UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH MEDICAL CENTER · UNITED STATES
UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona
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 monthsProgram Length
- Full-time, acceleratedStudy Mode
- In-person lectures and clinicalsLearning Environment
- August 31, 2026Next Class Start
The UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona offers an accelerated, full-time Registered Nurse (RN) diploma program. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become competent and caring professional nurses. Located within UPMC Altoona, a 390-bed acute care hospital, the program provides hands-on clinical experiences in a modern healthcare setting. Classes and clinicals are conducted in-person up to five days a week.
Curriculum
The curriculum is a 16-month full-time program designed for daytime study. It combines classroom lectures with practical clinical experiences within UPMC facilities. Transferable college courses may be accepted to reduce the overall academic load and tuition cost.
- Program
Careers
Graduates of the UPMC Schools of Nursing are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) to obtain nursing licensure in Pennsylvania and other states. UPMC offers various rewarding career opportunities for nurses at different stages of their careers within its top-ranked hospitals.
- Registered Nurse
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the UPMC Mercy School of Nursing diploma program?
- This is an accelerated, full-time Registered Nurse (RN) diploma program with a length of 16 months. It is designed for daytime study, combining classroom lectures with practical clinical experiences.
- When is the application deadline for the next intake?
- The application deadline for the Fall 2026 RN Program is June 19, 2026. Classes are scheduled to begin on August 31, 2026.
- What are the career opportunities after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) to obtain nursing licensure, primarily as a Registered Nurse. UPMC offers various career opportunities for nurses within its hospital network.
- Does the program accept transfer credits?
- Yes, up to six transferable college courses may be accepted based on your educational background. This may also reduce the overall academic load and tuition cost.
Entry requirements
Previous College CoursesUp to six transferable college courses may be accepted based on your educational background.
Applicants must meet TEAS requirements. Specific academic qualifications are not detailed but an application process is in place.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are not specified for international students.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are not specified, but may be reduced by accepted transfer credits.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided.
Information regarding tuition fees and financial aid can be found through the provided link.
How to apply
1. Review Program DetailsFamiliarize yourself with the program curriculum, requirements, and deadlines.
2. Meet Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the necessary academic prerequisites and TEAS test requirements.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit your application by the deadline. For Fall 2026, the deadline is June 19, 2026.
4. Attend Information Session (Optional)Register for an in-person information session to learn more about the program. Dates are available in March, April, and May 2026. Email UPMCALTSON@upmc.edu to register.
Accreditation
Graduates will meet requirements to sit for the NCLEX-RN for nursing licensure in Pennsylvania and other listed states.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the UPMC Mercy School of Nursing diploma program?
+
This is an accelerated, full-time Registered Nurse (RN) diploma program with a length of 16 months. It is designed for daytime study, combining classroom lectures with practical clinical experiences.
When is the application deadline for the next intake?
+
The application deadline for the Fall 2026 RN Program is June 19, 2026. Classes are scheduled to begin on August 31, 2026.
What are the career opportunities after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) to obtain nursing licensure, primarily as a Registered Nurse. UPMC offers various career opportunities for nurses within its hospital network.
Does the program accept transfer credits?
+
Yes, up to six transferable college courses may be accepted based on your educational background. This may also reduce the overall academic load and tuition cost.