Fastest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Programs in 2025

As advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), neonatal nurse practitioners (NNPs) provide specialized care for newborns, especially those who are critically ill or require advanced medical support. Their expertise is essential in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), delivery rooms, and other healthcare settings.

For those seeking to fast-track their education, we've identified the top accelerated NNP programs available in 2025. This guide also includes information on the NNP job role, responsibilities, salary expectations, and answers to common questions.

Best Fastest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs

The following universities were selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our reader and identifying their top factors when picking nursing schools, as well as incorporating factors like graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, tuition fees, modality, length of the program, and admission rates from hundreds of programs.

Please note that the speed of completion for these programs can vary depending on the individual student's pace and the specific requirements of each program. Visiting each program's website for the most accurate and detailed information is recommended.

1. Duke University Medical Center – Durham, NC

Duke University's MSN NNP program is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and clinical training. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, preparing them to excel in neonatal care and leadership roles. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices and interprofessional collaboration, ensuring graduates provide high-quality care to critically ill newborns.

MSN NNP Program Overview: 

• Duration: 2.5 years
• Credit Hours: 43
• Clinical Hours: 616
• Tuition: $14,525 per semester
• Accreditation: CCNE

2. East Carolina University – Greenville, NC

East Carolina University offers an NNP program that equips students with the specialized knowledge and skills required to care for premature and critically ill infants. The program emphasizes family-centered care and cultural sensitivity, fostering compassionate and competent NNPs.

NNP Program Overview: 

• Duration: 2.5 years
• Credit Hours: 42 
• Program Pace: Offered full-time or part-time
• Tuition: $3,564.64 (part-time for 8 credit hours)
• Accreditation: CCNE

3. Rush University – Chicago, IL

Rush University's online DNP NNP program provides a strong foundation in neonatal care, incorporating cutting-edge research and clinical experiences. With a focus on advanced clinical skills and leadership development, graduates are prepared to deliver top-notch care to neonatal patients and their families. 

DNP NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 3.5 years (part-time), 2.5 years (full-time)
• Pathway & Credit Hours:
  • BSN to DNP: 68
    MSN to DNP: 56
• Tuition: $1,344 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. University of Connecticut – Storrs, CT

The University of Connecticut's NNP program emphasizes the importance of family-centered care and evidence-based practices. With a blend of classroom instruction and clinical rotations, students gain valuable experience in a range of neonatal settings, preparing them for challenging and rewarding careers in neonatal care. Online degrees and certificates, as outlined below, require a minimum of two years of full-time RN-level practice experience in a level three neonatal intensive care unit before starting clinical practicum courses.

NNP Program Overview:

• Pathway & Credit Hours:
  • MSN: 44,  completed in five semesters at a full-time pace
  • BSN-DNP: 76 to 82
  • Post-Graduate Certificate: 29
• Tuition: $925 per credit hour for all types of students
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of South Alabama – Mobile, AL

The MSN NNP program at the University of South Alabama combines in-depth coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. With a strong emphasis on critical thinking and interprofessional collaboration, graduates are well-prepared to provide comprehensive care to critically ill newborns and their families. The NNP Track offers online classes with a mandatory three to four-day orientation in the fall semester of the first practicum course. Attendance is required, providing an opportunity for interaction with course faculty and participation in various clinical skills workshops.

MSN NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 
• Credit Hours: 45 
• Tuition: $423 per credit hour (In-State), $846 (Out-of-State)
• Accreditation: CCNE

University of South Alabama has an NNP pathway no matter where you are in your career aspirations: 

• RN to MSN: Designed for ADN RNs with a bachelor's degree in a different field.
• RN to BSN/MSN: Tailored for ADN RNs or LPNs seeking a master's degree in nursing.
• Accelerated MSN: Intended for individuals without a nursing background but holding a bachelor's degree.
• Post-Graduate Certificate: Geared toward MSN nurses interested in achieving a specialty certification.

6. University of Missouri – Kansas City – Kansas City, MO

The University of Missouri's MSN NNP program focuses on building advanced clinical skills and expertise in neonatal care. Students benefit from diverse clinical opportunities and close mentorship, fostering confident and skilled NNPs. The learning modality is blended, incorporating mandatory campus visits.

MSN NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 24 to 30 months
• Credit Hours: 45 
• Tuition: $40,213.80
• Accreditation: CCNE

7. Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing – Peoria, IL

Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing's MSN NNP program prepares students to provide specialized care to premature and sick newborns. With a strong emphasis on ethical practice and evidence-based care, graduates are equipped to positively impact the lives of neonatal patients and their families.

MSN NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 36 months
• Credit Hours: 42 
• Tuition: $733 per credit hour, $8,796 (6 hours Fall/6 hours Spring)
• Accreditation: CCNE

8. Old Dominion University – Norfolk, VA

Old Dominion University's online MSN NNP program emphasizes a holistic approach to neonatal care, considering patients' and families' physical and emotional needs. The program emphasizes providing healthcare tailored to specific age groups, addressing health concerns of preterm and term neonates, infants, and children up to age two. Students also gain extensive clinical experience in Level III and Level IV neonatal intensive care units, preparing them for the challenges of neonatal healthcare.

MSN NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 36 months (part-time)
• Credit Hours: 52 credits 
• Clinical Hours: 600
• Tuition: $599 per credit hour (In-State), $623 per credit hour (Out-of-State)
• Accreditation: CCNE

9. The Ohio State University – Columbus, OH

The distance learning NNP program at The Ohio State University prepares students to be leaders in neonatal care. With a focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and evidence-based practices, graduates are well-prepared to provide advanced care to critically ill infants. Students can choose between part-time and full-time options, benefiting from world-class faculty and receiving top-notch education through an integrated Evidence-Based Practicum (EBP) curriculum. Depending on the educational background, students can enter the program through various pathways, including traditional master's, graduate entry, post-master's, BSN to DNP, or BSN to PhD.

MSN NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 2 years 
• Tuition: $9,682 per semester (OH residents), $22,982 (non-residents)
• Accreditation: CCNE

In addition to the traditional MSN pathway The Ohio University also offers the following pathways to NNP:

• Post-Masters
• BSN to DNP 
• Graduate Entry MSN (for non-nurses)

10. University of Alabama at Birmingham – Birmingham, AL

The University of Alabama at Birmingham's post-BSN to DNP NNP specialty program emphasizes comprehensive clinical training and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are prepared to provide specialized care to neonatal patients in various healthcare settings, ensuring positive outcomes for infants and their families. The program is offered part-time through distance learning. 

DNP  NNP Program Overview:

• Duration: 9-10 semesters depending on the semester of entry
• Hours: 79 credit hours of coursework, 59 hours of didactic coursework, 20 credit hours of clinical practice 
• Tuition: $595 per credit hour (In-State and face-to-face learning), $682 per credit hour (distance-based)
• Accreditation: CCNE

What Is a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program?

An NNP (Neonatal Nurse Practitioner) program prepares registered nurses (RNs) for advanced practice roles in neonatal care, focusing on newborns who are ill or premature. These programs build on the foundations developed during undergraduate nursing studies and experience. They involve intensive coursework and clinical training in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). 

Traditional vs. Accelerated NNP Programs

Traditional NNP programs typically offer a more flexible schedule, allowing students to balance education with other commitments over a standard duration. In contrast, accelerated NNP programs are designed for those eager to complete their education quickly, with a more intensive and condensed curriculum. This allows students to transition into advanced practice roles sooner, meeting the growing demand for healthcare professionals.

NNP Program Pathways

There are various educational pathways for nurses to achieve NNP status:

• Post-Graduate Certificate: This option is suitable for nurses who already possess an MSN or DNP in another nursing specialty but wish to transition into neonatal care. These programs are shorter, focusing specifically on the competencies required for NNPs, and can usually be completed in about a year.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): An MSN program specializing in neonatal care is a common pathway to becoming an NNP. Typically, this degree takes 2-3 years to complete and involves rigorous coursework along with clinical practicums. Graduates are eligible for NNP certification exams.
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A DNP degree represents a more advanced practice focus, generally taking 3-4 years to complete. A DNP with a neonatal specialization deepens clinical skills and often includes a significant project or dissertation that showcases expertise in neonatal nursing.

Accelerated NNP programs can be completed in a shorter timeframe, often within 1-2 years, depending on the program structure and prior qualifications.

NNP Curriculum

Although varying per pathway and  institution, the coursework for an NNP program typically includes:

• Advanced Neonatal Nursing Theory and Practice: This course covers comprehensive neonatal care, including the pathophysiology and management of neonatal diseases.
• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology: A deep dive into physiological and pathological processes specific to neonates.
• Pharmacology for Neonatal Care: Focused on the pharmacological treatments and interventions used in the neonatal population.
• Health Assessment of Neonates and Infants: Skills and techniques for assessing the health of infants, including physical examinations and interpretation of diagnostic tests.
• Neonatal Care Ethics and Legal Considerations: Covers ethical issues and legal aspects of caring for newborns and their families.
• Evidence-Based Practice in Neonatal Care: Teaches the principles of evidence-based practice and how to apply research to clinical decision-making.
• Leadership and Role Development in Neonatal Nursing: Preparation for leadership roles within the NICU and broader healthcare settings.

NNP Clinical Training

Clinical training is a critical component of an NNP program, often including:

• Rotations in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU): Students gain experience in Level II and Level III NICUs, where they learn to manage critically ill neonates.
• High-Risk Deliveries: Participation in the management of high-risk deliveries to learn immediate newborn care.
• Neonatal Resuscitation: Training in neonatal resuscitation techniques.
• Family-Centered Care: Learning to work with families during critical periods, providing support and education as part of the care team.
• Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration: Working alongside physicians, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive neonatal care.
• Long-Term Follow-Up Clinics: Experience in following up with former NICU patients to assess long-term outcomes and provide ongoing care.

NNP Program Requirements

Once admitted, students must fulfill the following requirements to graduate and practice as an NNP:

• Completion of All Coursework: Students must complete all required coursework maintaining a minimum GPA as specified by the program.
• Clinical Hours: Completion of a designated number of clinical hours in neonatal settings, which is essential for gaining hands-on experience.
• Capstone Project or Thesis: Many programs require students to complete a capstone project or thesis that involves research related to neonatal care.
• Certification Exam: To practice professionally, candidates must pass a national certification exam specific to neonatal nurse practitioners after graduation.
• State Licensure: In addition to national certification, graduates must apply for and obtain state licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN).
• Continuing Education: NNPs are required to engage in ongoing education to maintain their certification and licensure, staying updated with the latest practices and technologies in neonatal care.
• Clinical Hours: National Task Force Standards for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education (NTFS) requires 750 direct patient care hours for all NP students. Students in DNP programs will be required to complete 1,000+ practice hours.

Admission Requirements for Neonatal NP Programs

NNP programs come with specific prerequisites and requirements, ensuring candidates are prepared for the demands of advanced nursing education and practice. While the requirements will vary based on your entry pathway and program, NNP admission requirements typically include:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most programs require applicants to have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited institution.
• RN Licensure: Applicants must hold a current and unrestricted RN license in the state where they will be completing their clinical courses. 
• Clinical Experience: A specified amount of clinical experience working in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is often required, typically ranging from one to two years.
• GPA Requirements: A minimum undergraduate GPA, often around 3.0 or higher, is usually required for admission.
• Letters of Recommendation: Letters from academic or professional references that can attest to the candidate's capabilities and character.
• Personal Statement: A written statement that discusses the applicant's career objectives, motivation for becoming an NNP, and any relevant experiences or skills.
• Completion of Specific Undergraduate Courses: Some programs may require completion of certain courses before admission, such as statistics, health assessment, or advanced physiology.
• Background Check: A comprehensive background check is often required to ensure patient safety and integrity.
• Drug Screening: Applicants may need to pass a drug screening test.
• Health Assessment: Proof of up-to-date immunizations and a recent physical health assessment are typically required.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Job Description

NNPs focus on the comprehensive health needs of newborns. With their expertise and skills, NNPs significantly impact neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), delivery rooms, and other healthcare settings dedicated to newborn care. Their dedication to ensuring the well-being of newborns and supporting families during this critical phase of life is unparalleled. Understanding the crucial role of NNPs is vital if you're contemplating a career as an NNP or happen to be in a situation where your newborn requires neonatal care.

Responsibilities

NNP job duties and responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks to ensure the health and well-being of newborn infants. These responsibilities include:

• Patient Assessment: NNPs conduct comprehensive physical assessments of newborns, including evaluating their vital signs, performing developmental screenings, and interpreting diagnostic tests. This assessment helps NNPs identify any health issues or abnormalities that require immediate attention.
• Diagnosis and Treatment: Based on an NNP's assessment findings, they will diagnose health conditions in newborns and develop individualized treatment plans. This may involve prescribing medications, administering therapies, providing respiratory care, managing feeding regimens, or performing necessary medical procedures.
• Patient Management: The role of an NNP involves ongoing patient management. They closely monitor the progress of newborns under their care, regularly reassess their health status, and adjust treatment plans as needed. In critical situations, they provide emergency care and interventions to stabilize and support newborns.
• Family Support: In addition to caring for newborns, NNPs also provide essential support to their families. This includes offering education and guidance on infant care, addressing concerns or questions, and providing emotional support during challenging and overwhelming times for parents and caregivers.
• Collaboration and Consultation: NNPs work collaboratively with a team of healthcare professionals, including neonatologists, pediatricians, nurses, and other specialists. Effective communication and collaboration are vital to ensure coordinated and comprehensive newborn care. Furthermore, they consult with specialists to seek expert opinions and guidance for complex cases.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, NNPs contribute to the well-being and positive outcomes of newborn infants and their families.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program Costs

Nurse Practitioner (NP) program costs can differ greatly, with key factors to consider including:

• Tuition: Varies based on the type of educational institution and the student's residency status. For instance, at The Ohio State University, Ohio residents pay $9,682 per semester, while non-residents pay $22,982. Generally, private institutions have higher tuition fees compared to state schools.
• Materials: Costs for books, medical equipment, and other necessary supplies can add up, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
• Technology: Additional fees may be incurred for technology or digital resources in online or blended programs.
• Course-Related Fees: Certain courses may require lab fees to cover the use of specific materials or equipment.
• Ancillary Fees: Application and graduation fees, among other administrative costs, need to be accounted for.
• Living Costs: Day-to-day expenses such as housing, food, and transportation are particularly relevant for full-time students or those relocating.
• Certification Costs: Post-graduation, NP board certification fees also contribute to the financial considerations of the program.

NNP Program Financial Planning

To manage the costs of an NNP Program, students often use a combination of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Early planning can make the financial journey more manageable, allowing students to focus on their education and future careers.

Neonatal NP Salary Expectations 2025

The earnings for an NNP can differ significantly, influenced by factors like location, experience, practice setting, and education level with certification. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NPs earned an average annual salary of $124,680 or $59.94 per hour. The 90th percentile of NPs corresponds to an hourly wage of $79.44 and an annual wage of $165,240.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

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

While BLS does not discuss the specifics of the various types of NPs, ZipRecruiter reports that the salary range for NNPs can vary between $94,000 and $148,000, depending on the state of practice. 

The top-paying states for NNPs are:

• Washington: $164,675
• New York: $147,372
• Vermont: $144,538
• California: $140,530
• Maine: $136,715

Industries that have the highest levels of NP employment:

• Office of the Physicians: 122,830
• General Medical & Surgical Hospitals: 58,080
• Outpatient Care Centers: 23,760
• Office of Other Health Practitioners: 10,950
• Home Health Care Services: 7,460

Tips to Choose the Best Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program

Selecting the right NNP 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 Rate
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 NNP students, consider these additional factors when considering the right program for you:

• Specialization: Ensure the NP Program's concentration is for Neonatal NPs
• Accreditation: Verify accreditation from CCNE or ACEN to ensure educational quality.
• Certification and Licensure: The program should meet the requirements for APRN certification and state licensure.
• Certification Pass Rates: Investigate the program's success rates to gauge exam preparedness.
• Clinical Training: Look for programs that offer diverse and high-quality clinicals and clinical placement support. 
• Faculty Expertise: Confirm that faculty members are qualified and experienced in mental health disciplines.
• Support Services: Assess the availability of mentoring, career services, and academic support.
• Technology and Resources: Check for access to the latest technology and resources in mental health education.
• Alumni Network: Consider the strength of the alumni network for job placement and professional growth.
• Interprofessional Education: Ensure opportunities for collaborative learning with other healthcare disciplines.
• State Regulations: Make sure the program is recognized by the state Board of Nursing in your intended state of practice.

Choosing the right program depends on your preferences and learning style. By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision on the best NNP school for you. For those who prefer a less rigorous pace, consider exploring the Best NNP Programs in 2025.

10 Reasons NNP 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

Given these considerations, it is vital students verify their chosen NNP program is accredited by reputable bodies like the Commission onCommission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE),  Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA).

Neonatal NP Scope of Practice Considerations

The practice parameters for Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs) are subject to state-specific regulations, which can significantly vary, impacting the level of autonomy and scope of clinical duties they are permitted to perform. While some states offer NNPs the independence to practice autonomously, others require collaborative or direct supervision by a physician.

Prospective NNP students must thoroughly understand these regulations as they consider educational programs. It's crucial to note that not all APRN programs are recognized universally; certain programs may not meet the practice criteria in specific states. Aligning with the right NNP role necessitates an in-depth grasp of the state-specific practice rules where one intends to work. This includes familiarizing oneself with the particular responsibilities and practice limits of the NNP specialization. Such forethought is key to ensuring the chosen NNP program corresponds with the anticipated professional milieu.

Consider the following when planning your NNP career path:

• State Licensure: Securing a state-specific license is essential for practicing as an NNP. Changes in practice states will likely require a new licensure process.
• Practice Levels Defined by AANP:
  • Full Practice States: Allow NNPs to perform comprehensive patient care, including diagnosis and prescribing, autonomously. Some of the states granting full NP practice authority include New York, Washington, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. 
  • Reduced Practice States: Require NNPs to maintain regulated collaborative agreements for certain practice elements. A few of the reduced practice states include Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Alabama, Illinois, and Louisianna. 
  • Restricted Practice States: Impose strict supervisory or management requirements on NNPs, including but not limited to Georgia, Florida, Texas, California, and South Carolina. 

For those aiming to practice as an NNP, especially in a different state from where you plan to pursue your education, it is imperative to research the state specific regulations and requirements set forth by the local Board of Nursing. This ensures that you meet all the qualifications for NNPs within that jurisdiction.

NNP National Certification 

Although specific licensure requirements may differ from state to state, a consistent requirement for all Nurse Practitioners, including those specializing as Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNPs), is to secure national certification. For NNPs, this means achieving the NNP-BC credential through the National Certification Corporation (NCC), which is an essential step for those entering this specialized field. National certification is required prior to licensure in most states. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about NNPs

Q: What education is required to become an NNP?

To pursue a career as an NNP, individuals typically need to complete a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN). After gaining experience as an RN, aspiring NNPs can then pursue a Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a specialization in neonatal care. They can take a national certification exam to become certified NNPs upon graduation.

Q: Can NNPs prescribe medication?

Yes, NNPs can prescribe medication as part of their practice. However, it's important to note that the specific regulations and scope of prescription authority can vary by state. NNPs must adhere to the legal and regulatory requirements of the state in which they practice.

Q: What are the benefits of becoming an NNP?

Becoming an NNP offers numerous benefits. NNPs are crucial in significantly impacting the lives of newborn infants and their families by providing specialized care during a critical period. The neonatal care field presents excellent job opportunities due to the increasing demand for skilled NNPs. Furthermore, NNPs frequently experience substantial professional independence, leading to fulfilling and rewarding careers with competitive salaries.

Q: What skills are essential for an NNP?

Successful NNPs possess a diverse set of skills to excel in their role. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effectively collaborating with healthcare teams and providing education and support to families. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are crucial for making timely and accurate clinical decisions in often fast-paced and complex situations. NNPs must also be able to work under pressure and remain calm in high-stress environments. A deep understanding of neonatal care, including physiology, assessment techniques, and treatment modalities, is necessary to provide comprehensive care. Additionally, NNPs should be compassionate, patient, and able to support families during challenging times emotionally.