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by
allnurses (Editorial Team / Admin)
As the demand for skilled and versatile nurse practitioners (NPs) continues to grow, nursing schools across the country are expanding their offerings to meet this need. Among the most accessible options are Online NP programs that do not require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for admission.
These programs, available at the Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) levels, are specifically designed for registered nurses (RNs) looking to transition into more autonomous, higher-paying NP roles. By removing the GRE requirement, these programs eliminate a significant barrier, making advanced education more achievable for busy professionals balancing careers and personal commitments.
Online NP No GRE programs combine flexibility with comprehensive training, equipping RNs with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in advanced practice roles. Whether you're exploring admission prerequisites, tuition costs, or salary expectations, we've compiled everything you need to make an informed decision and take the next step in your career.
Best Online Nurse Practitioner No GRE Programs
The following programs have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, including 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
Duke University's MSN Program offers a comprehensive and flexible approach to advanced nursing education. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is designed to cater to a variety of nursing professionals with a diverse range of majors and specialties.
The MSN program at Duke University includes eight advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) majors and three non-clinical majors. These majors are offered as distance-based or online programs, providing flexibility for working professionals. The majors include:
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Health Informatics
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing and Healthcare Leadership
- Nursing Education
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
2. University of South Alabama
The University of South Alabama offers an online MSN program designed for nurses seeking specialization in various NP fields including adult-gerontology, family, neonatal, pediatric, psychiatric, and women's health. These programs emphasize the development of leadership, administrative, and quality improvement skills, all integral to advanced nursing practice.
Program Highlights:
- Online Flexibility: All coursework is delivered online, allowing students to continue working while completing their degree.
- Clinical Skills Lab: A state-of-the-art simulation skills lab is available on campus for skill development and competency mastery.
- Doctoral-Level Courses: Four courses in the MSN program are offered at the doctoral level, providing a head start for those pursuing a DNP degree.
- Learning Outcomes: Graduates should be able to integrate advanced nursing knowledge, demonstrate competence in advanced roles, use scientific inquiry for patient care improvement, influence health policy, and contribute to the nursing profession.
3. Northern Kentucky University
Northern Kentucky University's MSN program is a fully online course designed to elevate the careers of RNs. Established in 1992, this program offers a range of concentrations, including Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Executive Leadership.
Program Highlights:
- Flexibility and Affordability: The program is tailored for working RNs, offering a part-time curriculum that can be completed fully online.
- Diverse Concentrations: Six different concentrations are available, catering to various interests and career paths in nursing.
- Experienced Faculty: The program boasts faculty members who are dedicated to student success and have extensive experience in their fields.
- High Success Rates: Graduates have an average passage rate of 92 percent on ANCC and AANP certification exams.
- Program Length: Depending on the concentration and whether students are full or part-time, the program requires 33 to 47 credit hours and can be completed in two years or less.
4. Maryville University
Maryville University offers several online MSN programs structured to provide advanced nursing education and clinical experience. They focus on developing skills in areas like health assessment, disease management, and health promotion.
Specializations:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
5. Walden University
Walden University offers a CCNE-accredited MSN program designed for driven, change-focused nurses. The program is structured to accommodate a busy schedule, making it ideal for professionals who need to balance their education with other commitments.
Key Features:
- Specializations: The program offers five NP and four specialty practice specializations, tailored to the current demands of the field and nurses' evolving aspirations.
- Practicum Support: Walden provides enhanced practicum support through its Practicum Pledge™, ensuring students find a suitable practicum match.
- Flexible Learning Options: The Tempo Learning option allows students to personalize the length, cost, and pacing of their MSN program.
- Holistic Approach: The curriculum emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care and encourages students to play an active role in creating positive changes in healthcare delivery.
6. University of Texas at Arlington
The online MSN – FNP program at UTA is designed to prepare nurses to take on the role of a healthcare provider and health management resource in a variety of clinical settings. This program enables nurses to expand their advanced practice nursing skills and help patients achieve optimal health across their lifespan.
Key Features:
- Development of research, diagnostic, and clinical skills for health management needs of patients and families at each stage of life.
- Specialized knowledge in pharmacology, diagnostics, health assessment, advanced research, and clinical management.
- Clinical experiences in local areas, preparing students to assume a role as an advanced practice primary care nurse.
- Focus on collaborative relationships with other healthcare providers, considering economic, psychosocial, cultural, and environmental factors in healthcare delivery.
7. Regis College
Regis College offers an online MSN program, which is a virtual extension of their highly regarded on-campus program. This program is one of the largest NP programs in Massachusetts and is designed to cater to active nursing professionals. The curriculum is rooted in current medical practices and emphasizes critical thinking skills necessary for excelling as an NP.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: The program can be completed in 28-36 months.
- Total Credits: It requires 46-64 credits, with 64 credits for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration.
- Specializations: The program offers six specializations, allowing students to focus on areas of nursing that serve populations with unique needs.
- Career Paths: Graduates can pursue various roles, including primary care nurse practitioner, research specialist, acute care nurse practitioner, nurse manager, and more.
8. Texas Tech University
The TTUHSC School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of master's programs in nursing, designed to prepare graduates for advanced roles in healthcare. These programs are offered online, providing flexibility for working professionals, and include preceptor-guided clinical learning experiences that can be completed in or near the student's home community.
Program Highlights:
- Specializations: The master's programs cover various areas, including family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology acute care, pediatric acute care, pediatrics, and psychiatric mental health.
- Modes of Delivery: The programs are delivered online, making them accessible to nurses across the country.
- Clinical Learning: Clinical experiences are guided by preceptors and can be arranged close to where students live, providing practical, hands-on training in a convenient setting.
9. Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor University offers a comprehensive online MSN program designed for working nurses. This program is accredited by the CCNE and is tailored to meet the needs of busy professionals seeking to advance their nursing careers. Here are some key features of the program:
- Program Design: The program is uniquely structured for working nurses, allowing them to earn their degree without interrupting their work schedule. It offers a blend of flexibility and rigorous academic standards.
- Specializations: Students can choose from various NP specializations, including Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
- Flexible Scheduling: The program follows a 7-1-7 model, offering courses in 7-week terms with a 1-week break in between. This model is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.
Online NP No GRE Program Overview
Online NP programs without the GRE requirement provide registered nurses (RNs) with a flexible pathway to pursue graduate-level education, focusing on advanced nursing practice and leadership roles. These programs are offered as MSN or DNP degrees and cater to working professionals seeking to balance career advancement with personal commitments.
By waiving the GRE, these programs remove a common hurdle, streamlining the admissions process and making advanced nursing education more accessible.
Online NP No GRE Coursework
The coursework in an Online NP No GRE program is designed to provide nurses with advanced knowledge and skills in nursing practice, patient care, and specialized areas of healthcare. The curriculum typically includes:
- Advanced Health Assessment: This course focuses on comprehensive health assessments, including physical, psychological, and social aspects of patient care.
- Pathophysiology: Nurses study the changes in body systems and functions that result from diseases.
- Pharmacology: This involves learning about various medications, their effects, and proper administration.
- Primary Care Practices: Courses that cover the basics of providing primary healthcare, including diagnosis and treatment of common health issues.
- Specialized Electives: Depending on the program, there may be electives in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, women's health, or mental health.
- Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in healthcare delivery.
Online NP No GRE Clinical Training
Clinical training is a crucial component of an Online NP No GRE program, providing practical, hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. This training includes:
- Supervised Clinical Hours: Students are required to complete a certain number of clinical hours under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals.
- Diverse Settings: Clinical training can occur in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community health centers.
- Patient Care: Students gain experience in diagnosing and treating patients, developing care plans, and working as part of a healthcare team.
- Specialty Practice: Depending on the NP Program's focus, clinical training may include specialized areas like family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatric care.
- Skill Development: Clinical training helps in developing advanced nursing skills, including patient communication, critical thinking, and decision-making.
Online NP No GRE Graduation Requirements
Once admitted, students must meet the following requirements to complete the program:
- Course Completion: Students must complete all required coursework, which typically includes advanced practice nursing core courses and specialty courses.
- Clinical Hours: Completion of a specified number of supervised clinical hours is mandatory. The exact number can vary, but it's usually several hundred hours.
- Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs may require a capstone project or thesis, demonstrating the application of learned knowledge to a practical problem in nursing.
- Maintain GPA: Students are generally required to maintain a certain GPA to remain in good standing, often around 3.0.
- Licensing Examination Preparation: While not always a formal requirement of the program, students must prepare for the nurse practitioner licensing examination, which is necessary for practice post-graduation.
- Professional Standards and Ethics: Adherence to professional standards and ethical guidelines in all coursework and clinical practice is essential.
Online NP No GRE Admission Requirements
Enrolling in an Online NP No GRE program requires candidates to meet specific prerequisites and admission requirements. These criteria are designed to ensure that applicants have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success in advanced nursing practice.
Common admission requirements for an Online NP No GRE program include:
- Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most programs require applicants to have completed a BSN from an accredited institution.
- RN Licensure: Applicants must hold a current and unencumbered RN license.
- Nursing Experience: Some programs require a certain amount of clinical nursing experience, often a minimum of one to two years, preferably in a relevant field.
- Undergraduate GPA: A minimum GPA is often required, usually around 3.0, although this can vary by program.
- Prerequisite Courses: Certain undergraduate courses may be required, such as anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and statistics.
Once you meet the standard admission requirements, the next step is applying. Typical application requirements for Online NP No GRE programs include:
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.
- A personal statement or essay detailing career goals and program fit.
- A current resume or CV highlighting relevant experience.
- Proof of health insurance and completion of drug and health screenings.
- Participation in an admissions interview (if required by the program).
Online NP No GRE Program Costs
The costs of Online NP No GRE programs and the salary expectations after completing these programs vary based on several factors, including the institution, program length, and geographic location. Understanding these financial aspects is crucial for prospective students.
Online NP No GRE Costs
The costs associated with Online NP No GRE programs include:
- Tuition Fees: These can vary widely depending on the institution and program length. On average, tuition can range from $500 to over $1,000 per credit hour. Full programs typically require 30-50 credit hours.
- Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, there are generally fees for technology, student services, lab work, and other resources.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Students should budget for textbooks, software, and other necessary supplies.
- Clinical Placement Fees: Some programs may charge additional fees for arranging clinical placements.
- Travel and Accommodation: If any on-campus visits are required or for clinical placements, students might incur travel and accommodation costs.
- NP Certification & Licensing: In addition to tuition, certification fees for NP board certification and state APRN licensure are applicable.
If you're thinking about becoming an NP, don't forget there are scholarships, grants, and federal loans with flexible repayment options that can help make it more affordable. Taking the time to create a solid financial plan means you can focus on your education without extra stress.
Looking to save even more? Check out this year's list of the Most Affordable NP Programs in 2025.
2025 Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations & Career Outlook
Becoming an NP can bring both personal fulfillment and financial stability. Most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that NPs earn an annual salary of:
- Lowest 10%: $94,530 or $45.45 per hour
- Median: $126,260 or $60.70 per hour
- Mean: $128,490 or $61.78 per hour
- 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
The average salaries for NP specialties are:
- PMHNP: $139,486
- FNP: $130,295
- PNP: $135,161
- NNP: $139,590
- WHNP: $114,532
- AGNP: $242,952
NP specialty salary data by ZipRecruiter.
Industries with the highest levels of employment and the pay for NPs include:
- Offices of Physicians (137,030 NPs) $122,780
- General Medical & Surgical Hospitals (61,740 NPs) $135,610
- Outpatient Care Centers (25,440 NPs) $139,860
- Offices of Other Health Practitioners (11,400) $121,250
- Home Health Care Services (7,410 NPs) $146,850
Naturally, NP salaries will depend on various factors such as geographical location, years of experience, healthcare setting, employer, and specialty.
2025 Nurse Practitioner Career Outlook
The employment landscape for Nurse Practitioners, along with Nurse Anesthetists and Nurse Midwives, is on a robust upward trajectory. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these professions make up 349,600 jobs as of 2023, with a vigorous 40% growth anticipated by 2033. This surge is expected to introduce 141,200 new opportunities across these specialized nursing roles.
This positive trend is fueled by the aging population's healthcare needs and a general increase in the demand for healthcare services. Originally founded to enhance pediatric healthcare delivery, the NP profession has since broadened its reach, notably into mental health and geriatric care, aligning with demographic shifts. The burgeoning need for healthcare access ensures that the scope and significance of NPs will continue to grow.
Are Online NP Programs Without GRE Requirements Worth It?
Online NP Programs without GRE requirements offer a valuable pathway for nurses seeking to advance their careers. These programs are particularly beneficial for those who may find standardized testing barriers or for working professionals who need the flexibility that online education provides.
By removing the GRE requirement, these programs become more accessible, allowing a broader range of nurses to pursue advanced practice roles. The comprehensive curriculum, combined with the practical clinical training, equips graduates with the skills needed for higher-level responsibilities and often leads to increased earning potential and job satisfaction.
While online learning demands self-discipline and may present challenges in hands-on experience and networking, the trade-offs are often outweighed by career advancement opportunities and the ability to balance education with other life commitments. For many RNs, these programs represent a practical and attainable step toward achieving their professional goals in the nursing field and are therefore worth it.
Online NP No GRE Pros & Cons
Online NP No GRE programs offer a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help prospective students make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
Online NP No GRE Pros
- Accessibility and Convenience: Online programs provide flexibility for working nurses, allowing them to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities.
- No GRE Requirement: Eliminating the GRE as an entry requirement makes these programs more accessible to those who may have test-taking anxieties or who have been out of school for a while.
- Diverse Specializations: Many online programs offer a range of specializations, enabling nurses to focus on areas of interest such as family practice, pediatrics, or mental health.
- Career Advancement: Completing an NP Program can lead to higher salaries, increased autonomy, and more advanced career opportunities in the nursing field.
- Expanding Healthcare Access: NPs play a crucial role in expanding access to healthcare, especially in underserved areas, making this a socially impactful career choice.
Online NP No GRE Cons
- Self-Discipline Required: Online learning requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation, which can be challenging for some students.
- Limited Hands-On Experience: While clinical hours are part of the curriculum, some online programs may offer fewer opportunities for hands-on experience compared to traditional, in-person programs.
- Networking Challenges: Online students may have fewer opportunities for in-person networking with peers and faculty, which can be important for career development.
- Technology Dependence: Students must have reliable internet access and be comfortable with digital learning platforms.
- Clinical Placement Responsibility: Some online NP programs require students to arrange their own clinical placements, which can be challenging. However, other Online NP Programs Offer Placement Support to ease the process—explore these options to save time and effort.
Importance of Picking an Accredited NP Program
Choosing an accredited NP Program is crucial for several reasons:
- Quality of Education: Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards set by the accrediting body, indicating that it provides a quality education that is recognized and respected in the healthcare field.
- Eligibility for Certification: Graduates from accredited NP programs are typically eligible to sit for national certification exams, which are required for practice in most states. Non-accredited program graduates may not be eligible for these exams.
- State Licensure: Most state boards of nursing require completion of an accredited NP Program for licensure. Attending a non-accredited program can limit your ability to become licensed and practice as an NP.
- Employment Opportunities: Employers often prefer or require candidates who have graduated from accredited programs. Accreditation assures employers that candidates have received an education that meets national standards.
- Further Education and Career Advancement: Credits earned from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized if you decide to pursue further education, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
- Federal Financial Aid: Students in accredited programs are typically eligible for federal financial aid, including grants and loans, which is not always the case with non-accredited programs.
Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
NP Scope of Practice, Licensing, & Certification
The autonomy and responsibilities of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are closely tied to state-defined scopes of practice, varying from full independence to the necessity for supervision. The alignment of an NP's graduate program with these state-specific regulations is crucial, especially since some programs may not meet certain states' criteria. Understanding the scope of practice in your intended work state is critical for aligning your career goals with the appropriate NP role.
Essential Points for NP Scope of Practice:
- State Licensure: Like RNs, NP licensure is required in each state, with additional applications necessary for practice in new states upon relocation. However, when seven states join the APRN Compact agreement, some states will start implementing the APRN Compact License. Furthermore, prospective NPs should look into the state board of nursing requirements in the state in which you plan to practice to ensure your NP Program meets all the criteria to practice in that state.
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Practice Authority Levels Defined by the AANP:
- Full Practice: States like New York and Oregon allow NPs full patient evaluation, diagnosis, and prescribing rights without physician oversight.
- Reduced Practice: States such as Pennsylvania and Ohio require NPs to have collaborative agreements or supervision for certain practice elements.
- Restricted Practice: States like California and Texas impose limitations requiring NPs to have physician supervision for specific tasks.
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Certification: Specialty certification is essential for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in various practice areas, with national certification being a requirement for NP practice. NPs can obtain specialty certifications through various NP Certification Boards, including:
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs.
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for nine different NP specialties.
- The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation for Acute Care NP certification.
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC)for Neonatal NP (NNP-BC) and WHNP (WHNP-BC) certification.
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP certification.
Before practicing in a new state, it's imperative for NPs to research the specific Board of Nursing or equivalent regulatory body to ensure compliance with local practice requirements and scope.
NP Programs Near Me
Discover NP programs in a state near you:
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