Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Maryland | 2025

Explore top NP programs in Maryland, offering comprehensive details on NP program curricula, admission criteria, salary expectations, and tips for selecting the perfect program for your needs. Programs

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Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career or generally curious about the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best NP programs in Maryland as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and tips to choose the best program for you. 

Best NP Programs in Maryland - Online & Campus

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, 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. John Hopkins University

In the heart of Baltimore, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advanced Practice program at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing is designed to unlock the full potential of an advanced nursing career. The program emphasizes building close relationships with world-renowned faculty experienced in advanced clinical practice, leadership, and patient safety. It also offers networking opportunities with other emerging nurse leaders. Students receive dedicated faculty and staff support for project development and graduate-level academic assistance, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive environment for professional growth.

NP Program Details:

  • Duration: 3 years
  • Accreditation: CCNE 
  • Format: Online with onsite immersions (specific requirements for Adult-Gerontological Acute and Nurse Anesthesia tracks)
  • NP Concentrations: The program includes various tracks such as Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Admission Criteria:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an entry-level nursing master's degree from an accredited institution
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • Current nursing license and one year of full-time RN experience preferred
  • Three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, resume/CV, goal statement
  • GRE scores (optional), interview with faculty (if applicable), TOEFL or IELTS for non-native English speakers

Tuition & Financial Aid:

  • Estimated Tuition Cost: $50,079 (full-time per year)
  • Financial aid options include grants, scholarships, federal loans, and employment programs.

2. University of Maryland

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) in Baltimore prepares elite nursing professionals to lead in today's complex healthcare system. The program focuses on applying evolving best practices to make significant improvements in patient care. UMSON offers a comprehensive curriculum covering evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership, equipping graduates with clinical, organizational, economic, and leadership skills.

Additionally, UMSON provides four pathways to the DNP, catering to students with different backgrounds and goals, including those with a BSN, master's in nursing, current nurse practitioners, or those looking to change their specialty. UMSON boasts impressive certification pass rates, with FNPs achieving a 100% ANCC certification pass rate, PMHNPs achieving a 100% ANCC certification pass rate, and a 97% AANPCB certification pass rate. The program requires a maximum of 80 credit hours to complete, depending on previous coursework and specialty concentration.

NP Program Details:

  • Duration: 3 years 
  • Accreditation: CCNE 
  • Format: The program offers a mix of face-to-face, supportive instruction, and online classes, taught by faculty experts in their specialties.
  • NP Concentrations: AGNP, FNP, NNP, PNP, PMHNP

Admission Information:

  • Deadlines: Specialties and the Post-Master's DNP option accept students for fall admission.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited institution, minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, work experience requirements (if applicable), valid unrestricted RN license in the United States.

Tuition & Financial Aid: 

  • Estimated Tuition Cost: $873 per credit (MD residents) or $1,549 per credit (non-residents)
  • Financial aid options include scholarships, federal work-study, and graduate assistantships. 

3. Coppin State University

Coppin State University's APRN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program out of Baltimore is designed to equip master's prepared nurses with the skills needed to make a meaningful impact on underserved urban populations. Emphasizing the importance of recognizing biases and delivering quality care to diverse communities, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum. This includes the development of advanced skills in sciences, humanities, nursing practice, specialized roles, and research.

Students also receive specialized training in cultural competence, ensuring they can effectively care for ethnically and culturally diverse clients in various health states. Additionally, the program emphasizes leadership and collaboration, providing students with strategies to lead and work effectively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Graduates emerge ready to advocate for healthcare improvements and contribute as lifelong learners and valued members of the professional community.

FNP Certificate Program Details:

  • Duration: 2 years, 31 credit hours
  • Accreditation: CCNE 
  • Format: 

Admission Requirements:

  • Master's degree in Nursing and an unencumbered compact or MD state RN license.
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all Master's coursework
  • Completion of graduate-level courses in research and statistics
  • 3 letters of recommendation 
  • Deadlines are July 15th for a fall semester start of December 15th for a Spring semester start. 

Tuition & Financial Aid: 

  • Estimated Tuition Cost: $377 per credit (MD residents) or $693 per credit (non-residents)
  • Financial aid options include grants, federal work-study programs, scholarships and scholarship programs. 

4. Uniformed Services University - Bethesda

The DNP program at the Uniformed Services University's Graduate School of Nursing (GSN) in Bethesda, MD, uniquely blends the DNP Essentials, specialty practice requirements, and an operational healthcare curriculum. This combination equips Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) for advanced practice care in both operational and peacetime settings for the uniformed services.

Structured around four primary domains, the curriculum includes a DNP core, an advanced science core, specialty practice curriculum, and an operational healthcare curriculum. The program's focus on operational healthcare prepares nurses for the specific demands of healthcare in military and similar environments.

With a student-faculty ratio of 3.8, the program provides personalized attention and support. It is exclusively for active-duty army, air force, or public health service members.

NP Program Details:

  • Duration: 3 years 
  • Accreditation: CCNE 
  • Format: In person
  • NP Concentrations: Five advanced practice program options, including FNP, WHNP, and PMHNP.

Tuition & Financial Aid: 

Attending USU incurs no cost. Tuition is waived, and all active-duty students receive payment as junior officers.

5. Salisbury University - Salisbury

Salisbury University's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program, part of their comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) pathway, stands out as a robust educational journey for nurses aiming to escalate their professional expertise. This program is meticulously designed for BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and post-DNP students through the Certificate of Advanced Study, offering a rich curriculum that covers a wide array of critical topics, including advanced pharmacotherapeutics, family nursing, and health care management across various demographics.

Taught by experienced faculty in an intimate classroom setting, Salisbury ensures close student-faculty collaboration. This immersive approach not only prepares students for the FNP certification exam but also equips them with the skills necessary to excel in advanced nursing practice and leadership roles within the healthcare system.

FNP Program Details:

  • Duration: 4 years
  • Credit Hour Requirements: 80 (BSN); 68 (MSN)
  • Accreditation: CCNE
  • Format: In person
  • Tuition Cost: $560 per credit (MD residents) or $975 (non-residents)

Admission Details: 

  • BSN or MSN degree from an accredited nursing school 
  • Active and unrestricted RN license 
  • Three professional references
  • 500-1000 word essay 
  • Program entry interview 
  • MSN entry requires specific graduate coursework requirements

 

What Is a Nurse Practitioner Program?

An NP Program in Maryland is a graduate-level pathway designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training, equipping nurses to deliver enhanced healthcare services, including patient diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management.

Graduates of nurse practitioner programs emerge as skilled nurse practitioners, ready to work in various settings such as hospitals, primary care clinics, emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, and private practices. NPs play a crucial role in bridging the care gap and improving access to healthcare, addressing the shortage of MDs. For nurses seeking career advancement, higher earning potential, and increased responsibilities in patient care, NP programs offer a path to the pinnacle of nursing practice.

Primary NP Responsibilities

While roles and responsibilities vary with different NP specialties and state regulations, primary NP responsibilities include:

  • Performing comprehensive physical health evaluations
  • Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, lab work)
  • Diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions
  • Prescribing medications and treatments
  • Educating patients on prevention, treatment options, and self-care strategies

NP Specialty Concentrations

Maryland offers numerous NP specializations, with the most common being:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive health care for individuals of all ages, focusing on wellness, illness prevention, and managing long-term health issues. They often serve as primary healthcare providers for families.
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in women's health from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer care in reproductive health, gynecology, prenatal, and postpartum support.
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs cater to adults from young adulthood to old age, addressing acute and chronic health conditions with a focus on personalized health education and promotion.
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with significant health issues. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) alongside a multidisciplinary medical team.
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the health and development of children from infancy to adolescence. They manage common childhood illnesses, conduct routine wellness checks, and provide guidance on nutrition and growth.
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in mental health care, performing assessments, offering therapeutic interventions, and providing comprehensive care for various mental health conditions.

Other less common NP specializations include areas like oncology, neurology, cardiology, or nephrology. Additionally, some programs offer the option to choose between a primary or acute care path in concentrations like pediatric or gerontology. 

NP Curriculum

The coursework for NP programs in Maryland combines advanced nursing theory, research, and specialized clinical practice. While specifics can vary by program and specialty, common courses include:

  • Advanced Health Assessment
  • Advanced Pharmacology
  • Advanced Pathophysiology
  • Primary Care Practices
  • Health Policy and Ethics
  • Clinical Decision Making
  • Specialty courses depending on the focus area (e.g., Family Practice, Pediatrics, Adult-Gerontology, etc.)

After graduation, students must pass a national certification exam in their chosen specialty area and obtain state licensure, which may include additional state-specific requirements.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training is a crucial part of NP programs, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. In Maryland, clinical training requirements can differ based on the program and specialty.

Per the AACN Essentials all advanced-level nursing programs require 500 practice hours that cover both direct and indirect experiences. Specifically for NP programs, the National Task Force Standards for Quality NP Education (NTFS) mandate a minimum of 750 direct patient care hours.. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs typically require 1,000 or more clinical hours.

Students usually rotate through diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers to gain comprehensive experience. Training is supervised by experienced nurse practitioners and physicians, ensuring guided and practical learning. Depending on the program's focus, students receive training in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, or psychiatric health, with an emphasis on either primary or acute care.

NP Educational Pathways

The admission requirements, clinical hour requirements, and curriculum in NP programs vary based on the educational route you take. Here are the three most common pathways:

  1. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A 2-3 year program combining coursework and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for NP certification.
  2. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A 3-4 year program focused on advanced clinical practice, including extensive practicum and a scholarly project.
  3. Post-Master's Certificate: A one-year program for RNs with an MSN or DNP, offering specialization in an NP role and preparation for NP certification.

For these three main pathways, nursing education and experience are required; prospective students without nursing experience should consider Direct Entry NP (DENP) Programs

NP Program Graduation Requirements

To graduate from an NP Program in Maryland, students will generally need to meet the following requirements, though specifics can vary by program:

  • Complete Coursework: Finish courses in advanced pharmacology, advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and specialty-focused subjects.
  • Minimum GPA: Maintain a minimum GPA in courses or overall curriculum, as specified by the program.
  • Clinical Hours: Complete a minimum of 750 supervised clinical hours in relevant settings.
  • Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs require a capstone project or thesis to demonstrate the practical application of skills and knowledge.

NP Program Admission Requirements

In Maryland, individuals interested in pursuing a career as an NP must meet specific admission requirements. Common minimum admission requirements for NP programs typically include:

  • Educational Background: A BSN or MSN from an accredited institution is required.
  • Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure: Candidates must hold an active and unrestricted RN license in Maryland or a compact state.
  • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
  • Academic Performance: A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4-point scale is usually required.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Completion of certain undergraduate courses, such as statistics, with a minimum grade requirement (often a grade of C or higher).
  • Clinical Experience: Prior clinical experience as a registered nurse is often required, although the specifics can vary by program.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
  • Personal Statement: A statement of career goals and motivations for pursuing an NP degree is typically required.
  • Resume or CV: Submission of a current resume or CV detailing educational and professional experiences is usually necessary.
  • Interview: An in-person or virtual interview to assess the candidate's suitability and dedication to the NP specialization.

Additional requirements to begin clinicals in most nursing programs typically include a background check, physical health screening, immunizations, and a drug test.

Cost of NP Programs in Maryland

Investing in Nurse Practitioner (NP) education requires understanding a spectrum of costs, influenced by the specialization, program length, and degree type. Key financial aspects include:

  • Tuition Fees: Tuition ates vary depending on whether the institution is public or private and if the student qualifies for in-state rates. Public institutions and in-state tuition fees are generally lower. Tuition may be charged per credit hour or by semester.
  • Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, students face extra costs for applications, facilities, and campus resources, which can significantly affect the total investment in NP education.
  • Materials and Supplies: Expenses for textbooks and medical supplies like stethoscopes or lab attire can be notable.
  • Clinical Expenses: Costs associated with clinical training, such as travel to placement sites, can add to the financial burden for some students.
  • Certification and Licensing: Fees for certification exams and obtaining a practice license are mandatory post-graduation expenses.
  • Living Expenses: For those studying full-time, the cost of living, including housing and transportation, can be considerable, particularly when coursework impacts the ability to work.

Financial Aid Considerations:

  • Aid Options: Financial aid, including grants, loans, work-study, and targeted scholarships, can help alleviate program costs. Early application is advised to maximize funding opportunities.
  • Scholarships and Grants: These no-repay resources provided by various organizations are crucial for reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Diligent research and application are advised.
  • Understanding Loans: Loans should be approached with caution, with a preference for federal loans due to typically lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms than private loans.

By utilizing these financial strategies, students can better manage their education costs and concentrate on their path to becoming skilled healthcare providers. For additional information, check out the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School and explore the Most Affordable NP Programs in 2025.

NP Salary Expectations in Maryland 2025

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean NP salary in Maryland is $127,990 or $61.54 per hour, which is nearly the same as the national average of $128,490, or $61.78 per hour—a difference of about 0.4%. However, job prospects in Maryland are good, with the state having at least 5,180 NP positions in 2023, placing it in the top 50th percentile for nursing positions nationwide.

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

When considering salary projections, it's important to account for various factors. These include your educational background, years of experience, the healthcare institution where you work, your employer, the demand for your nursing specialization, and your work schedule, including shifts and hours.

To understand your potential income fully, explore the specifics of your situation and your employer's compensation policies. You can compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Are NP Programs in Maryland Worth It?

Deciding whether an NP Program is worth it in Maryland requires considering various pros and cons.

Pros of NP Programs in Maryland

  1. Growing Demand for NPs: Maryland, like many other states, is experiencing an increasing need for healthcare services, especially in primary and specialized care, leading to more job opportunities for NPs.
  2. Competitive Salaries: NPs in Maryland often enjoy competitive salaries, which can be attractive compared to the national average, making the investment in higher education potentially more rewarding.
  3. Favorable Practice Environment: Maryland offers a supportive practice environment for NPs, including full practice authority in some cases, which allows NPs to practice to the full extent of their training and education.
  4. Diverse Specializations and Settings: NP programs in Maryland provide a range of specializations, from family practice to acute care, offering opportunities to work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
  5. Career Advancement Opportunities: Earning an NP degree in Maryland can open doors to advanced clinical roles, leadership positions, and opportunities in healthcare administration and education.

Cons of NP Programs in Maryland

  1. High Educational Costs: The cost of NP programs can be substantial, leading to financial strain and potential student debt, which is a significant consideration for many.
  2. Intensive Time Commitment: NP programs require a rigorous time commitment for completion, often spanning several years, which can be challenging for those juggling work and personal life.
  3. Competitive and Stringent Admission Requirements: Gaining admission into NP programs in Maryland can be competitive, with high academic and professional standards required for entry.
  4. Increased Responsibility and Pressure: Working as an NP involves higher levels of responsibility and can be more stressful, particularly in specialized or high-demand areas.
  5. Continuing Education and Certification: NPs in Maryland must meet ongoing continuing education requirements and maintain certification, which requires a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

Pursuing an NP Program in Maryland can be a worthwhile endeavor for those seeking advanced practice roles in nursing. However, it's important to consider the financial and time investments, along with the potential for career growth and personal fulfillment in this field.

Maryland NP Scope of Practice Considerations

Maryland offers Nurse Practitioners (NPs) a Full Practice status, granting them the authority to independently conduct patient evaluations, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and initiate and manage treatments, including prescribing medications and controlled substances. This level of practice autonomy is supported by the National Academy of Medicine and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Training as an NP in Maryland generally prepares nurses for practice in any state, irrespective of whether it has restricted, reduced, or full practice status. This is because NP education in full practice states is comprehensive, focusing on utilizing the full extent of an NP's scope. 

For those aspiring to become NPs, it is crucial to understand the specifics of state-specific licensure laws as eleven states still impose restricted NP practice, and fifteen impose reduced practice regulations, requiring NPs in these states to have some form of MD supervision in at least one element of practice.

It is the responsibility of NP students to ensure that their program meets the licensure requirements of the state where they plan to work, as well as any states they may consider relocating to in the future. Prospective NPs can review the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) for state regulations and the board of nursing in the state in which you intend to practice to grasp state-specific regulations fully. 

NP National Certification

While NP licensure is specific to each state, NP certification is nationally standardized. Certifications are based on specialty, and there are multiple NP certification boards where you can take the certification exam. You can review these boards on the AANP site, which includes the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Board (AANPCB), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and the National Certification Corporation (NCC).

Tips to Choose the Best NP Program for You

Selecting the right NP Program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. A survey by allnurses revealed the top reasons nursing students chose their programs:

  1. Cost
  2. High Pass Rates
  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:

  • Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen NP specialty.
  • Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
  • 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. 

Selecting the right NP Program depends on your personal preferences and career goals. By evaluating these elements, you can find a program that best fits your needs.

Why NP Program Accreditation Matters

  1. Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
  2. Ensures compliance with state regulations
  3. Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
  4. Supports APRN licensure eligibility
  5. Prepares for certification exams
  6. Facilitates credit transfers
  7. Enhances professional credibility
  8. Improves employment prospects
  9. Enables access to financial aid
  10. Promotes long-term career success

In light of these factors, aspiring NPs are recommended to choose programs accredited by reputable organization like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accrediation (NLN CNEA).

Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I become a primary care provider through NP programs in Maryland, and are there online program options available?

Maryland NP programs offer the opportunity to specialize in primary care. Additionally, many programs offer online options to accommodate different learning needs.

Q: Are concentrations like nursing leadership and informatics available, and is financial aid accessible for NP students in Maryland?

Some NP programs in Maryland offer concentrations like nursing leadership and informatics. Financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, are typically available to assist NP students.

Q: How long are NP programs in Maryland, and can I enroll in part-time or full-time programs?

The duration of NP programs varies, but they are typically completed in a range of 2 to 4 semesters. Both part-time and full-time enrollment options are often available to cater to diverse student needs.

Q: What is the role of the Maryland Board of Nursing in NP programs, and are there specific requirements related to NP practice in the state?

The Maryland Board of Nursing oversees NP programs and licensure in the state. Specific requirements for NP practice in Maryland may include state-specific certification or additional documentation.

Q: Do NP programs in Maryland cover the lifespan of patients, and can I pursue a career in healthcare systems management?

Some NP programs in Maryland offer specializations covering the entire patient lifespan. Additionally, you can explore opportunities in healthcare systems management with an NP degree.

Edited by Erin Lee

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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