Wilkes University - Nursing Programs

Wilkes University is a private institution in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. It was established in 1933 as a satellite campus for Bucknell University and became independent in 1947. In 1990, it received university status and its current name. The campus is in downtown Wilkes-Barre and includes eight academic buildings and nine administrative buildings. The buildings are closely grouped, with most of the buildings located on a single city block, making it easier for students to navigate the campus. Wilkes University offers over a dozen graduate programs a variety of undergraduate majors. The academic programs are offered through seven schools and colleges, including the Passan School of Nursing.

Wilkes University Passan School of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate nursing degree programs. The undergraduate programs include BSN, accelerated BSN, LPN to BSN, and RN to BSN. Students with a BSN may enroll in the accelerated MSN or standard MSN program. The university also offers an RN to MSN program and a DNP program. These programs are accredited by the CCNE and approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nurse Examiners. Students enrolled in the accelerated or traditional BSN programs receive training at clinical sites in the area. The university maintains partnerships with hospitals and agencies throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. However, students have to arrange their own transportation.

Updated on: 08 Nov, 2025

Program Length & Format

15 months total; 48 credit hours
11 courses completed over four semesters; program can be completed in four full-time semesters
Online coursework plus a two-week on-campus residency in Wilkes-Barre, PA
In-person clinical placements in Northeastern Pennsylvania or Lehigh Valley following residency

Admission Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required
Minimum undergraduate GPA 3.0
Two letters of recommendation
Statement of professional goals
Official transcripts demonstrating minimum undergraduate GPA 3.0

Prerequisites

Elementary statistics, 3 credits; minimum grade 2.0 (C) or greater
Nutrition, 3 credits; minimum grade 2.5 (C+) or greater
Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II with related laboratory experiences, 4 credits each (total 8); minimum grade 2.5 (C+) or greater
Chemistry (one semester) with laboratory, 4 credits; minimum grade 2.5 (C+) or greater
Microbiology with laboratory, 4 credits; minimum grade 2.5 (C+) or greater
Minimum grade 2.5 required in science courses; one repeat allowed for a science course with grade below 2.5; less than 2.5 in two nursing courses (including nutrition) or less than 2.5 in a repeated science course makes a student ineligible for admission

Application

Submit online application
Submit official college/university transcripts showing baccalaureate degree and GPA
Submit statement of professional goals
Submit two letters of recommendation

Selection Process

Applications and transcripts reviewed and evaluated on a case-by-case basis
Admission is not guaranteed
Applicants advised to consult the ABSN Program Coordinator regarding screening and admission procedures

Clinical & Simulation Lab

Two-week on-campus residency in Wilkes-Barre, PA prior to clinical placements
Clinical hours distributed among acute, chronic, and community settings
Clinical placements available in Northeastern Pennsylvania and Lehigh Valley with partner institutions including Geisinger, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Commonwealth Health, and St. Luke’s Health Network
Simulation center with surgical, critical care, and pediatric/obstetrics suites; manikins that simulate bleeding and breathing

Cost & Financial Aid

Castle Branch profile fee: $180 and up
American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) course: $60 and up
Criminal record check: $50 and up
Physical exam, immunizations, and PPD: $100 and up
Urine drug screen: $50 and up

International Students

Applicants whose native language is not English or who are from non-English-speaking countries must submit TOEFL scores with their application. Consult the ABSN Program Coordinator for TOEFL score requirements