Earning an online nurse practitioner degree is a popular path for practicing RNs looking to become more competitive hires with higher pay. These programs widen the scope of their capabilities, advance their skills, and make this degree more accessible than ever before. Students will learn about patient assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and evidence-based practices, preparing them for specialized roles in healthcare.
With nurse practitioners earning a median salary of $126,620 and fields like midwifery and anesthetists seeing median wages of $129,650 and $212,650, respectively, the career potential is significant. Most programs can be completed in two to four years, and with an average tuition cost of $20,513 per year, this degree is a worthwhile investment in your professional future.
How to Choose an Online Nurse Practitioner Program
Choose your area of study
Nurse practitioner degrees can be versatile, often offering different specializations to help tailor your education to your career goals. To narrow down your options, consider asking yourself:
- What population am I interested in serving?
- What healthcare settings do I prefer?
- What types of health issues interest me the most?
Options may vary by program, but they typically include Family Nurse Practitioner for those pursuing family-centered care, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner for individuals working with adults and older people, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for those interested in mental health services. You may also see specializations in nurse-midwifery and anesthetics.
Research schools and programs
With your intended specialization in mind, you can begin researching schools and programs. You can use the following questions to guide your research:
- Does a recognized accrediting body accredit the program?
- What kind of support does the school offer for clinical placements?
- What is the program’s pass rate for the NP certification exam?
- Are there opportunities for hands-on experience in your chosen specialization?
You can find this information on school websites, through admissions counselors, and by attending a virtual open house or information session. Many students also benefit from using platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit to gain insights from alumni and current students.
Prepare for tests and applications
Test and application prep can feel daunting, but with careful planning, you can be sure you’re making the best possible impression on admissions committees.
Start by seeking out transcripts and requesting letters of recommendation at least three to four months before application deadlines. Begin drafting your personal statement two to three months in advance, allowing ample time for revisions. If your top schools require test scores, enroll in a test prep program three to six months before the exam date.
Select your program
Once acceptance letters arrive, revisit your initial research criteria and focus on what matters most to you, such as faculty you’re excited to learn from, support for clinical placements, and graduation rates. This is also a great time to reassess the total cost of attendance and compare it with any financial aid offers. Ensuring the program is a good fit and financially feasible will be significant in making the best decision for your educational and career goals.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your degree with minimal debt is a top priority for many students. To do this, start with scholarships and grants, as these don’t require repayment. Next, explore assistantships that offer stipends or tuition waivers in exchange for work. Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement, which can significantly offset costs. Only after these options should you consider federal loans, as they typically offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans than private loans.
Best 50 Accredited Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online nurse practitioner degree programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education. The programs on this list are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online nurse practitioner degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Online Nurse Practitioner Program?
Students enrolling in an online nurse practitioner (NP) program can expect an all-encompassing educational experience combining flexibility and in-depth training. These programs typically cover various topics, including advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and primary care practices. As a student, you’ll also delve into specialized areas such as family care, pediatrics, women’s health, or gerontology, depending on your chosen track.
One of the significant advantages of online NP programs is the ability to complete coursework anytime, anywhere. This asynchronous learning model allows students to fit their education into their personal and professional schedules, making it ideal for those working or with other commitments. However, it’s important to note that nearly all NP programs require in-person clinical hours. Many programs offer support in finding clinical placements close to your home, providing convenience without compromising the quality of education.
Most students can complete these degrees in two to four years, depending on whether you enroll full- or part-time.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online nurse practitioner program
- Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice: A cornerstone in most curriculums, this course explores the theories and models underpinning nursing practice. Students will learn about the historical and philosophical foundations of nursing theories, analyze their application in clinical settings, and understand how these frameworks guide patient care and nursing research.
- Ethical Issues and Public Policy: In this course, learners examine the moral dilemmas and public policy issues that impact healthcare delivery. Topics typically include patient rights, confidentiality, informed consent, and healthcare legislation. Students will develop critical thinking skills to navigate ethical challenges and advocate for policies that promote equitable and effective healthcare.
- Advanced Pathophysiology: This upper-level course delves into the complex physiological processes and mechanisms underlying disease states. Participants study the alterations in normal physiological functions that lead to disease, improving their ability to diagnose and manage various health conditions. This knowledge is essential for developing effective treatment plans and improving patient outcomes.
- Primary Care of Children: Focused on pediatric healthcare, this course covers the principles and practices of providing primary care to children from infancy through adolescence. Students will learn about growth and development, common childhood illnesses, preventative care, and managing acute and chronic conditions in pediatric populations.
- Advanced Diagnostic Reasoning: This course emphasizes the development of advanced clinical reasoning and diagnostic skills. Participants will learn to gather and interpret clinical data, differentiate between similar presenting conditions, and formulate accurate diagnoses. This course prepares students to make informed clinical decisions and provide high-quality care based on comprehensive assessments.
Online Nurse Practitioner Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online nurse practitioner degree program?
While some application requirements may vary by program, many share a similar process. This typically includes submitting:
- An online application form
- Official transcripts from all previous educational institutions
- Proof of an active RN license
- A personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- GRE scores, if required
Before applying, it’s essential to speak with an admissions counselor. They can provide insights into program specifics, helping ensure you meet all requirements.
How much does an online nurse practitioner degree cost?
According to the most recent National Center of Education Statistics data, the average annual cost of graduate school tuition is $20,513. However, tuition is just one part of the overall expense. You’ll also want to budget for additional costs, including technology fees, textbooks, and course materials, which can accumulate over time.
How long does it take to earn an online nurse practitioner degree?
Earning an online NP degree takes two to three years for most full-time students and three to four years for part-time students. However, completion timelines can vary based on the total number of credits the program requires. Assessing the specific credit requirements is important, as programs with more credits will naturally take longer to complete.