9 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Virginia | 2024

From acute care environments to primary healthcare clinics, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Virginia are pivotal in bridging the gap between traditional nursing roles and physician services. For those considering a career as an NP, check out the best programs below, with detailed information about their requirements, salary expectations, and more.

Best NP Programs in Virginia

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. University of Virginia

Established in Charlottesville in 1901, the University of Virginia School of Nursing stands as a beacon of excellence in nursing education. UVA Nursing offers dynamic, innovative nursing programs that cater to nurses at every professional stage. Rooted in compassion and respect, the school emphasizes equity and inclusivity, preparing its students to practice safely and compassionately on regional, national, and global scales.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Tuition: $862 per credit for VA residents and $1,407 per credit for non-residents
• Duration: Approximately 2 years or 5 semesters for all programs 
• Credit Hours: 42-46 specialty concentration dependent
• Clinical Hours: 500-600 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• NP Specialties: 
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
  • Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (PAC-NP)
  • Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

UVA's NP Program Highlights

• Hybrid Learning Format: The program offers a hybrid learning environment that combines online classes with convenient, in-person learning sessions.
• World-Class Faculty: Students have access to a team of world-class faculty members who are noted for being flexible, proximate, and supportive.
• Strong Academic and Clinical Foundations: The program benefits from the academic excellence of the University of Virginia, along with the clinical strengths of UVA Health.
• Commitment to Service: There is a strong emphasis on serving the needs of the citizens of Virginia and the world, aligning with the University's mission.
• Pathways: Multiple pathways to becoming an NP are available through the school, including BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, and post-graduate certificates. 
• Guaranteed Admission for Alumni: Alumni graduates of the School of Nursing are guaranteed admission if they choose to attend any of the School's MSN, certificate, RN to CNL, or DNP programs.

2. Old Dominion University

Established in Virginial Beach in 1967, the School of Nursing at Old Dominion University (ODU) has a storied history spanning over 56 years in preparing nurses for professional practice. The school offers an extensive range of programs, from bachelor's to doctoral degrees. The nursing curriculum at ODU balances strong theoretical foundations with practical clinical skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for entry-level professional roles in diverse healthcare settings, such as acute care, ambulatory care, rehabilitation, and home and community environments.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Tuition: $599 per credit hour for VA residents and $1,439 per credit hour for non-residents. 
• Credit Hours: 40-50 specialty concentration dependent. 
• Clinical Hours: 504-600 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• NP Specialties:
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

ODU's NP Program Overview

• Flexible Study Plans: Full-time and part-time study options are available for the PNP, FNP, and NNP programs.
• Learning Formats: Students have the option to choose between online distance learning or in-person classroom instruction, accommodating diverse learning preferences and needs.
• NP Pathways: Advanced Practice DNP pathway and Post-Graduate Certificate pathways are offered for MSN graduates seeking further specialization.
• Admission Criteria: No GRE or MAT required for applicants with an undergraduate GPA above 3.5.

3. Virginia Commonwealth University

Founded in 1893 as part of the University College of Medicine, the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Nursing has evolved into a premier institution for nursing education. Renowned for its interdisciplinary curriculum, VCU focuses on patient safety, quality improvement, leadership, and health policy. Located in Richmond, the school offers a spectrum of academic programs, from bachelor's to Ph.D. levels, blending classroom learning with clinical experience. Their programs include three NP specialty concentrations, accessible via the BSN to DNP pathway, MSN to DNP pathway, or the Post-Graduate Certificate Pathway for APRN-prepared nurses.

BSN to DNP NP Program Overview

• Tuition: Estimated $8,377 per full-time semester VA residents and $15,795 for non-residents. 
• Duration: 3 years at a full-time pace or 4 years at a part-time pace.
• Credit Hours: 66
• Clinical Hours: 1,000 minimum
• Accreditation: CCNE
• NP Specialties:
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

VCU's NP Program Highlights

• Multiple Entry Pathways: BSN to DNP for bachelor's-prepared RNs, MSN to DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate for master's-prepared nurses.
• Hybrid Learning Model: The program offers a blend of online and in-person learning, providing flexibility and accessibility to students.
• Leadership and Policy Emphasis: Graduates are equipped to lead in healthcare systems, implement evidence-based practice, and influence health policies.
• Guaranteed Admission for VCU Graduates: Bachelor's degree graduates from VCU School of Nursing are guaranteed admission to any VCU nursing graduate program, subject to meeting admission requirements and program space availability.

4. George Mason University

Located in Fairfax, George Mason University's School of Nursing excels in preparing students for advanced roles in nursing, particularly through its MSN Nurse Practitioner programs. The school is recognized both nationally and internationally for its rigorous and integrative academic approach. GMU's MSN programs are designed to develop proficient nurse practitioners who are well-versed in modern healthcare challenges. The curriculum emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills, equipping students for interdisciplinary roles in clinical practice, education, research, and healthcare administration. This comprehensive educational experience positions graduates to effectively respond to the evolving needs of healthcare systems and patient populations.

MSN FNP Program Overview

• Tuition: $850 per credit hour + &35 per credit hour distance learning fee. 
• Duration: 7 eight-week long semesters, approximately 2.5 years to complete. 
• Credit Hours: 46-49
• Clinical Hours: 600
• Accreditation: CCNE

GMU's NP Program Highlights 

• Expert Practitioner Collaboration: Students work with expert practitioners in office, community, and public health settings.
• Certification Preparedness: Graduates are well-prepared for certification exams from the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), as well as for obtaining prescriptive authority.
• Dual Certification Eligibility: Graduates are eligible for certification from both the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
• Flexible Learning Formats: Available in both on-campus and fully online formats, with identical course content, objectives, evaluation methods, and outcomes.
• In-Person Practicum: Despite the online format, practicum experiences are conducted in person.
• National Recognition: GMU is a participant in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), allowing their programs to be available to students in 49 participating states and U.S. territories.

5. James Madison University

Situated in Harrisonburg, the School of Nursing at James Madison University is a beacon of inclusivity, innovation, and dynamism in nursing education and scholarship. Committed to making a difference both locally and globally, JMU's nursing program emphasizes health equity and community engagement. At the forefront of this commitment are their Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, which are designed to equip nursing professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various healthcare settings. By integrating advanced clinical training with a deep understanding of health disparities, these NP programs aim to produce graduates who are not only highly skilled clinicians but also advocates for patient-centered care and community health.

MSN NP Program Overview

• Tuition: The total cost of the FNP and AGNP programs is around $30,000 for VA residents and $63,000-$67,000 for non-residents. For PMHNP students, year one costs at JMU are $13,970 for VA residents and $29,964 for out-of-state residents, with year two at Shenandoah University.
• Duration: Four full-time semesters, approximately 2 years. 
• Credit Hours: 49 (FNP), 46 (AGPCNP), 51 (PMHNP)
• Clinical Hours: 780
• NP Specialties:
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

JMU's NP Program Highlights

• Clinical Practice Emphasis: The program includes substantial practicum hours, ensuring students gain hands-on clinical experience across various healthcare settings.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Emphasizes an interdisciplinary model of education, integrating nursing with other health disciplines for a holistic understanding of patient care.
• Faculty Expertise: Students learn from experienced and highly qualified faculty, many of whom are active practitioners in their field, bringing real-world insights to the classroom.
• Innovative Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to stay current with the latest trends and practices in healthcare, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving landscape of nursing.
• Strong Community Partnerships: JMU's strong connections with healthcare institutions provide students with diverse clinical experiences and networking opportunities.

6. Shenandoah University

Located in Winchester, Virginia, Shenandoah University's Eleanor Wade Custer School of Nursing is dedicated to shaping the next generation of nursing professionals, which extends to its graduate nursing programs. The curricula for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are designed to blend vital knowledge and skills with a nurturing spirit.

The school's state-of-the-art simulation suite offers high-fidelity simulation spaces that replicate real-world clinical settings. These spaces, equipped with advanced adult, pediatric, birthing, and newborn simulators, provide students with a safe environment to hone their skills, challenge their thinking, and develop clinical judgment.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Tuition: $968 per credit hour
• Duration: 7 semester, approximately 2 years 4 months.
• Credit Hours: 48-49
• Clinical Hours: 780
• Accreditation: CCNE
• NP Specialties:
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

PMHNP initiative program allows students through James Madison University, Marshall University, and West Virginia Wesleyan College to complete their final year of PMHNP studies with 32 credits. 

SU's NP Program Highlights 

• Synchronous Online Learning: All MSN courses at SU are designed for synchronous online delivery, meeting once a week to offer a blend of flexibility and consistent engagement.
• Clinical Immersion Opportunities: The programs may include immersion experiences at the Winchester main campus, enriching the learning process with practical, hands-on skills in a real-world setting.
• Diverse Clinical Exposure: The curriculum is structured to prepare students for a wide range of clinical roles, ensuring adaptability in various healthcare environments like hospitals and community health centers.
• Comprehensive Role Preparation: Students are trained not just in clinical skills but also in role development, making them well-rounded professionals ready for various aspects of nursing practice.
• Interdisciplinary Focus: Emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating various aspects of healthcare to provide a holistic nursing education.
• Lifelong Learning Framework: The program encourages continuous learning and development, equipping graduates with skills to stay updated in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.

7. Radford University

Established in 1966, Radford University's School of Nursing has a rich history of excellence in nursing education. The school admitted its first students in 1969, and by 1976, it achieved accreditation from the National League for Nursing. Over the years, the nursing program has seen significant growth and development. In 1988, the Roanoke Higher Education Center site was established in collaboration with Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

The graduate program in nursing began in 1988, offering an MSN with various concentrations, including home health nursing and family nurse practitioner. The school has always been at the forefront of innovation, launching the DNP program in 2010, which was the first of its kind in Virginia to be offered in a distance-learning format.

DNP NP Program Overview

• Tuition: Estimated annual tuition is $9,457 or $394 per credit hour for VA residents
• Accreditation: CCNE
• NP Specialties:
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

RU's NP Program Highlights

8. Marymount University

In Arlington, VA, Marymount University's Malek School of Nursing Professions stands out for its specialized Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs. Committed to nurturing top-tier nursing professionals, the school offers MSN degrees with two NP specializations tailored to both new and seasoned nurses. These programs focus on delivering advanced, specialized nursing education, equipping graduates to meet the complex demands of modern healthcare. Marymount University's emphasis on these targeted NP tracks positions it as a leader in shaping the future of nursing and healthcare.

NP Program Overview 

• Tuition: $1,140 per credit hour + $22 per credit hour technology fee
• Credit Hours: 45-48 (MSN) or 63-70 (DNP)
• Clinical Hours: 750 (MSN) 1,000 - 1,250 (DNP)
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Specialties: 
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), only offered on a part-time basis

MU's NP Program Highlights 

• Clinical Placement Services: Marymount University offers free clinical placement services, enhancing students' educational experience and professional development.
• Flexible Learning Model: The program primarily utilizes online learning combined with on-campus residencies, providing a balance of convenience and immersive experience.
• High Certification Pass Rates: DNP graduates boast a 100% first-time pass rate on both AANP and ANCC certification exams, reflecting the program's effectiveness in preparing students.
• Experiential Learning: State-of-the-art simulation labs provide hands-on experiences in a secure and supportive setting.
• Robust Career Opportunities: Graduates are highly regarded and often receive job offers before graduation, thanks to strong clinical partnerships and a high demand for nurse practitioners.
• Personalized Attention: A student-centered approach ensures individual support and guidance.
• Streamlined Admissions: No GMAT or GRE required for program entry.

9. Liberty University

Located in Lynchburg, Liberty University's School of Nursing is dedicated to equipping students for a fulfilling career in nursing, whether their aspirations involve medical missions abroad or providing exceptional patient care domestically. Liberty's nursing programs stand out for their holistic approach to student support, encompassing personal, spiritual, and academic dimensions. While the programs are rigorous and competitive, the faculty is deeply committed to guiding students throughout their academic journey, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of the nursing profession. Liberty University offers a Family NP concentration through its online DNP program.

DNP FNP Program Overview

• Tuition: $565 per credit hour at a full-time pace and $615 per credit hour at a part-time pace.
• Duration: 3 years studying at a full-time pace. 
• Credit Hours: 78
• Clinical Hours: 1,232
• Accreditation: CCNE

LU's FNP Program Highlights

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers a wide range of topics, from advanced clinical practice to healthcare policy.
• Online Learning Flexibility: Typically, these programs offer convenient online coursework to accommodate working professionals.
• Clinical Experience: Hands-on clinical hours in diverse healthcare settings.
• Leadership and Research: Emphasis on nursing leadership and evidence-based practice.
• Preparation for Certification: Prepares graduates for FNP certification exams.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Training often includes collaboration with other healthcare professionals.

NP Overview

In Virginia, NPs stand as pivotal figures in the realm of advanced nursing practice, delivering clinical proficiency across diverse healthcare environments, from acute care facilities to primary healthcare clinics. The journey of an NP in Virginia often begins with securing an RN license, which then progresses to an in-depth academic pursuit, culminating in either an MSN or DNP degree.

Upon completing their NP education, Virginia graduates must successfully pass a rigorous national certification examination to obtain their advanced practice license. Their clinical competencies are consistently evaluated, and they participate in regular peer reviews to ensure compliance with the pinnacle of patient care standards.

Virginia's NPs are held in high esteem across multiple healthcare sectors, including emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private medical practices.

Primary NP Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough physical health evaluations
• Initiate and interpret diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays and lab tests
• Diagnose and manage both acute and chronic health issues
• Prescribe medications and therapeutic interventions
• Educate patients on preventive measures, potential treatment pathways, and self-care best practices

NP Specializations in Virginia

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive health care for individuals across all age groups. They advocate for wellness, emphasize illness prevention, and manage long-term health conditions, often becoming the primary health advisors for numerous families.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in addressing the unique health needs of women, from adolescence to post-menopause. Their expertise spans reproductive health, gynecology, and guidance during prenatal and postnatal stages.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs deliver tailored care for adults, from early adulthood to senior years. Their services range from addressing sudden health issues to managing chronic conditions, with a significant emphasis on personalized health education and promotion.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs excel in catering to the requirements of newborns, particularly preterm infants or those with critical health challenges. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and collaborate with an extensive medical team.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the health and development of children, from infancy to adolescence. They address common pediatric health issues, conduct regular wellness checks, and provide guidance on nutrition and developmental milestones.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs possess the skills to address mental health concerns. They perform mental health evaluations, provide therapeutic solutions, and ensure comprehensive care for a range of mental health disorders.

How to Become an NP

Although the pathway to becoming an NP may vary, the following steps provide a general overview.

1. Get Your Graduate Degree: To become an NP in Virginia, you must first obtain a graduate degree in nursing. This could be an MSN or DNP degree, depending on the program and your career goals.
2. Earn Your National Certification: Upon completing your graduate degree, you must earn national certification in your chosen NP specialty. This certification is acquired by passing a relevant national certification exam, offered by organizations such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
3. Apply for Your License/Registration: With your national certification in hand, you can then apply for licensure or registration as an NP in Virginia. This involves submitting the necessary documentation and meeting any additional state-specific requirements.
4. Renew Your License/Registration: Like all healthcare licenses, your NP license or registration in Virginia will need to be periodically renewed. This typically involves completing continuing education requirements and ensuring that you remain in good standing with the state's nursing board.
5. Engage in Continuous Learning and Professional Development: While not a formal step in the licensing process, it's essential for NPs to stay updated with the latest in nursing practice, research, and technology. Engaging in continuous learning and participating in professional development opportunities can help ensure that you provide the highest quality of care to your patients.

NP Program Costs

Navigating the costs of Nurse Practitioner (NP) education involves several key financial considerations:

• Tuition: The primary expense, tuition, varies by institution type and residency status, charged per credit or per term.
• Institutional Fees: Additional fees for applications, enrollments, and facility use can significantly increase total costs.
• Clinical Costs: Expenses for clinical training may include travel to distant sites.
• Materials and Supplies: Textbooks and medical supplies, including instruments and lab attire, can accumulate in costs.
• Certification and Licensure: There are fees for certification exams and obtaining a practice license.
• Living Expenses: Full-time students must account for housing, food, and transportation, which can be substantial without income.

Financial Aid Considerations:

• Available Aid: Investigate and apply early for federal and state grants, loans, work-study, and NP-specific scholarships.
• Scholarships and Grants: These are crucial for reducing costs, offered by various organizations.
• Loans: Choose federal over private loans for better interest rates and terms, and understand repayment obligations.

Effective financial planning is essential for managing the diverse costs associated with NP education.

Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NPs in Virginia earn a mean annual salary of $116,980 or $56.24 per hour. This figure is slightly lower than the national average of $124,680.

Top-Paying States for NPs:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

It's important to note that the salary expectations for NPs will vary based on several factors including location, institution of employment, years of experience, education, and more.

Virginia NP Scope of Practice 

If you're considering becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Virginia, understanding the state's specific practice regulations is crucial. Virginia is classified as a restricted practice state, which means NPs have limitations on their practices and must work under oversight, delegation, or within a team led by another healthcare professional, unlike in states where NPs enjoy full autonomy.

NPs in Virginia are initially under restricted practice; however, according to the Virginia Board of Nursing, an NP may qualify for autonomous practice after completing five years of full-time, 1800 hours per year, clinical experience under the supervision of a physician. 

Currently, only eleven states, including Virginia, enforce restricted NP practice, while most others offer more liberal practice conditions. However, choosing a nurse practitioner program in a restricted practice state like Virginia does not necessarily limit your qualifications for practicing in a full-practice state.

It's important to research your chosen NP Program to ensure it aligns with your long-term career goals and potential geographical mobility. Aspiring NPs should carefully consider the implications of state-specific regulations classified by AANP, on their career trajectory, especially if they plan to practice in different states.

NP Program Accreditation

Selecting an accredited Nurse Practitioner (NP) program is essential for several reasons:

• Educational Standards: Accreditation ensures that NP programs meet high standards for curriculum, faculty, student resources, and clinical training.
• Clinical Hours: Accredited programs meet the clinical hour requirements for either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
• Certification and Licensure: Accreditation is necessary for national certifications and most states APRN licensure, which are critical for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles.
• Skill Development: Graduates from accredited programs are thoroughly prepared to face healthcare's changing demands.
• Innovation: These programs include current research and innovation, promoting an inquisitive and progressive approach to healthcare.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates of accredited programs are preferred by employers for their well-rounded education.
• Credit Transferability: Credits from accredited programs are more likely to be recognized by other institutions, aiding in further education.
• Professional Credibility: An accredited NP degree signifies adherence to national advanced nursing practice standards.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Accreditation is often required for federal financial aid.

Prospective NP students should prioritize accreditation from bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

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: What are the GPA and other admission requirements for enrollment in an NP nursing degree program?

• The admission requirements vary by program, but typically, an in-state GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred. Additionally, some programs may require prerequisite coursework, clinical experiences, or other specific criteria to be met by nursing students before enrollment.

Q: Do the DNP programs and other advanced practice nursing courses require clinical hours or practicum experiences?

• Yes, most DNP programs and advanced practice nursing courses necessitate a certain number of clinical hours or practicum experiences. These are designed to provide hands-on experience and prepare students for a successful nursing career.

Q: Can I pursue the APRN program online, and is there a choice between part-time and full-time?

• Many institutions offer online programs for APRN courses, allowing flexibility for students. Depending on the program and the institution, students might have the option to enroll on a part-time or full-time basis.

Q: What concentrations are available within the nursing degree programs, and do they cover the entire lifespan?

• Nursing degree programs often offer various concentrations, such as primary care, pediatric care, and more. Some concentrations, like the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), cover care across the entire lifespan, from infants to the elderly.

Q: Are the online programs and DNP programs accredited, and what's the significance of CCNE accreditation?

• Accreditation, such as CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education), ensures that the program meets specific standards of quality and prepares students adequately for their nursing careers. Before enrolling, it's essential to check if the program, whether online or in-person, holds CCNE or other relevant accreditations.