Online NP programs, formally called nurse practitioner master's degrees, provides a flexible option for RNs to advance their careers through online coursework and clinical placements. These online nursing programs cover essential topics like pharmacology and patient assessment, preparing graduates for certification exams and roles in diverse healthcare settings.
Key Takeaways:
- Touro University Nevada stands out with a median graduate salary of $161,511 for its online family NP program, placing it among the top 2% nationally.
- Western Governors University leads in online enrollment with 44,128 students studying at the graduate level remotely.
- Samuel Merritt University excels with the #1 lowest student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, ensuring personalized attention and support.
Our methodology for ranking NP programs online focuses on the real-world outcomes of alumni salaries to determine the best long-term financial investments. After eligible programs are evaluated and assigned a Salary Score, those with the highest online enrollment follow to show the most popular online schools for nurse practitioner master's degrees.
2025 Best Online NP Programs
| Rank | School | Salary Score | Median Earnings | A+ | $161,511 | 319 | $22,895 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samuel Merritt University | A+ | $155,322 | 343 | $48,627 | ||||
| Arkansas State University | A | $149,066 | 5,823 | $6,930 | ||||
| University of North Dakota | B+ | $128,498 | 4,511 | $9,989 | ||||
| Fairleigh Dickinson University | B+ | $127,214 | 881 | B+ | $123,998 | 74 | #1
Online degree: Why we like them: Touro distinguishes itself in our rankings by boasting exceptionally high median earnings for its graduates, with an impressive $161,511. Such earning potential positions it in the top 2% of schools nationwide, underscoring the value of the education provided. The program's curriculum is designed to prepare you for certification through AANP and ANCC, further enhancing your professional qualifications. Another noteworthy benefit is the highly favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, which ensures you receive personalized attention and support throughout your studies. #2
Online degree: Why we like them: SMU stands out due to the exceptional median earnings of its graduates, which are $155,322. This figure places them among the top 4% of universities and signals robust post-graduation success and a high return on investment. The school's strong student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1 further emphasizes the personalized attention and mentorship you will receive. SMU's online MSN-FNP program is meticulously accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring the highest educational standards. #3
Online degree: Why we like them: A-State excels in producing high-earning nurse practitioners, with median earnings of $149,066, placing it in the top 7% nationwide. A-State’s program is ACEN-accredited and prepares you to sit for the ANCC and AACN certification exams, validating your expertise and enhancing your employability. The curriculum includes seven core courses (20 credit hours), six seminars (9 credit hours), and six practicums (12.5 credit hours), totaling 41.5 credit hours, which can be completed in as few as 24 months. For practical experience, it offers practicum opportunities and optional on-site skills labs. #4
Online degree: Why we like them: UND earns its high rank due to impressive median earnings for graduates, standing at $128,498. Accredited by the CCNE, the family nurse practitioner program facilitates eligibility for the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam through AANPCB or ANCC. The curriculum blends online coursework with two required campus visits, enhancing practical skill development through hands-on initiatives like joint injections and treatment simulations. The program’s asynchronous format offers flexibility while providing personalized clinical placements and full-time faculty engagement. #5
Online degree: Why we like them: The high median earnings of $127,214 place FDU in the top 30% nationally, indicating strong financial outcomes for graduates of this program. This impressive earning potential is complemented by the robust average financial aid package of $30,059, which is among the top 7% in the country, making this program financially accessible for many students. Accredited by ACEN and CCNE, the program prepares you for various populations based on the concentration, such as Adult Gerontology, Family Primary Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health, and Women’s Health. #6
Online degree: Why we like them: A standout feature of Washburn's PMHNP program is the median earnings of its graduates, which sit at $125,939. This figure places Washburn in the 68th percentile for earnings, underscoring the strong return on investment you can expect from this program. To complement this, 100% of students receive financial aid. The online format of the online PMHNP program offers additional flexibility, essential for working professionals, with both self-paced and live virtual classes. Coursework focuses on preparing you for national board certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. #7
Online degree: Why we like them: Yale's MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner ranks for its high median earnings, with graduates earning $123,998. This places Yale among the top 35% of institutions in terms of graduate earning potential, signifying the program's strong return on investment. Coupled with this, the program boasts an exceptional graduation rate of 98%. Regarding the course structure, this 51.5-credit-hour program is designed for aspiring nurse practitioners and can be completed within three years at a part-time pace. It includes live online classes, asynchronous assignments, in-person clinical training, and short-term, intensive on-campus immersions. #8
Online degree: Why we like them: USU's Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner ranks highly due to its strong median earnings, with graduates typically earning $123,773. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, Caring Science, and the application of advanced healthcare technologies 鈥� key aspects for any future-focused nurse practitioner. It also features 135 hours of precepted clinical practice per clinical practicum, ensuring you gain hands-on, practical experience, meeting licensure requirements efficiently in several states, including California. #9
Online degree: Why we like them: La Salle's online MSN AGPCNP program is distinguished by its median salary for graduates at $123,565, which are in the 64th percentile when compared with other institutions nationwide. This data point suggests that you can anticipate a strong return on investment post-graduation. Accredited by the CCNE, the program ensures academic standards, a critical factor if you're aiming to secure certification from either the ANCC or AANP. With an extensive curriculum that includes 41 credit hours and over 500 clinical hours, the program prepares you thoroughly for a variety of healthcare settings. #10
Online degree: Why we like them: One of the top reasons MCPHS ranks highly among online nurse practitioner degrees is its strong performance in terms of median earnings at $120,085. Designed as a three-year, part-time program, it encompasses online coursework combined with clinical experience in your community. This format allows you to continue working while you upgrade your qualifications. Additionally, there is the flexibility to bypass the need for a bachelor's degree, transitioning seamlessly from an associate degree to graduate-level coursework. Upon completion, you are prepared to sit for the Family Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Exam. #11
Online degree: Why we like them: UConn's ranking is propelled by median earnings of $119,725 for graduates, positioning it in the top 42% of programs nationwide. Complementing this, the retention rate stands at 91%. The program offers a 48-credit Master of Science and a 78 to 80-credit BS to Doctor of Nursing Practice (BS-DNP) pathway. A standout feature is the program's faculty, comprised of highly experienced practitioners. The program prepares graduates for the FNP Primary Care certification examination, evidenced by a 100% first-time pass rate between 2013 and 2020 for the AANP or ANCC certifications. #12
Online degree: Why we like them: USF nursing graduates have median earnings of $117,979, placing them in the top 45% for earnings potential among similar institutions. Additionally, 100% of students receive financial aid, underscoring the university's commitment to making education accessible. The program offers flexible online courses with built-in learning support, catering to working professionals. Furthermore, the MSN program allows you to specialize in other areas besides FNP, including Nursing Administration, Nursing Education, and Psychiatric-mental Health Nurse Practitioner, expanding your career opportunities. #13
Online degree: Why we like them: UTMB is highly ranked due to its median earnings of $116,931 for graduates, which places it in the top 53% nationally. The online Master of Science in Nursing offers seven different tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner but also Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, ensuring that you can tailor your education to your specific career goals. The program also emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice. We also want to praise UTMB's 100% recommendation rate among its alums, demonstrating its value. #14
Online degree: Why we like them: SHU's nurse practitioner master's program online results in median earnings of $116,687. This indicates a strong return on investment for your education. The program requires you to complete clinical hours in psychiatric-mental health settings, ensuring that you gain practical, hands-on experience. The curriculum covers courses aimed at preparing you for licensure, including advanced pathophysiology and psychopharmacology. Accredited by the CCNE, the program meets high educational standards required for licensure. #15
Online degree: Why we like them: YSU secures its high ranking due to the median earnings of its graduates, who report a median salary of $116,605. Notably, the MSN 鈥� AGACNP program is designed to meet licensure requirements, positioning graduates for certification and immediate entry into the workforce. This is substantiated by YSU's focus on practical, real-world preparation through its curriculum. We are further impressed by the online school's strong recommendation rate of 85%. #16
Online degree: Why we like them: UTA's online MSN-FNP program, which has a median salary among alumni of $115,905, equips nurses with advanced clinical and diagnostic skills to provide comprehensive healthcare across the lifespan. Accredited by the CCNE, this program covers primary care, pharmacology, health assessments, and clinical management, with local clinical placements to ensure hands-on experience. Graduates are prepared to manage patient care in diverse settings, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and evidence-based practices. #17
Online degree: Why we like them: DeSales is one of our top programs for earnings potential, with graduates achieving a median salary of $115,428. This CCNE-accredited nursing master's is offered in both full- and part-time formats, the program includes practical training in advanced simulation labs and diverse clinical settings. Furthermore, the curriculum comprises 54 credits along with 75 clinical lab hours and 675 clinical practicum hours. With significant financial support, the average financial aid package is $27,824, ranking it in the top 9% for generosity, making this high-quality program more accessible. #18
Online degree: Why we like them: Wilmington is highly ranked, particularly for its strong earnings potential, with graduates enjoying a median salary of $115,319. This positions the program in the top 50% nationally for earning potential, underscoring the program's solid return on investment. The MSN with a Family Nurse Practitioner emphasis holds CCNE accreditation and has a hybrid schedule that mixes online learning with two face-to-face seminars each year for practicum students. The program requires completion of 55 credits over seven semesters and includes a minimum of 700 clinical hours. #19
Online degree: Why we like them: ODU's program results in median earnings of $114,949 for graduates, placing it in the top half of similar online nurse practitioner programs. In this program, you must complete 49 credit hours, including clinical practicum and hands-on training at ODU’s Virginia Beach campus, which significantly enhances your practical skills in diverse healthcare settings. This curriculum also ensures readiness for the FNP certification exams and meets licensure requirements, thereby broadening your career prospects. It's CCNE-accredited and recognized by the Virginia Joint Boards of Nursing and Medicine. #20
Online degree: Why we like them: Graduates of TTUHSC's Master of Science in Nursing - Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner see a median salary of $114,426. It's designed for specialized care delivery in acute, complex acute, and critical health conditions among children, with graduates eligible to sit for the Pediatric Nursing Credentialing Board Acute Care CPNP exam. The 51-credit hour curriculum incorporates evidence-based management strategies and cultural competency to ensure you're well-prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic healthcare environment. #21
Online degree: Why we like them: Ranked 21st for its online FNP master's program, SFMC's program results in median earnings of $114,220 for graduates, positioning you in the top 52% nationally. Additionally, the school boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, ensuring plenty of personalized guidance. This program is designed with the flexibility of online delivery, emphasizing critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional leadership. It offers other specializations as well, including Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. #22
Online degree: Why we like them: Rockhurst is highly ranked due to the online nursing master's graduates' median earnings of $113,112, a B- Salary Score which places it within the top 54% of programs nationwide. The online MSN-AGACNP program equips nurses to care for critically and chronically ill adults. This program offers 100% online coursework, flexible full- or part-time options, and full clinical placement support. Accredited by the CCNE and delivered through Saint Luke's College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the program includes hands-on training during a campus immersion, preparing graduates for advanced practice roles in acute care settings. #23
Online degree: Why we like them: UTEP excels in providing a robust educational framework through its Master of Science in Nursing - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, which boasts median earnings of $112,696 among its graduates. The program's flexible structure is designed for working professionals, offering seven-week didactic courses and innovative simulation lab experiences to ensure comprehensive practical training. The curriculum comprises 48 credit hours over seven semesters and requires 765 clinical clock hours, with adherence to rigorous standards set by the AACN and NONPF. #24
Online degree: Why we like them: WGU's online nursing graduate program includes six core courses shared across all WGU MSN programs, followed by specialized courses tailored for Family Nurse Practitioners. These include competencies in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, along with practical clinical internships totaling 650 hours. The curriculum adheres to NONPF standards, ensuring that upon graduation, you are well-prepared to sit for the national FNP certification exam and pursue state licensure as a Family Nurse Practitioner. #25
Online degree: Why we like them: Capella has a large online enrollment of 26,447 students, just at the graduate level. Its online FNP master's program benefits from practical, immersive learning experiences facilitated through a digital medical education platform, high-quality simulations, and professional testimonials, preparing you for real-world challenges. Additionally, Capella provides practicum placement support through its partnership with Optum, empowering you to gain hands-on clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings. #26
Online degree: Why we like them: The online enrollment at SNHU is massive, with 22,314 students engaged in online studies as graduates. This robust digital presence provides you with ample opportunities to connect with a wide range of peers, enhancing your learning experience. The online master's in FNP in particular is designed with an emphasis on practical experience through 750 clinical practicum hours, ensuring you develop hands-on skills critical for advanced nursing roles. You will engage in courses like Advanced Clinical Pathophysiology and Advanced Pharmacology for the Prescriber, Immersion, fostering deep clinical reasoning and decision-making skills. #27
Online degree: Why we like them: Chamberlain hosts 14,992 distance learners attending graduate school. This places Chamberlain in the top 2% of schools with the highest number of online graduate students, exemplifying the strong digital infrastructure and widespread appeal of their online offerings. The nursing FNP program requires eight semesters for completion and is accredited by the CCNE. Additionally, the Practicum Commitment service aids in securing essential practicum sites, mitigating common challenges faced by nursing students. Courses cover advanced pharmacology, physical assessment, and leadership. #28
Online degree: Why we like them: Purdue Global is ranked due to its substantial online enrollment, with 11,615 graduate students pursuing their studies remotely, placing it in the top 2% of schools by this metric. The CCNE-accredited program includes essential courses like Advanced Nursing Roles and Epidemiology and Health Promotion. Another standout feature is the integration of advanced technologies such as Oculus Quest virtual reality headsets for a virtual lab experience, enhancing the practical learning component. #29
Online degree: Why we like them: GWU hosts 8,800 online graduate students, positioning it among the top 2% of universities for online engagement. This significant virtual presence is bolstered by a high median earning of $110,856 for nursing graduates, illustrating the program's strong return on investment. The online MSN in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses to provide advanced care for critically ill adolescents and adults in high-intensity environments such as critical care units, urgent care centers, and specialty units. It requires 650+ clinical hours and the option to customize preceptor experiences. #30
Online degree: Why we like them: Cumberlands excels in online enrollment, with 7,466 distance learners. When compared to other institutions, it places among the top 3% for online student populations, indicating a well-established digital learning environment. Those enrolled in the online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner will benefit from a curriculum designed to prepare you for advanced practice nursing roles. The 48-credit program covers coursework such as Epidemiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Healthcare Technologies, and 720 hours of clinical practice, blending didactic learning with hands-on experience. #31
Online degree: Why we like them: Regent Online is in the top 4% most popular online graduate schools, with 5,033 students enrolled remotely. Its online PMHNP requires 47 credit hours and offers training to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. The program is designed with practical components, including a residency in Virginia Beach and practicums within your local community, providing hands-on experience to fortify your theoretical knowledge. Courses such as Psychopharmacology, Psychotherapeutic Theories and Clinical Interventions, and three intensive practicums ensure you're well-prepared for real-world applications. Overview for Online Nurse Practitioner DegreesThe Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for nurse practitioners is for registered nurses and focuses on advanced nursing theory and principles in the design and delivery of primary care. MSN students choose a nursing specialization, such as family health, gerontology, women's health, or neonatal care. The curriculum is intended to prepare students for the national certification exam and also establishes a foundation for pursuing doctoral studies as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Program completion generally requires 42-48 credits and approximately 600 practicum hours to gain clinical experience. Full-time students may complete the program in two years, while part-time students may need four. While on-campus NP programs emphasize collaborative group work and class discussion, as an online student, you'll work autonomously. You are also expected to maintain your nursing job while enrolled to practice and implement new skills and eventually complete your practicum. The Importance of an Accredited Online Nurse Practitioner ProgramMost professional nursing certification exams are only open to those who have completed accredited degree programs. Programmatic accrediting bodies ensure programs in their field offer a high quality curriculum that meets employer needs. Graduates should be proficient in the skills currently in-demand in order to pass certification exams and remain competitive in the job market. You should choose an online nursing degree program specifically accredited by an agency such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing Inc., the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, or the Commission for Education in Nursing. You can visit to check a school's accreditation status. Admission RequirementsAn NP degree program applicant must be a registered nurse with an active license and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). If your bachelor's degree is in another field, you'll have to enroll in an RN to MSN bridge program. Most programs also require approximately one year of nursing work experience and proof of employment, in addition to letters of recommendation from employers. Other admission requirements are similar across programs:
The admissions office may require an interview that an advisor will schedule once they review all the applications. If you are on a budget, consider exploring our list of the most affordable nurse practitioner master's degrees online. How To Become a Nurse PractitionerBecoming an NP 鈥� one type of Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) 鈥� begins with earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). RNs who have already earned a BSN may apply to any NP program. RNs with associate degrees in nursing can also apply, but they may need to complete several prerequisite or "bridge" courses in addition to the full MSN curriculum. Once students have earned their MSN to become an NP and completed their state requirement for practicum hours, they can apply for state licensure and national certification, both of which require comprehensive exams. Each state's nursing board has its own criteria for licensure, so students should check their state's website for full details. Certification varies depending on a student's area of specialization. For example, Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) can pursue certification through either the or the (ANCC), while NPs who specialize in working with older adults can earn certification through the or the ANCC. Both state licensure and certification need to be renewed periodically. Nurse Practitioner SpecialtiesStudents enrolled in NP programs must choose an area of specialization. Some NPs focus on patients within a particular age group 鈥� the most popular of which is the FNP 鈥� but there are other possibilities as well. The most common specializations are as follows:
Especially for those students focused on older adults and children, coursework may further specialize in providing acute or primary care. Primary care training involves assisting patients with routine medical care, including treatment for chronic conditions, while acute care training focuses on assisting patients who need immediate medical attention for acute illnesses. Career OutlookAccording to the (BLS), NPs have a bright job outlook. As of the most recent federal data, the median annual wage for NPs was $125,900, and the demand for all NPs is projected to expand by 38% through 2032, which is significantly higher than the 3% average across all occupations. The BLS notes that the aging population in the U.S. is causing a growing demand for healthcare services, and the pandemic has contributed to the need for more nurses. Because NPs can provide many of the same services as doctors, they are becoming an increasingly important component of the team-based approach adopted by many healthcare providers.
APRNs who would like to leave clinical practice and focus exclusively on administrative work in the healthcare industry may want to consider becoming a . A master's degree may be an advantage in obtaining this job, which has a median annual salary of $104,830 and projected growth of 28% through 2032. Nursing Courses and CurriculumThe curriculum for online NP programs typically builds upon the foundation laid in baccalaureate courses by providing more advanced, specialized knowledge. Courses emphasize evidence-based practice, including classes on research and statistics. NP programs often require students to come to campus for brief learning experiences, such as on-site examinations or intensives lasting two to five days. Some programs also require a capstone project. Students generally take multiple courses related to their area of specialization, but the following are some of the NP classes commonly found across all programs: Advanced Health Assessment This hands-on course combines theory with application to enhance practicing nurses' health assessment skills. Topics covered often include patient interaction, physical assessment of various body parts and systems, cultural sensitivity, and holistic assessments in terms of a patient's lifespan development. Students also explore how to develop a plan of care based on their findings. Advanced Pathophysiology Pathophysiology is the study of physical and biological changes that can occur because of a condition or disease. This course is designed to teach nurses how they can recognize these abnormalities so they can enhance patient care by helping with treatment, managing medications, and assisting with diagnostic tests. Advanced Pharmacology Expanding on students' knowledge of various drug types and classes, this course is designed to provide a deeper understanding of drug therapy. Topics may include pharmacodynamics, which is the study of a drug's molecular, biochemical, and physiologic effects on the body, and pharmacokinetics, which is the study of how drugs move within the body. Organizational Systems for Quality and Leadership Especially important for students who plan to assume managerial roles, this course helps train students to assess and diagnose healthcare organizations. Coursework introduces the idea of organizational change to enhance quality, including how to facilitate it by demonstrating leadership and political skills as well as how to engage others in the process through team-building strategies. Research and Statistical Methods In this course, students explore the use of quantitative and qualitative research methods to resolve issues and answer questions related to nursing. Coursework explains the process of identifying problems, designing research efforts, and analyzing and disseminating results. Various methods of analyzing data may be included in the course. Clinical Prevention for Diverse Populations Students examine the determinants of health, epidemiology, population health, and clinical prevention. Topics include how cultural competency plays a role in delivering equitable health prevention and intervention to diverse populations. Innovative Models of Health Delivery Coursework prepares students to become healthcare leaders through the study and design of innovative care delivery models. Students gain experience applying continuous quality management principles and business process improvement strategies to practice management while balancing productivity with quality of care. Graduation requirements for an MSN also include 600-700 hours of clinical experience, known as practicum hours. Each practicum allows students to apply what they've learned in a healthcare facility under the supervision of other trained professionals. Many schools offering NP programs online have a designated clinical coordinator who helps students arrange for practicum sites, but some may have to secure these opportunities themselves. Clinical practice hours fulfill graduation demands, and they also count toward licensure and certification requirements. Is an Online Nurse Practitioner Degree Worth It?You can determine whether an online nurse practitioner degree is worth it based on your interests, desired lifestyle, professional goals, and financial situation. Your preferred learning style will also influence your decision whether to complete an online or on-campus program. As with any big life decision, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider. Potential Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
FAQs About Online Nurse Practitioner ProgramsCan I Get a Nursing Degree Online?Yes, you can get a nursing degree online. Many accredited schools offer online nursing programs at all levels, including an MSN for a range of NP specializations. How Long Does It Take To Become a Nurse Practitioner?Most NP programs require the completion of 42-48 credit hours and at least 600 practicum hours. Full-time students often finish their NP requirements in two to three years, while part-time students may need three to four years. How Do I Choose a Nursing Program?Perhaps it's most important to choose an accredited nursing program, but other considerations include cost and whether the program offers the area of specialization that interests you. In addition, many online nursing programs require a few on-campus learning activities, so you may want to factor in the cost of visiting the school several times. Finally, you may want to investigate whether an online NP program's courses are primarily asynchronous or synchronous to ensure the format will give you the flexibility you're looking for. What Is the Fastest Way To Become a Nurse Practitioner?A few online nursing schools offer accelerated NP programs that enable full-time students to graduate in one and a half to two years. Also, students who have previously completed some graduate-level coursework that transfers into their program may be able to graduate in less time than average. How Much Can I Earn as a Nurse Practitioner?The BLS notes that, as of 2022, the median annual salary for NPs was $121,610. However, . The annual mean salary for NPs in California, for example, is $158,130, while the mean wage for Tennessee is $99,330. What Else Should You Consider?Career goals, specialization, and relevant experience will dictate which online NP programs may suit you best. Once you identify schools you're interested in, you can narrow your choices by considering several factors. Cost You'll most likely incur some student debt, so you'll want to choose an affordable program that meets your needs and fits within your budget. Public colleges often cost less than private, and many online programs cost less than those on campus. Accelerated programs can save both money and time. Curriculum Make sure to look through the course catalog to ensure courses meet your expectations, and that the school offers your specialty. Clinical experience opportunities Online programs may require you to complete a minimum number of hours of real-world experience, where you'll treat patients under the supervision of licensed professionals at a recognized healthcare facility. American Association of Nurse Practitioners exam pass rates If you're interested in a program such as an online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program, ask school advisors for their NP certification exam pass rates to ensure the number of graduates passing is satisfactory. Additional Resources for Nursing Students
Student Reviews of Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) ProgramsI do not recommend the online program to obtain your advanced practice degree in nursing. I should have listened to the reviews when picking a school but this was one of the few that provided the degree plan I wanted. Find a program with good reviews and if they assist you with finding your preceptor that's a bonus! This school is expensive, you put in all the work, and the cost does not reflect the quality of the education. They really should be held accountable for the material they are providing... Read More Review Date: 4/26/2023 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No Leadership in the online nursing program is not clear or helpful. There is ZERO assistance with finding clinical sites, and when you do find clinical sites be prepared to jump through hoops to get them approved. You will teach yourself the material every week. While I did have some very helpful and easy to contact instructors, unfortunately the last two semesters of the program that involved clinical approvals were just awful. Please pick a program that will offer you actual distance with your clinical... Read More Review Date: 8/4/2020 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No Excellent program, great experience! Sorry to hear so much negative. It's grad school!! Stop whining, do the work, and get out if there. Honestly, why would you attend and graduate from an institution you thought was horrible in the first place? Walden's MSN programs are heavily about locating appropriate research that can be used for the mountain of writing involved. That's grad school people!! Review Date: 6/30/2019 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I chose the UNLV nurse practioner program as it is an accredited program of accelerated study from a bachelors level nursing degree to a practicing nurse practioner.. Many resources are available including a simulation lab studying along side MD students. Online library resources and accessible professors.. The application process was simple and straight forward with minimal costs. The overall costs of the program are comparable to many universities and even other programs in the area, but UNLV has... Read More Review Date: 8/31/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No So, I feel like my opinion might be a good gage for future prospective masters students. I have two degrees from very reputable brick and mortar schools, and have experienced both traditional and exclusively online classes over the last 10 years. So far, my experience with Walden has been sensational. The professors have been very supportive, are very responsive, and the material is highly educational. It has improved my practice as a nurse and how I take care of my patients. I have three other co-workers... Read More Review Date: 4/27/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes My experience with Aspen University has been outstanding. I have been able to study around my work schedule and be very successful. The teachers are awesome - always available to answer questions - by phone or email - and they are very helpful. The financial arrangement of paying every month instead of having to find the money up front has been awesome! I'm a single parent and trying to find money ahead of time would be a nightmare. Also, the counselors have always been there for me when I've had... Read More Review Date: 5/31/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes There are good and things with every program. Chamberlain's program is ever-changing as they are continuously attempting to make updates to improve the curriculum. I have made recommendations that have come to fruition. They hold town halls every semester to receive feedback from students and have multiple ways in which to give feedback. They do not help with finding a preceptor - but neither do a lot of other programs out there. There is an extra fee for your specialty-track classes only at this... Read More Review Date: 8/17/2016 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No My instructors have been very good and helpful so far. The only problem is finding your on preceptor. I suggest starting very early on so you won't be stressed. Other that, Chamberlain has been a blessing. There are no waiting list, they start several times a year vs. only one start date. You're able to work and do clinical. You set your own clinical schedule,, as long as you get your hours in you are good. I did my BSN there and I'm now 4 classes away from being complete with the MSN-FNP program!!... Read More Review Date: 8/17/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I have enjoyed the online experience which allowed me to study around work. Students complain about having to find your own preceptors. Everyone is a nurse who has worked with people in all fields. Networking is constant. I found my preceptors through past and present jobs. I believe you get back what you put in and feel prepared. Review Date: 8/14/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I have been attending Walden since December 2013 ,and I have taken six classes so far and I have six more to go. As I can see it as a student the program has been very rigorous for me. I am a very hard working student and I have done well at the school. This is my first online school for myself but, I have tutored online students. Online takes a lot of time and dedication more than going to a brick and mortar school because you are truly self teaching yourself. I am planning to do my doctoral degree... Read More Review Date: 9/21/2014 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Excellent program. Very tough, but its not supposed to be easy. Professors are highly knowledgeable and educated. The program is CCNE accredited, which ensures the highest standards in nursing education are upheld. The MSN program is very doable online, but one has to be disciplined and focused. Review Date: 2/25/2015 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I have completed half of my program requirements. Overall I am very satisfied with the education I have received. I find that the more effort I put into an assignment the more knowledge I gain. The program is geared toward adult learners. That means WE are responsible for doing the work and the professors are our guides. My professors thus far have Always answered questions in a timely manner and/or returned a phone call or text. My best friend attends the same University and has had good and bad... Read More Review Date: 4/10/2015 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I know some are skeptical when having to find their own clinical sites. I work for a hospital and just stayed within my hospital. That made it easier because I only had to get the place approved one time then from there it was just my NP information that needed provided. I recommend staying within the same health system when possible. I never had issues with finding a clinical site or getting it approved. Review Date: 8/17/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I would not let the bad reviews of Walden turn you away. I am quite surprised by the reviews. This is my second Masters degree after receiving a MBA from a Brick and Mortar school. I knew what to expect when choosing an online school. As a mother of an infant who would have drive 90 minutes to a classroom each way I chose to do the classes online. Other colleges in my area have a mix of classes and online. However, all the schools require you to find your own clinicals at the NP level. I find the... Read More Review Date: 8/18/2014 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes While an online program offers flexibility and convenience my experience is that you lose the connectivity and personal attention a traditional program provides. In my experience I felt like I was working alone and when issues arose it was difficult to connect to professors on a human level I instead felt like a "student". I had started my FNP at a different institution where I attended classes and participated in groups and I felt like I was making a much larger impact then at GWU. Trying to solve... Read More Review Date: 8/7/2014 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Overall, my USA experience was very good. I'm sure my complaints would be common to many other most-online MSN programs. The online classes and the format of the online classes were easy to follow, some instructors more organized than others. The degree plan was a very good roadmap for graduation and I followed it to a "T". After graduation, no problem passing both Acute Care and Family boards, thanks to the preparation of USA MSN program. Will this program guide you through to be prepared to pass... Read More Review Date: 3/23/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I LOVED THE ONLINE PROGRAM. I AM A MOTHER OF THREE AND WORKED FULL TIME WHILE GETTING MY DEGREE Review Date: 8/10/2015 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I expected more for the amount of money I paid. Students are expected to find their own clinicals. Broken and out-dated equipment in the skills lab. Great adjunct faculty but were treated poorly by administration. There is NO graduate support team, everything is pretty much handled by the Dean's secretary. Not going to continue here. Review Date: 6/3/2019 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No I felt unsupported by the professors. They have a policy that they will email you back in 48 hours and most times it鈥檚 a week later. They don鈥檛 listen to student concerns or answer questions in a timely manner. You feel left out in the cold more than not. They choose poor clinical sites that have few learning opportunities or are 1-2 hours away from where you live. I was told I couldn鈥檛 have another site because they had a contract with the facility, even though I told them I wasn鈥檛 learning anything.... Read More Review Date: 4/15/2019 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No Fairly new program, so there were inconsistencies between my class and the class before and after us. They did not help us to find preceptors. Overall an "okay" experience. Review Date: 7/20/2015 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Why Trust Us?27 Data Researchers 60,000 Degrees Researched Annually 20,000 Hours Spent on Research Annually Launching Rankings Since 2009 Related Articles |
