Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona Nursing Programs

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona reports offering nursing education programs, based on federal education data. This profile reflects publicly reported program levels, and specific program names, admission requirements, and costs should be confirmed directly with the school.

Reported Nursing Program Levels

Based on U.S. Department of Education data, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona has reported awarding nursing degrees at the following levels:

• Bachelor’s

About These Program Levels

Here is what each of these nursing program levels typically involves.

Bachelor’s. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN, is a four year undergraduate degree. It prepares students for initial RN licensure through classroom coursework and supervised clinical hours.

Graduates typically become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN. Learn more in our [Nursing Degree Types guide](/resources/nursing-degree-types) or our [How to Become an RN guide](/resources/how-to-become-an-rn).

Understanding Accreditation and State Approval

Nursing programs can carry two related but distinct types of quality assurance. Institutional accreditation covers the college or university as a whole, confirmed by an accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Programmatic nursing accreditation is separate, most commonly granted by the CCNE or the ACEN.

A school can hold institutional accreditation without its nursing program holding programmatic accreditation, so it is worth checking both. Most states also require state board of nursing approval for pre-licensure programs, which is a separate regulatory requirement.

Because accreditation and approval status can change over time, verify current status using the official directory below rather than relying only on a school’s own marketing materials.

What the Application Process Generally Looks Like

Every school’s specific requirements differ, but nursing program applications commonly follow a similar shape. Entry-level programs typically require transcripts, prerequisite coursework, a minimum GPA, and sometimes an entrance exam.

Bridge and RN-completion programs generally require proof of an active, unencumbered license in addition to transcripts. Graduate and doctoral programs typically add a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and relevant clinical experience for advanced practice tracks.

These requirements vary by program and can change from year to year. Always confirm the exact, current requirements directly with the school before applying.

Verifying Your State’s Licensure Requirements

Nursing licensure is regulated separately by each state, not just by the school or the accreditor. If you plan to become licensed or practice in Pennsylvania, or in any other state, confirm that your intended program meets that state’s specific requirements before enrolling.

You can find contact information for any state’s board of nursing through the NCSBN’s official member directory. This is the most reliable way to reach the correct regulatory body for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a nursing program is properly accredited?
Search the official CCNE or ACEN directories directly, rather than relying on a school’s own claims. These directories confirm current accreditation status and the exact programs covered.

What is the difference between institutional and programmatic accreditation?
Institutional accreditation applies to the college or university as a whole. Programmatic accreditation is specific to the nursing program itself, and a school can have one without the other.

Can nursing licensure requirements affect which program I should choose?
Yes. Licensure is regulated separately by each state, so a program that works well for one student may not meet requirements in another state.

Where can I find current tuition and admission deadline information?
These details change frequently and are best confirmed directly on the school’s official website, linked above.

Questions to Ask Before Applying

• Is this program approved for students who live in my state?
• Does it meet the requirements for the license or certification I am pursuing?
• What prerequisites are required before I can apply?
• Are university admission and nursing program admission separate processes here?
• What is the total cost, including tuition, fees, clinical, and lab expenses?
• Where and when are clinical hours completed?
• Can I work while enrolled, given the program’s format and workload?
• What accreditation and state board approvals apply to this specific program?

Learn More

Tuition and Financial Aid. Visit Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona’s official website, linked above, for current tuition rates, fees, and financial aid options.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines. Contact Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona directly or check their official website for current admission requirements and deadlines.

Verify Accreditation. Search the official CCNE Accreditation Directory to independently confirm current nursing program accreditation status.

This profile is based on federal education data (IPEDS) and may not reflect the most current offerings. Program availability, admission requirements, accreditation status, and costs can change. Always confirm current details directly with the school before applying.