The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Schools of Nursing, which include the West Penn School of Nursing in Pittsburgh and the Citizens School of Nursing in Tarentum, have reported their highest-ever enrollment for the 2025-2026 academic year.
On August 18, 2025, both schools welcomed a combined total of 355 full-time students, marking the largest incoming class in their history. With an additional 50 part-time students expected at Citizens School of Nursing in January 2026, overall enrollment across both campuses is projected to reach 405. This figure represents a 44% increase from total enrollment numbers recorded in 2023.
Enrollment figures for each campus are as follows: West Penn School of Nursing has enrolled 164 full-time students—92 first-year and 72 second-year; Citizens School of Nursing has 126 full-time students—70 first-year and 56 second-year; and its part-time program currently includes 65 students—45 first-year and 20 second-year. The part-time program at Citizens is expecting another intake of approximately 50 students next January.
Both nursing schools offer a comprehensive full-time curriculum that lasts for 22 months, combining classroom instruction with clinical experiences led by faculty. Small class sizes and personalized learning are emphasized.
Citizens School of Nursing’s part-time RN program offers evening and weekend classes over a period of 32 months to provide flexibility for working or non-traditional students. Enrollment in this part-time program has grown by 125% since its launch in January 2024, with an additional increase expected for the next cohort.
“This historic enrollment is a testament to the dedicated faculty who provide an exceptional learning environment for our nursing students, and the excellent clinical experiences provided by the AHN hospitals,” said Amy Stoker, PhD, RN, director of the AHN Schools of Nursing. “Our favorable instructor-to-student ratio, combined with our commitment to innovative nursing education, is attracting top talent and addressing the critical need for qualified nurses in our region.”
AHN remains one of few hospital systems nationwide operating multiple nursing schools. While many hospital-affiliated diploma programs have closed since the rise of college-based nursing education programs in the late twentieth century, Pennsylvania continues to maintain several hospital-based options offering faster pathways into professional practice compared to traditional college programs.
Graduates from both AHN Citizens and West Penn Schools achieved a National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) pass rate of 100% in 2024. Of those graduating from these programs in 2023, all but one secured employment within healthcare settings within a year. Many graduates go on to work at AHN hospitals after graduation with competitive salaries.
Housing options include dormitory-style accommodations at West Penn School while free parking is available at Citizens School. Applications remain open until September 1 for CSON’s part-time program starting January 5, 2026. More information can be found on their website: https://www.ahn.org/health-care-professionals/education/nursing/schools/citizens-school/admission
