Online NP Programs in Pennsylvania
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“Attending an online nurse practitioner program offers convenience and flexibility by allowing students to balance their education with work and personal commitments.”
Jennifer Sheaffer, DNP, Director of NP Programs at the Breiner School of Nursing, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to several reputable online nurse practitioner (NP) programs that offer flexible and high-quality education to aspiring healthcare providers. Online NP schools in the state provide a convenient and effective pathway for registered nurses to advance their careers while balancing professional and personal responsibilities. These programs emphasize advanced clinical skills, evidence-based practice, and leadership, equipping students to meet the growing demand for primary and specialized care.
The need for nurse practitioners in Pennsylvania continues to rise dramatically. According to ProjectionsCentral (2026), there were 9,510 licensed NPs in the state in 2024, a number that is projected to grow to 13,190 by 2034. This represents an impressive 38.6 percent increase in just a decade, reflecting the critical role NPs play in bridging gaps in healthcare access.
Online NP programs are helping to meet this demand by offering accessible and flexible learning options that accommodate the schedules of working nurses.
Most Affordable Online NP Programs in Pennsylvania (Ranked by In-State Tuition)
| School | Degrees | Specializations | Programs & Tuition | Programs | Tuition (in-state) |
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| La Salle University |
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| Carlow University |
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| Wilkes University |
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| Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania |
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| Misericordia University |
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| Millersville University |
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| Pennsylvania Western University |
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| Drexel University |
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| Thomas Jefferson University |
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| Duquesne University |
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Meet the Expert: Jennifer Sheaffer, DNP, CRNP
Dr. Jennifer Sheaffer is the director of NP programs at the Breiner School of Nursing at the Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania and a nurse practitioner at WellSpan Evangelical Hospital, where she brings a wealth of clinical and educational expertise. With a focus on family practice, her extensive clinical experience includes more than a decade as a nurse practitioner.
Dr. Sheaffer holds a doctor of nursing practice from Pennsylvania Western University Edinboro and a master’s of nursing degree as a family nurse practitioner from Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg. Her research explores adolescent social media behaviors and innovations in rural mobile health, reflecting her commitment to advancing patient care, fostering healthcare solutions, and mentoring future professionals
NPSchools.com: What do you wish the public understood about online nurse practitioner programs?
Dr. Sheaffer: Attending an online nurse practitioner (NP) program offers convenience and flexibility by allowing students to balance their education with work and personal commitments. Online programs provide the ability to study from home, eliminating the need to commute which saves time and reduces stress. Online programs also provide more exposure to technology through online learning resources, such as virtual simulations.
Additionally, online NP programs typically offer a broader selection of specializations and are less costly, enabling students to tailor their education to their career goals.
NPSchools.com: What advice would you give to aspiring online nurse practitioner program students?
Dr. Sheaffer: Staying organized, attending the professor’s online office hours, and participating in online discussions are essential to being successful in an online NP program. Seek guidance from your course professor or program advisor if you are struggling with course content, time management, or if you just need clarification. Using online resources such as tutors, academic advisors, and the library will also help to ensure your success.
NP Practice Authority in Pennsylvania
How Much Do Nurse Practitioners Make in Pennsylvania?
| United States | Pennsylvania | |
| Number of NPs Employed | 323,040 | 10,670 |
| Average Salary | $137,300 | $132,070 |
| 10th Percentile | $101,340 | $102,940 |
| 25th Percentile | $117,990 | $110,960 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $132,300 | $130,140 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,700 | $142,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $174,420 | $163,720 |
| Source: BLS May (2025)—the latest data available as of September 2026 | ||
Nearby States with Affordable Online NP Programs
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAmong her many diverse writing endeavors, Kimmy Gustafson has also lent her expertise to NPSchools.com since 2020, providing insightful and engaging content about the significant role of education in shaping our future generations of nurse practitioners. Many of her pieces include interviewing experts on timely topics such as healthcare workplace violence and moral distress.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.