Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona (PSU or Penn State) is a public institution. The campus is part of the Penn State school system, which includes ten campuses throughout the state. The Altoona campus offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The Altoona campus was established in 1939. Immediately after opening the campus, the university struggled to keep up with the increased demand. They soon purchased more land and expanded the campus to accommodate the growing student population. Students are also active in the community and on campus, with over 75 student groups and organizations.
The Altoona campus of Penn State offers an associate’s degree in nursing, along with a traditional BSN program and an accelerated BSN program. The BSN programs are accredited by the CCNE. With the traditional BSN program, students receive training at a state-of-the-art simulation learning center and through clinical experiences. This is a full-time program that is designed to be completed in the standard four years. The accelerated program is a 16-month program for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field. It includes several prerequisite courses that can be completed at Penn State or any accredited institution. The RN to BSN program is intended for registered nurses that have a diploma or associate’s degree in nursing.