University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
Pittsburgh, PA
Quick Facts
1939
Founded
800+
Enrollment
30%
Acceptance Rate
93%
NCLEX Pass Rate
About University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing is one of the top-ranked public nursing programs in the country. Located in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood alongside UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the United States, the school provides students with outstanding clinical training opportunities. Pitt Nursing students rotate through UPMC's network of hospitals, specialty centers, and community health organizations, gaining experience across a full range of clinical settings.
The school is recognized for its research excellence, particularly in areas including acute and critical care, health promotion, technology and informatics, chronic disease management, and health disparities. Pitt Nursing's faculty are leaders in their fields, and the school's research funding consistently ranks among the top nursing programs nationally. The school's commitment to innovation is reflected in its state-of-the-art simulation center and its robust online graduate program offerings.
Degree Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
A four-year pre-licensure program combining the breadth of a Pitt liberal arts education with rigorous nursing science and clinical training across UPMC's extensive hospital network.
Accelerated BSN (Second Degree)
An intensive 12-month program for students with a bachelor's degree in another field, compressing the full nursing curriculum into an accelerated timeline.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Graduate programs with specializations in Adult-Gerontology NP, Family NP, Pediatric NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Nurse Anesthesia, and Clinical Nurse Leader.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A practice-focused doctoral program for advanced practice nurses, with flexible scheduling designed for working professionals.
Accreditation
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing holds full CCNE accreditation for its BSN, MSN, DNP, and PhD programs, reflecting its strength as a leading public research university nursing program.
Campus & Online Options
The BSN and ABSN programs are on-campus in Pittsburgh with clinical rotations at UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, and community health sites throughout Western Pennsylvania. Many graduate programs offer online or hybrid delivery, making Pitt Nursing accessible to working nurses across the country.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition
Pennsylvania resident undergraduate tuition is approximately $20,000 per year. Out-of-state students pay approximately $36,000 per year. Graduate program tuition ranges from $22,000 to $30,000 per year for Pennsylvania residents.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Pitt offers merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, federal financial aid, and nursing-specific awards. The School of Nursing administers endowed scholarships for outstanding students. Pennsylvania residents may qualify for state grants, and external programs like the Nurse Corps Scholarship are available to all students.
Admissions Overview
Admission to the BSN program is competitive. Students apply to the University of Pittsburgh and are admitted directly to the School of Nursing as freshmen. The ABSN program requires a completed bachelor's degree and prerequisite science courses.
Application Deadline
January 15 for fall freshman admission; March 1 for ABSN
Requirements
- Strong academic record with emphasis on science prerequisites
- Completed prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and statistics
- Personal statement on nursing career goals
- Two letters of recommendation
- Healthcare experience recommended
- SAT/ACT scores (for BSN freshmen; test-optional available)
Student Life
Pitt's Oakland campus is in the cultural and academic heart of Pittsburgh, surrounded by museums, parks, and hospitals. Nursing students participate in the Student Nurses Association, community health volunteering, simulation lab events, and interprofessional education. Pittsburgh is consistently ranked among the most livable cities in America, with affordable housing, professional sports, diverse dining, and a growing technology and healthcare industry.
Great for Future Travel Nurses
Pitt Nursing graduates are exceptionally well prepared for travel nursing, thanks to their extensive clinical training within the UPMC system, one of the largest and most advanced health systems in the country. Rotations through UPMC's network of specialty hospitals and community facilities expose students to the breadth of clinical situations they will encounter as travel nurses. Pennsylvania's NLC membership allows graduates to practice across compact states with a single license, eliminating one of the biggest logistical barriers to starting travel nursing. The school's strong online graduate programs also make it possible for travel nurses to pursue advanced degrees while on assignment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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