Are you interested in advancing your nursing career to become a nurse practitioner (NP) without traveling to campus?
Online NP programs train registered nurses (RNs) to enter specialized areas of nursing and become certified , certified nurse-midwives, or clinical nurse specialists.
This guide highlights the best accredited online NP programs and includes information on how to apply and why accreditation is important.
Learn More About the Best Online NP Programs
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online NP programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list was created prior to 2025.
Using Our Rankings: What To Look For in an Online NP Program
Online nurse practitioner programs vary in their schedules, levels of flexibility, curriculum, and specializations.
The following factors helped shape our rankings for the best accredited online NP programs. Consider these metrics as you choose your online NP program.
Admission Requirements
Online nurse practitioner programs often require students to have an active and unencumbered RN license, plus 1-2 years of nursing experience. You might also need to meet minimum GPA requirements, provide recommendation letters, and write a personal statement.
Specializations
Unlike a program that offers general nursing education, online NP programs prepare graduates for advanced specialty practice. Focus on applying to programs that offer the specialty of your choice, such as family nurse practitioner or neonatal nurse practitioner.
Program Curriculum
The quality of the curriculum forms the foundation of preparedness for national certification. Consider course descriptions and elective options, and courses that align with your goals.
Clinical Experience
To meet credentialing requirements, online NP programs require clinical hours. Most programs help students find appropriate clinical placements. Note that some online programs require in-person lab experiences.
Accreditation
Program accreditation is a voluntary process that ensures students receive an education meeting national standards. Most financial aid institutions and nursing boards require students to attend an accredited program.
Program Length
The length and pace of the program vary depending on the school. Look for a program that accommodates your schedule and responsibilities. Consider programs with greater flexibility if you must continue working or need a part-time option.
School Graduation Rate
Programs often publish their graduation rate. This metric indicates how likely a full-time student is to graduate on time. A high graduation rate typically means the program admits qualified students and provides them with the necessary support throughout the program to graduate.
Online Learning Format and Requirements
Online NP programs may offer a combination of asynchronous and synchronous coursework, or offer asynchronous programming only. Since the program is entirely online, you'll need to feel comfortable and competent with technology.
How Do Online Nurse Practitioner Programs Work?
Online NP programs aren't entirely virtual – students must complete clinical experiences under the supervision of an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in the student's specialty. Some schools also require on-campus labs or skills checkoffs, while others use virtual simulations, allowing students to practice interacting with patients and developing treatment plans.
Programs may include live classes (synchronous), self-paced lectures (asynchronous), or both. Many online programs also have an online class that students must take that prepare them for online learning. Knowing what to expect for clinical hours, coursework, and schedules can help you determine if an in-person or online program is right for you.
Applying to an Online Nurse Practitioner Program
After choosing the online nurse practitioner programs you want to apply to, it's time to ensure your applications give you the best advantage for admission.
Graduate programs seek candidates with appropriate academic and clinical experiences. The exact criteria for admission can vary by program.
- Admission Materials: Online NP programs require an active and unencumbered RN license in the state, an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or BSN from an accredited program, and 1-2 years of clinical experience.
- GPA Requirement: Varies, but generally 3.0 minimum
- Other Requirements: In addition to the application and fee, you might also be asked to submit letters of recommendation, proof of your nursing license, background and drug test results, and transcripts of prerequisite coursework (e.g., statistics).
Why is Online NP Program Accreditation Important?
The (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the two main accrediting organizations for online NP programs.
These independent groups evaluate nursing programs to ensure they meet nationally established academic standards. Accreditation is crucial for several reasons:
- Confirms the program meets national standards
- Qualifies students for federal financial aid
- Increases job opportunities, as employers prefer nurses from accredited programs
- Allows students to transfer credits
- Ensures eligibility for certification and NP licensure
- Makes advancing to a program possible
In our list of the best online NP programs, all of the schools are accredited.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
