University’s Department of Nursing allows students to choose from two specializations:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator

The Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program is designed for part-time students. It requires 43 credits and 672 clinical hours for completion. The Nurse Educator MSN program requires 35 hours and 112 clinical hours.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally (ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE) accredited program with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Those with lower undergraduate GPA may still be admitted on a probationary basis. Students should have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics, Nursing Research, and Physical/Health Assessment. Candidates must hold licensure as a Registered Nurse in Pennsylvania or the state where they plan to perform their clinical practice. They must also have at least one year of clinical experience as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

PO Box 1002
Caputo Hall, Room 127
Millersville, PA 17551
(717) 872-3410

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Misericordia University Department of Nursing

The Department of Nursing at Misericordia University offers two pathways to earning a Master of Science in Nursing degree: a BSN to MSN pathway and an RN to MSN pathway. Students at Misericordia earn an MSN with specialization as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Applicants entering the program via the RN to MSN pathway must hold a nursing diploma or Associations Degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher on all prior college-level courses. They must hold a current RN license.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics as well as Nursing Research. They must hold a current license as a Registered Nurse.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

301 Lake Street
Dallas, PA 18612
(570) 674-6443

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Moravian College St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing

The St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing at Moravian College offers two pathways for Registered Nurses to complete their Master of Science in Nursing degree. They offer a typical BSN to MSN pathway for those who already hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They also offer an RN to MSN Bridge pathway for those RNs who hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.

There are three areas of specialization offered by the MSN program at Moravian College including:

  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nurse Administrator
  • Nurse Educator

Applicants entering the MSN program via the RN to MSN Bridge program must be licensed RNs with a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. They must demonstrate Baccalaureate Nursing Competency Students will complete any undergraduate nursing courses required to meet said competency as determined by program faculty (these bridge courses must be completed with a 3.0 or higher GPA).

Applicants to the MSN program must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program with at a 3.0 or higher GPA on a 4.0 scale. GRE or MAT scores are required (this requirement is waived for those whose GPA is higher than 3.33). Students must also have completed an undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of “C” or higher. Candidates must hold an active RN license in Pennsylvania (or be eligible for licensure by endorsement).

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

1200 Main Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
(610) 861-1607

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Neumann CollegeDepartment of Nursing

Neumann College’s Department of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.

Applicants to the program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a program that is both regionally and nationally accredited. An undergraduate or graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required (those with lower GPAs can be considered for conditional acceptance). Candidates just hold a current license as a Registered Nurse in the state(s) where their practicum is to be performed. They must also have one year of recent clinical practice as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

One Neumann Drive
Aston, PA 19014
(610) 459-0905

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Robert Morris University School of Nursing and Health Sciences

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Robert Morris University offers multiple pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a specialization in Nursing Education. They offer both a BSN to MSN pathway as well as an RN to MSN pathway.

The RN to MSN program is offered completely online. The program can be completed in 3 years of part-time study by taking two courses each semester.

Applicants entering the MSN program via the RN to MSN pathway must hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing from an accredited school of nursing with a 3.25 GPA (those with lower GPAs can present the professional experiences for review to faculty to support consideration). Candidates must hold a current unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse.

Applicants to the MSN program via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale (those with lower GPAs can present additional materials for admission consideration). They must hold a current license as a Registered Nurse with at least one year of practice experience as a Registered Nurse preferred.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

6001 University Boulevard
229 John Jay
Moon Township, PA 15108
(412) 397-6801

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Temple University Department of Nursing

Temple University’s Department of Nursing is currently no longer accepting applications to their MSN program. They have replaced their MSN program with a post-BSN to DNP program.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3307 North Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140
(215) 707-8327

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The Pennsylvania State UniversitySchool of Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing degree is offered by The Pennsylvania State University’s School of Nursing. The MSN is offered in a variety of specializations/roles:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Administrator

All Nurse Practitioner courses are delivered primarily using videoconference modalities with some courses delivered using an asynchronous online delivery format. Courses for the Nurse Educator and Nurse Administrator MSNs are delivered totally online.

Applicants to the MSN program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program with a GPA of 3.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale. They must be licensed as an RN in Pennsylvania.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (Formerly NLNAC)

Program Contact Information

201 Health & Human Development East
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 863-0245

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Thomas Jefferson University Jefferson School of Nursing

The Jefferson School of Nursing at Thomas Jefferson University offers several pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing Degree. They offer the following pathways:

  • BSN to MSN pathway
  • RN to MSN Bridge pathway
  • Direct Entry/Accelerated pathway

The RN to MSN Bridge pathway allows RNs with only a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing to earn both BSN and MSN degrees within 27 months of full-time study or longer if they choose part-time study.

The Direct Entry/Accelerated MSN pathway allows candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field who are seeking to become a nurse to not only prepare for certification as a Registered Nurse, but also to earn both BSN and MSN degrees. Students can learn their BSN in 27 months of full-time study and complete their MSN in 15 additional months.

There are many roles/specializations to choose from:

  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Community Systems Administration
  • Community Systems Administration/Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Community Systems Administration/Nursing Informatics
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Anesthesia/li>
  • Nursing Informatics
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

They also offer a dual degree program leading to both an MSN and Master of Public Health degree.

Applicants entering via the Direct Entry/Accelerated MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher (those with GPAs lower than 3.2 are required to submit GRE or MAT scores). They must complete 7 prerequisite courses before being fully admitted to the program (though they can apply prior to completing them).

Applicants entering via the RN to MSN Bridge program must hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing. If a Bachelor’s degree is also held in a non-nursing field then those with a GPA lower than 3.2 must present competitive scores on the GRE or MAT within the last two years. A set of bridge courses must also be completed prior to full admission to the program (though students can apply prior to completing the courses). Candidates must hold an RN license.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited school with a GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 They must have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics, Nursing Research, and Health/Physical Assessment. Candidates must hold an RN license and be certified in CPR.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

130 South 9th Street
Suite 100
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 503-8890

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University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania offers several pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree. They offer a typical BSN to MSN pathway, an RN to MSN Bridge Pathway, and an Accelerated Direct Entry MSN pathway.

The University of Pennsylvania offers MSN programs with for numerous specializations/roles including the following:

  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Acute/Chronic Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Critical Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Nurse Midwifery
  • Health Leadership
  • Nursing and Healthcare Administration

All of the above programs can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis except for The Nurse Anesthesia and Nurse Midwifery programs which require full-time enrollment.

Applicants to the Accelerated Direct Entry BSN/MSN program must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.

Applicants to the RN to BSN/MSN program are required to hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing.

Applicants entering the MSN program via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited program with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Those with lower GPAs can still be admitted but are required to submit acceptable scores on the GRE. Candidates must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course. They must hold an active license as a Registered Nurse in Pennsylvania.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

420 Guardian Drive
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 898-8283

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University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing

University of Pittsburgh’s School of Nursing offers three MSN pathways: a BSN to MSN pathway, an RN to MSN pathway, and an Accelerated Direct Entry BSN/MSN pathway.

The Master of Science in Nursing degree is offered in several specialty areas and roles including:

  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Nursing Administration
  • Clinical Nurse Leader
  • Nursing Informatics

Applicants entering via the Accelerated Direct Entry BSN/MSN must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. 36 credit hours of prerequisite course must be completed. GRE scores are required.

Applicants entering the MSN program via the RN to MSN pathway (their Early Admission MSN program) are required to hold an Associate’s degree in nursing or nursing diploma from a CCNE or ACEN/NLNAC accredited program with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in all previous academic work. They must hold a valid license as a Registered Nurse and must obtain a Pennsylvania RN license if they do not already possess one. After completing 84 credit hours, students will complete the remaining 36 credit hours of the undergraduate program of which 24 bridge credits will be at the graduate level and apply towards their MSN.

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a CCNE or ACEN/NLNAC accredited program with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. If the GPA is lower than 3.5, candidates will be required to take the GRE. Students must have completed an undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of “C” or higher. Applicants must hold a current license as an RN in the U.S. or one of its territories.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

3500 Victoria Street, Room 350
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
(412) 624-7838

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University of Scranton Department of Nursing

Two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are offered by the Department of Nursing at the University of Scranton. The university offers both a typical BSN to MSN pathway and an accelerated RN to MSN Bridge pathway.

The RN to MSN pathway allows RNs with a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing to accelerate through the BSN and MSN programs by getting credit for previous academic work as well taking 12 graduate credits that will also satisfy 12 undergraduate credit requirements.

Three options are available for specializations/roles including the following:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Adult Health Nursing

Applicants entering the MSN program via the RN to MSN pathway should be RNs with a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing.

Applicants entering a BSN to MSN program should possess a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from a nationally (ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE) accredited program with an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Those with lower scores can still be admitted based on grades on post-baccalaureate courses, graduate school entrance examinations, or work experiences. They should have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics as well as Health/Physical Assessment. Candidates should be licensed as an RN in the state of Pennsylvania with at least one year direct clinical nursing practice.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

800 Linden Street
McGurrin Hall, Room 315
Scranton, PA 18510
(570) 941-7673

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Villanova University College of Nursing

Villanova University’s College of Nursing offers Master of Science in Nursing programs in the following specializations/roles:

  • Primary Care Adult Nurse Practitioner
  • Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  • Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Nurse Educator
  • Health Care Administration

Students who are RNs with only a nursing diploma or Associate’s degree in nursing can get their MSN through the RN to BSN to MSN pathway. They can get up to 42 hours of credit for courses previously taken as well as clinical experience/decision making (determined by assessment). All RNs are required to take three specific bridge courses. When there are just 18 credits left to completion of the BSN, students can apply to the MSN program. Once the students complete their undergraduate Statistics course they are encouraged to take the graduate Nursing Research course.

Applicants entering an MSN program via the RN to MSN pathway are required to hold a nursing diploma or Associate’s level degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC accredited nursing program.

Applicants entering an MSN program via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program with a 3.0 or higher GPA. They are required to have completed an undergraduate Statistics course. Candidates must be licensed as a Registered Nurse in the U.S. with a minimum of one year of recent clinical practice experience (or can be fulfilled while taking core courses). Those entering a Nurse Practitioner must have two years of recent clinical practice. Those entering the Nurse Anesthesia program are required to have a minimum of one year of critical care experience in an ICU setting. Acceptable scores on the GRE or MAT is required.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

800 East Lancaster Avenue
108 Driscoll Hall
Villanova, PA 19085
(610) 519-4909

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Waynesburg University Department of Nursing

The Department of Nursing at Waynesburg University offers several Master of Science in Nursing programs. Students can choose from the following specialty areas:

  • Nursing Informatics
  • Nursing Administration
  • Nursing Education

Candidates should hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must also have completed an undergraduate Statistics courses (or can complete one as part of the program).

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

51 West College Street
Waynesburg, PA 15370
(724) 852-3356

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West Chester University of Pennsylvania Department of Nursing

West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s Department of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing program which prepares its graduates as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Public Health Nursing. The program requires 39 credit hours for completion. It consists of 18 credit hours of core community health nursing, 6 credit hours of nursing research courses, and 12 hours of functional specialization courses in either administration, education, or integrative health.

Applicants should hold a BSN from a nationally accredited program with at least a 2.8 GPA on a 4.0 scale. RNs with a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis (i.e. they allow students to enter via an RN to MSN pathway). Students should have completed undergraduate courses in both Statistics and Physical Assessment. They should be a licensed RN and will be required to hold a Pennsylvania RN license prior to their clinical practicum. Candidates should have a minimum of two years of recent full-time experience working as a nurse providing clinical care.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

222 Sturzebecker Health Science Center
South New Street
West Chester, PA 19383
(610) 436-2693

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Widener University School of Nursing

Two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are available through Widener University’s School of Nursing: a traditional BSN to MSN pathway and an RN to MSN pathway.

Those entering the RN to MSN bridge program must complete 12 credit hours of bridge programs before they can begin work within the MSN program. It should be noted that a BSN degree is not awarded as part of the RN to MSN program.

MSN programs are offered for the following specializations/roles:

  • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Adult-Gerontology Emergency/Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Family Nurse Practitioner

The BSN to MSN programs for Clinical Nurse Specialists can be completed in 18 to 24 month of full-time or part-time study, respectively. 500 hours of clinical practicum are required as part of the 39-41 credit hour programs. They Nurse Practitioner program requires 46 credits and can be completed in 20 or 24 months of full-time or part-time study, respectively. It requires 672 hours of clinical practice.

Candidates for the RN to MSN bridge program should be Pennsylvania licensed RNs with a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field with a 3.0 GPA. They should have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics and Nursing Research with a grade of “C” or better. Applicants must have one year of recent nursing practice.

Candidates for the BSN to MSN program should hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a nationally accredited nursing program with at least a 3.0 GPA. They must have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics and Nursing Research with a grade of “C” or better. Applicants must hold a valid Pennsylvania license as an RN.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

One University Place
Chester, PA 19013
(610) 499-4214

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Wilkes University School of Nursing

Wilkes University School of Nursing, The Nesbitt College of Pharmacy and Nursing
to RNs who currently hold a BSN degree. Students who can also earn an MSN degree by

The School of Nursing at Wilkes University offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree in the following specializations/roles:

  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Executive
  • Nursing Education

Students can enter the programs above through two pathways: a traditional BSN to MSN pathway and an Accelerated Direct Entry pathway.

The BSN to MSN pathway is designed for BSN prepared Registered Nurses. The Direct Entry pathway is designed for students who currently hold a non-nursing Bachelor’s degree and would like to not only become a Registered Nurse, but also earn a Master’s in nursing. They accomplish this by entering the Accelerated Baccalaureate Degree program where they can earn a BSN and prepare to take the NCLEX-RN exam in just three full-time semesters (48 credit hours). Once they have earned their BSN and become licensed as an RN, the students will qualify to enter the MSN program.

Applicants entering via the Accelerated Direct Entry program should hold a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field of study with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. They are also required to complete the Kaplan Admissions Exam with a score of 60th percentile or higher in each of the reading, writing, and mathematics categories.

Applicants to the BSN to MSN programs should hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an approved program. Their undergraduate course work should include a Statistics course and Nursing Research course. Their undergraduate GPA should be at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates should be licensed as a Registered Nurse with one year of clinical experience prior to beginning their graduate clinical practicum.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

109 South Franklin Street
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766
(570) 408-4074

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York College of Pennsylvania The Stabler Department of Nursing

The Stabler Department of Nursing at York College of Pennsylvania offers two pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degrees. They offer a BSN to MSN pathway to BSN prepared nurses. Nurses who do not yet have a BSN can enter the MSN program via the RN to MSN pathway and earn both their BSN and MSN degrees.

Graduates of the programs at York College of Pennsylvania are prepared as Advanced Practice Nurses in one of several specialty areas including:

  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Nurse Anesthesia
  • Nurse Educator

Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an ACEN/NLNAC or CCNE accredited program at a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 or higher GPA on a 4.0 scale. Those with lower GPAs will be considered on an individual basis. Students should have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics, Nursing Research, and Physical Assessment. Applicants entering via the RN to MSN pathway should contact the MS-RN Completion Coordinator for requirements. Candidates should hold a current RN license in Pennsylvania with one or more years of relevant practice experience.

Additional requirements exist for those entering the Nurse Anesthesia program. They are required to submit GRE scores on the verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing sections. They must have at least one year of experience as an RN in a critical care area such as ICU. And they must hold current BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications.

Program Accreditations

Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Contact Information

441 Country Club Road
York, PA 17403
(717) 815-6444

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