UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH MEDICAL CENTER · UNITED STATES
RN Diploma Program - UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing at UPMC Harrisburg
Diploma · Taught in en
At a glance
16 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Diploma
Level
- 16-monthProgram Duration
- Full-timeAttendance Mode
- FallAnnual Intake
- Magnet® recognized hospitalClinical Experience
- Up to 6 transferrable coursesCredit Transfer Potential
The UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing at UPMC Harrisburg offers an accelerated, full-time registered nurse (RN) diploma program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to become competent and caring professional nurses. Located within UPMC Harrisburg, a full-service acute care hospital, the program provides a blend of classroom lectures and in-person clinical training. The 16-month program begins each Fall and offers up to five days of instruction per week. Transfer credits for up to six college courses may be accepted to potentially shorten the academic schedule and reduce tuition costs. The program emphasizes hands-on experience within a Magnet® recognized hospital environment, ensuring graduates are prepared for licensure and diverse nursing roles.
Curriculum
The curriculum is delivered over 16 months and includes classroom lectures and clinical training. UPMC Shadyside SON at UPMC Harrisburg has partnered with the University of Harrisburg to offer college-level courses as part of the curriculum plan. A detailed curriculum plan is available.
- Year 1
- Foundational Nursing Skills
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing
- Psychiatric Nursing
- Professional Development in Nursing
Careers
Graduates of the RN Diploma program are well-prepared to pursue rewarding nursing positions at UPMC facilities and other healthcare systems. The program aims to equip students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain nursing licensure in Pennsylvania and other states.
- Registered Nurse (RN)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the RN Diploma Program?
- The RN Diploma Program is an accelerated, full-time program that runs for 16 months. It begins each Fall and includes up to five days of instruction per week.
- What are the key entry requirements for the program?
- Applicants must have a High School Diploma or GED. Additionally, successful completion of the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) with specific score requirements is necessary.
- When is the application deadline for the Fall 2026 intake?
- The application deadline for the Fall 2026 cohort is July 10, 2026. Classes for this intake will begin on August 31, 2026.
- Can I transfer college credits to this program?
- Yes, the program may accept transfer credits for up to six college courses. This could potentially shorten your academic schedule and reduce tuition costs.
- What career opportunities are available after completing the program?
- Graduates are well-prepared to pursue rewarding Registered Nurse (RN) positions at UPMC facilities and other healthcare systems. The program equips students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain nursing licensure.
- How can I find information on tuition fees and financial aid?
- Information on tuition fees and financial aid is available through the UPMC Schools of Nursing website. Specific tuition fees should be confirmed directly with the admissions office.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or GEDRequired for admission.
College CoursesUp to six transferrable college courses may be accepted.
TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills)Specific score requirements are available from the admissions team.
Prospective students should contact the admissions team for detailed entry requirements and application procedures.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified for international students and should be confirmed directly with the admissions office.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not explicitly stated on the program page and should be confirmed directly with the admissions office. Transferable college courses may reduce tuition costs.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page.
Information on tuition fees and financial aid is available through the UPMC Schools of Nursing website.
How to apply
1. Review Program InformationFamiliarize yourself with the program details, curriculum, and requirements.
2. Complete the ApplicationSubmit a formal application for the RN-Diploma Program.
3. Submit Required DocumentsProvide all necessary academic transcripts and other supporting documents.
4. Meet Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and standardized test (TEAS) requirements.
5. Attend Information Session (Optional)Participate in an information session and campus tour to learn more about the program and facilities.
Accreditation
The diploma nursing program at UPMC Harrisburg at the UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The program is also approved by the PA State Board of Nursing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the RN Diploma Program?
+
The RN Diploma Program is an accelerated, full-time program that runs for 16 months. It begins each Fall and includes up to five days of instruction per week.
What are the key entry requirements for the program?
+
Applicants must have a High School Diploma or GED. Additionally, successful completion of the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) with specific score requirements is necessary.
When is the application deadline for the Fall 2026 intake?
+
The application deadline for the Fall 2026 cohort is July 10, 2026. Classes for this intake will begin on August 31, 2026.
Can I transfer college credits to this program?
+
Yes, the program may accept transfer credits for up to six college courses. This could potentially shorten your academic schedule and reduce tuition costs.
What career opportunities are available after completing the program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared to pursue rewarding Registered Nurse (RN) positions at UPMC facilities and other healthcare systems. The program equips students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain nursing licensure.
How can I find information on tuition fees and financial aid?
+
Information on tuition fees and financial aid is available through the UPMC Schools of Nursing website. Specific tuition fees should be confirmed directly with the admissions office.