Top 50 Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

If you’re searching for the top online nurse practitioner programs, you’ve come to the right place. We know it’s difficult to go back to school while you’re working full-time as nurse so we’ve done most of the research for you. At rntobsnonlineprogram.com, we strive to match nurses, like you, to the best NP programs. We believe education is important and we’re excited to help you take the next step toward advancing your nursing career. If you would like to review other material peruse this article on how to become a registered nurse.

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

A nurse practitioner is an advanced practiced registered nurse (APRN), and must obtain at least a master’s degree and engage in advanced clinical training to work as a nurse practitioner. The primary difference between a nurse practitioner and a registered nurse is that an NP is allowed to prescribe medications, diagnostic tests and other treatments that RNs are not qualified to do. The necessity for a higher education also dictates the nurse practitioner salary will be more than a registered nurse. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurse practitioners earn considerably more than registered nurses—as much as $50,000 more than the average salary of an RN. In addition, the job outlook for nurse practitioners is expected to grow at a rate of 31 percent between now and 2022, a rate much faster than other job growth rates.

Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs

In addition to being much more accommodating to a busy registered nurse’s schedule than NP programs at traditional colleges, online NP classes also offer the following benefits:

Complete online coursework without worrying about mandatory logins
Flexibility to earn your nurse practitioner’s degree while working full-time
Contribute to discussion boards and submit assignments when your schedule permits it
Ability to use your place of employment to complete clinical/practicum requirements
Coursework is always accessible so that you can work on your NP degree at any time

Examples of courses you may take while working towards your nurse practitioner degree include:

Advanced Pathophysiology and Physiology
Decision-Making in the Healthcare Field
Advanced Comprehensive Health Assessments
Principles of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
Differential Diagnosis for Advanced Practice Nursing
Practicums, seminars and capstone courses

Some nurse practitioners decide to practice as a family nurse practitioner while others choose a specialty area in which to become certified. Popular specialty areas selected by NPs are Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Emergency Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and Mental Health/Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner.

Also, as you think about your schedule there are schools that offer a online associate degree in nursing.

What are Accelerated Nurse Practitioner Programs?

“Accelerated” online NP programs involve education-intensive courses that require a rigorous course schedule and a high level of dedication from the student. Generally, accelerated NP degree programs take less than 15 months to complete, about half the time of a regular NP program.

1. John Hopkins University

Established in 2010-2011, John Hopkins University‘s online family nurse practitioner program offers the convenience of pre-recorded, archived classes to registered nurses seeking their NP degree. This makes possible for busy RNs to access course materials when it accommodates their schedules.

A highly respected, private research university based in Baltimore, MD, John Hopkins University consistently ranks among the top 10 world’s best universities. In addition, JHU’s School of Nursing is ranked #2 among its peer institutions in the U.S.

Fast facts:

Per credit tuition cost is $1450 (this is for in-state and out-of-state students, full and part-time).
Application deadline is March 15 (John Hopkins does not accept students on a “rolling” basis).
Admissions URL: http://nursing.jhu.edu/admissions/apply/index.html.
Acceptance rate of those applying to John Hopkins University is about 20 percent, with the average GPA of accepted students between 3.75 and 3.96.
Graduation rate at JHU is nearly 95 percent. Annual salaries of most JHU graduates exceed $70,000.

2. St. Xavier University

One of less than 10 NLN designated, Centers for Excellence in Nursing Education, St. Xavier University is a private university comparable in academic reputation to John Hopkins University’s family nurse practitioner programs. In fact, SXU’s online nurse practitioner programs is ranked #1 by the U.S. News and World Report. Accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, St. Xavier University has campuses in Chicago, IL, Orland Park, IL and Gilbert, AZ.

Fast facts:

Tuition for part-time/full-time or in-state, out-of-state students is $670 per credit hour.
Although SXU has a rolling admission, the university prefers receiving applications for their nurse practitioner programs by July 1 for fall term and November 1 for spring term. Since class size is limited, they encourage students to apply as early as possible. To speak to St. Xavier’s Office of Graduate Admission, call 773-298-3053.
Students with GPAs averaging 3.00 to 3.33 are generally accepted into SXU’s nurse practitioner programs.
Registered nurses must complete 26 credit hours of supportive and core courses and an additional 20 credit hours of specialty courses. Graduates of St. Xavier University NP degree program will also need 600 hours of clinical practice experience.

3. Medical University of South Carolina

The Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Nursing’s online nurse practitioner/graduate program ranked #1 as the best online graduate nursing program in the nation (U.S. News & World Report, 2015). In addition to receiving a perfect “100”, MUSC’s online nursing program also garnered accolades for student engagement and faculty training. It is also the top hospital in South Carolina and one of the best in the country regarding the treatment of ear, nose and throat diseases.

Fast facts:

Students need a BSN degree before they can enroll in an MSN/nurse practitioner program (Fall admittance only).
Clinicals can be completed where the student resides. Occasionally, online nursing students at MUSC may need to travel to a clinical site if local preceptors are not available.
MUSC college policy states that all DNP/MSN students must graduate from their program within one and half years times the length of the program (three years from the date of enrollment).
Tuition for full-time students is $9553; for part-time students, tuition is $985.
Applications for admission into family nurse practitioner programs is available online only: http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/esl/em/admissions/application/nurs/dnp. Applications will be accepted for Fall enrollment through March 15.

4. Duke University

In 2015, Duke University’s School of Nursing ranked as the 6th best Online Nurse Practitioner/Graduate Nursing Program in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. A private research university based in Durham, NC, Duke University was originally established by Quakers and Methodists in the 1830s. Since then, Duke has developed into one of the nation’s preeminent universities with a highly selective admission’s process that puts it in the top 10 toughest U.S. universities in which to get accepted. Registered nurses applying for Duke’s online nurse practitioner programs must carry a 3.0 or above GPA.

Fast facts:

To complete an online family nurse practitioner program at Duke University, students must complete 49 credit hours of coursework and 728 clinical hours.
Duke provides the opportunity for students to complete their clinical work requirements at international sites.
In addition to offering dedicated perinatal and pediatric course for FNP students, the university also gives students the option for selecting areas of specialization (HIV, oncology, cardiology or orthopedics).
Duke waives the GRE if an applicant has a cumulative GPA of at least 3.4.
Tuition cost for one year at Duke University is $34, 500.
An in-person or phone interview may be part of a student’s admission process.

5. Ohio State University

Ohio State University’s specialty track is nationally ranked and meets NP curriculum guidelines set by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Advanced Nursing Practice, the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the Curriculum Guidelines and Program Standards for Nurse Practitioner Education. In addition, Ohio State University offers a midwifery-nurse specialty track that is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education.

A public research university located in Columbus, OH that ranks as the 54th best college in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, Ohio State University ranked 111th globally in the QS World University Rankings in 2011. Current Ohio State faculty members include members of the National Academy of Engineering, the Institute of Medicine, the National Academy of Sciences and a Nobel-winning physicist.

Fast facts:

To enroll in Ohio State’s nurse practitioner programs for fall term, all documentation needs submitted by June 1; for spring admission, October 15 and for summer admission, January 31.
Ohio State accepts 60 percent of those who apply every year. The average GPA of accepted students ranges between 3.4 to 3.7. Ohio State University-Main Campus sends acceptance letters to around 60 percent of those that apply each year
In-state tuition is $11,560; out-of-state tuition is $29,224; per credit hour fee is $723.
Full-time students taking online nurse practitioner programs at OSU can complete their degree in two years. Part-time students will require three years to obtain their NP degree.
Students in their final year of an NP program need to complete 200 to 225 clinical hours per semester in a primary care practice.

6. Vanderbilt University

Located in Nashville, TN, Vanderbilt University is a private research university founded nearly 150 years ago. Twenty years ago, the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing established a Ph.D. in Nursing Science degree program and recently started its nurse practitioner programs in 2008.

Vanderbilt University is also one of the first U.S. universities to initiate a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program as well as dual degrees combining FNP/Nurse-Midwifery.

Acceptance rates at Vanderbilt U. are highly competitive. GPAs of students accepted by Vanderbilt are between 3.9 and 4, with about 10 percent of those applying actually being accepted.

Fast facts:

Family nurse practitioner programs offered at Vanderbilt University are in a modified distance format. Students will need to attend on-campus classes for one week per month, for a total of 39 days on-campus. Nurse practitioner program students will also need to accumulate 630 clinical hours before obtaining their degree.
Online coursework is in the form of web conferencing, taped lectures, online discussions, and seminars. Clinical practicums can be completed in the student’s home area, if possible. Most students complete nurse practitioner programs in less than three years.
The cost of full-time tuition at Vanderbilt for NP students is the sum of $1219/per credit hour; $2200 for books; $675 for technology fees; $150 for clinical placement and $2200 for health insurance.

7. Duquesne University

Located in Pittsburgh, PA, Duquesne University is a private, non-profit Catholic university founded in 1878. Home to nearly 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Duquesne is unique in having an associate campus currently operating in Rome, Italy.

Duquesne University’s School of Nursing is ranked #75 by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best graduate programs globally of 2016. Other accolades earned by Duquesne include:

Ranked #9 as offering the Best Graduate Nursing Program for Veterans, 2015
Ranked #5 as having a Best Master of Science Nursing degree
Three times named as a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence

Fast facts:

Duquesne University has a rolling application system (no deadlines). Admissions email is nursing@duq.edu
Tuition for in-state/out-of-state students per credit is $1,077
Students applying to Duquesne University present GPAs between 3.23 and 3.45. Nearly 75 percent of those applying at DU are accepted.
Duquesne University is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

8. Stony Brook University—SUNY

Stony Brook University‘s School of Nursing located in SUNY’s Health Sciences Tower in Stony Brook, NY is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education. SUNY is a part of the State University of NY’s higher education system and employs more people than any other single site on Long Island—more than 14,500 people. Stony Brook consistently has 24,000 students enrolled in its various undergraduate and graduate programs, with 2400 professionals comprising its faculty.

Fast facts:

SUNY’s online nurse practitioner programs require students earn 42 credits and accumulate 500 hours of clinical practice. Most family nurse practitioner programs can be completed in two years. For further information about SUNY’s NP program, students can email dnp.nursing@stonybrook.edu
To apply for SUNY’s online nurse practitioner programs, students can fill out and submit an application at https://app.applyyourself.com/AYApplicantLogin/fl_ApplicantLogin.asp?id=SUNYSB-SN

Admission requirements include having a GPA of 3.0, written statement, malpractice insurance and possibly an interview (phone, in-person or teleconferencing)
Tuition costs for SUNY’s nurse practitioner degree programs range from $11, 615 to $12, 380.

9. Loyola University

Located in New Orleans, LA, Loyola University offers online family nurse practitioner programs for post-bachelor and post-master applicants. Loyala’s NP programs are entirely online but does require students to attend a one week orientation on campus as well as for a thesis defense once students complete their courses.

A private, Jesuit university that ranks eleventh in the list of best, Southern regional universities (U.S. News & World Report), Loyola boasts a faculty department staffed by a large majority of doctorate-holding professors.

Fast facts:

Tuition rates per credit at Loyola is slightly over $800.
The admission office evaluates each nursing student’s practicum hours to determine how many more hours they need to obtain their PN degree at Loyola. A total of 1000+ clinical hours are required to obtain a nurse practitioner degree.
Loyola University has an acceptance rate of 87 perent. The average GPA of students entering their PN programs is between 3.23 and 3.52.
Most students complete an online family nurse practitioner program at Loyola in less than three years, depending on whether they are full-time or part-time.

10. George Washington University

A private research university established in a Washington, D.C. neighborhood called Foggy Bottom, George Washington University, School of Nursing, is D.C’s largest higher education institution. Recently, George Washington University was included in the Times Higher Education report ranking the world’s best 100 universities that regularly “produced millionaires”. GWU came in at #52 on that list. In addition, GWU is also in the top 11 percent of U.S. higher education institutions offering graduate nursing programs.

Fast facts:

George Washington University practical nursing students must complete 36 hours of coursework. Students may need to provide proof of clinical hours completed in another Master’s program.
Nursing students entering a GWU practical nursing program at a post-bachelor’s level have to finish credit requirements applicable to their concentration (Nursing Management and Leadership or Family Nurse Practitioner)
Some courses included in a GWU Doctor’s of Nurse Practitioner program are Concepts in Population Health, Research Project Proposal, and Clinical Research Project.
Tuition for all nursing graduate programs is $50,000 per one year of full-time enrollment

11. University of Massachusetts

Located in Amherst, MA, the University of Massachusetts School of Nursing offers a DNP degree online with five specializations from which to choose: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner; Family Nurse Practitioner; Post Master’s DNP and the Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.

Umass Amherst is a public research university and flagship school of the UM system. Umass Amherst is also the largest New England public university and consistently ranks among the top 30 U.S. public universities.

Fast facts:

A three-credit online nurse practitioner program course at Umass Amherst costs $1155. Four credit courses are $1540. Umass Amherst also awards credits for certain life/work experiences.
Umass Amherst has an acceptance rate of 64 percent. Students admitted to the university carry an average GPA of 3.35 to 3.57.

12. University of Nevada

University of Nevada’s School of Nursing in Las Vegas currently accepts applications before February 1^st for fall admission but admits students into their nurse practitioner programs during odd years only—2017, 2019, etc.

A PhD-granting institution of nearly 30,000 students, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The UNLV has also been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as one of several research universities with “High Research Activity”.

Fast facts:

Acceptance rate for UNLV is 85 percent, with students possessing an average GPA of 3.3.
School of nursing graduate courses are all web-based. However, some classes may require students to attend an on-campus session. These on-campus classes are at the instructor’s discretion.
Nurse practitioner program students at the UNLV must have completed undergraduate nursing courses at an educational instititution accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Graduate courses cost $264 per credit hour. Nonresident graduate students enrolling at UNLVpay $6995 per semester plus the $264 graduate credit fee.

13. Rush University, Chicago

Prospective nurse practitioners can apply online at Rush University’s College of Nursing in Chicago, IL as long as they have a nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, a GPA of at least 3.0 and inclusion of substantive responses to personal essay questions. Applicants have a selection of specialized nurse practitioner programs that include Adult Gerontology-Acute or Primary Care; Family Nurse Practitioner; Neonatal Nurse Practitioner; Pediatric Acute or Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Fast facts:

Tuition for nurse practitioner programs is $11,360 for students taking over 12 credits or $999 per credit for those taking between one and 11 credits.
Acceptance rate at Rush University’s College of Nursing is 66 percent.
Enrollment deadlines: for fall, January 2nd; for winter, October 15th; for spring, August 3rd

14. University of Texas Medical Branch

Students enrolling in the graduate nursing program at the University of Texas School of Nursing in Galveston, TX can choose among several specialities: Family Nurse Practitioner; Neonatal NP; Clinical Nurse Leader; Gerontology Primary Care NP; Nurse Educator or Executive Nurse Leader. All specialities (except ENL) share common classes to make scheduling easier and more convenient for students pursuing dual degrees.

UTMB is unique for being one of a few U.S.-based, non-military facilities housing several Biosafety Level 4 research laboratories designed to study highly infectious diseases. In addition, UTMB’s MS nursing degree programs have been named the best in the U.S. by BestColleges.com

Fast facts:

UTMB’s School of Nursing prefers to admit students with GPAs higher than 3.5. Applicants need to show proof of earning a degree at a university accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
Nurse practitioner programs consist of 42 credit hours that are taught online, requiring just one visit to the campus (two or three days) per semester. Students can submit applications online through the Nursing Centralized Application Service.
Total cost of tuition is $24,000 for Texas residents and $43,000 for non-residents. Enrollment begins October 15 and closes March 15.

For more information, particularly for individuals looking into schools in Texas, here is a list of some of the best nursing schools in Texas.

15. Graceland University

Among all Missouri nursing schools, Graceland University’s graduate program ties for first place and ranks as a top 10 nursing graduate program in the nation (U.S. New & World Report). Located in Independence, MO, Graceland University has also been recognized as the Best College in the Midwest for 2015 by the Princeton Review.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Graceland University’s nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It is also fully approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and the Iowa Board of Nursing.

Fast facts:

Graceland’s family nurse practitioner program requires students complete 47 credit hours and maintain at least a B grade in each course.
Students must complete required semester hours within six years of enrolling in the program.
Tuition for Graceland’s FNP program is $720 per credit. Acceptance rate is around 50 percent.

16. University of Missouri, Kansas City

The University of Missouri’s School of Health and Nursing in Kansas City, MO is a public research university offering three, online nurse practitioner track options. These include Nurse Educator (41 credit hours), Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (45 credit hours) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (43 credit hours).

Princeton Review designated UMKC as a “Best Value” public university in 2012, 2013 and 2014. The U.S. News & World Report ranked UMKC’s School of Nursing 79^th in the nation.

Fast facts:

Students enrolled in nurse practitioner programs will need to visit the Kansas City campus several days to complete clinical aspects of the program. Those enrolled in the Nurse Educator program need to be on campus for their Advanced Health Assessment Skills classes.
Tuition for residents of Missouri is approximately $6000 per semester. For out-of-state residents, it is $14,000.
Students applying for UMKC’s nurse practitioner program need a GPA of at least 3.2, a BSN from an accredited university and an unencumbered licensure in the state where they complete clinical requirements.
Students must apply through the UMKC Admissions and submit their official transcripts to the university’s office.

17. Ball State University

Located in Muncie, IN, Ball State University’s family nurse practitioner program offers two tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator/Administrator. BSU’s website states that admission into its graduate nursing program is highly competitive. Meeting or exceeding requirements will not guarantee applicants are accepted into the program.

An Indiana higher education institution, BSU participates in the National Council for State Authorization for Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), a group that helps to ensure the highest quality standards are met regarding state authorizations for online learning.

Fast facts:

To be accepted into Ball State’s Fall, 2016, nurse practitioner programs, students have until February 9, 2016 to apply online.
The cost for online courses for Indiana residents is $386 per credit hour. For non-Indiana residents, tuition is $579 per credit hour.
Ball State University has an acceptance rate of 63 percent. Average GPA of students applying is around 3.25

18. East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s College of Nursing is located in Greenville, NC, and has been named a Center of Excellence three times by the National League for Nursing. The university’s MS nursing program ranked 18^th in the U.S. in 2015. Prospective students can read more about ECU’s College of Nursing here.

Nurse practitioner/doctorate programs offered at ECU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. ECU’s College of Nursing has also been approved by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Fast facts:

ECU is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the National League for Nursing and the Southern Council of Collegiate Education for Nursing.
The acceptance rate for Fall, 2014 graduation applications was 77 percent. Students wanting to enter the College of Nursing at ECU must apply online.
Tuition for North Carolina residents is $217 per credit. Non-residents must pay $835 per credit.

19. Georgia Regents University

Georgia Regents College of Nursing is located in Augusta, GA alongside one of four public research institutions in Georgia—the Medical College of Georgia. Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Georgia Regents University offers specialty tracks for students seeking their NP degree: Family Nurse Practitioner; Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse.

Fast facts:

Tuition for Georgia residents enrolled in GRU nurse practitioner programs is $430 per credit hour. Out-of-state residents will pay $1,132 per credit hour. Students wishing to pursue a Doctor of Nurse Practitioner degree must pay $453 per credit hour.

Non-Georgia residents wishing to apply for an online nurse practitioner course at GRU should email zgorman@gru.edu to ask about their state’s eligibility.

20. University of Kansas

Located in Lawrence, KS, the University of Kansas, School of Nursing offers students a choice of five different specialty areas: Nurse Anesthetist, Midwifery, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist. UK’s School of Nursing has been named as a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing and is the only nursing school in the area to be recognized by the NLN.

Nurse practitioner programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, an independent extension of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Fast facts:

UK’s Family Nurse Practitioner curriculum permits graduates to be eligible to take the national certification examination. They can also apply for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse license.
Clinical practice hours may be accumulated at Kansas City sites or other parts of Kansas. Students need to complete 75 credit hours of classwork to earn their NP degree. Most courses can be taken online, but a few may require students to visit UK’s campus.
Tuition for in-state graduate nursing students is $376 per credit hour. Non-residents must pay $880 per credit hour.

21. University of Pittsburgh

To enroll in nurse practitioner programs at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, students must have at least a 3.0 GPA, complete a pre-admission interview and one year of practical experience. If the student’s GPA is higher than a 3.5, they will not need to take the GRE.

The University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing ranks 5^th as one of the best graduate schools in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report) and 21^st in the list of best online graduate nursing programs.

Fast facts:

Tuition rates for online nurse practitioner programs are $24, 930 for a full year or $1020 per credit hour.
Admission for students pursuing the Doctor of Nurse Practitioner degree is for fall term only. Applications are only accepted between February 15 and May 1.
University of Pittsburgh’s School of Nursing in authorized to offer online nursing graduate courses to most U.S. states with the exception of a few states.

22. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati’s College of Nursing began offering online nurse practitioner programs in 2005. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the Information Management Education Agency and the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics, UC provides prospective nurse practitioners to specialize in Nurse Midwifery, Nursing Administration, Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric & Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist.

UC ranked #129 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of best universities in the nation. Recently, the London Times Newspaper ranked UC #190 on the list of top universities in the world.

Fast facts:

Requirements necessary to apply to an NP degree program include an active RN license, GPA of at least 3.0, one year of clinical nursing experience and an interview with the admissions committee.
Flat-rate tuition for students attending full-time is $ 6,395.00 per term. Full term, out-of-state residents must pay $7900 per term. Part-time tuition for each credit hour is $640.
Students can apply online between February and October for consideration by UC’s School of Nursing

23. Texas A&M University

The Texas A&M University’s Health Center offers the MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program in spring term only. Although most courses are online, students will need to travel to the university’s campus for class/clinical activities once or twice per semester. Practice experience hours can be earned in the student’s community, if possible.

Located in College Station, TX, Texas A&M University is the fourth largest university in the U.S. and the largest public university in Texas. The Times Higher Education Supplement ranked Texas A&M #61 among all North American universities and #141 among global universities.

Fast facts:

Full-time/part-time in-state students pay $372 per credit hour; non-Texas residents pay $734 per credit hour.
Average GPA scores of students entering Texas A&M is 3.6. Overall acceptance rate is 45 percent.
Students applying for online nurse practitioner programs must have at least a 3.0 GPA over the previous 60 hours of undergrad classwork. Texas A&M’s College of Nursing does not require GMAT or GRE scores.

24. Nebraska Methodist College

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Cental Association of Colleges and Schools, Nebraska Methodist College in Omaha, NE offers an online nurse practitioner program enhanced by a conferencing interface that allows for synchronous meetings to be held via videochat. However, the majority of classwork is done asynchronously to accommodate student schedules.

Fast facts:

Students are expected to complete 1080 hours of clinical practice before earning their nurse practitioner degree.
Percentage of Nebraska Methodist College female students is 90 percent
Cost per credit hour is a flat rate of $698
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

25. Maryville University

Located in St. Louis, MO, Maryville University’s online nurse practitioner program offers four specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult Primary Care NP, Pediatric NP and Adult Acute Care NP. A member of the North American Association of Colleges and Schools, Maryville University is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Additionally, Kiplingers has ranked MU among the Top 100 Values in Private Universities in the U.S.

Fast facts:

Tuition costs for full-time students (12+ credits) is $12,780 per semester. Part-time students will pay $766 per credit hour.
For every 100 students applying at Maryville University, 76 are granted admission.
Prospective NPs can enroll in specialty tracks that include Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice
Students may be able to complete their NP program in less than two years

26. Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ is the oldest Catholic university in the U.S and ranks #121 on the U.S. News & World Report’s list of universities offering top graduate nursing programs. Students can select the Acute or Primary Care Adult Nurse Practitioner program (at least 600 hours of clinical practice required) or the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner program (42 credit hours).

Fact facts:

Cost per credit hour for graduate nursing students is $1135
Students will need to visit Seton Hall campus for two or three days per semester to complete their degree.
Acceptance rate at Seton Hall is about 80 percent. Average GPA of admitted SHU students is 3.3 to 3.4.

27. Benedictine University

Over 120 years old, Benedictine University in Lisle, IL is a private Catholic university ranked #8 by U.S. News & World Report as having the highest freshman retention rate among Midwest master’s universities. It has also been ranked 6^th in Illinois for exhibiting racial diversity among Midwest graduate universities.

Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Higher Learning Commission, Benedictine University accepts applications for their nurse practitioner programs throughout the year.

Fast facts:

BU offers an accelerated format that allows prospective nurse practitioners to complete their programs with 12 to 16 months.
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, BU’s nurse practitioner programs are 100 percent online
Tuition rates are $650 per credit hour for quarters and $950 per credit hour for semester.

28. Clarkson College

Clarkson College offers two online nurse practitioner programs—Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner–that are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. Clarkson College is located in Omaha, NE and requires online nursing students to attend campus classes about two or three times per semester. Students enrolled in a family nurse practitioner program at Clarkson College can expect to earn their degree in two to three years.

Established in 1888, Clarkson College has maintained accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission since 1984.

Fast facts:

Tuition cost of Clarkson College’s nurse practitioner programs is $309 per credit hour

To begin an NP program in fall, students need to apply by July 1. To start in spring, students should apply before November 1. Summer semester deadline is April 1.

Nearly 65 percent of those applying at Clarkson College are accepted into their program.

29. Angelo State University

Located in San Angelo, TX, Angelo State University’s undergraduate and graduate programs are accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. ASU’s Department of Nursing offers the following specialized tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator and collaboration with Texas Tech for earning an Adult Care Nurse Practitioner or Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner degree.

Founded in 1928, Angelo State University belongs to the Texas Tech University System and has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic Serving Institution.

Fast facts:

Prospective nurse practitioners will need to complete 39 credit hours and maintain a 3.0 GPA
In-state tuition for 15 credit hours per semester is $3821
Angelo State University accepts 80 percent of applicants.

30. Michigan State University

Located in East Lansing, MI, Michigan State University’s College of Nursing offers nurse practitioner “hybrid” programs that combine face-to-face activities, clinical simulations and online learning. Students can select two areas of specialization: Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. According to MU’s website, reports from the American Association of Nurse Practitioner’s and the American Nursing Credentialing Center indicate that MSU’s College of Nursing graduates who took the 2014 nurse practitioner certification examination presented a 97 percent, first-time pass rate. be

Fast facts:

Tuition for students enrolled in MSU nurse practitioner programs is $717 per credit hour
Admission requirements to MSU’s nurse practitioner program include a minimum GPA of 3.0 and at least one year of clinical practice as an RN before beginning clinical sequence courses
MSU College of Nursing applications are due by March 1
Acceptance rate at Michigan State University is nearly 69 percent

31. Drexel University

Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA incorporates a College of Nursing and Health Professions that provides a Family Nurse Practitioner/Individual Across the Lifespan online program. Students completing this nurse practitioner program will be eligible to take the AANP FNP examination or the ANNC FNP examination.

A private research university founded in 1891, Drexel University is consistently ranked as one of the Best National Universities–Top Schools in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report. Drexel University is also considered a pioneer in offering technology-enhanced, online education for working adults.

Fast facts:

Nurse practitioner program students will need to make a few visits to DU’s campus to complete simulated clinical coursework in the College of Nursing and Health.
Per credit hour tuition for DU’s nurse practitioner programs is $890.
Drexel University’s nursing programs are accredited by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Although DU’s acceptance rate recently stood at 80 percent, the university has become more selective over the past few years.

32. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida’s College of Nursing in Orlando, FL offers a Family Nurse Practitioner program that prepares RNs for primary care medical practice. Following graduation, students can then take the FNP examination to obtain their state license and national certification.

One of 12 colleges comprising UCF, the College of Nursing’s graduate tracks have been ranked #24 by U.S. News & World Report as having one of the best nursing programs in the nation. UCF has also been designated an affordable college by Forbes Magazine.

Fast facts:

Applicants will need to provide an official transcript, have completed an undergraduate statististics course and show GRE scores
Tuition for students of UCF’s nurse practitioner program is $6370 per semester
UCF has a high selectivity rate and admits about four out of every ten applicants into their college of choice.

33. West Virginia University

Morgantown, WV is home to West Virginia University, a research university designated for having “high research activity” by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. WVU’s School of Nursing nurse practitioner programs have been ranked #36 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report in their list of Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.

Prospective NP students can choose one of several specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner or Nursing Leadership. Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing.

Fast facts:

NP programs are worth 44 credits and can be complete within two years (full-time). Students of online nurse practitioner programs must attend five, on-campus sessions in Charlestown, WV or Morgantown, WV.
Tuition for NP students is $406 per credit hour.
Graduates of their program will be eligible to take national certification examinations given by the American Nurses Credential Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Acceptance rate at West Virginia University is approximately 85 percent.

34. Boise State University

Established in 1932, Boise State University is the largest higher education institution in Idaho. U.S. News & World Report has ranked BSU #61 in the list of regional universities operating in the western U.S. Boise State University’s School of Nursing offers a hybrid Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner program that requires students attend seven to 10 days on-campus during the summer to complete simulation learning courses and take the Objectively Structured Clinical Examination.

Online degree programs provided by Boise State University have been ranked #1 by OnlineDegreeReviews.org, which ranks universities worldwide according to cumulative student reviews.

Fast facts:

Tuition costs for BSU’s AGNP program is $30,000 (50 credits times $600 per credit hour)
In 2014, BSU’s AGNP program was endorsed by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Overall acceptance rate at Boise State University is 77 percent.

35. Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University’s College of Health Science offers Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Founded in 1874 and based in Richmond, KY, Eastern Kentucky University maintains six other campuses in Manchester, Hazard, Danville, Corbin, Lancaster, and Somerset. EKU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. EKU has also been ranked by Forbes as one of “America’s Best Colleges” over the past four years.

Fast facts:

Deadlines for the FNP/PNNP online programs are July 1 (fall semester); November 1 (spring semester) and March 5 (summer semester)
Admission to EKU’s nurse practitioner programs is competitive. About six out of every 10 applicants are accepted.Tuition for one year of an NP program at EKU is $20,300

36. Western University of Health Sciences

The College of Graduate Nursing at the Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA was one of the first higher educational institutions in the U.S. to offer online family nurse practitioner programs. Founded in 1977, WesternU is non-profit, private graduate school accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Students can enroll in WesternU’s hybrid FNP program that integrates on-campus seminars and distance learning courses. Full time students of WesternU’s FNP program can earn their certification in two years. Part-time students will earn their degree in three years.

Fast facts:

Powerpoint lectures are available online for review at the student’s convenience. Readings from academic journals and textbooks are assigned as well.
Students will need to visit the campus two weekends per semester for group-skills laboratory meetings and taking examinations.
Tuition for full time students in the nurse practitioner program is $23, 482 for one year

37. University of Southern Indiana

Located in Evansville, IN, the University of Southern Indiana’s online family nurse practitioner program has been ranked #15 by U.S. News & World Report in the category of Admissions Selectivity and Faculty Training and Credentials. In addition, the program ranked #25 for Student Engagement and Accreditation and #71 for Student Services and Technology.

Accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation, USI’s College of Nursing and Health Professions offers an FNP degree program that requires students complete 42 credit hours and 665 clinical hours. The program is completely online. Students will not need to visit the campus to earn their FNP certification.

Fast facts:

Admission into USI’s College of Nursing and Health Professions takes place once a year. Spring and fall courses last 16 weeks. Summer courses last 10 weeks.
Tuition for Indiana residents is $337 per credit hour. Non-Indiana residents must pay $666 per credit hour.
Overall acceptance rate at the University of Southern Indiana is about 70 percent.

38. Frontier Nursing University

Hyden, KY is home to Frontier Nursing University, a higher education institution that originally began as the Frontier Graduate School of Midwifery in 1939. FNU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and licensed by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.

Students can choose among three NP specialties: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse-Midwifery and Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner. The Nurse-Midwifery program is accredited by the ACNM Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education. All NP specialties are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing.

Fast facts:

Students will need to visit the school’s campus four to eight days to complete their program.
Tuition for one year at FNU is $31,720.
Clinical hour requirements include 675 hours for the MSN and an additional 360 hours specialty hours.

39. Nebraska Methodist College

Nurse practitioner programs offered at Nebraska Methodist College in Omaha, NE include 75 credit hours that integrate online courses with clinical practice education. Completion of the program allows students to take the FNP certification exam through the American Nursing Credentialing Commission. Two, three-day sessions at the NMC campus during summer session and an on-campus orientation is required.

Fast facts:

A non-profit, private college, Nebraska Methodist College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
MSN/FNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Eduction
Tuition is $770 per credit hour
Acceptance rates have been falling over the past few years at NMC and is now at 33 percent

40. University of West Georgia

Located in Carrollton, GA, the University of West Georgia’s family nurse practitioner programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and combine online instruction with minimal campus visits. It is one of few degree programs in Georgia that offer a 95 percent distance learning education concentration. Classes are provided once day a week, with the option for students attend the class in person or online.

Fast facts:

Tuition is $310 per credit hour ($90 of that is “Etuition”).
Students taking UWG’s nurse practitioner program on a part-time bases can complete the program in six semesters instead of four semester (full-time)
University of West Georgia’s acceptance rate is about 50 percent.

41. University of Delaware

Located in Newark, DE, the University of Delaware’s Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner programs offers a full-time, hybrid curriculum that students can complete in two and half years. Part-time students will earn their FNP degree in about three and a half years. Both full and part-time students do need to visit the campus to complete clinical courses. In addition, students must complete 84 clinical hours within a 14-week period.

The largest and oldest university in Delaware, the University of Delaware also has satellite campuses in Lewes, Georgetown, Wilmington and Dover. It is considered a research university with “high research activity” designated by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

Fast facts:

The University of Delaware tied for #29 in the list of top U.S. public universities, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Delaware residents attending UD pay $5615 per semester for tuition; out-of-state residents must pay $15,000 per semester.
UD’s acceptance rate is 65 percent.

42. Texas Women’s University

The Denton, TX campus of the Texas Women’s University College of Nursing offers five specialty tracks for prospective nurse practitioners: Adult Acute Care; Adult/Gerontology; Family Nurse Practitioner; Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. TWU’s website states that a high number of applicants combined with limited slots have made admission rates competitive. Students should therefore submit applications as early as possible.

In 1950, Texas Women’s University had the first, nationally accredited nursing program in Texas.It is also the biggest, state-supported women’s university in the U.S and offers the largest nursing doctoral program in the nation as well.

Fast facts:

All NP tracks require students complete 46 credit hours of curriculum. An additional 23 credit hours of clinical work in specialty areas is also required.
Graduate tuition for Texas residents is $628 per credit hour. Non-resident tuition is $1018 per credit hour.

43. Wheeling Jesuit University

All Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration and Nursing Education Specialist courses are provided online at Wheeling Jesuit University located in Wheeling, WV. Practicum and clinical requirements can be completed in the student’s local community, when possible. Designated #6 among the best South Regional colleges in 2014 by U.S. News & World Report, Wheeling Jesuit University has also been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for the university’s commitment to community services.

Fast facts:

Prospective nurse practitioners applying to WJU’s NP programs must have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and a score of 800 on at least two of the three sections of the GRE.
WJU’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition costs are $9000 per semester

44. Samford University

Birmingham, AL is home to Samford University’s Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing where students can earn their Family Nurse Practitioner degree with the option to continue into a DNP program. Completing Samford’s FNP program qualifies students to take the FNP national certification examination with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center. According to SU’s website, their FNP pass rates are “consistently near 100 percent”. All nurse practitioner programs/classes are taught online with minimal attendance required on campus.

Samford University is Alabama’s #1, nationally ranked, private university, with 95 percent of its students in graduate school or employed within six months of earning an undergraduate degree.

Fast facts:

Tuition for nursing students enrolled in an NP program is $785 per credit hour
The acceptance rate at Samford University is 77 percent.
Samford also been ranked #4 by U.S. News & World Report in the list of Southern Regional Universities.

45. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA is a public research university with satellite campuses around Hampton Roads. One of the largest universities in the state, ODU is classified as a Carnegie Doctoral High Research University and operates a School of Nursing accredited by the Collegiate Commission on Nursing Education.

ODU’s Family Nurse Practitioner program is one of 17 in the nation funded to offer a “technology supported preceptor infrastructure”. In addition, the FNP program is fully approved by the Virginia Joint Board of Nursing and Medicine, which also grants nurse practitioner licensure.

Fast facts:

Students of ODU’s FNP program will need to attend activities at a location in Virginia to complete the physical assessment lab course. Students living out-of-state can complete the program by enrolling in accepted transfer classes.
Virginia residents pay tuition costs of $464 per credit hour. Non-residents must pay $501 per credit hour.
ODU’s acceptance rate overall is 78 percent

47. East Tennessee State University

Located in Johnson City, TN, East Tennessee State University and its College of Nursing is part of the Tennessee Board of Regents system of universities and colleges. The TBR is the country’s sixth largest public education system, with ETSU the fourth largest university in Tennessee. It has been named by the Princeton Review as one of “America’s Best Value Colleges”.

ESTU’s MSN/FNP degree is provided by the Regents Online Degree Program and includes four specialties: Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, Nursing Informatics, and Nurse Practitioner. Courses are offered summer, spring and fall and requires students complete between 34 and 46 credit hours, depending on the student’s concentration.

Fast facts:

Applicants need to apply to the Regents Online Degree Program. Selection is competitive and involves those students who meet admission requirements.
Application deadlines are February 1 for fall semester; July 1 for spring semester and December 1 for summer semester
Tuition for RODP students is $527 per credit hour (in state); $738 per credit hour for out-of-state students.

48. Grambling State University

Grambling State University is located in Grambling, LA and is a member of the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. GSU is also included in the University of Louisiana System and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Accredited by nearly 20 accrediting associations, Grambling State University’s programs are also 100 percent accredited by the Louisiana Board of Regents.

GUS’s School of Nursing offers these NP specialty tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner; Pediatric Nurse Practitioner; Nurse Educator and a Post-Master’s Certificate Program.

Grambling State’s overall acceptance rate is 44 percent and per credit cost for graduate nursing students is $1365.

49. Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and offers NP and DNP programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Gonzaga’s Department of Nursing offers an online nurse practitioner program that can lead to certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or Adult/Geriatric Nurse Practitioner.

For more than 30 years, Gonzaga University has delivered distance education degree programs. U.S News & World Report has listed Gonzaga has operating one of the nations’ best nursing schools.

Students enrolled full-time will pay $36,000 in tuition for one year. Admissions is fairly competitive at Gonzaga University, which has an acceptance rate of 66 percent.

50. University of North Dakota

The Department of Nursing at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, ND offers specialized tracks for RNs seeking to earn their master’s degree and become Family Nurse Practitioners; Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioners; Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; Nurse Educator; Nurse Anesthesia or Advanced Public Health Nurse.

The University of North Dakota was established in 1883 by the Dakota Territorial Assembly six years before North Dakota officially became a state. The largest and oldest university in North Dakota, UND is designated a high research activity university by the Carnegie Foundation. It is also ranked as one of the top 100 universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Tuition rates at UND for graduate students is $331 per credit hour. Acceptance rate at the University of North Dakota is nearly 74 percent.

The demand for specialized and family nurse practitioners is growing at a rate nearly three times as fast as any other occupation. To ensure you receive the best, accredited education available, we have compiled this comprehensive list of the 50 most reputable universities in the U.S. offering online nurse practitioner programs as well as numerous other undergraduate and graduate nursing curriculums.

Top 50 Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs

What are Accelerated Nurse Practitioner Programs?