- Table of Contents:
- Best NP Programs in Ohio
- Nurse Practitioner Overview
- How to Become an NP
- Costs
- Salary Expectations
- OH NP Scope of Practice
- NP Accreditation Importance
- NP Programs Near Me
- FAQ
-
by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Ohio, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is also emerging as a hub for advanced healthcare education.
With the healthcare industry evolving rapidly, there's a growing demand for nurse practitioners (NPs) who can provide specialized care in various settings. Recognizing this need, several esteemed institutions in the state have developed top-tier NP programs to prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Discover these programs below as we provide insights into their offerings, along with an overview of the profession, steps to become one, salary expectations after graduation, and address frequently asked questions.
Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
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. The Ohio State University
Renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, OSU's NP programs emphasize evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care. Graduates are well-prepared to lead in diverse healthcare settings.
Ohio State offers three NP concentrations through its traditional MSN program:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Additionally, OSU's DNP program offers several:
- Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (ACP-NP)
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
- Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Ohio University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
2. Case Western Reserve University
CWRU offers cutting-edge NP programs that combine rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. The programs are known for their focus on innovation and research in nursing practice.
MSN concentrations include:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
- Nurse Leadership
- Nurse-Midwifery
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
CWRU is accredited by the CCNE.
3. University of Cincinnati
UC's NP programs are designed to equip students with advanced clinical skills and a deep understanding of nursing theories. The programs boast a high certification exam pass rate and strong community partnerships.
MSN concentrations include:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Additionally, post-master's certificate options offer:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
UC is accredited by the CCNE.
4. Kent State University
With a commitment to excellence, Kent State's NP programs emphasize holistic patient care, leadership, and advocacy. The programs offer multiple specializations to cater to the diverse interests of its students.
Kent State offers six NP concentrations through its MSN track:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
Students also have the option to dual-enroll in the DNP program.
Kent State is accredited by the CCNE.
5. Ohio University
OU's NP programs stand out for their flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats. The curriculums are grounded in evidence-based practice promoting lifelong learning in three concentrations:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
OU is accredited by the CCNE.
6. The University of Akron
Offering a blend of theory and practice, UA's NP programs prepare students to address complex healthcare challenges. The programs emphasize cultural competence and ethical decision-making.
Advanced practice concentrations include:
- Adult Gerontological Health Nurse Practitioner
- Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Primary Health Care
- Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Acute Car
- Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Primary/Acute Care
- Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
UA is accredited by the CCNE.
7. Youngstown State University
YSU's NP programs are known for their community-focused approach. Students benefit from extensive clinical rotations and a curriculum that emphasizes health promotion and disease prevention.
Concentrations include options through online MSN and post-master's certificates:
-
Online MSN
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
-
Post-Master's Certificates
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP) - Online
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Advanced Placement (AGAC-NP) - Online
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online
- Family Nurse Practitioner Advanced Placement (FNP) - Online
YSU is accredited by the CCNE.
8. Wright State University
WSU's NP programs are recognized for their focus on interprofessional education and collaborative practice. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, clinical expertise, and leadership skills.
Through the University's MSN degree, several NP concentrations are offered:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care (PNP-AC)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
WSU is accredited by the CCNE.
9. University of Toledo
UT's NP programs offer a dynamic learning environment with state-of-the-art simulation labs and experienced faculty. The programs are committed to producing nurse leaders who can drive positive change in healthcare.
Through MSN, DNP, and graduate certificates, UT offers five NP concentrations:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
UT is accredited by the CCNE.
10. Ursuline College
Ursuline's NP programs, grounded in the college's core values, emphasize ethical practice, social justice, and patient advocacy. The programs offer a supportive learning environment and a strong foundation in evidence-based practice.
Through the College's MSN degree, four NP concentrations are offered:
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Ursuline College is accredited by the CCNE.
11. Ashland University
Ashland's DNP NP Program prioritizes personalized learning, with small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentors. The program prepares graduates to excel in both primary and acute care settings.
Concentration offered:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
AU is accredited by the CCNE.
12. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Rooted in Catholic values, FUS's NP Program emphasizes compassionate care, ethical practice, and service to underserved populations. The curriculum integrates faith and reason, preparing graduates for holistic patient care.
Concentration offered:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
FUS is accredited by the CCNE.
Nurse Practitioner Overview
NPs are pivotal figures in advanced practice nursing, possessing in-depth clinical expertise suitable for roles in diverse care settings, from acute to primary. Every NP begins their journey as an RN and progresses by obtaining either an MSN or DNP degree.
Upon finishing their NP studies, graduates are required to clear a rigorous national certification test to secure their license. They are consistently assessed on their clinical outcomes and participate in regular peer evaluations to uphold optimal patient care standards.
Their expertise is sought after in various medical settings, such as emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private practices.
Primary NP responsibilities:
- Comprehensive physical health evaluations
- Initiating, overseeing, and analyzing diagnostic tools like X-rays and laboratory tests
- Identifying and managing both immediate and long-term health issues
- Recommending medications and therapeutic treatments
- Guiding patients on disease prevention, available treatment avenues, and self-care techniques.
NP Concentrations
- Family NP: FNPs deliver all-encompassing healthcare to individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Their approach prioritizes health enhancement, illness prevention, and managing chronic ailments, often serving as the primary health consultants for families.
- Women's Health NP: WHNPs address women-specific health needs, covering stages from adolescence to post-menopause. Their services encompass reproductive wellness, gynecological care, and guidance during and after pregnancy.
- Adult-Gerontology NP: AGNPs attend to the health requirements of adults, spanning from early adulthood to the golden years. Their expertise lies in managing both immediate and long-term health issues, emphasizing health enhancement, illness prevention, and custom-tailored patient guidance for the aging population.
- Neonatal NP: NNPs are dedicated to newborn care, especially for those born ahead of term or with severe health complications. They function in neonatal intensive care settings (NICUs) and work alongside a multi-disciplinary team to ensure the well-being of neonates.
- Pediatric NP: PNPs focus on the health of children, from infancy to teenage years. They manage typical pediatric health issues, conduct routine health assessments, and offer guidance on nutrition, growth, and developmental benchmarks.
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NP: PMHNPs specialize in mental healthcare, diagnosing and treating a spectrum of psychiatric disorders. They offer therapeutic sessions, prescribe relevant medications, and ensure holistic care for individuals grappling with mental health issues.
How to Become an NP
Although the pathway to becoming an NP may vary, here are five steps to become one.
-
Obtain an RN License:
- Begin by completing an accredited nursing program, either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Pass the NCLEX-RN examination to become a licensed registered nurse in Ohio.
- It's worth noting that some post-graduate programs prefer BSN-prepared applicants.
-
Pursue Advanced Education:
- Enroll in an MSN or DNP program with a focus on a nurse practitioner specialty. Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies such as the CCNE.
- Complete the required coursework, clinical hours, and any other program-specific requirements.
-
Obtain National Certification:
- After completing your advanced degree program, choose a specialty area (e.g., Family NP, Pediatric NP, Adult-Gerontology NP) and take the respective national certification exam offered by recognized certifying bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
-
Apply for NP Licensure in Ohio:
- Submit an application to the Ohio Board of Nursing for licensure as a nurse practitioner.
- Provide proof of your RN license, advanced degree, national certification, and any other required documentation.
- Complete a criminal background check as mandated by the state.
-
Maintain Licensure and Certification:
- Stay updated with the latest practices and regulations in the nursing field.
- Engage in continuous professional development and education to meet the renewal requirements for both your state licensure and national certification.
- Renew your license and certification as required, ensuring you meet any continuing education or clinical practice hour requirements set by the Ohio Board of Nursing and the certifying body.
Specific requirements and processes can change over time, so it's always a good idea to check with the Ohio Board of Nursing or relevant institutions for the most up-to-date information.
NP Program Costs in Ohio
Embarking on a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Ohio is a significant financial decision, encompassing several cost-related aspects. The primary expenses include:
- Tuition Fees: Tuition represents a major portion of the educational expenditure. The rates depend on whether the school is publicly or privately funded, and on the student's eligibility for in-state tuition, which is often lower. Fees may be calculated per credit or by academic term.
- Educational Materials: Expenses for textbooks, medical equipment like stethoscopes, and professional attire such as lab coats are critical components of the budget.
- Clinical Rotation Costs: Travel expenses for clinical rotations add to the financial burden, especially if the locations are remote from the student's home or the university campus.
- Post-Graduation Expenses: After finishing their studies, NP graduates face fees for certification and licensing, which are crucial for starting their professional careers.
- Additional Charges: Students may also encounter extra costs related to accessing university facilities, laboratory usage, and various administrative fees.
- Impact on Living Expenses and Income: Full-time study can significantly influence both living costs and the ability to work, necessitating careful financial planning.
To address these financial challenges, NP students in Ohio are encouraged to seek out financial aid, scholarships, and grants proactively and to manage loans wisely, favoring federal loans for their more favorable terms and repayment conditions. By thoroughly understanding these financial elements, NP students can formulate a viable plan to fund their education, allowing them to focus on their goal of becoming competent healthcare professionals.
NP Salary Expectations
The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide essential information regarding NP salaries in Ohio. However, when evaluating these salary estimates, several factors come into play.
Factors such as your educational qualifications, accumulated years of professional experience, the healthcare facility you're associated with, your specific employer, the demand for your nursing specialty, and your working hours, including shift patterns, all influence your earnings. For a detailed understanding of what you might earn, it's important to consider individual circumstances and your employer's pay structure.
In Ohio, the average NP salary is $117,440, or $56.46 per hour, which is slightly lower than the national average of $124,680.
The top-paying states for NPs are:
- California: $158,130
- New Jersey: $143,250
- Massachusetts: $138,700
- Oregon: $136,250
- Nevada: $136,230
NP Scope of Practice & Certification in Ohio
For Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Ohio, understanding national certification requirements and Ohio's specific practice settings is key for career planning and lawful practice.
NP Certification
Achieving national certification is a critical milestone for NPs in every state, signifying specialty-specific competence. This certification validates an NP's expertise and is commonly required for state licensure. The principal organizations that offer NP certifications include:
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) Provides certifications for FNP, AG-ACNP, ENP, and PMHNP.
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Offers a range of NP specializations.
- The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Specializes in certifications for Acute Care NPs.
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Offers certifications for Neonatal NPs (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NPs (WHNP-BC).
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Provides certifications for Pediatric Acute Care and Primary Care NPs.
Such national certification is foundational to NP practice, promoting uniform standards of proficiency across various specialties.
NP State Licensure | Ohio
In Ohio, NPs are subject to a reduced practice regulatory framework, where they must collaborate with a physician in at least one area of practice. This collaboration or supervision is necessary for tasks such as prescribing medications, underscoring a regulated NP practice model in the state.
NP Practice Authority Nationally
Ohio is among the fifteen states with reduced practice authority. Here is how it compares with other regulatory models, as defined by the AANP:
- Full Practice States: In states like New York and Washington, NPs enjoy complete autonomy, including the ability to assess, diagnose, and prescribe without physician oversight.
- Reduced Practice States: These states, including Ohio, require physician collaboration for certain NP duties.
- Restricted Practice States: States such like California or Florida have more stringent supervisory requirements for NPs.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for NPs who may consider working in different states.
State-Specific NP Licensure Requirements
While national certification standards remain consistent, state-specific licensure requirements can vary significantly. The APRN Compact aims to harmonize these requirements, facilitating a streamlined licensure process. It's imperative for NPs to ensure their credentials align with the licensure demands see forth by the board of nursing of their chosen state.
Staying informed of state laws and national certification standards is vital for NPs to maintain a robust and lawful practice. As the healthcare landscape evolves, proactive engagement with these standards is essential for NPs' ongoing professional success.
Significance of Choosing an Accredited NP Program in Ohio
Opting for an accredited Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Ohio is crucial for several key reasons:
- Assurance of Quality Education: Accreditation is a seal of approval indicating that a program meets high educational standards with a curriculum that is thorough and reflects current practices in healthcare, essential for proficient clinical practice.
- Certification Eligibility: Accredited program completion is commonly a requirement for sitting national certification exams, which are a requisite step toward state licensure.
- Licensure Mandates: The Ohio Board of Nursing mandates that NPs must graduate from an accredited program to be eligible for licensure, a critical factor for legal practice in Ohio.
- Recognition by Employers: Employers prefer hiring graduates of accredited programs, recognizing accreditation as a sign of comprehensive training and professional preparedness.
- Educational Progression: For NPs who plan to pursue further education or specialties, credits from an accredited program are generally recognized by advanced education programs, facilitating career advancement and lifelong learning.
In Ohio, accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) guarantees that NP programs adhere to the rigorous educational standards required for preparing skilled healthcare professionals.
NP Programs Near Me
Discover NP programs in a state near you:
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a BSN to enroll in a nurse practitioner program in Ohio?
Most nurse practitioner programs in Ohio require applicants to have a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree. However, some colleges of nursing might offer bridge programs for those with an associate degree in nursing.
Q: Is there a mix of on-campus and online programs available in Ohio?
Many colleges of nursing in Ohio offer both on-campus and online programs to cater to the diverse needs of students. Some might even provide hybrid options, combining both online coursework and on-campus clinical experiences.
Q: Can I pursue the program part-time?
Many degree programs in Ohio offer both full-time and part-time options, allowing students to choose based on their personal and professional commitments.
Q: Are the online programs accredited?
It's essential to choose a program accredited by recognized bodies, such as the CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education). Accreditation ensures that the program meets the highest standards of nursing education.
Q: What are the typical admission requirements for these programs?
Admission requirements can vary but generally include a BSN degree, a certain GPA threshold, letters of recommendation, and some years of clinical experience. It's advisable to check with the specific college of nursing for detailed criteria.
Q: After completing the program, do I need to pass any exam for licensure?
After completing your nurse practitioner program, you'll need to pass a certification exam recognized by the Ohio Board of Nursing to obtain your nurse practitioner licensure.
Q: How do these programs prepare students for the certification exam?
These programs provide comprehensive coursework, covering areas like evidence-based practice, advanced clinical experiences, and practicum. This rigorous training ensures students are well-prepared for the certification exam.
Q: Are there opportunities for hands-on clinical experiences?
Whether you're enrolled in an on-campus or online program, hands-on clinical experiences are a crucial component. These experiences allow students to apply their coursework in real-world settings under supervision.
Q: Is financial aid available for students in Ohio's nurse practitioner programs?
Many colleges of nursing in Ohio offer financial aid options for eligible students. It's recommended to check with the specific institution's financial aid office for details and opportunities.
