Best Nurse Practitioner Programs

Overview

One of the oldest universities in the country, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university and home to a highly regarded School of Nursing that focuses on education, research and practice of nursing principles. The school offers a full array of undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees along with fellowships and specializations.

Program Features

UNC’s School of Nursing offers an MSN degree that builds upon the student’s previous nursing education and professional experience, preparing advanced practice nurses for leadership positions in a variety of health care settings. UNC’s available Nurse Practitioner specialties are:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
• Family NP
• Pediatric Primary Care NP
• Psychiatric / Mental Health NP

Details

UNC’s MSN program offers two entry points for students depending on their educational background: either the BSN to MSN or the RN to MSN. BSN to MSN students have the option of attending full-time (completing the program in two years plus one intervening summer) or part-time (completing the program in three years). RN to MSN students complete the program in three years of full-time study (full-time students are given admission priority for the RN to MSN option).

Overview

Frequently listed at the top of national rankings, Vanderbilt University is a private research university with a reputation for excellent undergraduate teaching, research opportunities, and post-graduate employment placements. Vanderbilt’s School of Nursing is a member of the elite National League for Nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Features

Vanderbilt’s School of Nursing offers a very flexible MSN degree that prepares skilled, experienced advanced practice nurses to provide access to quality health care for people everywhere. Vanderbilt is committed to employing innovative approaches and offering widespread opportunities for experience in clinical practice. Their MSN program offers thirteen NP specialties -with three unique dual focus specialties, including:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (Hospital or Intensivist) NP
• Emergency Nurse Practitioner (Dual AGACNP/FNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse-Midwifery/Family NP – Dual Focus

Details

Vanderbilt’s uniquely flexible MSN program offers multiple entry points to students depending on previous education and experience. Even those who have no nursing background can become advanced practice nurses through the accelerated program of PreSpecialty master’s entry. And the school boasts excellent pass rates for RN and specialty licensure exams.

Overview

Created in 1972, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) is the most comprehensive academic health center in the UT system. UTHealth is located in the Texas Medical Center – which is considered the largest medical center in the world. One of six schools that comprise UTHealth, the School of Nursing is ranked in the top five percent of graduate nursing schools in the country.

Program Features

UTHealth’s School of Nursing offers an MSN degree with four Nurse Practitioner specialties that prepare APRNs to perform effectively in fast-paced healthcare environments. This interactive, problem-based program trains Nurse Practitioners to translate advances in the biomedical and social sciences to provide the best care for the well-being of patients. The Nurse Practitioner specialties offered are:

• Adult / Gerontology NP (Primary Care or Acute Care)
• Family NP
• Psychiatric / Mental Health NP

Details

UTHealth’s MSN Nurse Practitioner tracks are delivered in a combination of online and face-to-face classes as well as clinical experiences. All graduates will be prepared to take the national certification exams for their specialty. UTHealth also offers Post-Masters certificates and a unique MSN / MPH (Master of Public Health) dual degree with the Family NP or Adult / Gerontology NP specialty options.

Overview

Established in 1919 as the Southern branch of the University of California, the University of California — Los Angeles, known as UCLA, is a top-ranked national university and home to a nationally ranked School of Nursing. The doctorally-prepared faculty is recognized for its commitment to educating nurses for a 100 percent graduation rate.

Program Features

UCLA’s School of Nursing offers an MSN program with five Nurse Practitioner options, designed to prepare registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree in advanced practice nursing. In particular, UCLA’s Family NP program has a long tradition of preparing nurse practitioners to work with underserved and vulnerable populations. Upon graduation many FNPs practice in settings that provide free or low-cost healthcare to uninsured families. NP specialties offered are:

• Adult / Gerontology Primary Care or Acute CareNP
• Adult/Gerontology Occupational and Environmental Health NP (dual focus)
• Family NP
• Pediatric NP

Details

UCLA’s two-year MSN program (3 quarters per year) consists of theory and clinical courses designed to prepare APRNs to work in a collaborative practice setting. Courses meet the criteria designated by state and national accreditation bodies and professional organizations, and students will be prepared to pass national certification upon graduation.

Overview

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a nationally ranked public research university and part of the University of Alabama system. Also known as UAB, the school is home to a nationally recognized School of Nursing and ranked as one of the best graduate schools for nursing by U.S. News and World Report. Their MSN program ranks at #13 nationally for 2018.

Program Features

UAB’s School of Nursing offers an MSN degree that features multiple specialty tracks, including a variety of nurse practitioner options. The program prepares nurses for advanced specialty practice in advanced nursing roles and offers countless opportunities to develop advanced practice innovations both locally and globally. NP Specialties offered are:

• Family NP
• Adult-Gero Primary Care or Acute Care NP
• Psychiatric/Mental Health NP
• Pediatric Primary Care and/or Acute Care NP
• Neonatal NP
• Women’s Health NP

Details

In addition to their available population specialties, UAB’s MSN program also offers subspecialties like Palliative Care NP, Emergency NP, or Oncology NP (among others). And most of the specialty tracks/subspecialties can be taken from a distance with online coursework and several on-campus intensives.

Overview

Located in Rochester, New York, University of Rochester is a private research university that ranks among the nation’s top 50 national universities (US News and World Report). UR’s School of Nursing dedicates itself to educating nurses to become an integral part of the healthcare landscape. The school’s CCNE-accredited nursing degrees focus on teamwork in the healthcare setting, research, and administrative skills to mold nurses into leaders.

Program Features

The University of Rochester offers an MS degree with several options for Nurse Practitioner specialization. Students learn alongside experienced practitioners (including pioneering researchers and clinicians) in their specific field of practice and experience an innovative and leading healthcare network (the University of Rochester Medical Center) – an ideal setting for in-depth clinical experience. Nurse Practitioner specialties are:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Primary Care NP
• Family NP
• Pediatric NP
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Neonatal NP
• Family Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Details

Students in the University of Rochester’s MS Nurse Practitioner program, regardless of their clinical specialty, are able to take their core coursework through a hybrid-online format. Applicants must have a BS from an accredited school of nursing as well as as RN licensure.

Overview

Situated in the city of Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University is a public research university. From its inception, Florida Atlantic has put innovation and accessibility at its center and is home to a highly regarded College of Nursing which offers an MSN degree that ranks among the best in the country (US News and World Report).

Program Features

FAU’s College of Nursing offers an MSN program designed to offer the leadership, clinical experience, and teaching skills that nurses need in their chosen direction of practice. The caring philosophy of FAU’s College is evident throughout the curriculum, which has been designed to fit students’ schedule and life, provides graduates with advanced practice role preparation, knowledge and skills. Nurse Practitioner specialties offered are:

• Family NP
• Adult / Gerontology Primary Care NP
• Psychiatric / Mental Health NP (online)

Details

Many of FAU’s nursing students continue their professional careers while they study, enjoying the flexibility of full or part-time curriculums. Core courses also provide the option of face-to-face or online learning. The new PMHNP specialty option is offered online only and as a Post-Master’s Certificate (applicants must already have an MSN for admission).

Overview

Ranking among the top 30 national universities, the University of Michigan, is a nationally ranked public university and a founding member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The school is home to one of the best Schools of Nursing in the country, with programs that rank among the best of their kind nationally. Their MSN program ranks at #11 in the US.

Program Features

The University of Michigan’s School of Nursing offers an MSN with several options for Nurse Practitioners. All of the Nurse Practitioner specialty programs emphasize knowledge, judgment, and skills, while preparing students to function in multiple care settings. Some of the NP options include:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP and Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
• Primary Care or Acute Care Pediatric NP
• Primary Care Family NP
• Nurse Midwife and Family NP

Details

UM School of Nursing participates in University of Michigan’s Center for Interprofessional Education so students benefit from learning with students in other health care fields. They graduate able to lead interprofessional teams and work collaboratively across health disciplines. And with a nearly 100% pass rate on many certification exams in recent years, graduates of the University of Michigan School of Nursing are well-prepared.

Overview

Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati is a large, nationally ranked public research university and a part of the University System of Ohio. The school has an international reputation for high-quality education and innovative research. The College of Nursing is no exception – among its competitive programs is a highly ranked MSN program.

Program Features

The University of Cincinnati offers an MSN program designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles in a variety of health care settings. With a mission to prepare advanced practitioners for diverse populations, students are taught by excellent teachers and practitioners and will be prepared to work in diverse healthcare settings. The Nurse Practitioner specialty options are:

• Adult / Gerontology Primary Care or Acute Care NP
• Women’s Health NP
• Neonatal NP
• Family NP

Details

The Adult / Gerontology NP and Family NP specialty options are available through both online or campus-based study, while the Women’s Health specialty is an online program only (with an accelerated option). Course and practicum requirements vary widely depending on a student’s chosen specialty.

Overview

Ranking in the top 20 national universities in the country, Emory University is a private research university located in Atlanta, Georgia. The school is home to the top-ranked Woodruff School of Nursing, which houses a comprehensive list of nursing programs as well as partnerships with more than 500 clinical sites from which students can learn and partake in clinical hours.

Program Features

The Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory offers many Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) specialty tracks at the MSN degree level. Emory’s range of acute and primary care specialty options allow students to serve a wide array of populations – dual major opportunities and Post-Graduate Certificates are available as well. Nurse Practitioner Options include:

• Adult / Gerontology Primary Care or Acute Care NP
• Women’s Health NP
• Neonatal NP
• Family NP
• Pediatric Acute Care or Primary Care NP

Details

At Emory’s School of Nursing, all courses are taught in a hybrid format (online with face-to-face requirements training). And each specialty track is available as full-time study over four semesters or part-time study over seven semesters for a single major. Dual major students typically attend full-time and graduate in five semesters.

Overview

Located in San Diego, California, the University of San Diego is a private, Catholic university that is open to students of all (or no) faiths. The school, which ranks among the top 100 national universities in the US, has a commitment to social justice and global awareness. The University of San Diego is also home to a School of Nursing that has a reputation for producing some of the best nursing educators.

Program Features

The University of San Diego offers an MSN program that emphasizes research, theory, and practice. All Nurse Practitioner specialties share a common core of knowledge and the purpose of the program is to provide leadership preparation that will enable the graduate to assume a significant role in nursing and health care delivery. The MSN program offers four Nurse Practitioner options:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner/Family Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/ Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Details

Nurse Practitioner programs at San Diego University’s School of Nursing all begin in the fall semester and take place on campus (rather than online). Full-time or part-time enrollment is available. Students who attend full time complete the MSN degree in one or two years (depending upon your specialty). Students who attend part time usually complete the degree in two to three years.

Overview

A private research university located in the Greenwich Village neighbourhood of New York City, New York University ranks among the top national universities in the country. The school is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is the largest private university in the country. The Meyers College of Nursing is no exception to their high standards of education, and their MSN program ranks at #13 nationally.

Program Features

The Meyers College of Nursing offers an MSN program designed for nurses seeking advanced roles in clinical practice while providing the necessary foundation for doctoral study. Whatever program students participate in, the curriculum includes a core of nursing theory, research, statistics, population-focused care, and issues and trends in healthcare delivery. The MSN program offers four Nurse Practitioner options:

• Adult / Gerontology: Acute Care or Primary Care NP
• Pediatric NP
• Psychiatric / Mental Health NP

Details

NYU’s MSN program also offers unique concentrations in areas such as Substance Use and Abuse; Palliative Care (board eligibility for Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse); Advanced Practice Holistic Nursing; and, Herbs, Nutriceuticals, and Supplements. Students must have a NYS nursing license prior to beginning coursework and at least one year of full-time clinical experience as a registered nurse is required.

Overview

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, Case Western Reserve University is a medium-sized private university that ranks among the top 50 national universities in the country. Known for its world-class research, the school is also home to the top-ranked Bolton School of Nursing, which offers Nurse Practitioner focused MSN programs that rank among the best in the country.

Program Features

The Bolton School of Nursing offers an MSN program with multiple Nurse Practitioner specialties. The School is located in University Circle where students have ready access to premier health care organizations. Collaboration among faculty, students, clinical agencies and communities supports innovative, outcome-based research and the advancement of knowledge. NP specialties are:

• Adult-­Gerontology Acute Care or Primary Care NP
• Family NP
• Neonatal NP
• Pediatric NP
• Pediatric NP in Acute Care
• Women’s Health NP

Details

Many courses in the Bolton School of Nursing MSN are offered as intensive or web­-based classes and students can blend majors or pursue joint master’s degree opportunities with other schools at Case Western Reserve University. Additionally, several different entry options to the MSN program are available as well as post-­master’s certificates that can be customized for your education.

Overview

Located in the state capitol of Columbus, The Ohio State University is a nationally ranked, public research university and one of the largest in the country. The school is home to a top-rated academic medical center as well as a prestigious School of Nursing that offers one of the top five MSN degrees in the country (US News and World Report).

Program Features

Ohio State University School of Nursing offers an MSN program for students with a baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN), or an RN and baccalaureate degree. At the heart of the master’s program are active, collaborative relationships between faculty, The Ohio State University Medical Center’s teaching hospitals, and community-based preceptors. The program has multiple NP specialties, including:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Primary Care NP
• Family NP
• Neonatal NP
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• Pediatric NP

Details

Ohio State’s Traditional Master of Science option is a two-year, full-time or three year, part-time program with on-campus and online options. The school only accepts students with a BSN or an RN license and a non-nursing baccalaureate degree. The Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health, and Neonatal Nurse Practitioner specialties are offered both on-campus and online (for most states).

Overview

Located in the Georgetown neighbourhood of Washington, DC, Georgetown University is a historic, private, Catholic research university that was founded in 1789. The school, which ranks among the best national universities in the country, is comprised of nine undergraduate and graduate schools, including a highly ranked School of Nursing and Health Studies.

Program Features

Georgetown University’s School of Nursing offers an MSN program designed to help the next generation of nursing leaders gain the skills and clinical experience necessary for career advancement. Taught by highly respected faculty, the advanced practice curricula emphasize the development of professional specialty roles. The school four NP specialty options:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

Details

All Nurse Practitioner courses at Georgetown’s School of Nursing are delivered online with periodic on-campus intensives. Students can study either part-time or full-time and have access to innovative classroom and clinical education, leading experiential learning facilities and avenues for research and scholarship. Those who complete Georgetown’s NP programs can expect to perform well on certification exams – graduates regularly achieve outstanding first-time pass rates on their exams.