What career opportunities might I have upon completion of the program?
Graduates of the baccalaureate nursing program have a vast array of employment opportunities. Employment settings include trauma centers, community hospitals, home health agencies, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, hospice agencies, schools, industrial and organizational settings, and the military.
In addition, a bachelor’s degree is required to pursue an advanced degree in nursing, which prepares the nurse for roles such as nurse educator, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, nurse administrator, and nurse researcher. The nursing profession encompasses opportunities for lifelong and rewarding careers.
Can I continue working while enrolled in this program?
Because the Second Degree option is a full-time, academically rigorous program, we recommend that students limit outside obligations. If you plan to work during the program, it will need to be flexible to work with your school schedule. Our most successful students are able to focus exclusively on their studies for the entire sixteen months.
May I apply to multiple locations, or must I choose one?
On the departmental application, which is typically the first step in the application process for all applicants, you will need to select one of the three locations: Harrisburg, Altoona, or Behrend. If the location you choose is not able to offer you a spot, then you may be asked if you wish to consider another location that may have openings.
How many students are accepted in each cohort?
Admission to this program is very competitive, and the applicant pool is typically large. The number accepted varies each year at each location and is often contingent on available spots in clinical agencies. Please work with your location of choice to learn their anticipated range of accepted students for the upcoming cycle.
What makes me a competitive applicant for admission?
Students who have completed all required prerequisites, have a competitive GPA, and who have graduated by the end of the spring semester preceding a fall start in the Second Degree Program.
What do I do if I won’t be finished with the prerequisite courses or my first bachelor’s degree before the December 1 deadline?
Applicants who will complete their course work after submitting an application must submit official transcripts (excluding Penn State) immediately upon course completion to Undergraduate Admissions AND an unofficial copy by email to the campus contact to which you are applying. Students who are taking classes in the upcoming spring semester must email a copy of your spring schedule to the campus contact at your preferred location.
When will I be notified of my admission decision?
The majority of applicants are notified of their admission decision by February. Due to rolling admissions, some applicants may be notified in spring or early summer. Work with the campus contact at your preferred location.
What are my options if I’m not accepted?
Applicants who are denied admission are permitted to reapply for the next cohort. You may want to consider retaking some of the prerequisite courses if you feel that doing so would increase your cumulative GPA. You may be asked to consider another Penn State Second Degree location based on space availability.
