Nursing

It takes critical thinking, ethical decision-making and a wealth of scientific knowledge to become a nurse. At PennWest University, our nursing programs, whether you choose the four-year BSN or the two-year ASN, prepare you to become a vital part of the healthcare team.

Our BSN program combines professional nursing courses with science courses from the first semester, culminating in a capstone project and multiple clinical experiences. Our ASN program offers a fast-track path to becoming a Registered Nurse in just two years, emphasizing holistic, patient-centered care and ethical practices.

Both programs are guided by expert faculty dedicated to your personal and professional growth, ensuring you’re prepared for the NCLEX Examination and a successful nursing career.

This program is for you if...

You have a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on patient care.
You are interested in a rewarding and dynamic career in the healthcare industry.
You seek to gain hands-on clinical experience and knowledge in nursing best practices.
You aim to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and are dedicated to lifelong learning in the field.
You value working within a team to provide compassionate and coordinated healthcare.

Locations

Credits

61 Credits for ASN
120 Credits for BSN

What You'll Study

In the nursing programs at PennWest University, you'll study a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with essential nursing skills and knowledge. The BSN program integrates professional nursing courses with foundational sciences, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based practice. You'll engage in hands-on clinical experiences and complete a capstone project to explore various nursing specialties. The ASN program focuses on holistic, patient-centered care, ethical behavior, and clinical competence, preparing you for the fast-paced demands of healthcare environments. Both programs ensure you’re ready for the NCLEX exam and a successful nursing career.

Degrees Table
Degrees, Certificates, Minors	Offered at...
	California	Clarion	Edinboro	Global Online
Nursing, ASN	Program Not Offered At This Location	Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person	Program Not Offered At This Location	Program Not Offered At This Location
Nursing, BSN	Program Not Offered At This Location	Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person	Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person	Program Not Offered At This Location

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

View faculty

How You'll Learn

This program is offered in-person at our Clarion and Edinboro campuses. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations.

Learn more about how you’ll learn.

What You'll Become

Upon completing either the BSN or ASN program at PennWest University, you'll become a competent and compassionate Registered Nurse (RN), equipped with the skills to provide high-quality patient care. You will develop critical thinking abilities, ethical decision-making skills, and a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to pass the NCLEX exam and enter various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations, as essential members of the healthcare team.

Career Paths

Registered Nurse
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Educator
Nurse Administrator
Public Health Nurse

Fraternal Twins Share Identical Passion for Caretaking

Hannah and Isabella Gorrell have shared a lot of big moments – from taking their first steps to starting kindergarten, celebrating birthdays and finishing high school in the midst of a global pandemic. On May 4, the Gorrell twins reached another milestone as they walked across separate PennWest stages to earn bachelor of science degrees in nursing.

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How We'll Help You Succeed

At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

4.2 Million

Number of Registered Nurses in the U.S. today.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

The Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs at PennWest Clarion are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
3390 Peachtree Road NE,
Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 975-5000

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Bachelor of Science nursing program is Continuing Accreditation.

View the public information disclosed by ACEN regarding this program at the ACEN website.

View Accreditation

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at PennWest Edinboro is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
655 K Street, NW, Suite 750
Washington, DC 20001
Phone: 202-887-6791
Fax: 202-887-8476

The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing
P.O. Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
Phone: 717-783-7142
Fax: 717-783-0822
ST-NURSE@pa.gov