10 Best Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs That Find Preceptors

As the demand for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) grows, so does the need for programs that not only provide advanced education but also offer essential clinical placement support. Many students struggle to find NP preceptors on their own, often spending time and money in the process. To address this, several online NP programs now offer preceptor matching services, ensuring students receive the mentorship and clinical experience they need.

Explore the best online NP programs with clinical placement support, including their structure, benefits, and prerequisites, for a smoother path to career advancement.

Best Online NP Programs That Find Preceptors for Students

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States. 

1. Duke University School of Nursing  - Durham, NC

Duke University School of Nursing is renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education, research, and practice. The school offers various MSN Nurse Practitioner programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of its students and the healthcare community.

Clinical Placements: Duke University School of Nursing recognizes the importance of real-world clinical experience. They have a structured preceptor program where experienced professionals mentor NP students, providing them with hands-on learning opportunities in various clinical settings.

Program Highlights:

• Diverse NP specializations including Family NP, Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP, Neonatal NP, Adult-Gerontology Acute and Primary Care NP, Psychiatric Mental Health NP, and Women's Health NP. 
• Most NP specializations can be completed in just 2.5 years. 
• Emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership.
• Access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and research facilities.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. 
• The estimated annual tuition for graduate students is $65,120. 
• At the completion of the NP Program, students will be awarded an MSN NP degree. 

2. Yale University School of Nursing - Orange, CT

Yale School of Nursing (YSN) is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to improving global health. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, YSN prepares its students for advanced nursing roles.

Clinical Placements: YSN's preceptor program is integral to its clinical education. Experienced clinicians mentor NP students, offering them invaluable real-world clinical experiences. The school collaborates with over 600 clinical and courtesy faculty to extend its curricula into more than 500 clinical sites.

Program Highlights:

• Comprehensive NP programs include Family NP, Psychiatric-Mental Health NP, Adult Gerontology Acute and Primary Care, Pediatric NP Acute and Primary Care, and Women's Health NP. 
• The majority of the NP programs can be completed in just 2 years at a full-time pace, with part-time study plans available for some of the NP specialties. 
• Accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. 
• The estimated annual tuition at Yale is $68,462. 
• At the completion of the NP Program, students will be awarded an MSN NP degree. 
• Emphasis on research, policy, and leadership in advanced nursing practice.
• Opportunities for global health experiences.
• Interdisciplinary approach to healthcare education.

3. The Ohio State University College of Nursing - Columbus, OH

The Ohio State University College of Nursing is dedicated to transforming health and improving lives through top-tier teaching, research, and innovation. The college offers a range of NP programs designed to produce leaders in the field.

Clinical Placements: The College of Nursing's preceptor program is a testament to its commitment to hands-on clinical education. Preceptors play a pivotal role in shaping the clinical experiences of NP students, offering them insights and expertise from the field.

Program Highlights:

• NP specialty pathways include the FNP, NNP, and PMHNP. 
• Accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. 
• Tuition rates are $9,682 per semester for OH residents and $22,982 for non-residents. 
• Emphasis on evidence-based practice, leadership, and innovation.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities.
• Strong community partnerships for enhanced clinical experiences.
• The university offers an array of pathways for nurses to enter the NP programs, including the BSN to MSN, BSN to DNP, and Post-Master's Study. 

4. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN

Nestled in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University is a distinguished nursing education hub. Vanderbilt actively links MSN students with preceptors through its clinical program, ensuring hands-on and enriched clinical experiences.

Program Highlights:

• Choose from 14 MSN options, each with specialized NP tracks to align with career goals.
• Explore interdisciplinary learning with Vanderbilt's dual degree program, MSN/MTS-DIV.
• Accommodate diverse needs with flexible MSN programs, including distributed course delivery and distance learning.
• Vanderbilt holds accreditation from CCNE and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
• Vanderbilt's nurse-midwifery program is fully accredited by ACME, reflecting excellence in midwifery education.

I thoroughly enjoyed my program. Depends on the kind of person you are toward your education, I think. Obviously I think applying and getting into Vanderbilt shows you are highly motivated anyway, but I didn't think of myself as very academic nor did I have any support in my education from many prior to attending. BUT, once I got to Vandy the support was amazing.

by kcheck5, MSN, APRN, NP. Join the conversation at Vanderbilt University PMHNP Fall 2024

 

5. Georgetown University - Washington, DC

Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown University is a cornerstone for producing highly skilled family nurse practitioners. Georgetown's clinical program connects MSN students with preceptors for practical clinical experiences.

Program Highlights:

• Georgetown FNP students achieved an outstanding 100% average ANCC School Certification Rate and an impressive 98.4% average AANPCB School Certification Rate in 2021.
• Nursing programs at Georgetown University hold accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring the highest educational standards.
• The MSN-FNP program requires at least 650 clinical hours, ensuring comprehensive hands-on training for students.

georgetown has a beautiful campus that is all in one place (all the buildings, the hospital are very close together and right next to georgetown). the university hospital is also a great facility and I'm hoping to get some clinical experience there during the program. 

by abrow283. Join the conversation at Georgetown CNL Fall

 

6. Marymount University - Arlington, VA

Marymount University, located in Arlington, VA, is a major center for nursing education. The clinical program actively links MSN students with preceptors, ensuring hands-on and enriched clinical experiences free of charge.

Program Highlights:

• Marymount University offers a 100% online MSN-FNP program designed for working nurses.
• Students can graduate in just over two years, fully prepared to sit for the AANP or ANCC FNP certification.
• Marymount University's program ensures a comprehensive learning experience with 750 clinical hours required for graduation.
• Accreditation through the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). 

7. Texas Woman's University - Denton, TX

Texas Woman's University serves as a premier institution for nursing education. For MSN-FNP students, the clinical placement process takes the burden of finding clinical placements or a preceptor in the program. 

Program Highlights:

• With 14 courses amounting to 45 credit hours, Texas Woman's University ensures a comprehensive curriculum for its nursing students.
• The program allows students to finish in 2 years full-time or 2.5 to 3 years part-time.
• The program is accredited by CCNE and SACSCOC and upholds the highest standards in nursing education.

TWU has a reputation in the medical center for being one of the top schools, on par with UT Houston... So far, I feel as well prepared as I can be.

by legume. Join the conversation at Texas Womans University

 

8. University of Central Florida - Orlando, FL

The University of Central Florida offers a comprehensive DNP program, providing an advanced pathway for aspiring family nurse practitioners. The clinical placement coordinator for the graduate program manages student assignments to clinical sites and preceptors, eliminating the need for students to find their own placement.

Program Highlights:

• The hybrid online FNP-DNP degree at the University of Central Florida offers a flexible learning experience, blending online coursework with intensives twice a year. 
• The required on-campus DNP Intensive occurs in both the fall and Spring semesters and provides enhanced learning opportunities.
• To graduate, students need to complete 74 credit hours, including a total of 1,020 clinical hours.
• A noteworthy achievement is that 100% of UCF NP students passed the national certification exam.
• Working full-time is not recommended for full- or part-time DNP FNP students. 
• The MSN and DNP programs at the University of Central Florida are CCNE-accredited. 

9. Walsh University - North Canton, OH

Located in North Canton, Ohio, Walsh University is a cornerstone for nursing education. When enrolled in the Walsh MSN-FNP program, you can rely on the support of a clinical placement coordinator who will work tirelessly with you to secure suitable clinical sites and preceptors for your clinical courses.

Program highlights: 

• Walsh University boasts AANP passing rates above the national average.
• Complete the MSN-FNP program in as few as two years while continuing to work, allowing for a balance between education and professional commitments.
• The program offers a competitive cost of $745 per credit hour.
• The MSN-FNP program at Walsh University includes three clinical rotations, providing 750 clinical hours.
• Walsh University commits to align with the 2021 AACN Essentials standards.
• Holds accreditation through the CCNE. 

10. Wilkes University - Wilkes Barre, PA

Wilkes University, located in Wilkes-Barre, PA, offers comprehensive clinical placement support for students in the MSN-FNP program.

Program Highlights:

• Flexible online MSN-FNP program, accommodating the needs of nursing professionals.
• The program reports consistently achieving board exam pass rates above the national average.
• Wilkes University's MSN-FNP program is CCNE accredited, meeting the highest standards of nursing education.
• Complete the program in 2.3 years, balancing efficiency and a thorough educational experience.
• The program requires 584 clinical hours, ensuring a comprehensive hands-on learning component.

What Is an NP Program That Finds Preceptors?

NP programs with preceptor matching services are designed to assist students by providing clinical placement support and securing free preceptors for their required rotations. Finding a qualified preceptor can be both time-consuming and expensive for students, as it often involves locating experienced NPs or physicians willing to mentor them. Programs that offer clinical placement services and cover the costs of securing preceptors are invaluable, ensuring students receive the hands-on training they need to confidently and competently transition into practice.

Nurse Practitioner Coursework

The coursework in NP programs is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in advanced nursing practice. This includes:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding the complex physiological processes and how diseases affect the body.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Knowledge about drug classifications, mechanisms of action, and appropriate prescription practices.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills to conduct comprehensive and focused physical, psychosocial, and health assessments.
• Disease Management: Strategies to manage chronic and acute illnesses in various patient populations.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Utilizing current research to inform practice and improve patient outcomes.

Building on this foundation, NP programs incorporate specialized coursework tailored to different practice areas. For example: 

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Programs focus on comprehensive primary care across the lifespan for individuals and families.
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP) Programs emphasize managing acute and critical conditions.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Programs concentrate on pediatric care, encompassing growth and development and family-centered care.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Programs focus on the care of newborns, particularly those with critical or high-risk conditions.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) Programs center on women's health, covering obstetric and gynecologic care, family planning, and reproductive health.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs address mental health assessments and interventions.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse PractitionerP (AGNP) Programs concentrate on comprehensive care for adults across their lifespan, emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention strategies.

Nurse Practitioner Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical part of Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, providing essential hands-on experience in various healthcare environments. In New Jersey, clinical training requirements differ based on the program and specialty.

According to the AACN Essentials, all advanced nursing programs must include 500 practice hours, covering both direct and indirect experiences. For NP programs specifically, the National Task Force Standards for Quality NP Education (NTFS) mandates a minimum of 750 direct patient care hours. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs require 1,000 or more clinical hours.

Students typically complete rotations in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, gaining a wide range of experiences. Training is supervised by experienced nurse practitioners and physicians, ensuring practical, guided learning. Depending on the program's focus, students receive specialized training in fields such as gerontology, pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, or psychiatric health, with emphasis on either primary or acute care.

Key Components of NP Clinical Training:

• Hands-on Patient Care: Diagnose, treat, and manage patients' health conditions in real-world settings.
• Clinical Decision Making: Develop informed decisions based on patient assessments and evidence-based practices.
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Work closely with other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive patient care.
• Procedure Skills: Learn and perform essential procedures such as suturing, biopsies, and joint injections.
• Preceptor Mentorship: Benefit from guidance, insights, and feedback from experienced NPs or physicians to refine clinical skills and knowledge.

Nurse Practitioner Program Duration

The duration of NP programs that find and secure preceptors can vary based on several factors:

• Program Type: Whether it's a Master's (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.
• Full-time vs. Part-time: Full-time students typically complete the program faster than part-time students.
• Specialization: Some specializations may require additional clinical hours, extending the program's length.
• Program Requirements: The number of required clinical hours and coursework can influence the program's duration.
• Student's Prior Experience: Some programs offer accelerated tracks for registered nurses with significant experience.

In general, most NP programs range from 2 to 4 years, with MSN programs typically taking 2 to 3 years and DNP programs taking 3 to 4 years to complete.

NP Program Admission Requirements

Before applying to an NP Program that assists in clinical placement and preceptor matching, candidates typically need to fulfill the following prerequisites:

• BSN: Holding a BSN degree from an accredited institution is the cornerstone for advanced nursing studies.
• RN License: An active and unencumbered RN license is crucial, as it demonstrates the candidate's eligibility and competence in the nursing field.
• Clinical Experience: Most NP programs require at least 1-2 years of RN experience, particularly in settings relevant to the chosen specialty. This hands-on experience ensures students have a solid practical foundation in patient care before advancing into their NP training.
• Academic Standing: A competitive GPA, typically 3.0 or above, in undergraduate studies reflects the student's dedication and capability to handle rigorous academic challenges.
• Advanced Courses: Some programs may require completion of advanced courses in areas like statistics, anatomy, or physiology as a foundation for NP studies.
• Professional Development: Participation in workshops, seminars, or conferences related to nursing can be an added advantage, showcasing the candidate's commitment to continuous learning.

Admission Application Requirements

Once the prerequisites are met, applicants must also satisfy the following program-specific requirements:

• Transcripts: Official records from all post-secondary institutions previously attended.
• Standardized Tests: Some programs may request Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, though this is becoming less common.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, 2-3 references from clinical supervisors, academic professors, or professional peers.
• Personal Statement: An essay that outlines the applicant's career aspirations, motivation for choosing the NP pathway, and reasons for selecting the specific program.
• Background Check: Many programs require a comprehensive criminal background check to ensure patient safety during clinical rotations.

Are NP Programs That Find Preceptors Worth It?

Opting for an online Nurse Practitioner (NP) program that includes preceptor matching services can significantly enhance your training experience, regardless of your specialty. These programs offer several benefits that streamline your path to becoming a Nurse Practitioner:

1. Eliminates the Stress of Securing Clinical Placements: Programs that arrange preceptors for you remove the challenge of finding clinical sites independently, ensuring you meet all clinical requirements without the stress of coordinating placements.
2. Exposure to a Range of Clinical Settings and Populations: With preceptor matching, you'll gain experience across diverse clinical environments, such as family practice, pediatrics, geriatrics, or mental health, preparing you to be a well-rounded practitioner.
3. Convenient Clinical Placements Close to Home: These programs often prioritize placing you in clinical sites near your home, saving time and money on travel while helping you build local professional connections.
4. Access to Knowledgeable and Experienced Preceptors: You benefit from working with seasoned professionals selected for their expertise and commitment to mentorship, enhancing your practical learning experience.
5. Customized Clinical Experiences Aligned with Career Goals: Clinical placement support with preceptor matching helps ensure your clinical rotations meet your specific interests and needs, whether in acute care, primary care, or another specialty, building confidence and skills tailored to your career path.
6. Comprehensive Professional Development and Networking: These programs facilitate mentorship and networking opportunities, crucial for career advancement in advanced practice roles.
7. Flexible Learning Options for Busy Professionals: With clinical sites arranged nearby, these programs offer the flexibility needed to balance work, studies, and personal commitments.
8. Avoid High Preceptor Fees: Securing a preceptor on your own can be costly, with some third-party services charging substantial fees. Programs with free preceptor matching services eliminate these extra expenses, and those who incur a fee will typically be less than that of an outsourced service.

Pros and Cons of NP Programs That Find Preceptors

While there are clear advantages to choosing NP programs that secure clinical placement locations and preceptor matching services, it's also important to consider potential drawbacks.

Pros of NP Programs That Find Preceptors

• Streamlined Clinical Placement Process: One of the most significant benefits is the ease of securing clinical placements. Students don't have to navigate the often challenging process of finding experienced mentors on their own.
• Quality Assurance: These programs often have established relationships with experienced preceptors and healthcare facilities, ensuring students receive high-quality clinical training.
• Time Savings: Students can focus more on their studies and clinical practice rather than spending time and energy searching for preceptors.
• Networking Opportunities: Being placed with established professionals in the field can provide students with valuable networking opportunities, potentially leading to job offers post-graduation.
• Structured Learning: With preceptor placements, students often benefit from a more structured and standardized learning experience, ensuring they meet all clinical requirements.
• Reduced Stress: The assurance of a preceptor placement can significantly reduce the stress and anxiety associated with the uncertainty of finding clinical mentors.

Cons of NP Programs That Secure Preceptors

• Limited Choice: Students might have limited input in choosing their preceptors or clinical sites, which could lead to placements that might not align with their specific interests.
• Geographical Constraints: The placements might be in locations that are not convenient for the student, leading to potential travel or accommodation expenses.
• Varied Learning Experiences: While the program ensures a placement, the quality of learning can vary based on the preceptor's teaching style, expertise, and the clinical setting.
• Less Initiative Required: Since the program handles placements, students might miss out on the learning experience and initiative-building that comes from seeking out and securing their own preceptorships.
• Potential Mismatch: There's always a chance of personality clashes or differing teaching and learning styles between the student and the preceptor, which can impact the clinical learning experience.
• Potential Additional Costs: Some programs might charge extra fees for preceptor matching services, increasing the overall cost of education.

Cost of Nurse Practitioner Programs That Find Preceptors

Pursuing an NP Program that offers clinical placement and preceptor matching can involve various costs. While the exact figures can vary based on the institution, program type, and location, here are general considerations:

• Tuition Fees: The primary expense for most students, tuition fees cover the academic instruction provided throughout the program. These fees can vary based on whether the institution is public or private, in-state or out-of-state, and the program's duration and reputation.
• Clinical Placement Fees: Some programs may charge an additional fee for facilitating clinical placements or preceptor matching services, given the added value and convenience they provide.
• Books and Supplies: This includes textbooks, reference materials, and other essential resources for coursework. Additionally, students may need to invest in medical equipment like stethoscopes, lab coats, and clinical tools.
• Technology and Online Access Fees: For programs that offer online courses or require digital resources, there might be charges for software licenses, online platform access, or technology support.
• Lab Fees: Certain courses, especially those with hands-on lab components, may have associated lab fees to cover the cost of equipment, materials, and facility maintenance.
• Graduation Fees: Some institutions charge a fee for graduation processes, which can cover costs related to ceremonies, diplomas, and administrative tasks.
• Licensing and Certification Exam Fees: Post-graduation, students will need to take licensing or certification exams. Preparing for and taking these exams can involve costs, including study materials, exam registration, and potential retake fees.

To minimize expenses for your nurse practitioner program, explore the top strategies in Best Ways to Pay for Nursing Schools for valuable tips and insights.

NP Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and their fellow Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are on the rise, as per Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data. The workforce, which stood at roughly 323,900 in 2022, is set to expand by a robust 38% by 2032, adding about 123,600 new roles.

This surge is fueled by the aging and expansion of the population. NPs, who first came on the scene in the 1960s for pediatric care, now provide a wide array of services, including in mental and geriatric health. As population dynamics shift, the reliance on and necessity for NPs are poised to climb.

Salary Expectations

NPs are not only finding personal satisfaction in their roles but are also enjoying substantial financial rewards. The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlight the attractive compensation NPs receive. Here's a breakdown:

• Entry Level NP Salary (Lowest 10%): $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
• Median NP Salary: $126,260 or $60.70 per hour
• Top Earners (Highest 10%): $168,030 or $ 80.79 per hour

The top-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

While the BLS provides a general overview, it doesn't delve into the nuances of NP specialties. For a more detailed look, ZipRecruiter's data sheds light on the average salaries for various NP specializations:

• PMHNP: $139,486
• FNP: $130,295
• PNP: $135,161
• NNP: $139,590
• WHNP: $114,532
• AGNP: $242,952

Based on ZipRecruiter's 2024 data, among the top three highest-paying roles for nurse practitioners are:

• Gastroenterology NP: $99,000-$400,000
• Internal Medicine NP: $118,000-$214,000
• Cardiology NP: $117,000-$190,000

The tables presented highlight the significant variation in NP salaries, influenced by factors such as geographic location, demand, specialization, and healthcare environment. Below, you can explore the NP salary differences by state to better understand NP pay where you live or work. 

NP Salary by State

Compare several careers with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

NP Scope of Practice Regulations

The extent of independence and duties in the Nurse Practitioner (NP) role is closely interlinked with state-specific legal frameworks governing their scope of practice. In various states, NPs are permitted to practice autonomously, whereas others require them to work under the supervision of a healthcare professional or a medical doctor (MD).

It's crucial for prospective NP students to investigate these state-dependent rules. Importantly, some Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) NP programs might not meet the prerequisites for practicing in certain states. Aligning your career goals with the appropriate NP role demands a thorough comprehension of the scope of practice laws in the state where you intend to work. Foreseeing these details is key to ensuring that your chosen NP Program is in sync with your professional ambitions post-graduation. Here are vital factors to consider:

• State Licensing: To work as an NP in a specific state, acquiring a license in that state is necessary. Should you relocate or aim to practice in a different state, applying for a new state license is usually required.
• State Scope of Practice Regulations: The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) classifies states by their NP practice environments:
  • Full Practice: In most states, NPs have the autonomy to evaluate patients, diagnose, order tests, interpret results, and initiate treatment plans, including prescribing medications, without physician oversight.
  • Reduced Practice: NPs in these states face at least one scope of practice restriction, requiring collaborative practice agreements, supervision, or other forms of collaboration with healthcare providers throughout their careers.
  • Restricted Practice: NPs in these states operate under significant constraints, with laws mandating continuous supervision, delegation, or team management by another healthcare provider. 
• Certification: Obtaining state licensure qualifies you to practice as an NP, but certification is specific to your specialty. If you're certified in a specialty (e.g., family, pediatrics, acute care), you must practice within that specialty's bounds unless you acquire additional certifications.

When planning to practice as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in a state different from where you intend to complete your NP Program, it's crucial to research the Board of Nursing or equivalent regulatory body in that state, as well as the NP school you plan to attend. This will help you understand the specific prerequisites and scope of practice for NPs in that particular state and ensure your NP Program will align with these regulations. 

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP School

Selecting an accredited NP Program is essential for several reasons, as outlined below:

• Quality Assurance: Accreditation signifies high educational standards.
• Skill Development: Programs foster comprehensive healthcare competencies.
• Innovation: Curriculum includes the latest healthcare research and practices.
• Clinical Hours: Accreditation confirms fulfillment of clinical requirements.
• Certification/Licensure: Graduates meet criteria for advanced practice credentials.
• Career Prospects: Accredited program degrees are preferred by employers.
• Credit Transferability: Credits are recognized for further educational advancements.
• Professional Credibility: Indicates training in line with national standards.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Accreditation is key for accessing federal student aid.

Nurses looking into NP programs should choose programs accredited by organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for these benefits.

How to Choose a Nurse Practitioner Program

The criteria for selecting a nursing program depend on individual preferences, although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

For prospective NP students, additional considerations include:

• Degree Outcome: Ensure the program offers the desired degree level—MSN, DNP, or post-graduate certificate.
• Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen NP specialty.
• Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
• Program Location and Format: Consider if you prefer online learning from home or in a classroom setting.
• Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
• Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
• Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support. 
• Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
• Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
• Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
• State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state you want to work. 

You and your preferences should determine how you choose the program. If you feel you study better without the constraint of limited time, then consider a traditional NP Program, which typically offers a more flexible schedule and a longer duration for coursework and clinical practice.

On the other hand, if you are eager to complete your education quickly and are comfortable with an intensive, fast-paced learning environment, an accelerated NP program might be the better choice.

Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do online NP programs with preceptor matching support enhance clinical training?

• Online NP programs with preceptor matching and clinical placement support provide a structured approach to clinical training by ensuring students are matched with qualified preceptors in their specialty areas. This arrangement helps guarantee diverse clinical experiences across various healthcare settings, from primary care to specialized fields like mental health or pediatrics. By securing these placements, the programs reduce the stress and uncertainty of finding clinical sites independently, allowing students to focus on developing the practical skills needed for their future roles.

How do online FNP programs differ from on-campus ones in terms of clinical practicum?

• Both online FNP programs and on-campus versions aim to prepare students to become primary care providers. However, online FNP programs often offer more flexibility in terms of coursework, while still ensuring nursing students receive the necessary clinical practicum experiences, often facilitated through preceptor placements in areas like mental health, women's health, and health promotion.

What should I consider when looking at the credit hour requirements of an online MSN program?

• When evaluating an online MSN program, consider the total credit hour requirements in relation to the program's duration, curriculum depth, and any specialization tracks. It's also essential to factor in how these credit hours are divided between coursework and clinical practicum, ensuring a comprehensive nursing education.

How important is the pass rate for NP programs in determining their quality?

• The pass rate, especially for licensure and certification exams, is a significant indicator of a program's effectiveness in preparing its students for a successful nursing career. High pass rates often reflect rigorous academic standards, quality preceptor placements, and a strong emphasis on real-world clinical training.

Are there specializations within NP programs that focus on areas like mental health or women's health?

• Many NP programs offer specialization tracks tailored to specific areas of care, such as mental health, women's health, or primary care. These specializations allow students to dive deeper into specific areas, preparing them for roles that cater to particular patient populations.