The Best Accelerated Online NP Programs

Prospective nurse practitioners (NPs) can follow various educational pathways. If you are interested in completing your education in less time, consider an online accelerated NP program, where full-time students can graduate in 18-24 months.

You can take online classes wherever there is internet access and arrange studies around your current schedule. Explore how online NP programs work, what to look for, and more information on choosing the best program for your career goals.

When exploring online accelerated NP programs, keep in mind the metrics listed below — factors that also shape our rankings.

Nursing programs become accredited after independent reviewers assess their ability to produce competent nurses. Accreditation ensures nursing students can pass the NCLEX and practice in professional settings. This process protects both nurses and patients.

The value of accreditation extends beyond nursing to healthcare employers and the government. Program accreditation is necessary for:

Some accelerated NP programs have no set class times. Students can take classes at their own pace, but they may have to meet certain deadlines. Other programs require students to attend class at a specific time. In this case, students may access lecture recordings.

Regardless of whether coursework occurs in person or online, students must physically attend clinical rotations. Some programs help students find facilities where they can complete their clinical hours, while in others, students must find facilities on their own.

Instead of the usual 15-week courses, online accelerated NP programs often offer courses that last 4-6 weeks. Due to the pace, full-time students usually can’t work while in school. Part-time learning options take longer but allow more time for work.

Application requirements ensure you are a safe and competent nurse who is capable of successfully completing nurse practitioner programs.

Your application is the admissions department’s first impression of you. Make it count by following the directions carefully and submitting everything by the deadline. Although some programs may ask you for materials unique to their needs, expect to provide the following information:

Accelerated online NP programs often discourage students from working full time because of the fast-paced format. As a result, students may not be able to count on their income to pay for nursing school. Additionally, if you plan to attend a college out of state, you must factor in the increased expense of nonresident tuition.

Luckily, nursing students have financial aid resources to help them pay for college expenses. Loans — both private and federal — provide financial aid to nursing students to pay for tuition and books. Federal loans generally have lower interest rates and more lenient repayment plans than private loans.

Students can also apply for nursing scholarships and grants, which they do not need to repay.

An NP’s advanced education allows them to perform assessments, make diagnoses, and prescribe medication. NPs can work in clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, private physicians’ offices, and nursing homes. NPs may collaborate with physicians or work independently. Each state regulates NP practice authority and determines whether NPs work in full practice, reduced practice, or restricted practice.

The pay for NPs exceeds what RNs earn. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RNs make a median annual salary of $86,070, while NPs earn a median annual salary of $126,260. NPs also have the flexibility of working in specialized areas like family nursing, neonatal nursing, or women’s health.