30 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs | 2025

Thinking about pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner? Explore our rankings of the Best NP Programs based on specialties, empowering you to make an educated decision. Customize your educational journey to match your career goals, and let our rankings steer you towards a choice that leads to success.

In response to the growing demand for primary healthcare services during the 1960s, the nurse practitioner (NP) role was introduced to bridge the healthcare gap, offering comprehensive care encompassing medical diagnosis, treatment, and preventive services. Fast forward to the present day, amidst ongoing shortages of primary care providers, NPs remain indispensable healthcare professionals.

Over time, the scope of practice for NPs has expanded significantly, allowing them to specialize in diverse healthcare fields and cater to a wide range of patient demographics. NPs now play a crucial role in addressing primary care requirements and delivering specialized healthcare services across various specialties including but not limited to:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

Irrespective of their chosen specialty, all NPs are recognized as advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed master's or doctorate-level nursing programs, successfully passed rigorous board certification exams, and obtained state licensure for practice.

Best Psychiatric-Mental Health NP Programs 2025

A Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice nurse with specialized training in mental health and psychiatric care. They are qualified to assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for individuals with mental health disorders and psychiatric conditions. 

PMHNPs can prescribe medications, offer psychotherapy, and develop holistic treatment plans to address the mental and emotional well-being of their patients. They often work in settings such as psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, private practices, and community health centers, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive mental health care.

1. Rush University - Chicago, IL

Rush University's PMHNP DNP program focuses on developing knowledge and skills in behavioral and biological disciplines and then applying them to the treatment of individuals with psychiatric disorders. 

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $1,286 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Location: Online 
• Pace: Part-time or full-time
• Duration: 3-4 years 
• Class Size: 34 students
• Pathway & Credit Hours: 
  • BSN-DNP: 68
  • MSN-DNP (APRNs): 41
  • MSN-DNP (non-APRNs): 56

2. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH

The Ohio State University offers an online PMHNP program for aspiring APRNs specializing in mental health care. The coursework is entirely online, providing flexibility, and clinical experiences are completed close to home. The program aims to equip graduates with evidence-based knowledge, values, and skills for successful roles as PMHNPs.

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $9,682 (Ohio resident) per semester; $22,982 (Non-Ohio resident) per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Location: Online
• Pace: Part-time or Full-time
• Duration: 2-4 years or 4-11 semesters (pathway dependent)
• Pathway & Credit Hours: 
  • BSN-DNP: 72
  • MSN-DNP: 36 

3. University of Miami - Miami, FL

The University of Miami offers a Post Graduate Certificate in PMHNP. The program uses a multi-theoretical model to examine issues relevant to mental health and illness throughout the lifespan, preparing students to provide comprehensive and integrative psychiatric mental health care to those in need or at risk. The postgraduate PMHNP program at the university is available to board-certified FNPs, AGACNP, and AGPCNP. And PNPs.

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $50,841 total program cost
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Location: Hybrid
• Pace: Full-time
• Duration: 1 year, 3 semesters
• Credit Hours: 18

4. Duke University School of Nursing - Durham, NC

Duke University's MSN PMHNP program focuses on developing the expertise and skills necessary to provide comprehensive, integrated, and family-centered psychiatric advanced practice nursing for patients across the lifespan. Graduates are equipped for practice in community-based, rural, and urban healthcare settings. With over 2,000 national clinical partners, Duke prioritizes student success as experts in distance learning.

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $14,525 per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Location: Online
• Pace: Full-time
• Duration: 2.5 years 
• Credit Hours: 49

Duke University offers a BSN-DNP pathway and a post-master's DNP pathway for nurses who want to advance their education beyond an MSN. 

5. University of Cincinnati - Cincinnati, OH

The University of Cincinnati offers an online DNP PMHNP program that prepares nurses to provide various mental health services across the lifespan. Program highlights include faculty who are practicing nurses in the field, frequent curriculum review and updates to changing market needs, academic and clinical planning support throughout the program, and a network of more than 20 thousand UC College of Nursing alumni. 

Program Overview: 

• Tuition: $8,359 per semester (Ohio residents), and $8,509 per semester (non-residents).
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Location: Online
• Duration: 3 years, 9 semesters
• Pathways: BSN-DNP or MSN-DNP
• Credit Hours: 76-79

The University of Cincinnati also offers a fully online Post-Masters PMHNP certificate program. 

Best Family NP Programs 2025

FNPs are specialized in providing primary healthcare services to individuals and families across the lifespan, from infants to the elderly. They can diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of acute and chronic health conditions, order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and provide health promotion and disease prevention guidance.

FNPs often work in various healthcare settings, including clinics, private practices, hospitals, and community health centers, to deliver comprehensive and personalized care to their patients.

1. Duke University - Durham, NC

Duke University's FNP program is a part of its MSN degree and prepares students to provide primary healthcare services to families and individuals of all ages. The program emphasizes the integration of research and practice, with a focus on improving patient outcomes. 

• Tuition: $14,525 per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: MSN and DNP 

2. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN

Vanderbilt University's FNP program is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses to deliver primary healthcare to families throughout their lifespan. The program integrates a foundation of nursing theory, research, and evidence-based practice to develop skills in advanced health assessment, illness and disease management, health promotion, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.

• Tuition: $1,939 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: MSN and DNP 

3. Columbia University - New York City, NY

Columbia University's DNP FNP program is designed to prepare nurses to deliver primary health care to families in a variety of settings with a strong emphasis on equipping students with evidence-based knowledge and skills essential for effectively managing health and illness. The degree spans a total of 85-88 credits.

• Tuition: $26,788 per semester 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP 

4. University of California San Francisco (UCSF) - San Francisco - CA

The DNP FNP program at UCSF prepares nurses to provide primary health care services to families and individuals of all ages. The program prioritizes the integration of evidence-based practice and inter-professional collaboration in managing health and illness within the primary care setting. Applicants must hold a BSN and RN licensure, along with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

• Tuition: $32,541-$42,871 total tuition 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-DNP 

5. University of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia, PA

Since 1973, the University of Pennsylvania's MSN FNP program has been preparing APRN students to serve as primary care providers for families across diverse settings. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of acute and chronic health conditions. 

UPENN FNP students will need to complete 14 course units and can choose between a full-time pace, completing the program in 16 months, or a part-time schedule spanning 2 or 3 years, all within an in-person learning format.

• Tuition: $6,392 per course unit part-time; $98,644 per 14 course unit program 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN

There are several minors available to UPenn's FNP students including:

• Adult Oncology Specialty
• Health Informatics
• Integrated Nursing Care of Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Global Health
• Nursing Administration
• Nutrition
• Palliative Care
• Quality Improvement & Safety Processes in Healthcare
• Transformative Nursing Education

Best Pediatric NP Programs 2025

A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) is a specialized advanced practice nurse with expertise in caring for infants, children, and adolescents. PNPs can conduct assessments, diagnose and treat various pediatric health conditions, prescribe medications, offer health education to parents and caregivers, and focus on preventive care to promote the well-being of young patients.

They typically work in a variety of healthcare settings, including pediatric clinics, pediatricians' offices, hospitals, and schools, where they play a crucial role in delivering quality healthcare tailored to the unique needs of children and adolescents.

1. Duke University - Durham, NC

Duke University's MSN Pediatric Primary Care NP Program is designed to prepare pediatric nurses to provide comprehensive primary health care to children of all ages. The program emphasizes one-on-one clinical practice experience in a variety of settings, including pediatric primary care clinics, pediatric community practices, school-based health clinics, health departments, and hospital ambulatory settings. Most students complete this program in 2.5 years.

• Tuition: $14,525 per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: MSN and DNP 

2. University of Washington - Seattle, WA

The University of Washington offers a DNP pediatric nurse practitioner primary care program that prepares students to provide comprehensive care to children and adolescents in various settings. The program prepares students to:

• Make independent and interdependent decisions
• Develop and implement health policy
• Provide leadership in nursing and the community
• Direct accountability for clinical decisions
• Work in a collaborative space

Program Overview:

• Tuition: $10,826 per quarter (WA residents); $15,440 per quarter(non-residents)
• Duration: 3 years 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP 

3. University of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania's School of Nursing offers a Pediatric Primary Care NP Program, preparing graduates to provide comprehensive primary care services to children from infancy through adolescence. During the program, students will learn all of the PNP responsibilities, including well-child care, sick exams, health counseling, telephone management, behavioral issues, conducting research, and more. Study options include full- and part-time tracks, varying anywhere between 1-3 years in length.

UPENN PNP-PC students can complete 12 course units in-person, choosing between full-time (12 months) or part-time (1 or 3 years) schedules.

• Tuition: $6,392 per course unit part-time; $84,552 per 14 course unit program 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN

4. Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD

Johns Hopkins University offers a DNP Pediatric Primary Care NP Program emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and management of common pediatric health problems. It's offered online with onsite immersions over the duration of 3 years with a total of 81 credits and 1,000 clinical hours required to complete the program.  

• Tuition: $1,939 per credit
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP

5. University of Iowa - Iowa City, IA

The University of Iowa offers Pediatric NP - Primary Care (PNP-PC) and Acute Care programs with accreditation by the CCNE. These programs prepare students to care for children from birth through young adulthood. Various degree tracks are available including:

• BSN to DNP: 4-year plan of study
  • Total program tuition: $92,976 for Iowa residents; $174,438 for non-residents
• Post MSN/APRN to DNP: 3-year plan of study:
  • Total program tuition: $35,780 for Iowa residents; $54,752 for non-residents
• Second Certification + DNP: 3-year plan of study
  • Total program tuition: $53,920 for Iowa residents; $91,864 for non-residents
• Post-Graduate Certification: Total tuition: $13,394 for Iowa resident and non-resident
• Dual Certification: Total program tuition: $102,632 for Iowa residents; $193,019 for non-residents (using PNP-AC and PNP-PC as an example)

Best Neonatal NP Programs 2025

A Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) is a highly specialized advanced practice nurse with expertise in caring for newborn infants, particularly those who are premature, critically ill, or have complex medical conditions. NNPs are trained to provide advanced care in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and other neonatal healthcare settings.

They can perform assessments, diagnose and treat a wide range of neonatal health issues, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide specialized care to newborns and their families. NNPs are essential members of the healthcare team, ensuring the well-being and optimal outcomes of newborns in critical or high-risk situations.

1. Duke University School of Nursing - Durham, NC

The MSN NNP program offered by Duke University is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to provide care for both low and high-risk neonates, infants, and toddlers up to two years old, as well as their families, in various healthcare settings. To complete the program, students are required to complete 43 credit hours and 616 clinical hours, and most students finish within 2.5 years.

• Tuition: $14,525 per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: MSN and DNP 

2. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH

The Ohio State University offers some of the nation's best online neonatal nurse practitioner programs. Graduates are prepared with the skills and competencies to apply theory and research to practice with high-risk infants and their families, utilize research skills, expand knowledge by identifying research problems, contribute to the advancement of the profession, and more.

• Tuition: $9,682 (Ohio resident) per semester; $22,982 (Non-Ohio resident) per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP, and Post-Masters Certification

3. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, provides multiple pathways for aspiring NNPs. The MSN NNP program, designed for efficiency, can be completed in just 3 semesters of full-time study. It encompasses 41 credits, covering core MSN courses and specialized NNP training. Nursing students in this program can study without relocating, and the program is designed to be flexible for working nurses.

• Tuition: $1,939 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: MSN and Post-Graduate Certification 

4. University of South Alabama - Mobile, AL

As part of its diverse nursing programs, the University of South Alabama offers a comprehensive Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) specialty. This program prepares graduates to deliver advanced nursing care to neonates in various clinical settings, including NICUs, delivery services, and follow-up clinics. The MSN NNP Track classes are available online for convenience, accompanied by a mandatory orientation that ensures vital interaction with faculty and incorporates hands-on clinical skills workshops.

• Tuition: $594.00 per credit hour (graduate online courses)
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP, non-nursing BSN-MSN

5. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing - Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing offers an MSN and a post-graduate program for aspiring NNPs. Their MSN program accommodates both full-time and part-time students, offering a comprehensive curriculum encompassing core studies, theoretical coursework, clinical training, and elective opportunities.

UPENN NNP students may choose between a full-time pace of 2 years or a part-time schedule of 2 or 3 years, totaling 12 course units, all within in-person learning.

• Tuition: $6,392 per course unit part-time; $84,552 per 12 course unit program 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN

Graduates typically work in settings such as:

• Neonatal Intensive Care Nurseries
• Well Baby Nurseries
• High Risk Follow Up
• Teaching in undergraduate and graduate programs

 

Best Women's Health NP Programs 2025

Women's Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNP) are advanced practice nurses with specialized training in women's health and reproductive care and are qualified to provide a wide range of healthcare services specific to women across the lifespan. They can conduct gynecological examinations, provide prenatal and postpartum care, offer family planning and contraceptive counseling, diagnose and treat common women's health issues, and perform women's health screenings.

WHNPs also focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and addressing the unique healthcare needs of women. They typically work in settings like women's health clinics, obstetrics and gynecology practices, and family planning centers, and may collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive women's healthcare services.

1. University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing – Philadelphia, PA

The Women's Health/Gender Related NP Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing prepares students to deliver primary and preventive care to women across the lifespan, emphasizing reproductive health, family planning, health promotion, and disease prevention. The program is offered in full-time and part-time options.

UPENN's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program requires 13 course units and can be completed full-time in 14 months or part-time over 2-3 years, with in-person learning.

• Tuition: $6,392 per course unit part-time; $98,644 per 13 course unit program 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN

2. Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing - Atlanta, GA

Emory University offers a WHNP MSN program that focuses on comprehensive care for women. It's based on in-depth knowledge of theory, pathophysiology, research utilization, pharmacotherapeutics, and clinical decision-making skills. The curriculum meets the guidelines for education established by both the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health.

• Accreditation: CCNE

3. Columbia University School of Nursing – New York, NY

The WHNP DNP program at Columbia University School of Nursing prepares students to provide holistic care to women across the lifespan. The program emphasizes reproductive health, gynecological care, family planning, and health maintenance. 

• Tuition: $72,776 total tuition fee 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP 

Individual plans of study may vary and are reviewed and approved by the program director.

4. University of Washington School of Nursing – Seattle, WA

The DNP WHNP CNS program at the University of Washington School of Nursing focuses on providing care to families during the childbearing continuum: preconception through prenatal and birth processes and into the postpartum and early infancy periods.

• Tuition: $982 per credit 
• Duration: 3 years 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP 

The program is offered as full-time study only, and graduates typically take positions as:

• Maternity clinical nurse specialist
• Nurse manager
• Outreach educator
• Staff developer

5. Yale School of Nursing – New Haven, CT

The MSN WHNP program at Yale School of Nursing offers clinical practice experiences across various outpatient systems, from community health centers to public and private offices. It's accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and after graduation, students can sit for board certification as a WHNP, with the program boasting a 100% pass rate.

To complete the WHNP program at Yale School of Nursing students must complete 48 credit hours and 600 clinical hours. 

• Tuition: $49,018 per year 
• Duration: 2 years 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: MSN

Best Adult-Gerontology NP Programs 2025

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNP) are advanced practice nurses trained to provide comprehensive healthcare services to adults and geriatric patients, including those with complex and chronic medical conditions. They can assess, diagnose, and manage various health issues, prescribe medications, order diagnostic tests, and develop treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of their patients.

AGNPs play a crucial role in promoting healthy aging, preventing age-related illnesses, and managing the healthcare concerns commonly encountered by adults and older adults. They often work in settings such as primary care clinics, long-term care facilities, hospitals, and specialty practices that focus on the care of older populations.

1. University of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia, PA

The University of Pennsylvania College of Nursing offers an AGNP Primary Care and an AGNP Acute Care program focused on preparing advanced practice nurses to provide primary care services to adult and geriatric populations across various settings. The program is predominately in person and requires a minimum of 1 year of work experience caring for acutely ill or medically complex patients prior to applying.

AGNP students at UPenn must complete 12 course units, and can choose between a full-time pace, completing the program in 15 months, or a part-time schedule spanning 2-3 years, all within an in-person learning format.

• Tuition: $6,392 per course unit part-time; $84,552 per 12-course unit program 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN

2. Duke University - Durham, NC

To complete the AGACNP program at Duke, students must complete 48 credit hours and 728 clinical hours, which usually takes 2.5 years to finish.

• Tuition: $14,525 per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: BSN-MSN, BSN-DNP, Post-Masters DNP

3. Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD

Johns Hopkins University offers an DNP Adult Gerontological Primary Care NP (AHPCNP) program that prepares nurses to provide comprehensive primary care to adult and older adult patients. The program spans 3 years in duration and is offered online with onsite immersions. 

• Tuition: $1,939 per credit
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP

4. University of Washington - Seattle, WA

The University of Washington's DNP Adult Gerontological Primary Care (AGPCNP) program trains nurses to provide advanced care to acutely and critically ill adults and older adults. To complete this programs APRN students are required to complete 93 credit hours over a duration of 3 years. 

• Tuition: $982 per credit
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP 

Graduates from the program work in a variety of settings -- including Primary care, Internal medicine, Skilled/long-term care, Urgent care, Oncology, Cardiology, Neurology, and Veteran health.

Graduates of the AGPCNP program are eligible to sit for the AGNP Primary Care examination through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program (AANPCP).

5. Columbia University - New York, NY

Columbia University offers a DNP AGPCNP program designed to prepare nurses to care for patients who are acutely or critically ill across the continuum of acute care services. Students complete approximately 2 years of coursework -- including lecture, clinical, simulation, and a final intensive practicum. The program is a total of 80-81 credits.

• Tuition: $26,788 per semester 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathways: DNP 

Cost of Nurse Practitioner Programs 

The costs associated with NP programs vary greatly depending on various factors. When evaluating the expenses associated with an NP Program, it is important to consider the following key aspects:

• Tuition: Varies based on the institution's classification (public or private) and residency status. For instance, Ohio residents at the University of Cincinnati pay $8,359 per semester, while out-of-state residents pay $8,509.
• Program Pathway: A post-graduate certification program for Nurse Practitioner (NP) designation is cheaper than pursuing an MSN or DNP program since it focuses only on NP concentration. On the other hand, those who choose this option have already paid for an MSN or DNP program.
• Books and Supplies: Expenses for educational materials include textbooks, medical supplies, and others, with costs varying from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Technology: Additional charges for technology, software, or online resources may apply to online or hybrid programs. 
• Lab: Lab fees may be required for specific courses to cover materials or equipment usage.
• Miscellaneous: Include application fees, graduation fees, and other administrative expenses that may be incurred during the course of a program or activity.
• Living Expenses: Day-to-day living expenses such as food, utilities, and personal costs are especially relevant for individuals who are not going to work while pursing their APRN or relocating for their NP Program.
• NP Certification & Licensing: In addition to tuition, certification fees for NP board certification and state APRN licensure are applicable.

As a prospective NP student, consider applying for scholarships, grants, and federal loans with flexible repayment options. A solid financial plan keeps you focused on becoming a skilled healthcare professional. To reduce overall costs of going back to school, explore the most affordable NP programs of the year.

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.

2025 Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations

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.

NP Salary by State

^{Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.}

Is It Worth Becoming a Nurse Practitioner?

NP programs offer advanced training for nurses, expanding their scope of practice and potentially leading to more opportunities and higher salaries. However, these programs also require a significant investment of time, effort, and finances.

Pros of NP Programs

1. Higher Earning Potential: NPs generally earn higher salaries compared to registered nurses (RNs), reflecting their advanced skills and responsibilities.
2. Increased Autonomy: NPs often have more independence in their practice, including diagnosing and treating patients, and in some states, prescribing medications without physician oversight.
3. Expanding Job Market: The demand for NPs is growing due to healthcare industry trends, such as an aging population and a focus on preventive care.
4. Opportunities for Specialization: NP programs offer various specializations, such as family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatric care, allowing for career customization.
5. Positive Impact on Patient Care: NPs play a crucial role in improving healthcare access and quality, often focusing on patient-centered, holistic care.

Cons of NP Programs

1. Cost of Education: NP programs can be expensive, often requiring loans or significant financial investment.
2. Intensive Coursework and Training: The programs are rigorous and time-consuming, demanding a high level of commitment and often balancing with work and personal responsibilities.
3. Licensing and Certification Requirements: NPs must meet stringent licensing and continuing education requirements, which can be both costly and time-consuming.
4. Scope of Practice Limitations: In some states, NPs face restrictions on their practice, which can limit their ability to work independently.
5. Job Market Saturation: In certain areas, the NP job market can be competitive, with more graduates than available positions, particularly in popular urban locations.

Ultimately, deciding whether an NP Program is worth it depends on individual career goals, financial situation, and the commitment to ongoing education and professional development.

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP Program

Attending an accredited Nurse Practitioner (NP) program is important for several reasons:

• Quality Assurance: Accreditation ensures the program meets established standards for education quality, preparing graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge.
• Eligibility for Certification: Graduates of accredited NP programs are typically eligible to sit for national certification exams, which are required for practice in most states.
• State Licensure: Many state licensing boards require completion of an accredited program for NP licensure.
• Career Opportunities: Employers often prefer or require candidates who have graduated from accredited programs.
• Further Education and Advancement: Accredited degrees are generally recognized and accepted by other educational institutions for advanced studies or specializations.

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. 
• 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.
• 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.

Ranking Methodology

Programs are picked and ranked with our methodology of surveying readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools and by analyzing graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, admission rates, and more for hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

Survey: What's Most Valuable to Students?

1. We asked students and former students, "What are the five most important factors to you when choosing (or when you chose) your program?"
2. We compiled all of the responses.
3. Based on the number of responses and options for each specific survey, we calculated the average number of responses across all factors.
4. Each factor response total was taken from the survey and divided by the average calculated in step 3. This gets us the initial "weight" or importance of a factor.
5. The weight in step 4 was normalized to get a maximum score of 100.

Methodology Example

This example is to further elaborate on our methodology and is not representative of exact survey responses.

If 50 survey respondents each choose their top 5 factors across 10 different selections, they will provide 250 responses in total.

• The average response for each top 5 factor would be 25 (250/10).
• If "cost" was a top 5 decision-making factor for 50 respondents, or double the average, that would give it a weight of 2x an average factor.
• If each school was given a 1-5 score on each importance factor, there would be a maximum score of 125 (25x5). To convert to the maximum possible score of 100, we divide each school's score by 125.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to become an NP?

NP programs typically take 2-4 years to complete, depending on your prior education and whether you attend full-time or part-time.

Q: Can I work while completing an NP Program?

It depends on the program. Part-time options may allow for work, but full-time or intensive programs often recommend against it.

Q: Are NP programs available online?

Yes, many NP programs are available online, offering flexibility for students who need to balance work and personal commitments. These programs often provide asynchronous or live virtual classes, making it easier for students to complete coursework from anywhere while maintaining a structured learning experience.

Q: Do Online NP programs require clinical hours?

Yes, all NP programs, including online ones, require supervised clinical hours. These typically range from 750 to 1,000 hours, depending on the program and specialty, and must be completed in-person at approved clinical sites.

Q: How do online or hybrid NP programs handle clinical preceptors?

Many online and hybrid NP programs require students to find their own clinical preceptors, though some provide clinical placement assistance or have established preceptor programs. Students often prefer programs that offer support in securing preceptors to streamline the process and ensure access to quality clinical experiences.

Q: What's the best NP specialty?

When deciding on the best Nurse Practitioner (NP) specialty, it's important to recognize that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal NP specialty varies from person to person based on individual interests, career goals, and the type of patients one is passionate about caring for.

The key factor to consider when making this decision is defining the kind of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) you aspire to become and determining the patient population you are most drawn to working with. Each NP specialty offers a unique and rewarding path, catering to distinct healthcare needs:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide primary care across the lifespan, from infants to the elderly. They have a broad scope of practice and often work in primary care settings, treating a wide range of medical conditions.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in mental health and psychiatric care, working with patients who have mental health disorders and emotional challenges. They provide therapy, medication management, and support for individuals in need.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the healthcare of children, from newborns to adolescents. They play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of young patients and may work in pediatric clinics, hospitals, or schools.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs specialize in caring for newborn infants, particularly those who are premature or critically ill. They work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and provide advanced care to newborns and their families.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs concentrate on women's health and reproductive care, offering services such as prenatal care, gynecological exams, family planning, and menopause management.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs focus on the healthcare of adult and older adult populations, addressing age-related health concerns and managing chronic conditions in these patient groups.

Ultimately, the best NP specialty is the one that aligns with your personal interests, values, and career aspirations.

Q: Is getting an MSN or a DNP better when becoming an NP?

The decision between pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) when becoming an NP is an important one and should be based on careful consideration of your individual career aspirations and circumstances.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN):

• The MSN is a traditional and well-established pathway to becoming an NP.
• It typically takes about two to three years to complete an MSN program, depending on your prior education and whether you attend full-time or part-time.
• MSN programs focus on providing you with the essential knowledge and skills to become a competent NP.
• Many MSN programs offer specialization tracks for various NP specialties (e.g., FNP, PMHNP, PNP) to align your education with your chosen field.

Consider MSN if:

• You are looking for a shorter and more cost-effective path to becoming an NP.
• You have clear career goals that can be achieved with an MSN, and you don't anticipate needing a DNP for your desired roles.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP):

• The DNP is a terminal degree in nursing practice and represents the highest level of clinical practice education for NPs.
• DNP programs typically take around three to four years to complete, as they include advanced coursework and a significant focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare policy.
• DNP-prepared NPs are often positioned for leadership roles in healthcare, including healthcare system management, policy development, and advanced clinical practice.

Consider DNP if:

• You aspire to hold leadership roles in nursing or healthcare administration.
• Your long-term career goals involve influencing healthcare policy, practice, or research.
• Your chosen NP specialty or certification requires a DNP degree.

Neither an MSN nor a DNP is inherently better than the other. The choice should revolve around your career goals, interests, and the specific requirements of your chosen NP specialty.