[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/”]Nurse practitioners (NPs)[/hen-ui-link] can follow various educational pathways. While the full path to NP status can take 6-8 years, an online accelerated NP program can take just one year for full-time students.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online learners can take classes wherever there is internet access. This flexibility allows you to arrange your schedule and coursework in the way that best suits you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Explore how online NP programs work, what to look for, and more information on choosing the best program for your career goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Popular Online Nursing Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn About the Best Accelerated Online NP Programs and Schools[/hen-ui-heading]
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
UC's accelerated online FNP program doesn't require any campus visits. Practicing nurses teach courses in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
You will learn about family health, healthcare policy, clinical management of well women and children, and differential diagnosis. The self-paced curriculum can be completed in as little as two years.
We like this program because it provides ample support throughout the enrollment and clinical placement processes.
UC's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
You will take classes in primary care, procedures and diagnostics, leadership in advanced nursing roles, and advanced health assessment.
We like Mt. Carmel College's commitment to the nursing profession by educating nurses for over a century, and their tuition assistance through the Mt. Carmel Scholarship Foundation.
Mt. Carmel's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Highlights
Full-time clinical coordinator
No more than two classes at a time
Average of 30 people per class
Considerations
65% graduation rate
Requires one year of recent clinical experience
48 credits and 500 clinical hours
99%
Online Enrollment
$24,000
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
68%
Retention Rate
$24,000
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
766
Institution Type
Private
#3
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
UCM's accelerated online NP program has two tracks: family nurse practitioner (FNP) and nurse educator (NE). The NE track is 100% online, and the FNP track uses a hybrid format.
FNP students take courses in healthcare policy and advocacy, advanced pathophysiology, and organizational leadership in complex health systems. They must occasionally visit campus at Lee's Summit.
We like this program's affordability, track options, and encouragement of part-time study for working professionals.
UCM's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
Both tracks are two-year programs
100% American Association of Nurse Practitioners and American Nurses Credentialing Center exam pass rate
All nursing FNP faculty are practicing NPs
Considerations
49% graduation rate
Clinicals must be completed in Missouri
Graduate nursing students can only repeat a course once
44%
Online Enrollment
$ 8,136
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
70%
Retention Rate
$16,272
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
12,788
Institution Type
Public
#4
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Duquesne University's online NP program occurs predominantly online with two campus visits. You will take courses in healthcare ethics in practice and policy, pathophysiology, and transitioning to advanced practice nursing.
We like how this program offers the FNP post-master's certificate for students who want specialty certifications.
Duquesne University's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
A National League for Nursing Center of Excellence
Offers three start dates per year
Considerations
75% graduation rate
Requires a BSN from an accredited college or university
Must hold a current, unencumbered RN license
38%
Online Enrollment
$25,578
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
86%
Retention Rate
$25,578
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
8,137
Institution Type
Private
#5
Winona State University
Winona, MN
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
WSU's accelerated online NP program offers two MSN tracks: nurse educator (NE) and nursing leadership (NL). The NE track comprises 48 credits and 300 clinical hours, and the NL track comprises 46 credits and 546 clinical hours.
NE students will take courses in instruction and evaluation, curriculum and program design, and advanced health assessment. NL students explore human resource management, strategic project management, and financial resource management in nursing service courses.
We like the flexibility of this program, including its two-year and three-year study plans. Students can also choose from two tracks.
WSU's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
NE program can be completed in 4 semesters and 2 summer sessions
NL program can be completed in 4 semesters and 1 summer session
Students who don't meet the minimum 3.0 GPA requirement may qualify for provisional admission
Considerations
60% graduation rate
At least one professional reference must be from someone with relevant experience
Minimum of one year of clinical nursing experience
You will take classes in health policy and economics, care of the aging population, common alterations in primary care, and professional practice.
We like how Morehead University offers the RN-to-MSN track for post-licensure BSN students to make a seamless transition to the master's program. BSN students can take nine credits of coursework that applies to both BSN and MSN programs.
MSU's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
Provides career counselors
Offers career personality assessments
Accepts transfer credits from other MSN programs
Considerations
49% graduation rate
Students must complete a three-credit graduate or undergraduate descriptive statistics course before enrollment
Minimum of one year or 2,080 hours of experience
52%
Online Enrollment
$ 9,096
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
68%
Retention Rate
$13,680
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
8,810
Institution Type
Public
#7
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
SJC's accelerated online NP program is for students who want to pursue master of business administration (MBA) or health administration (MHA) degrees with their MSNs. The combined degrees are a total of 60 credits.
You will take MSN classes in organizational leadership, population health, public policy and research, and informatics.
We like this program because it offers post-graduate certificates and dual-degree programs.
SJC's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
Program can be completed in just two years
Students have up to five years to complete their degrees
Offers four specialization tracks
Considerations
70% graduation rate
Students need at least two years of nursing experience
Courses are offered in March, June, September, and December
59%
Online Enrollment
$9,630
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
77%
Retention Rate
$9,630
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
1,478
Institution Type
Private
#8
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
TWU's accelerated online NP program requires two years of full-time enrollment or up to four years for part-time delivery. You will complete 45 credits and three patient care experiences.
You will take 14 classes encompassing patient assessments, applied research, pharmacology, treatment methods, and evidence-based practice for the promotion of quality outcomes.
We like this program because it prioritizes student well-being by providing clinical placement services.
TWU's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
Students can extend graduation dates
Clinical placement support
Start dates in spring, summer, and fall
Considerations
44% graduation rate
Program available in 29 states
Students must complete an undergraduate or graduate-level statistics course
77%
Online Enrollment
$ 5,112
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
74%
Retention Rate
$12,456
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
15,585
Institution Type
Public
#9
Herzing University-Madison
Madison, WI
4 year
Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
Herzing University's accelerated online NP program occurs entirely online, accepts applications on a rolling basis, and offers six start dates.
You will take courses in scholarship for nursing practice, health policy and management, systems-based practice, and clinical decision-making.
We like how this program enables you to earn credits toward a doctorate of nursing practice while taking MSN classes.
Herzing University's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
Assists with clinical placement
Offers lifelong career coaching
Can be completed in 20 months, among the fastest on this list
Considerations
42% graduation rate
Requires a BSN from an accredited institution
Must hold current and unrestricted license in state of residence
99%
Online Enrollment
$9,520
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
51%
Retention Rate
$9,520
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
3,473
Institution Type
Private
#10
King University
Bristol, TN
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Why We Chose This School
King University's accelerated online NP program offers four concentrations: nurse leadership and administration, adult gerontology acute care, family nurse practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
You will take classes in research design in nursing, global health awareness, healthcare informatics, and other classes unique to your specialty.
We like how this military-friend program accepts GI Bill® benefits and participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.
King University's program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Highlights
Offers income share agreements after students exhaust scholarships and grants
Provides guaranteed admission for the university's BSN students
Team-based learning
Considerations
46% graduation rate
Requires current unrestricted Tennessee or compact license
Requires laptop computer with Microsoft Office 365
68%
Online Enrollment
$14,181
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
62%
Retention Rate
$14,181
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
1,299
Institution Type
Private
[hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”strokeLight” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″][hen-ui-icon icon=”badge-check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /] How We Rank Schools[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]We use a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list is from 2025.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Using Our Rankings: What to Look for in an Online Accelerated NP Degree Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When exploring online accelerated NP programs, keep in mind the metrics listed below — factors that also shape our rankings.[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]It’s important to understand and then meet the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/applying-to-nursing-school/”]admission requirements[/hen-ui-link] for any degree program that interests you. Admission requirements give you an idea about the average student accepted into a nursing program, including their academic background, work history, and clinical experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Specializations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Taking an accelerated NP program online gives you specialized training in areas of healthcare, such as [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/fnp/”]family NP[/hen-ui-link], pediatrics NP, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/psychiatric/”]psychiatric mental health NP[/hen-ui-link], or [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/womens-health/”]women’s health NP[/hen-ui-link]. The selection of specializations varies by school.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Program Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most accelerated online NP programs offer similar advanced theoretical and [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/common-courses-you-will-take-for-your-rn-degree/”]clinical nursing curricula[/hen-ui-link], but electives and specializations vary. For instance, one accelerated online NP program may focus on primary care management, while another emphasizes leadership in nursing.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Clinical Experience[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Clinical hours are a core element of every accelerated online NP program. You can expect to [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]complete in-person clinical hours[/hen-ui-link]. Some programs offer free clinical placement services and advisors, a process that can be otherwise time-consuming. Most programs, however, require students to find their own clinical placements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Accreditation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You want your accelerated [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]online NP program to have accreditation[/hen-ui-link] because it offers a distinction recognized by your peers and future employers. Accreditation also ensures that an accelerated online NP program meets the clinical and educational requirements for certification and licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Program Length[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Consider how much time you have available to devote to earning a higher degree. Completing the average accelerated NP program online takes about 24 months, but some programs only take 12 months. Alternatively, nurses can study part time and graduate in about 28 months.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]School Graduation Rate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A school’s graduation rate provides clues about how well a program and its faculty prepare students to achieve their career goals. You can get an idea about [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/how-long-is-nursing-school/”]how long it takes the average student[/hen-ui-link] to earn a degree by looking at the graduation rate.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Online Learning Format and Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accelerated online [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/how-online-nursing-programs-work/”]NP programs operate virtually[/hen-ui-link], but how students access lectures and materials differs. Students may prefer mostly asynchronous courses with no set class times or live courses that offer face-to-face interaction.[/hen-ui-text]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Is Accelerated Online NP Program Accreditation Important?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are three major agencies that [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/what-is-accreditation/”]accredit nursing schools[/hen-ui-link]: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). One of these agencies reviews a nursing program and ensures it meets the standards for education and clinical practice training.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Choosing a non-accredited program could seriously limit your options:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]No financial aid.[/hen-ui-text] You usually need to be enrolled in an accredited program to be eligible for federal [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarships/”]financial aid and many scholarships[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]You might not be eligible for state NP licensure.[/hen-ui-text] Many states require graduation from an accredited program to sit for the NP licensure exam.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Issues transferring license.[/hen-ui-text] If you move states, you might need proof of graduating from an accredited nursing program to [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/”]transfer the license[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Tough time transferring credits.[/hen-ui-text] If you choose to pursue further education down the road, your completed coursework might not be accepted if the program wasn’t properly accredited.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Employers may require it.[/hen-ui-text] Some employers prefer or require nurses to have graduated from an accredited program.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How to check accreditation? Visit the program’s website and look for accreditation info, often listed on the “About Us” page. You can also check on the ACEN or CCNE agencies’ website by searching for the school’s name in their directory.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Online Accelerated NP Programs Work[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some accelerated NP programs have no set class times. Students can take classes at their own pace, but they may have to meet certain deadlines. Other programs require students to attend class at a specific time. In this case, students may access lecture recordings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Regardless of whether coursework occurs in person or online, students must physically attend clinical rotations. Some programs help students find facilities where they can [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/surviving-nursing-clinicals/”]complete their clinical hours[/hen-ui-link], while in others, students must find facilities on their own.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Instead of the usual 15-week courses, online accelerated NP programs often offer courses that last 4-6 weeks. Due to the pace, full-time students usually can’t work while in school. Part-time learning options take longer but allow more time for work.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Applying to an Accelerated Online NP Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your application is the admissions department’s first impression of you. Make it count by following the directions carefully and submitting everything by the deadline. Although some programs may ask you for materials unique to their needs, expect to provide the following information:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Admission Requirements”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor’s in nursing degree from an accredited college[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]1-2 years of nursing experience[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Valid RN license[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Admission Materials”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Criminal background check before clinical placement[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Official college transcripts[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Three recommendation letters[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Personal essay[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”GPA Requirement”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Minimum 3.0 GPA for undergraduate studies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Prerequisite Courses”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]College-level Statistics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Microbiology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/can-non-nurse-become-an-np/”]Chemistry for nurses [/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Anatomy and Physiology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Paying for Accelerated Online NP Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accelerated online NP programs are often fast-paced, leaving little room for full-time employment. However, many people cannot afford to stop working. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]Financial aid options[/hen-ui-link] can help offset expenses and make your education more affordable.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Loans — both private and federal — provide financial aid to nursing students for tuition and books. While taking on debt is a big decision, federal loans generally have lower interest rates and more lenient repayment plans than private loans. You can also explore nursing scholarships and grants, which do not need to be repaid. Employers may also help with education costs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do as a Nurse Practitioner?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An NP’s advanced education allows them to perform assessments, make diagnoses, and prescribe medication. NPs may collaborate with physicians or work independently. Each state regulates NP practice authority and determines whether NPs work in full practice, reduced practice, or restricted practice.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]NP Specialties and Workplaces[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]NP Specialties[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Workplace[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Family practice [/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”NP Specialties”]Physician’s offices, primary care clinics, and community health centers, urgent clinics, retail clinics[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Women’s health [/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”NP Specialties”]OBGYN clinics, private physician’s offices, and women’s health centers[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-practitioner/neonatal/”]Neonatal nursing[/hen-ui-link] [/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”NP Specialties”]Hospitals, neonatal intensive care units (NICU)[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/what-to-know-about-working-as-a-pediatric-nurse/”]Pediatrics[/hen-ui-link] [/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”NP Specialties”]Hospitals, doctor’s office, and primary care clinics[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Psychiatric mental health [/hen-ui-table-head][hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”NP Specialties”]Hospitals, behavioral health centers, and private practices[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The pay for NPs exceeds what RNs earn. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2024, RNs make an average annual salary of [hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oesprofile/” target=”_blank”]$98,430[/hen-ui-link], while NPs earn an average annual salary of [hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oesprofile/” target=”_blank”]$132,000[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the fastest track to become an NP?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The fastest way to become an NP is through an accelerated NP program, which requires a bachelor of science in nursing degree and can be completed in 12 months. Direct-entry master of science in nursing programs may be a good fit for those with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/ask-a-nurse/msn-program-with-a-non-nursing-bachelors-degree/”]non-nursing bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-link] and typically take 2-3 years to complete. They also have to sit for the NCLEX-RN after the first year of the program.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long are most NP programs?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The typical nurse practitioner program takes 2-3 years to complete. In an online accelerated program, you could become an NP in just 12 months, depending on your prior qualifications and whether you attend part or full time.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What type of NP gets paid the most?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Technically, the highest paid NP is a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/nurse-anesthetist/”]certified registered nurse anesthetist[/hen-ui-link], with a mean annual wage of [hen-ui-link href=”https://data.bls.gov/oesprofile/” target=”_blank”]$231,700[/hen-ui-link]. However, these nurses hold additional licensure, setting them apart from typical NPs. The next highest paid NP is an aesthetic nurse practitioner, making an average annual salary of $130,300 per year.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What degree is best for a nurse practitioner?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The degree that’s best for an NP depends largely on your preferences, career goals, financial situation, and available time to commit to studying. If your priority is to become an NP as quickly as possible, then an accelerated online NP program might be best.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion]
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”py-4 my-0 text-center border-b md:pb-8 md:border-none”]Explore Other Nurse Practitioner Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”3-col” ids=”34312,59652,34160″][/hen-ui-article-row]