2020 Accredited Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

The Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program at Rivier University prepares graduates to deliver patient care as primary health care professionals. Students in the online FNP program learn how to diagnose and treat patients, serve as their advocates, and work with a diverse population in various health care environments. The program covers topics in pathophysiology, health policy, family nursing theory, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum places a particular focus on the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to provide optimal patient care. The MSN program is designed to take between three and five years to complete, with courses running for 14 weeks. Graduates of the MSN-FNP program are eligible to sit for the licensing examination.

Online coursework is delivered through the Canvas learning management system, where students can communicate with peers and instructors, and some instructors may choose to use the system to administer exams. A self-paced Canvas tutorial is available to all new students. Distance learners have access to various support services, including tutoring, career development, and academic advising. With a strong Catholic foundation, Rivier University also offers online students the opportunity to become involved in Christian student groups.

To apply to the online graduate program at Rivier University, prospective students should have an active RN license and at least a 3.0 GPA from their prior academic experience. The admissions process requires applicants to submit a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a resume indicating a minimum of two years of professional experience. These documents, along with the official online application, are used for consideration.

The Master of Science in Nursing – Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) program at the University of Connecticut is suited for current nurse practitioners looking to advance their careers. The 44-credit online NNP program is facilitated remotely with a few exceptions: students must attend an on-campus orientation and two on-site simulations. The online master’s nurse practitioner program can be completed in five semesters as a full-time student or six to seven semesters as a part-time student. Coursework includes lessons in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, health assessment, and health policy. Graduates can sit for the neonatal nurse practitioner exam.

Online coursework is hosted on Husky Course Tools or HuskyCT, which is an extension of the Blackboard learning management system. Readings, lectures, and assignments are available 24/7, and students work independently to meet due dates and study for scheduled exams. Resources for distance learners include technical support, accessibility services, virtual library access, career development support, and online tutoring.

There are three start dates for the program, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To apply, students must have two years of professional nursing experience. An online application, a personal essay, three letters of reference, a CV, unofficial transcripts, and a minimum GPA of 3.0 are required for admission.

The online Master of Science in Nursing – Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program at Northeastern University is offered in both full-time and part-time formats. This program focuses on providing care to high-risk newborns in levels 2 and 3 in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and advancing current skills in diagnostic reasoning and delivery room management. The curriculum explores advanced pharmacology, epidemiology, and community health, pathophysiology, and neonate health assessment.

Online coursework is available through the Canvas learning management platform, which houses virtual teaching tools and class content. Students can access Canvas 24/7, allowing them to study at their convenience. While in the online master’s program, students can take advantage of a variety of academic resources, such as tutoring services, academic advising, library access, and mental health counseling.

Applicants must be active RNs with at least two years of experience in the NICU. The application process requires students to submit an online application, academic transcripts, a personal statement, 1-3 letters of recommendation, and a professional resume. Academic transcripts must indicate a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Gonzaga University offers two online nursing programs: a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The Family Nurse Practitioner track educates students according to a holistic view of health care. The 47-credit program can be completed in nine semesters and requires six on-campus immersions and 660 clinical hours. The Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track teaches students how to provide optimal care for a diverse community in various mental health care environments.

Online course material is offered 24/7 through the Canvas learning management system, where students can submit assignments, take quizzes, watch video lectures, download text resources, and engage with classmates and professors through discussion forums and email. Online students have access to resources such as the career center, the Foley Library, disability services, and tutoring.

To apply to Gonzaga University’s online MSN programs, interested students can submit an online application with their official transcripts, proof of unencumbered RN license, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. Students can transfer between six and nine credits from previous academic institutions.

The University of Texas at Arlington offers a Master of Science in Nursing for experienced RNs wishing to advance their careers in health care and become nurse practitioners. The online programs are available in several practice areas: Pediatric Acute Care, Pediatric Primary Care, Adult Gerontology Acute Care, Adult Gerontology Primary Care, and Family Nurse. The programs range from 36–46 credits and can be completed in 18 months to three years. Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the PNP-AC certification exam.

Coursework is facilitated through the Canvas learning management system and focuses on evidence-based practice, research and theory, and clinical experiences. Online students have access to academic coaches, online tutoring, and library resources.

Prospective students must submit an online application and transcripts, and they must have an active RN license plus at least two years of experience. GRE scores can be waived for applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

The University of Southern Indiana offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for experienced RNs looking to advance in their careers. The MSN is offered in four different nurse practitioner concentrations: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. These online NP programs are 42–44 credits in length with clinical requirements ranging from 545–705 hours, depending on the chosen nurse practitioner concentration.

The program is offered completely online via Blackboard, with the exception of a two-day orientation on campus and two-day, onsite immersive sessions. Online students have access to technical assistance and academic support.

Prospective students must have a GPA of at least 2.5 and the application requires students fill out an online portion in addition to sending their transcripts. The University of Southern Indiana does not offer distance learning in all 50 states, so students should confirm that their home state regulations allow them to enroll in this program.

Texas Woman’s University offers a Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program for experienced registered nurses who want to advance their professional skills in assessment, analysis, and diagnosis. The 46-credit online program is divided into 13 courses, nearly half of which require a clinical component. Students learn how to treat diseases and disorders while focusing on the patient’s entire well-being. Graduates are eligible to sit for the certification examination.

The curriculum focuses on treating diseases and disorders while considering the patient’s entire well-being. Students have access to clinical placement assistance and success coaches for program support. Students complete a simulation test during the final two semesters of the program to help them prepare for certification.

Admission is offered on a rolling basis, and students may enter the program in the fall, spring, or summer. Prospective students should submit an application form and fee, after which they will be connected with an admissions counselor to learn about additional required materials.

Seton Hall University offers two Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs for experienced, registered nurses: MSN in Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Primary or Acute Care and the MSN in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Graduates of the program can sit for the AANPCP exam.

Online coursework is delivered in an asynchronous format. Students must attend three on-campus experiences: new student orientation, an acute care/primary care practicum, and a final practicum to assess skills at the end of the program.

Prospective students of these online NP programs must have an active RN license and at least two years of experience in acute care and one year of experience in primary care. Applicants must submit their transcripts from a BSN program at an accredited undergraduate program, as well as a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and proof of liability insurance. Primary care applicants should have at least a 3.0 GPA, while acute care applicants should have a minimum 3.2 GPA.

The University of North Dakota offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with three specializations: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). The fully online programs are intended for RNs looking to advance as leaders in patient-focused health care. Students can start in the fall, spring, or summer sessions and finish in as few as eight semesters. The master's program feature 22 core credits (including an independent project) and three, four-credit advanced clinical practicums. Graduates of the PMHNP program will be prepared to sit for the certification exam.

Online courses are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system. This program offers small classes taught by experienced, board-certified faculty. Distance learners have access to student services like academic advising, technical support, and assistance with clinical placements.

Prospective students connect with an enrollment advisor when they begin their application process, which require the submission of official college transcripts and a personal statement. There is no GRE requirement for this program.

The Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi focuses on disease prevention and management. The program is designed for experienced RNs seeking to advance their skills as primary care providers for diverse patients ranging in age from infants to seniors. This 48-credit program requires students to pass a comprehensive exam to graduate. Graduates will be able to sit for the ANCC and ANNP national certification exams.

While the didactic coursework is facilitated online, there are on-site practicum requirements for students. Online learners have access to remote campus services such as technical assistance and an academic advisory committee to support students through graduation.

Prospective students must submit an application (fee is required) along with their transcripts and GRE scores.

The University of Texas Medical Branch offers an online Master of Science in Nursing program with four concentrations: Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. The program is intended for experienced registered nurses and is divided into 14 courses over seven semesters. The curriculum focuses on supporting and delivering family and community health in a holistic manner.

While the didactic coursework is facilitated mostly online, there are two to three days of on-campus simulation lab experiences required each semester, in addition to on-site clinical practicums. Online students have access to technical support at all times during their program.

Applicants to the program should have a BSN from an accredited program with a 3.0 GPA or higher. They must have an active RN license with at least one year of recent clinical experience. Applications require a resume, transcripts, and a letter of recommendation that focuses on the student’s experience and dedication to a nursing career.

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) offers experienced registered nurses several Master's of Science (MSN) in Nursing online programs, including an MSN in Nurse Practitioner, MSN in Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, and MSN in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. These online NP programs range from 46–49 credits and require 675–775 clinical hours. The didactic portion of the program is divided into seven-week classes, and students can choose from three start dates. Graduates can sit for the national FNP certification exam.

While the classes are offered online, students are strongly encouraged to attend the on-site student orientation. Online students have access to on-campus services like technical support and academic advising through UTEP Connect. Students also receive customized support from faculty and program directors to help them achieve success in this online program. Graduates can sit for the national FNP certification exam.

Applicants should be active RNs and submit their transcripts, resume, and letter of intent for admissions consideration.

The Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Southern California (USC) is designed for registered nurses who want a nurse practitioner certification. This 49-credit program s offered through the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and includes didactic coursework plus 784 hours of clinical experience. Students can choose from three start dates. Full-time students can complete the program in five semesters, while part-time students can finish it in eight semesters. Graduates can sit for the national nurse practitioner certification exam.

While coursework is completed online, students are required to attend two on-campus experiences during the program. Online students at USC have access to remote campus services, including academic advising and technical support.

Prospective students can choose from three start dates. Successful applicants to the program have a BSN with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, a current RN licensure, and at least one year of recent clinical experience. For accepted students who do not fulfill all these prerequisites, a two-credit bridge course is required.

The online Master of Science in Nurse (MSN) program at the University of South Carolina - Columbia is designed for registered nurses looking to advance in their health care careers. Students may select from three nurse practitioner programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. On-site immersive experiences are required throughout the program, allowing online students the opportunity to connect with classmates and faculty in person. Graduates of the program can sit for the national nurse practitioner certification exam.

Didactic coursework is offered asynchronously through Blackboard and AdobeConnect. Online students have remote access to academic advising and technical support services. They can also remain connected to their classmates and receive support from their faculty mentors through the Student Cafe informal discussion board.

Prospective students can apply online, but they must first check with their home state guidelines to see if they are allowed to enroll in the online NP programs at USC - Columbia.

The online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs at the University of Cincinnati are designed for experienced nurses seeking certification. There are three options for advanced nursing study: the MSN - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, the MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner, and the MSN - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. These online NP programs can be completed in less than two years, with three session start dates each year. There is also an accelerated direct-entry MSN program for those who do not already have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Online courses are facilitated 100% online through Blackboard; there are no on-site requirements. Students in this program have access to the same resources as their on-campus counterparts, including an international program, where students can gain valuable experience in global health.

Prospective students must have a current RN licensure and a minimum 3.0 GPA in their BSN degree, along with at least one year of clinical experience and a C or better in a statistics course. Applicants must submit a resume, a personal statement, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.

Saint Louis University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing programs for registered nurses seeking career advancement in the field with several specializations: Adult/Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. Graduates can sit for the national certification exam. Those who wish to become nurse educators can take a three-credit course in preparation for the National League for Nursing Nurse Educator exam.

While the majority of the curriculum is online, there are two required on-campus sessions, including a new student orientation. Students have remote access to library resources, academic advising, and the writing center. Faculty advisors are assigned as mentors to assist students through the program.

The admissions process is a comprehensive evaluation that takes into consideration transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a CV; some applicants may be invited for an interview. Before applying, prospective students should verify that their home state regulations will allow them to pursue distance learning. Competitive applicants will have a minimum 3.25 GPA in their Bachelor of Nursing degree coursework.

Northern Kentucky offers four specialization options for their online Master of Science in Nursing program: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Depending on the concentration, these 43–47 credit programs require 500–600 clinical hours and can be completed in 20–22 months. Graduates of the program can sit for the national FNP certification exam.

The online curriculum includes core classes, concentration courses, and a capstone class. Classes run in seven-week sessions, and there are multiple session start dates in the year. Online students have access to technical support, library resources, the Veterans Resource Station, and other campus resources.

Applicants to the program must submit an application and fee, transcripts from their BSN programs, proof of an active RN license, and proof of at least 1,000 hours of clinical experience. Students entering the program must have already completed a statistics course with a C or higher. Graduates of the program are able to sit for the national FNP certification exam.

The Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program at Sacred Heart University is a flexible graduate program for working professionals. This 42-credit program is intended for RNs who wish to advance in their careers as health care professionals and to work with diverse patients in a variety of settings. Students are required to complete three on-campus experiences and assessments throughout the program. There are three 16-week sessions each year, and students who take one course each session can finish the program in three years. Graduates of the program can sit for the national ANA and AANP certification exams.

Online coursework is delivered asynchronously via Blackboard. Students can connect with a student services coordinator for personalized support during enrollment. Through Sacred Heart, students may participate in practical experiences abroad to obtain a greater understanding of health care on a global scale.

To apply, students must submit an online form along with transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. Students should have completed a statistics and research course before entering the program.

The online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree at the University of South Alabama provides a flexible option for RNs wishing to advance their careers. Students can select from the following MSN concentrations, Adult-Gerontological Acute Nurse Practitioner; Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner; Family NP/Emergency NP (Dual Role); Family Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Dual Role); Family Nurse Practitioner; Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner; Neonatal Nurse Practitioner; Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner; Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitione; and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. Students are required to attend an on-campus orientation. Graduates of the program can sit for the AACN certification test. Students without a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) must first complete a sequence of core classes before enrolling.

Online students are assigned preceptors or mentors at their clinical sites for support during the program, and they have access to program faculty by phone or email.

Prospective students should confirm that their home state will allow them to study remotely. Students must submit an application and transcripts.

At the University of Missouri – Kansas City, an online Master of Science in Nursing is available for experienced RNs ready to take the next step in their careers. Online track options are available in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Women's Health Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse Educator. This 52-credit online program offers three start dates throughout the year. Students will need to attend on-campus residencies during their clinical courses. Graduates will be able to sit for the national certification exam.

Online classes are delivered on Canvas, and while some are held synchronously with mandatory class/discussion times, others are asynchronous. Academic advisors are available to support students throughout the program.

Prospective students are required to have at least one year of experience as a registered nurse. Students must submit an online application and official transcripts to apply. To be competitive, students should have at least a 3.2 college GPA and have taken classes in statistics and health assessment. Students should check their home state regulations to confirm that they will be permitted to enroll in a distance learning program.

George Washington University offers several online Master’s of Science in Nursing programs in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (RN to MSN), Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), and a Family Nurse Practitioner (RN to MSN). The programs are intended for experienced RNs looking to advance in their careers as health care professionals in critical care, home health, and family and community care. Students must complete an on-site skills assessment in the campus simulation lab to graduate.

Online courses are offered in a hybrid format, with sessions starting in the fall and spring. Students have access to the same services as on-campus students, including library resources, tutoring, career development, veteran services, mental health counseling, disability services, and technical support.

Prospective students should submit an application, official transcripts, and a personal statement to apply.

The Leach College of Nursing at the University of St. Francis offers two online Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs: the MSN- Family Nurse Practitioner and the MSN - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The advanced nursing curriculum is focused on scientific inquiry and collaboration in the delivery of health care to patients. The programs require that students complete 47–56 credits, with 19 credits of clinical experience.

The program is offered completely online in an asynchronous format. Students wishing to become clinical educators can enroll in education courses. Online students have access to campus services, including academic advising and 24/7 tech support.

Program enrollment is restricted to certain states; students should check their state regulations for distance learning before applying. Applicants must submit an application form, transcripts, an essay, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. A drug and criminal background check is also required.

The Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program at Loyola University New Orleans is designed for experienced RNs who want to advance in their careers. This 48-credit program includes over 700 hours of required clinical rotations. The curriculum focuses on pathophysiology, primary care for adult/women, and primary pediatric care. Students can also take electives in statistics, data management, and scientific writing. Graduates of the program can sit for the national NP certification exam.

The didactic curriculum is delivered through the Blackboard learning management system. Online students have access to a variety of campus resources, including academic advising and tech support. Incoming students will have an online student readiness checklist to help prepare for the program’s online delivery.

After applicants submit their online application, they will be contacted by an enrollment specialist to discuss next steps and required documents.