Penn State Harrisburg offers The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing's Second Degree Program, which is intended for those that desire to begin a career in nursing and have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field.

The application cycle for fall 2026 is now open. Learn more at a virtual Information Session!

  • Wednesday, 10/15/25, 8-9:15am
  • Thursday, 11/20/25, 12-1:15 p.m.

Contact Ronda Stump for details and to sign up!

At the completion of their course work, graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and upon licensure, begin new careers in professional nursing.

Program Overview

  • For individuals with a baccalaureate degree in another field who are interested in a career change to nursing.
  • Intensive, 16 month, cohort-based accelerated offering.
  • Consists of 4 full-time, consecutive semesters, beginning each fall (late August).
  • Graduation is in December of the second fall semester and culminates with the traditional Nursing Pinning Ceremony and Penn State Harrisburg Commencement Ceremony.
  • Penn State Harrisburg's Second Degree Program is one of only two offered throughout the University.
  • Many regionally and nationally recognized healthcare facilities are in our geographic region, including Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Pinnacle Health System, Holy Spirit Health System, and Masonic Village. Located in a residential area, the college is also within a few hours drive of Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and New York City.

Professional Licensure/Certification

Many US states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map. 

Accreditation for The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing

The Penn State Harrisburg nursing program is offered through the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing and is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing. The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is one of the largest educators of pre-licensure students in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with over 2200 undergraduate and graduate students on 13 campuses. Our College is positioned to lead the next generation of nurses and nurse scientists while enhancing the health of all people through quality care and education.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice program and post graduate APRN certificate program at The Pennsylvania State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

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