Brian PhilipsChoosing a nursing school is one of the most important steps in your journey toward becoming a healthcare professional. Among the many options available, Temple University’s nursing program stands out for its academic rigor, strong clinical partnerships, and commitment to producing competent, compassionate nurses.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Temple Nursing acceptance rate, admission requirements, program details, and tips for getting accepted. Whether you’re a high school graduate applying for the traditional BSN program or a degree-holder aiming for the accelerated track, this guide provides all the insight you need to prepare a strong application.
Temple Nursing Acceptance Rate
When researching nursing programs, one of the first questions students ask is: “How hard is it to get into Temple’s nursing school?”
The Temple University nursing acceptance rate varies depending on the program type (traditional BSN, accelerated BSN, or graduate-level programs). While Temple University as a whole has an average acceptance rate of around 80%, the nursing major is far more competitive due to limited clinical placements and a rigorous curriculum.
How Selective Is Temple’s Nursing Program?
The nursing program at Temple’s College of Public Health is among the more selective health programs in Pennsylvania. Although official figures fluctuate by year, estimates and applicant data suggest that the acceptance rate for the nursing major is between 20% and 40% of qualified applicants.
That means even if you meet the basic GPA and coursework requirements, there’s still significant competition. Temple’s nursing faculty look for students who demonstrate academic excellence, emotional maturity, and a genuine passion for patient care.
Comparing to the General University Rate
Temple’s general admission rate may be high, but nursing admissions are handled separately. Students who apply directly into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) major must show strong grades—especially in science subjects—and often have GPAs well above the minimum required.
Anecdotally, students who were accepted into Temple’s BSN program reported:
- GPAs in the 3.7–4.0 range
- SAT scores around 1300–1450
- ACT scores of 28–32
This shows that Temple Nursing is selective, not impossible—but it rewards academic preparation and early planning.
Temple Nursing Requirements
Admission to Temple’s nursing programs is merit-based and holistic. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the requirements for each level—undergraduate, accelerated, and graduate.
1. Undergraduate BSN (Traditional Track)
The traditional BSN is designed for first-time college students who want to pursue nursing from freshman year through graduation.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum high school GPA: 3.25
- Strong performance in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
- Completion of standard high school diploma or equivalent
- SAT or ACT scores (optional but recommended for competitive applicants)
- For transfer students: minimum college GPA of 3.5
Once admitted, students must complete at least 124 credit hours, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 overall and in major courses. Nursing courses require a minimum grade of C (73%) to count toward the degree.
Application Process
- Application deadline: February 1 (for the fall intake)
- Program start: Fall semester only
- Students must apply directly to the College of Public Health with “Nursing (BSN)” selected as their intended major
- Admission is competitive—meeting minimum standards does not guarantee entry
Clinical and Compliance Requirements
Before starting clinical rotations, Temple requires the following:
- Proof of immunizations (MMR, Hepatitis B, Varicella, TB screening, COVID-19)
- Annual flu vaccination
- Background checks and FBI fingerprinting
- Child abuse and criminal clearances (Act 33/34)
- Health insurance verification
- CPR certification (AHA Healthcare Provider level)
- Completion of the EXXAT–Approve compliance module
These requirements ensure all nursing students are eligible for placement in hospitals, community clinics, and other clinical sites.
Curriculum Overview
Temple’s BSN students complete a well-rounded mix of:
- General Education courses (writing, social sciences, humanities)
- Core nursing courses such as:
- Fundamentals of Nursing
- Pharmacology
- Medical-Surgical Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Maternal Health Nursing
- Leadership & Research in Nursing
- Two writing-intensive courses: NURS 3296 and NURS 3496
- Approximately 973 hours of supervised clinical training across multiple healthcare settings
Clinical partnerships include top hospitals in Philadelphia such as:
- Temple University Hospital
- Fox Chase Cancer Center
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Jeanes Hospital
- Holy Redeemer Hospital
- University of Pennsylvania Hospital
2. Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Program
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is tailored for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and wish to transition into nursing.
Key Admission Requirements
- Minimum overall GPA of 3.0
- A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Completion of specific nursing prerequisite courses, including:
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II (8 credits)
- General Biology with Lab (4 credits)
- Chemistry with Lab (4 credits)
- Microbiology with Lab (4 credits)
- English Composition (3 credits)
- Psychology (3 credits)
- Developmental Psychology (3 credits)
At least five out of eight prerequisites must be completed before applying; the rest can be in progress.
Additional Details
- Program duration: 16 months (full-time)
- Application deadline: July 1
- Minimum grade of C required in all prerequisite courses
- No Pass/Fail grades accepted for science requirements
- Total credits: 63 nursing credits (plus prior GenEd transfer credits)
The ABSN program is highly intensive, offering the same BSN outcomes in an accelerated timeline—ideal for career changers who can dedicate full-time effort to the program.
3. Graduate Nursing Programs
For those aiming for leadership, advanced clinical, or educational roles, Temple offers several Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and post-master’s certificates.
Requirements for Graduate-Level Nursing
- Active Registered Nurse (RN) license (multi-state preferred)
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing (depending on entry level)
- Submission through NursingCAS
- Official transcripts from all prior institutions
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
- Personal statement or goal essay
- Resume/CV
- Interview (for some tracks)
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
Graduate students at Temple can specialize in areas such as:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
- Nurse Executive Leadership
- DNP in Clinical Practice
Temple’s DNP graduates are known for their leadership in policy, education, and advanced practice.
Other Important Admission Considerations
1. Meeting vs. Exceeding Requirements
Temple makes it clear: satisfying minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission. Successful applicants typically exceed the stated GPA, complete prerequisites early, and show commitment to patient care.
2. Standout Application Tips
To improve your chances:
- Write a personal statement that connects your academic path and life experiences to your passion for nursing.
- Gain volunteer or shadowing experience in hospitals or clinics.
- Request strong recommendation letters from professors or healthcare professionals familiar with your work ethic.
- Double-check your compliance documents early—background checks and immunization records can take time to process.
3. Preparing for Clinical Work
Temple’s program is hands-on. Students spend nearly 1,000 hours in clinical rotations, giving them real-world experience in hospitals and community health settings. Prepare for:
- Long shifts and teamwork in fast-paced environments
- Learning through simulation labs before entering hospitals
- Time management between academics and clinical schedules
Tips for Getting Accepted into Temple Nursing
- Start preparing early. Take high school science courses seriously and earn strong grades in biology, chemistry, and anatomy.
- Apply before the deadline. Nursing slots are limited, so submit your application and supporting materials early.
- Maintain a strong GPA. A GPA above 3.6 gives you a competitive edge.
- Gain healthcare exposure. Volunteer at hospitals, clinics, or community centers to demonstrate commitment.
- Highlight your leadership and compassion. Nursing schools value empathy and communication skills as much as academic performance.
- Attend a Temple Nursing info session. These sessions provide insights into what the admissions committee is looking for and help you make a strong impression.
- Be ready for compliance checks. Have all your vaccinations, CPR certification, and background documents in order before classes begin.
Why Choose Temple University for Nursing?
Temple’s nursing program stands out for several reasons:
- Urban clinical exposure: Being located in Philadelphia gives students access to some of the region’s best healthcare facilities and diverse patient populations.
- Simulation-based learning: Students train using modern simulation labs before entering real-world clinical environments.
- Accredited excellence: The nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
- Career readiness: Graduates have high NCLEX-RN pass rates and strong job placement across Pennsylvania and beyond.
- Supportive community: Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship ensure personalized learning.
Temple’s combination of rigorous academics, real-world clinical practice, and holistic development makes it one of the most respected nursing schools in the region.
Temple Nursing Application Deadlines (Quick Summary)
| Program | Deadline | GPA Requirement | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | February 1 | 3.25+ | 4 years |
| Accelerated BSN | July 1 | 3.0+ | 16 months |
| Graduate/DNP | Varies by track | 3.0+ | 2–3 years |
Conclusion
The Temple University Nursing program offers an excellent pathway for those who aspire to impact lives through healthcare. While the acceptance rate is competitive, preparation, passion, and persistence make a difference.
By maintaining strong grades, completing all prerequisites, and submitting a thoughtful application, you can significantly boost your chances of admission. Once accepted, you’ll gain access to world-class facilities, mentorship from experienced faculty, and the opportunity to learn in one of the nation’s most diverse healthcare environments.
Whether you’re starting your first degree or transitioning into nursing later in life, Temple Nursing equips you with the skills, ethics, and compassion to thrive in today’s healthcare field.