What nursing schools are recommended in Pennsylvania?

I'm beginning my college search and am interested in nursing programs in Pennsylvania. Can someone share which schools are well-regarded and why?

There are several strong nursing programs in Pennsylvania, so you're starting your search in a great place!

1. University of Pennsylvania: Known for its School of Nursing, which is consistently ranked among the top in the country. The program's reputation is bolstered by its rigorous coursework, cutting-edge research opportunities, and network of esteemed faculty. They offer a BSN program, as well as accelerated and dual-degree options.

2. University of Pittsburgh: At Pitt, they offer both BSN and accelerated second-degree BSN programs. Students often mention the school's strong clinical partnerships with local hospitals, which provide great opportunities for hands-on clinical experience.

3. Penn State University: The College of Nursing at Penn State offers a traditional four-year BSN. The program is located on a large campus with a nationally recognized hospital, giving students ample opportunities to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

4. Thomas Jefferson University: Jefferson's nursing program is well-known for its diverse clinical placements and its direct entry BSN program where incoming freshman are already admitted to the nursing program, instead of applying during sophomore year like at some schools.

5. Villanova University: Villanova’s M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing has a highly competitive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Many students appreciate the low student-to-faculty ratio and the first-hand hospital experience that begins during sophomore year.

These are just a few examples. The "best" program for you will depend on various factors such as size, location, and academic focus. Consider what you're looking for in a program, look at the curriculum for each one, learn about the clinical experiences and faculty, see if you can connect with current students or alumni, and trust your gut feeling about whether or not you think you'd be a good fit.