Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Earning a nurse practitioner degree online can lead to exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the best programs available.
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Updated January 31, 2023

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Why Earn a Nurse Practitioner Degree?

Nurse practitioners (NP) are advanced practice nurses who have earned a master's degree, completed clinical training, and received licensure. Nurse practitioners examine and treat patients. They may work under the supervision of a medical doctor, but many states allow NPs to practice without supervision.

Experienced nurses with a bachelor's degree are excellent candidates to pursue a nurse practitioner degree online. These programs often require at least one year of nursing experience. Many nurse practitioners specialize in an area of patient care, which can lead to more career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects nurse practitioner jobs to grow 26% between 2018 and 2028, so students who earn a nurse practitioner master's degree online enjoy strong job prospects.

FAQ About Nurse Practitioner Degrees

How long does it take to become a nurse practitioner?

Most NP programs take two years of full-time study to complete. Graduates also need to complete licensure requirements, which vary by state.

What are the most common specialities for a nurse practitioner?

Common specialties for nurse practitioners include family nurse practitioner, adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, and psychiatric nurse practitioner.

What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a physician's assistant?

Nurse practitioners attend nursing school, while physicians' assistants (PAs) attend medical school. Both professionals may consult with or work under the supervision of medical doctors. NPs generally take a patient-centered approach to care, while PAs deliver a disease-centered approach.

What is the difference between a nurse practitioner and a physician's assistant?

Nurse practitioners attend nursing school, while physicians' assistants (PAs) attend medical school. Both professionals may consult with or work under the supervision of medical doctors. NPs generally take a patient-centered approach to care, while PAs deliver a disease-centered approach.

Are nurse practitioner programs online?

Yes, online nurse practitioner programs exist, including nurse practitioner master's online programs. Typically, students complete coursework online and practicum hours at an approved local site.

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Accreditation for Online Nurse Practitioner Degrees

Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to factors like faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation typically applies to nonprofit, degree-granting institutions, while national accreditation applies to for-profit, vocational and technical schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered the more prestigious of the two.

Programs within a school may also receive accreditation. To receive accreditation, programs must undergo a critical review and onsite evaluation by a third-party accrediting body. The program must meet a formal set of standards and procedures. Programs must demonstrate continued compliance with the standards and procedures to maintain accreditation. Accredited programs in good standing are more likely to offer a well-rounded, professionally relevant education than non-accredited programs.

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is the primary accreditor of nursing programs. CCNE accredits bachelor's, master's, doctoral, certificate, and residency programs. The agency is currently developing nurse practitioner residency program accreditation standards.

Career and Salary Outlook for Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners enjoy strong job prospects. The BLS projects a 26% increase in nurse practitioner jobs between 2018 and 2028, amounting to around 16,900 new jobs per year. NPs also earn strong salaries. The median salary for nurse practitioners in May 2019 was $109,820.

However, many factors influence salary, including industry, location, and experience. Hospitals pay the highest average salaries, followed by outpatient care centers. Meanwhile, NPs in California earn approximately $16,000 more per year than their counterparts in Minnesota.

Career Salary Potential
Bottom 10% Annual Salary Median Annual Salary Top 10% Annual Salary
Less than $80,670$107.030More than $182,750

Source: BLS

Specialties for Nurse Practitioners

Nurse practitioners often specialize in an area of patient care. Students generally choose their specialty when applying to a master’s program, so experience in the field is helpful. The most common NP specialty is family nurse practitioner. Family nurse practitioners fill advanced roles in hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices.

Psychiatric nurse practitioner is another common specialty. These NPs provide case management, therapy, and interventions to people in need of psychiatric care. Psychiatric nurse practitioners earn one of the highest average salaries among NPs. Programs offer various specialties, so students should research the offerings of each prospective program.

Courses in Nurse Practitioner Programs

Nurse practitioner students develop the skills necessary to assess, prevent, and treat acute and chronic illnesses. Students also develop research and analytical skills through projects and theses. Additionally, learners gain hands-on experience through clinical practicums, honing their patient care skills.

All students complete core coursework in nursing, research, and health assessment. Specialized courses may include healthcare delivery models and policy, health promotion at different life stages, and pharmacology. Courses vary by program, but we cover several common courses found in online nurse practitioner programs below.

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Certifications and Licensure for Nurse Practitioners

NPs need a license to practice, but licensure requirements vary by state. States also vary in how much they restrict a nurse practitioner’s ability to practice, with some allowing unsupervised practice and others requiring NPs to practice under a medical doctor’s supervision.

Restricted states generally do not hold reciprocity agreements with other states. However, some states are moving toward adopting a common set of requirements, which helps ease restrictions and make reciprocal licensure easier. Typical licensure requirements include a master’s degree from an accredited program, certification from a recognized certification board, and a current RN license.

The three most recognized certification boards for NPs are the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB), the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB). AANPCB offers family NP, adult-gerontology NP, and emergency NP certifications. ANCC offers family, primary care, acute care, clinical care, adult-gerontology, and psychiatric-mental health NP certifications. PNCB certifies pediatric nurse practitioners in acute and primary care.

Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

These rankings represent the best online nurse practitioner programs in the country - and the most affordable. Searching for the right program is a daunting process. To make your research easier, we provide information on important factors like tuition, credit hours, and degree specialties.

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At the University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate programs. The master of science in nursing is one of those degrees, designed for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in nursing or a related field. The graduate program provides advanced training in a format friendly to those who work or have to manage other obligations.

More individualized attention and opportunities to collaborate with peers are key benefits of the 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy. Learners in the MSN program complete specialized coursework and training focusing on advanced ideas and practices in nursing. By far the biggest benefit of this master’s is preparation for career advancement in this field and related ones, along with the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.

Tuition depends on state residency status, with Colorado students paying $6,786 per annum, and those living out of state paying $22,590. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. There are also student loans available, an option taken up by about 28% of enrollees at this institution.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$24,408
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,786
Out-of-state
$22,590
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
24,910
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

University of Alabama at Birmingham

  • Birmingham, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is home to rigorous graduate programs, some available online. One of these options is the MSN nurse practitioner pathway for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in nursing or a related field. This program successfully combines the rigor of graduate coursework with the flexibility of the online format.

More individualized attention and opportunities to collaborate with peers are key benefits of the 19-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy. Learners complete a strong curriculum in nursing delivered by faculty with industry expertise. This academic preparation is a prerequisite for higher-level careers in business and industry or a doctoral program in some cases.

Alabama students enrolled in the program pay a yearly average of $8,100, while those elsewhere pay $19,188. Many degree-seekers qualify for financial aid such as grants and scholarships from the school and third parties. When you add in student loans, used by about 48% of enrollees, there are plenty of ways to finance all or part of a program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Stony Brook University

  • Stony Brook, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From the Stony Brook, New York, campus, Stony Brook University is a public college with graduate programs in different fields. The institution’s 13 online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to study from wherever they live. Family nurse practitioner students can pursue the master of science in family nurse practitioner among the options.

The adaptability of this program is a big draw for students with a hectic schedule that demands flexibility. Caretakers, professionals, and other busy enrollees may immediately see how they can balance work, family, and their education. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

The admission rate for this school is 44% on average per year, but expect some variations across programs. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
26,814
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Maryville University of Saint Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

An emphasis on accessibility is a key part of Maryville University of Saint Louis’s mission, as it delivers programs for prospective graduate students pursuing programs such as family nurse practitioner degrees. Located in Saint Louis, Missouri, the school offers a ranked master of science in family nurse practitioner in its catalog of 15 online master's programs. People who may have had challenges pursuing graduate school because of their hectic schedules can appreciate this degree’s flexibility.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree or a related credential to apply to master’s programs. The MS in family nurse practitioner program offers advanced training for careers and other opportunities a bachelor’s alone could not provide. A doctorate or another terminal degree is the next step for some people who graduate from this program.

The school charges residents of Missouri or other states $14,346 per year. Many learners receive grants and scholarships, both from the school and outside sources, to help finance their degree. Loans offer a viable option to help fund students’ tuition bills.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,070
Out-of-state
$26,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
10,013
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

University of Missouri-Kansas City

  • Kansas City, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students should consider the University of Missouri-Kansas City for flexible programs that allow them to earn an advanced degree while they work. The pediatric nurse practitioner degree accommodates degree-seekers’ need for flexibility with a format that offers accessibility from anywhere you live.

The admission criteria for a master's varies depending on the degree, but applicants typically need a bachelor’s in nursing a related major. What draws students to a master’s like the pediatric nurse practitioner program is the advanced training it provides to people who want to assume leadership roles and other higher-level opportunities. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.

Students can expect to pay $9,542 per year in tuition if they reside in Missouri, and $24,636 if they are from out of state. Many learners receive grants and scholarships, both from the school and outside sources, to help finance their degrees. Loans may also be available as an option for many students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,991
Out-of-state
$24,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,542
Out-of-state
$24,636
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
16,388
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Northern Illinois University

  • Dekalb, IL
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Located in Dekalb, Illinois, Northern Illinois University is a public college. Nursing students can pursue the master of science in nursing among the options.

Graduate students can achieve their academic goals while attending to busy lives when they enroll. Busy enrollees may have access to recorded videos that facilitates anytime viewing and can complete their assignments within a reasonable timeframe as faculty allow. A hallmark of this institution is a lot of experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both rigor and flexible learning.

According to the latest data, the school accepts about 48% of applicants each year, but that may vary by program. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Consult with the program to find out more about entrance and application requirements like transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,466
Out-of-state
$9,466
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,922
Out-of-state
$8,922
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
16,609
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

American International College

  • Springfield, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At American International College, prospective graduate students can earn nursing degrees while they work or juggle other responsibilities. Accessibility is a key determining factor for many degree-seekers exploring graduate school, and the MSN degree addresses that concern with a flexible format.

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in the same major or a related field. A bachelor’s alone cannot provide the kind of advanced training students receive in a master’s such as the MSN program, and that is a key feature that attracts them. Degree recipients can also apply to terminal programs in their field, such as a Ph.D.

Residents of Massachusetts or other states pay $11,579 per year in tuition. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. Loans may also be available as an option for many students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,930
Out-of-state
$36,930
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,579
Out-of-state
$11,579
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
2,891
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students searching for flexibility should consider Drexel University for a degree. Though located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the school offers 39 online master's degree opportunities for remote learners, including the MSN in nurse practitioner. This degree does not require relocation or daily transportation, which contributes to the popularity among full-time workers and others who need flexible schedules.

A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. Students complete a rigorous curriculum that immerses them in advanced knowledge and field preparation that a bachelor’s alone cannot provide. Degree recipients can pursue a Ph.D. program or other terminal degree.

Tuition is $35,181 per year, regardless of state residency. Many learners help foot the bill by securing grants and scholarships from the institution and outside sources. Loans may also be available as an option for many students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,146
Out-of-state
$52,146
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,181
Out-of-state
$35,181
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
24,205
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

University of Rochester

  • Rochester, NY
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at University of Rochester. Learners with a nursing bachelor's degree in nursing may find the master's in pediatric nurse practitioner of particular interest. The degree provides the rigorous education expected from a graduate program using a flexible online format.

The 10-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio is a big draw for students who want more individualized attention and faculty mentorship opportunities. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by experts. The training learners receive is an important step for career advancement or a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges New York residents and out-of-state learners $51,705 per year. Grants and scholarships, both from the school and from third parties, can help reduce this cost. About 44% of the school’s learners take out a student loan, another way to fund their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,040
Out-of-state
$55,040
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,705
Out-of-state
$51,705
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
12,233
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

East Carolina University, a public college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the Greenville, North Carolina, campus. A leader in online graduate education, the school offers 41 remote master's programs. Nursing students can pursue the neonatal nurse practitioner master's concentration among the options.

Graduate students can use online education's flexibility and adaptability to accomplish longstanding goals. They can do so by using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. A key feature of online learning here is a blend of academic rigor and flexibility that strongly prepares students for advanced positions in their field.

The school’s admission statistics show that about 79% of applicants get in, with some variations across programs. Degree-seekers need a bachelor’s degree for admission to most master’s programs. Consult with the program to find out more about application requirements and deadlines.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
28,651
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

University of Cincinnati

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Family nurse practitioner students attend the University of Cincinnati for top-ranked degrees such as the online MSN with a family nurse practitioner concentration. The degree goes much deeper in training highly skilled workers in the field compared to a bachelor's. Those who complete the MSN program can also choose to pursue a terminal degree, such as a Ph.D.

Busy learners are drawn to the school because of the online format. Students report being able to continue their careers and engage in family life without sacrificing a master’s degree. Enrollees tend to do better in educational environments such as this, where personalized learning is emphasized and faculty support is available to all.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The admittance rate to this school is 77%, with some differences possible across programs. Students can expect to pay around $12,790 per year for tuition if they live in Ohio, and they can use grants, loans, and scholarships to help fund their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,476
Out-of-state
$24,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,790
Out-of-state
$24,532
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
39,263
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Michigan State University

  • East Lansing, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn degrees at Michigan State University, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. The East Lansing, Michigan, school offers a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program among its 19 online master's degrees. Learners can pursue this degree from anywhere, which adds to the curriculum’s appeal.

Applicants will need to review the program page for more admission information, but a bachelor’s is usually a starting point for a master's program. What draws students to a master’s like the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program is the advanced training it provides to people who want to assume leadership roles and other higher-level opportunities. The degree may satisfy the entry requirements for a Ph.D. program in this field.

Tuition is $18,858 per year for residents of Michigan, and $37,056 per year for nonresidents of Michigan. Paying for tuition is always a concern, and grants and scholarships are an avenue for exploration. Loans are another way to help pay for part or all of the program's tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,555
Out-of-state
$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,858
Out-of-state
$37,056
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
49,809
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Ball State University

  • Muncie, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students searching for flexibility should consider Ball State University for a degree. The master of science in nursing is one of the top-ranked programs that attracts remote learners, who can choose from 30 online master's programs at the Muncie, Indiana, school. Degree-seekers can pursue this degree from anywhere, which adds to the curriculum’s appeal.

Applicants to master’s programs usually meet entry requirements with a bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, and other criteria that varies depending on the program. A big draw to a master’s degree like the MSN program is the intensive coursework that provides enrollees with advanced preparation in their field. This credential lays the foundation for a doctorate or other terminal degree.

The tuition rate depends on residency, with people living in Indiana paying $8,850 per year, and $21,954 if they are residents elsewhere. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to find out if they qualify for grants and scholarships. Loans may also be available as an option for many students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,358
Out-of-state
$26,138
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,850
Out-of-state
$21,954
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
22,443
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Villanova University

  • Villanova, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students interested in pursuing a degree that provides a flexible format should consider Villanova University. A family nurse practitioner master's track is among the 17 online master's degrees delivered from the Villanova, Pennsylvania, campus. This adaptable degree opportunity makes graduate education accessible to caretakers, full-time workers, and anyone unable to relocate for school.

A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. A big draw to a master’s degree like the family nurse practitioner program is the intensive coursework that provides enrollees with advanced preparation in their field. Some degree recipients will continue onto a doctorate in this field.

The average tuition for students living in Pennsylvania or elsewhere is $20,506 per year. If they qualify, learners can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Another source of financial aid are loans, which students can pursue from the government or private banks.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,550
Out-of-state
$54,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,506
Out-of-state
$20,506
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
28%
Students Enrolled
10,848
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Simmons University

  • Louisville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Simmons University administers a number of quality online graduate programs. One of these options is the  BSN-to-MSN program for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in nursing. The degree provides the rigorous education expected from a graduate program using a flexible online format.

The school’s 5-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities to students. The curriculum is steeped in advanced theoretical concepts and practices in nursing. In an increasingly competitive workforce, those with a master’s degree stand out because of the rigorous academic preparation they underwent.

The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,000
Out-of-state
$6,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
209
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton

#16 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

The University of Texas at Arlington

  • Arlington, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Texas at Arlington, a public college, develops programs that provide a unique learning experience requiring little to no attendance on the Arlington, Texas, campus. The institution’s 13 master's degrees available from a distance help make the college a leader in online graduate education. Learners interested in becoming a family nurse practitioner can pursue the MSN in pediatric acute care nurse practitioner among the options.

Graduate students can appreciate online education's flexibility and adaptability. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. This format does not come at the expense of academic rigor or advanced career preparation.

The school admits about 83% of applicants each year, but this rate may vary across programs. Degree-seekers need a bachelor’s degree for admission to most master’s programs. Review the program website for all of the application details such as how to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,624
Out-of-state
$25,713
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,474
Out-of-state
$21,206
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
48,635
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Rivier University

  • Nashua, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From the Nashua, New Hampshire, campus, Rivier University is a private college with graduate programs in different fields. People who need flexibility are drawn to the institution because of the six master's degrees available online. Among the options is the MSN in family nurse practitioner for students interested in becoming family nurse practitioners.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which was designed with adaptability and flexibility in mind. Students can do so by using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. A hallmark of this institution is a lot of experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both rigor and flexible learning.

Based on its latest statistics, the school accepts about 75% of applicants each year. For consideration, degree-seekers usually need to have the requisite background like a bachelor’s in the major or a related field. Applicants may also need to submit official transcripts, provide letters of recommendation, and participate in an interview.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,440
Out-of-state
$32,440
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,340
Out-of-state
$11,340
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,332
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#18 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Kent State University

  • Kent, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Kent State University administers a number of quality online graduate programs. The MSN in women's health nurse practitioner is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in nursing who want to advance their career in this field. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.

Nurse practitioner students enjoy a 20-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio in their classes. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in women's health nursing. Obtaining this degree is of great benefit to those who want to advance their careers and pursue higher-paying positions.

The institution charges Ohio students $11,766 in tuition per year, and $21,952 for those living elsewhere. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. There are also student loans available, an option taken up by about 58% of enrollees at this institution.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,602
Out-of-state
$19,478
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,766
Out-of-state
$21,952
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
27,716
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is a private college located in Boston, Massachusetts, with a strong catalog of academic programs and a learning experience tailored to meet learners’ needs. With a total of seven remote master's degrees available, the institution is a leader in online education for graduate students. The MSN in psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner is one such option for students interested in the family nurse practitioner field.

Graduate students can achieve their academic goals while attending to busy lives when they enroll. Professionals, caretakers, and other busy enrollees can attend virtual sessions and complete assignments at convenient times. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

While you can expect some variation, the rate of acceptance is 85% of applicants on average per year. It’s typical for degree-seekers to need a bachelor's in the major or a related one to apply to a master’s program. Explore the program website for all of the application details, such as how to submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,600
Out-of-state
$33,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,230
Out-of-state
$22,230
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
7,366
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#20 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Valdosta State University

  • Valdosta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Nursing students from around the country attend Valdosta State University for the top-ranked online MS in nursing, one of the best in its class. The MS in nursing program prepares learners for higher-level work in the field than a bachelor's degree typically allows. The provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.

The school’s online format is a big draw for students who have a lot to accomplish and need adaptability. This flexibility gives students more control over their schedules and makes it easier to juggle multiple priorities. No matter if enrollees study remotely or on campus, they benefit from a supportive learning environment that includes faculty and community support.

For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. School data show the acceptance rate stands at 57%, but some programs may differ. Degree-seekers can use financial aid such as loans and grants to pay the annual tuition, which is approximately $4,572 for Georgia residents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,426
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,572
Out-of-state
$16,470
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
11,270
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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