How to Choose the Best NP Schools & Programs?

The best NP schools offer accredited nurse practitioner programs with strong clinical placement support, high graduation and certification pass rates, and flexible online or in-person learning formats. While program rankings can be a helpful starting point, they should not be the sole factor in choosing a nursing school. When evaluating a nursing school offering top nurse practitioner programs, students should look for programs that align with their career goals, provide advanced clinical training, and offer quality education with transparent costs and reliable student support.

TL;DR: How to Choose the Best NP Schools & Programs?

1. Accreditation Is Non-Negotiable – Only accredited programs (CCNE or ACEN) make you eligible for certification, licensure, and financial aid. Always double-check.
2. Clinical Support Is a Must – The best NP schools don’t leave you hunting for preceptors. Ask upfront if they provide clinical placement help—your graduation may depend on it.
3. Check the Stats – Look for programs with high graduation and certification pass rates (90%+). If they’re not sharing these numbers, that’s a red flag.
4. Cost vs. Value – Consider total expenses (not just tuition) and what support, flexibility, and outcomes you’re getting in return.
5. Fit Your Life and Goals – Choose a program format (online, hybrid, in-person) and specialty track that align with your lifestyle and career vision—don’t settle for what’s just convenient.

Why Choosing the Right NP School Matters

Choosing the right nurse practitioner program is more than just picking a name off a ranking list—it’s about finding the best fit for your future in advanced practice nursing. Nurse practitioner (NP) programs are designed to prepare students for advanced clinical roles and national certification as a nurse practitioner NP.

With the rise of both traditional and online NP schools, the options can feel endless and some offer robust clinical placement support and experienced faculty, while others leave students scrambling to meet clinical hours or navigate complicated preceptor searches on their own.

Your decision impacts everything: how prepared you’ll be to pass your national certification exam, how quickly you’ll graduate, whether you’ll gain the hands-on clinical training you need, and how confident you’ll feel stepping into primary care settings, emergency departments, or skilled nursing facilities.

The quality of your nursing education directly shapes your career trajectory as a family nurse practitioner, acute care NP, or psychiatric mental health NP.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to look for in a top-tier NP school—from cost and curriculum quality to faculty support and clinical partnerships.

Then, we’ll share a list of U.S. nurse practitioner programs, organized alphabetically for easy reference.

What to Look for in Top NP Schools and Programs

Accreditation: The Foundation of a Legitimate NP Education

Before anything else, ensure the nurse practitioner program is accredited by a recognized body like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Programs accredited by a recognized national organization ensure that students receive education that meets industry standards. Accreditation affects everything—from your eligibility to sit for national certification exams (like those from the American Nurses Credentialing Center or AANPCB) to your ability to receive financial aid or transfer credits.

Without proper accreditation, your nursing degree could limit your job prospects or disqualify you from becoming a certified advanced practice nurse. National organizations set the standards for accreditation and certification eligibility, so always verify the school’s current accreditation status through official sources, especially for newer or online NP schools.

Key Considerations:

• Accrediting Bodies:
  
  • CCNE: Focuses on baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs.
  • ACEN: Accredits all levels of nursing education, from practical to doctoral programs.
• Impact on Licensure and Certification:
  
  • Only graduates from accredited programs are eligible for national certification exams.
  • Accreditation ensures the program meets quality standards essential for safe and effective practice.
• Financial Aid Eligibility:
  
  • Accreditation is often a prerequisite for federal financial aid programs.
  • Some scholarships and grants specifically require enrollment in accredited programs.

Cost and Financial Aid: What You Pay vs. What You Get

NP programs vary dramatically in cost—ranging from $500 to over $2,000 per credit. Public universities may offer in-state discounts, while private schools might provide larger financial aid packages. Be sure to calculate the total cost of attendance, not just tuition. This includes clinical placement fees, technology costs, travel to clinical sites, textbooks, and more.

Explore whether the program offers financial aid, payment plans, or access to loan forgiveness programs for nurse practitioners working in underserved areas. Your investment should match the level of academic quality, clinical training, and career support offered.

Key Considerations:

• Tuition and Fees:
  
  • Per-Credit Costs: Understand the cost per credit hour and total credits required.
  • Additional Fees: Consider costs for lab materials, simulation equipment, and graduation.
• Financial Aid Options:
  
  • Scholarships: Look for merit-based and need-based scholarships specific to nursing.
  • Loan Forgiveness: Programs like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program can alleviate debt.
• Return on Investment (ROI):
  
  • Evaluate the program's job placement rates and average starting salaries of graduates.
  • Consider long-term earning potential in your chosen specialty.

Graduation and Certification Pass Rates: A Reality Check on Program Quality

Don’t be fooled by slick marketing—real results matter. Check each school’s graduation rate and their NP certification exam pass rate (ANCC, AANP). A program with a low graduation or pass rate may lack sufficient student support or academic rigor.

The best NP schools are transparent with these stats. Look for pass rates above 90% as a strong indicator of how well the program prepares students for national certification and real-world clinical success.

Key Considerations:

• Graduation Rates:
  
  • High rates suggest effective academic support and student satisfaction.
  • Low rates may indicate program challenges or lack of resources.
• Certification Exam Pass Rates:
  
  • Reflects the program's effectiveness in preparing students for national exams.
  • Consistently high pass rates can enhance the school's reputation.
• Transparency:
  
  • Reputable programs readily provide these statistics on their websites or upon request.
  • Lack of transparency may warrant further investigation.

Clinical Placement and Preceptor Support: Non-Negotiable for On-Time Graduation

Even the most academically strong program falls short if it doesn’t provide clinical placement support. Ask directly: Does the school have formal clinical site agreements? Do they assist in placing students with vetted preceptors, or are you expected to cold-call clinics on your own?

Clinical placements may include private practices, community clinics, and hospitals, providing a range of real-world training environments.

Securing required clinical hours on your own is often the most stressful and time-consuming part of NP school. Schools that offer structured placement assistance—especially in underserved regions or competitive specialties—can make or break your experience (and your graduation timeline).

Some programs also allow working nurses to complete clinical hours at their current place of employment, offering additional flexibility.

Key Considerations:

• Placement Services:
  
  • Schools with dedicated placement coordinators can streamline the process.
  • Assistance in securing diverse clinical experiences enhances learning.
• Preceptor Availability:
  
  • Access to experienced preceptors in various specialties is crucial.
  • Some programs may have partnerships with local healthcare facilities.
• Geographic Considerations:
  
  • Ensure clinical sites are accessible and within reasonable commuting distance.
  • For online programs, verify if placements can be arranged in your local area.

Curriculum and Academic Quality: Beyond Just Theory

A comprehensive curriculum for nurse practitioners should go far beyond lectures, integrating classroom instruction, simulation, and clinical practice to ensure a thorough and well-rounded educational experience.

Look for programs that include robust training in advanced health assessment, diagnosis, pharmacology, health promotion, disease prevention, and clinical practice across primary care and specialty areas.

Students develop essential clinical skills through hands-on workshops and simulation labs, preparing them for real-world patient care.

Ask about simulation labs, interprofessional collaboration opportunities, and how clinical decision-making is taught. Advanced pharmacology coursework prepares students to safely prescribe and monitor medications. Nursing science forms the foundation of evidence-based practice and informs curriculum development.

The curriculum emphasizes health maintenance and disease prevention as core components of primary care. The program is designed to improve health outcomes by preparing students to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.

Direct patient care experiences are essential in preparing students for real-world clinical environments. Quality programs don’t just “cover” material—they prepare you to confidently manage chronic health problems, perform physical assessments, and lead in clinical settings.

Key Considerations:

• Core Courses:
  
  • Ensure the curriculum includes essential subjects like pathophysiology and pharmacology.
  • Courses should align with national certification exam content.
• Clinical Hours:
  
  • Confirm the number of required clinical hours meets certification requirements.
  • Diverse clinical experiences contribute to well-rounded training.
• Learning Resources:
  
  • Access to up-to-date medical databases and libraries supports academic success.
  • Opportunities for research and evidence-based practice enhance learning.

Program Format and Flexibility: Your Life Still Matters

Whether you’re a working registered nurse, a parent, or a full-time student, flexibility can be critical. Consider whether the program is offered fully online, hybrid, or in person. Do they require synchronous classes, or can you work on your own time? Can you complete your clinical hours near your home? Many schools now offer an online program or online NP programs, providing greater accessibility for students nationwide.

Many top nurse practitioner schools offer part-time options or cohort pacing designed to support online students without sacrificing access to faculty or clinical training.

An online NP program can offer the same rigorous curriculum and clinical training as traditional, campus-based options. Choose a program that supports your lifestyle and learning needs.

Key Considerations:

• Delivery Method:
  
  • Online Programs: Offer flexibility but require self-discipline.
  • Hybrid Programs: Combine online coursework with occasional on-campus sessions.
• Scheduling Options:
  
  • Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Choose based on your personal and professional commitments.
  • Accelerated Tracks: For those seeking a quicker path to graduation.
• Technology Requirements:
  
  • Ensure you have the necessary hardware and software for online learning.
  • Familiarity with learning management systems can ease the transition.

Specialty Tracks Offered: Match the Program to Your Career Goals

Not every NP school offers every specialty. If you’re interested in becoming a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, or acute care NP, verify that the program supports those tracks.

The most common specialties include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology, Women’s Health, and Psychiatric Mental Health. Many schools offer family nurse practitioner programs, family nurse practitioner program tracks, and FNP program options designed to prepare students for primary healthcare and primary health care roles.

Specialty tracks may include pediatric primary care, women's health, and acute care setting options. Family nurse practitioners are trained to diagnose and manage acute and chronic conditions across the lifespan.

Also ask about opportunities to add secondary certifications or transition between tracks if your interests evolve.

Key Considerations:

• Available Specialties:
  
  • Confirm the program offers your desired specialty track.
  • Some schools may offer dual-specialty options.
• Curriculum Specificity:
  
  • Specialized courses should align with the unique competencies of each track.
  • Clinical placements should reflect the chosen specialty area.
• Market Demand:
  
  • Research job opportunities and demand for your chosen specialty in your region.
  • Consider future trends in healthcare needs.

Faculty Expertise and Student Support: Who’s Teaching You Really Matters

The strength of your NP program hinges on its nurse practitioner faculty. Nurse practitioner faculties play a key role in designing evidence-based curricula and overseeing clinical training to ensure students are well-prepared for advanced practice roles.

Look for instructors who are current or former advanced practice nurses with experience in diverse clinical environments—not just academics. Faculty who are still practicing can bring real-world insights to your training and help guide you through tough patient cases during clinical courses.

Inquire about mentorship opportunities, student-faculty ratios, and whether instructors are available outside of scheduled class time. Shortages of qualified nursing faculty can impact program quality and student outcomes, making it important to choose programs with strong faculty support.

Programs that offer personalized guidance and proactive support make a huge difference when you’re deep in graduate-level coursework.

Key Considerations:

• Faculty Credentials:
  
  • Instructors should hold advanced degrees and relevant certifications.
  • Clinical experience in your area of interest enhances teaching quality.
• Student Support Services:
  
  • Access to academic advising, tutoring, and mental health resources is vital.
  • Responsive faculty can significantly impact your educational experience.
• Mentorship Opportunities:
  
  • Programs that pair students with mentors can provide valuable guidance.
  • Mentorship can aid in professional development and networking.

Career Support and Alumni Network: Your Future Starts Here

Your nursing education shouldn’t stop at graduation—it should set you up for job success. Ask how the program supports graduates: Do they offer job placement services? Resume coaching? Interview prep?

Schools with strong ties to local healthcare facilities and a large, active alumni network can open doors to your first NP role and beyond.

According to labor statistics, nurse practitioners enjoy a strong job outlook and high demand, making career support even more valuable. Don’t underestimate the power of community. Alumni networks often help with clinical placements, preceptor recommendations, and practice authority advice.

Key Considerations:

• Career Services:
  
  • Assistance with job search strategies and application processes.
  • Workshops on resume writing and interview skills.
• Alumni Network:
  
  • Active alumni can provide mentorship and job leads.
  • Networking events facilitate connections within the healthcare industry.
• Employer Partnerships:
  
  • Collaborations with healthcare organizations can lead to job opportunities.
  • Clinical rotations in partner facilities may transition into employment.

Complete List of Nurse Practitioner Programs (A–Z)

To help you explore your options, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of accredited nurse practitioner programs offering master’s-level NP degrees across the United States.

This list includes programs designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers by becoming advanced practice registered nurses, as well as pathways for nurse practitioner students at various stages of their education.

These NP schools include both campus-based and online nurse practitioner programs, with tracks ranging from family nurse practitioner to acute or primary care specialties.

This alphabetical directory is based on the latest data from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and only includes schools offering a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for nurse practitioners.

Use this list as a starting point to compare your options, check clinical placement support, and find the best fit for your goals in advanced practice nursing:

‍

·     Adelphi University

·     Alcorn State University

·     Allen College

·     Alverno College

·     American International College

·     American University of HealthSciences

·     Anderson University-SouthCarolina

·     Angelo State University

·     Arkansas State University

·     Auburn University

·     Auburn University at Montgomery

·     Augustana University

·     Averett University

·     Azusa Pacific University

·     Ball State University

·     Barnes-Jewish College

·     Barry University

·     Beal University

·     Bellarmine University

·     Bellin College

·     Binghamton University

·     Bluefield College

·     Bowie State University

·     Bradley University

·     Brenau University

·     Briar Cliff University

·     Brigham Young University

·     California Baptist University

·     California StateUniversity-Bakersfield

·     California StateUniversity-Channel Islands

·     California StateUniversity-Dominguez Hills

·     California StateUniversity-Fresno

·     California StateUniversity-Fullerton

·     California State University-LosAngeles

·     California StateUniversity-Stanislaus

·     Capella University

·     Carlow University

·     Carson-Newman University

·     Case Western Reserve University

·     Cedar Crest College

·     Cedarville University

·     Chamberlain University

·     Charles Drew University ofMedicine and Science

·     Claflin University

·     Clayton State University

·     Clemson University

·     College of Mount Saint Vincent

·     Colorado Mesa University

·     Colorado StateUniversity-Pueblo

·     Colorado Technical University

·     Columbia University

·     Columbus State University

·     Commonwealth University

·     Concordia University Wisconsin

·     Coppin State University

·     Cox College

·     Daemen College

·     Davenport University

·     Delta State University

·     DePaul University

·     DeSales University

·     Dominican University New York

·     Drexel University

·     Duke University

·     Duquesne University

·     East Carolina University

·     East Tennessee State University

·     Eastern Kentucky University

·     Eastern Michigan University

·     ECPI University

·     Edgewood College

·     Emory & Henry College

·     Emory University

·     Endicott College

·     Fairfield University

·     Fairleigh Dickinson University

·     Felician University

·     Florida A&M University

·     Florida Atlantic University

·     Florida InternationalUniversity

·     Florida Southern College

·     Francis Marion University

·     Franciscan Missionaries of OurLady University

·     Franciscan University ofSteubenville

·     Franklin University

·     Fresno Pacific University

·     Frontier Nursing University

·     Frostburg State University

·     Gannon University

·     George Mason University

·     Georgetown University

·     Georgia Baptist College ofNursing of Mercer University

·     Georgia College & StateUniversity

·     Georgia Southern University

·     Georgia Southwestern StateUniversity

·     Georgia State University

·     Gonzaga University

·     Goodwin College

·     Goshen College

·     Governors State University

·     Graceland University

·     Grambling State University

·     Grand Canyon University

·     Gwynedd Mercy University

·     Hampton University

·     Harding University

·     Hawaii Pacific University

·     Henderson State University

·     Herzing University Madison

·     Hofstra Northwell

·     Houston Baptist University

·     Howard University

·     Hunter College of CUNY

·     Husson University

·     Immaculata University

·     Indiana State University

·     Indiana University East

·     Indiana University Kokomo

·     Indiana University Northwest

·     Indiana University South Bend

·     Indiana University-PurdueUniversity (Indianapolis)

·     Indiana Wesleyan University

·     Jacksonville University

·     James Madison University

·     Keiser University

·     Kennesaw State University

·     Kent State University

·     Kentucky Christian University

·     Keuka College

·     King University

·     La Salle University

·     Le Moyne College

·     Lehman College

·     Lewis University

·     Long Island University -Brooklyn

·     Long Island University - C.W.Post Campus

·     Loyola University New Orleans

·     Lubbock Christian University

·     Madonna University

·     Malone University

·     Manhattanville College

·     Marian University

·     Marquette University

·     Marshall University

·     Marymount University

·     Maryville University-SaintLouis

·     Massachusetts College ofPharmacy and Allied Health Sciences

·     McNeese State University

·     Medical University of SouthCarolina

·     Mercy College

·     MGH Institute of HealthProfessions

·     Miami University

·     Michigan State University

·     MidAmerica Nazarene University

·     Middle Georgia State University

·     Middle Tennessee StateUniversity

·     Midwestern State University

·     Milwaukee School of Engineering

·     Misericordia University

·     Mississippi University forWomen

·     Missouri State University

·     Missouri Valley College

·     Molloy University

·     Monmouth University

·     Moravian University

·     Morehead State University

·     Morningside University

·     Mount Carmel College of Nursing

·     Mount Marty University

·     Mount Saint Mary College- NewYork

·     National University

·     Neumann University

·     New England Institute ofTechnology

·     New Mexico Highlands University

·     New York University

·     Nicholls State University

·     Nightingale College

·     North Central College

·     North Park University

·     Northeastern University

·     Northern Arizona University

·     Northern Illinois University

·     Northern Kentucky University

·     Northern Michigan University

·     Northwest Nazarene University

·     Northwestern State Universityof Louisiana

·     Norwich University

·     Notre Dame of MarylandUniversity

·     Nova Southeastern University

·     Oak Point University

·     Oakland University

·     Ohio University

·     Old Dominion University

·     Olivet Nazarene University

·     Otterbein University

·     Pace University

·     Pacific College

·     Patty Hanks Shelton School ofNursing

·     Pennsylvania College of HealthSciences

·     Point Loma Nazarene University

·     Ponce Health SciencesUniversity

·     Post University

·     Prairie View A & MUniversity

·     Purdue University

·     Purdue University Global

·     Purdue University Northwest

·     Quinnipiac University

·     Radford University

·     Ramapo College of New Jersey

·     Rasmussen University

·     Regent University

·     Regis College

·     Regis University

·     Research College of Nursing

·     Rhode Island College

·     Rider University

·     Roberts Wesleyan College

·     Rockhurst University

·     Rocky Mountain University ofHealth Professions

·     Roseman University of HealthSciences

·     Rowan University

·     Russell Sage College

·     Sacred Heart University

·     Saginaw Valley State University

·     Saint Anthony College ofNursing

·     Saint Francis Medical Center

·     Saint Francis University

·     Saint John Fisher University

·     Saint Louis University

·     Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

·     Saint Thomas University

·     Saint Xavier University

·     Salem State University

·     Salve Regina University

·     Samford University

·     San Francisco State University

·     San Jose State University

·     Seton Hall University

·     Shenandoah University

·     Simmons University

·     Sonoma State University

·     South College

·     Southeast Missouri StateUniversity

·     Southeastern LouisianaUniversity

·     Southern Connecticut StateUniversity

·     Southern New HampshireUniversity

·     Southern University and A&MCollege

·     Spalding University

·     Spring Arbor University

·     Stephen F. Austin StateUniversity

·     Stockton University

·     Stony Brook University

·     SUNY Downstate Health SciencesUniversity

·     SUNY Polytechnic Institute

·     SUNY Upstate Medical University

·     Tennessee State University

·     Tennessee TechnologicalUniversity

·     Texas A&M Health ScienceCenter

·     Texas A&M InternationalUniversity

·     Texas A&M University -Commerce

·     Texas A&M University-CorpusChristi

·     Texas A&MUniversity-Texarkana

·     Texas State University

·     Texas Tech University HealthSciences Center

·     Texas Wesleyan University

·     The Catholic University ofAmerica

·     The College at Brockport

·     The College of New Jersey

·     The George WashingtonUniversity

·     The Ohio State University

·     The University of Akron

·     The University of Alabama

·     The University of Alabama inHuntsville

·     The University of Louisiana atMonroe

·     Thomas Jefferson University

·     Touro University

·     Union University

·     United States University

·     Universidad Ana G. Méndez

·     University of Alabama atBirmingham

·     University of Alaska Anchorage

·     University of Arkansas forMedical Sciences

·     University of California-LosAngeles

·     University of Central Missouri

·     University of Charleston

·     University of Cincinnati

·     University ofColorado--Colorado Springs

·     University of Colorado--Denver

·     University of Connecticut

·     University of Delaware

·     University of Detroit Mercy

·     University of Houston

·     University of Indianapolis

·     University of Louisiana atLafayette

·     University of Louisville

·     University of Maine

·     University of Maine-Fort Kent

·     University ofMassachusetts-Boston

·     University ofMassachusetts-Lowell

·     University of Memphis

·     University of Miami

·     University of Michigan

·     University of MississippiMedical Center

·     University of Missouri-Columbia

·     University of Missouri-KansasCity

·     University of Mobile

·     University of Nebraska MedicalCenter

·     University of Nevada-Las Vegas

·     University of Nevada-Reno

·     University of New Hampshire

·     University of North Alabama

·     University of NorthCarolina-Chapel Hill

·     University of NorthCarolina-Charlotte

·     University of NorthCarolina-Greensboro

·     University of North Dakota

·     University of Northern Colorado

·     University of Pennsylvania

·     University of Phoenix

·     University of Providence

·     University of Rhode Island

·     University of Rochester

·     University of Saint Augustinefor Health Sciences

·     University of Saint Francis-Illinois

·     University of Saint Joseph

·     University of Saint Mary

·     University of Saint Thomas

·     University of San Diego

·     University of Scranton

·     University of South Alabama

·     University of South Carolina

·     University of South Florida

·     University of SouthernCalifornia

·     University of Southern Indiana

·     University of Southern Maine

·     University of Tampa

·     University of Texas MedicalBranch

·     University of Texas Rio GrandeValley

·     University of Texas-Arlington

·     University of Texas-Austin

·     University of Texas-El Paso

·     University of Texas-Tyler

·     University of the Cumberlands

·     University of Toledo

·     University of Virginia

·     University of West Florida

·     Ursuline College

·     Utica University

·     Valdosta State University

·     Vanderbilt University

·     Villanova University

·     Virginia CommonwealthUniversity

·     Wagner College

·     Walden University

·     Walsh University

·     Wayne State University

·     West Coast University

·     West Texas A&M University

·     West Virginia University

·     West Virginia Wesleyan College

·     Western Connecticut StateUniversity

·     Western Governors University

·     Western Kentucky University

·     Western University of HealthSciences

·     Westminster University--Utah

·     Wheeling University

·     Widener University

·     Wilkes University

·     William Paterson University

·     Wilmington University

·     Winston-Salem State University

·     Wright State University

·     Xavier University

·     Yale University

·     York College of Pennsylvania

·     Youngstown State University

Your NP Program Is Only as Strong as Your Clinical Experience

Choosing from the many top NP schools is a major milestone—but don’t forget: the quality of your clinical placements can make or break your entire NP journey.

Even the most prestigious nurse practitioner programs can leave you scrambling if they don’t offer reliable clinical placement support or access to vetted preceptors.

That’s where a preceptor matching service can help. If your school doesn’t secure placements or if you're struggling to find a qualified preceptor, you don’t have to go it alone.

At NPHub we bridge that gap, connecting NP students with experienced preceptors across a wide range of specialties and clinical sites, from family practice to psychiatric mental health and beyond.

Whether you're just starting to compare NP schools online, or you're deep into your clinical hour requirements, don't wait until it's too late.

Start thinking about your clinical match now, not when your semester is already halfway through.

Ready to lock in your preceptor before the panic sets in?

Get matched with a qualified, vetted NP preceptor
Access placements in primary care, urgent care, mental health, and more
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Visit NPHub and start your clinical placement process today because your education deserves more than crossed fingers.

Frequently Asked Questions: Nurse Practitioner Programs & School Selection

1. What degree do you need to become a nurse practitioner?

To become a nurse practitioner, you must earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from an accredited nurse practitioner program. Some choose to pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) later, but an MSN is the minimum required for NP certification and licensure.

2. Are online NP programs legitimate?

Yes—many online NP programs are fully accredited and offer the same education as in-person options. The key is ensuring the program is approved by a recognized accrediting body like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and includes supervised clinical hours at approved clinical sites.

3. How long does it take to complete a nurse practitioner program?

Most nurse practitioner schools offer MSN programs that take 2–3 years to complete. The length may vary depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time and whether you're completing the program online or on campus.

4. What are the most affordable nurse practitioner programs?

Public universities typically offer the most affordable NP programs, especially for in-state residents. When comparing costs, look at tuition per credit, total program fees, and what financial aid or loan forgiveness options are available.

5. Do NP programs help with clinical placements?

Some top NP schools provide structured clinical placement support, while others expect students to find their own preceptors and sites. Always ask about this before enrolling—lack of clinical support can delay graduation.

6. What specialties can I pursue in NP school?

Common specialties in nurse practitioner programs include Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology, Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP), Pediatric NP, Women’s Health, and Acute or Primary Care. Choose a specialty that aligns with your interests and local job demand.

7. Is accreditation really that important for NP schools?

Absolutely. Attending a non-accredited nursing school may disqualify you from national certification through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or AANPCB. Always confirm accreditation status before applying.

8. Can I work while enrolled in an NP program?

Yes, many NP students work part-time or even full-time as registered nurses while attending school. Online and part-time NP programs offer more flexibility for working professionals, but time management is essential.

Key Terms

• Nurse Practitioner (NP):
  An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who is trained to assess, diagnose, and manage patient care, often with prescriptive authority.
• NP Program:
  A graduate-level education track (usually an MSN or DNP) designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced clinical practice in various specialties.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN):
  The most common degree required to become a nurse practitioner. It includes coursework and clinical training to meet national certification requirements.
• Clinical Hours:
  Supervised patient care time that NP students must complete in healthcare settings. Required for licensure and certification, typically 500–700+ hours.
• Clinical Placement:
  The process of assigning NP students to approved clinical sites and preceptors where they complete required clinical rotations.
• Accreditation:
  A validation process by organizations like the CCNE or ACEN that ensures a nursing program meets educational standards necessary for licensure.
• Preceptor:
  An experienced NP or healthcare provider who supervises and mentors NP students during clinical training.
• Specialty Track:
  The area of focus within an NP program, such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Pediatric NP, or Psychiatric Mental Health NP.
• Board Certification:
  A post-graduation credential awarded by bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or AANP to licensed NPs who pass their exams.
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN):
  A licensed RN who has completed graduate education and advanced clinical training. NPs are one of four recognized APRN roles.

About the author

• NPHub Staff
  At NPHub, we live and breathe clinical placements. Our team is made up of nurse practitioners, clinical coordinators, placement advisors, and former students who’ve been through the process themselves. We work directly with NP students across the country to help them secure high-quality preceptorships and graduate on time with confidence.
• Last updated
  May 28, 2025
• Fact-checked by
  NPHub Clinical Placement Experts & Student Support Team
• Sources and references
  
  • https://npprogramsearch.aanp.org/Search
  • https://www.nphub.com
  • https://student.nphub.com/search