Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Vermont

Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Vermont
Jake Flannigan, NP

Jake Flannigan, NP

July 15, 2025

Vermont’s nurse practitioner programs equip registered nurses to deliver advanced, patient‑centered care across rural communities and urban centers like Burlington and Montpelier. The University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine and Norwich University offer CCNE‑accredited MSN and DNP tracks in specialties such as family practice and psychiatric‑mental health. These curricula emphasize evidence‑based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership development. Graduates emerge ready for national certification and Vermont APRN licensure with full prescriptive authority.

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2026 Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Vermont

Vermont offers exceptional nurse practitioner programs that prepare healthcare professionals for impactful careers. At TopNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the state's top nursing education opportunities based on academic quality, clinical training, faculty expertise, and student outcomes. Our comprehensive analysis highlights Vermont's commitment to producing highly skilled nurse practitioners who can make meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery. These programs not only provide rigorous academic preparation but also emphasize hands-on clinical experience across various specialized tracks, including family practice, pediatrics, and psychiatric care. Prospective students will find comprehensive insights into Vermont's most respected nurse practitioner programs in our annual rankings. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Norwich University

Northfield, VT - Private 4-year - norwich.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner empowers healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive patient care. This 45-credit program accelerates career development through flexible online learning, completing in just 27 months. Students benefit from an affordable $825 per credit hour, with special military and first responder rates. The curriculum includes 660 clinical practice hours, preparing graduates for national certification exams. Designed for working nurses, the program features small class sizes with a maximum of 15 students, doctoral-level faculty, and no GRE requirement. CCNE-accredited and aligned with AACN standards, this program offers a strategic pathway to advanced nursing practice.

  • 100% online program
  • 45 credit hours total
  • As few as 27 months completion
  • Military/veteran discounts available
  • Cost $825 per credit hour
  • Four annual start dates
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • 15 students maximum per class
  • 660 clinical practice hours
  • Doctoral-level faculty

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses to deliver advanced, comprehensive care for acutely ill adult patients. This rigorous 45-credit program enables rapid professional development, completing in as few as 27 months. Without GRE/GMAT barriers, students benefit from affordable $825 per credit tuition and military/first responder discounts. The curriculum includes 660 clinical practice hours, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for national certification exams. Limited to 15 students per class, the program offers personalized learning with doctoral-level faculty, positioning nurses for enhanced acute care career opportunities.

  • 100% online program
  • 45 total credit hours
  • As few as 27 months completion
  • No entrance exam required
  • 660 clinical practice hours
  • $825 per credit hour
  • 15 students per class max
  • Military/first responder discounts
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Doctoral-level faculty

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's online Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner addresses the critical shortage of mental health professionals. This 45-credit, 27-month program equips registered nurses to tackle complex mental health challenges comprehensively. Priced at $825 per credit with military and first responder discounts, the program offers accessible advanced education. Students complete 660 clinical practice hours, learning from doctoral-level faculty and preparing for national certification exams. With no GRE requirement and class sizes limited to 15 students, the CCNE-accredited program ensures personalized, in-depth mental health training for career advancement.

  • 100% online program
  • 45 credit hours total
  • 27-month completion time
  • No GRE required
  • 15 students per class
  • 660 clinical practice hours
  • Military/first responder discounts
  • Doctoral-level faculty
  • CCNE accredited program
  • $825 per credit hour

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a targeted pathway for nurses seeking mental health expertise. This comprehensive program provides advanced training in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum delivers 100% online coursework with competitive tuition rates and military discounts. Requiring a nursing bachelor's degree and active RN license, the program prepares graduates for PMHNP certification. Focused on improving mental health outcomes, this flexible program equips nurses with specialized skills to address complex psychological healthcare needs across diverse populations.

  • Online Master of Science
  • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
  • 100% online coursework
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • Military discounts available
  • RN license required
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Prepares for PMHNP certification
  • Comprehensive mental health training
  • Tailored for career advancement

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing provides advanced healthcare professionals a specialized pathway to enhance clinical expertise. Offering three distinct tracks—Adult Gerontology Acute Care, Family, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner—this online program delivers comprehensive education. Students gain 18 credit hours and 660 clinical practice hours, preparing for professional certification exams. Competitively priced at $825 per credit hour with substantial military and veteran discounts, the program accommodates working nurses. Featuring experienced doctoral-level faculty, small class sizes, and flexible learning, this CCNE-accredited program aligns with AACN curriculum standards.

  • Online flexible learning platform
  • 18 total credit hours
  • 660 clinical practice hours
  • 3 specialized practice tracks
  • $825 per credit hour
  • Military/veteran discounts available
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • 15 students max per class
  • Doctoral-level nursing faculty
  • CCNE accredited program

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Norwich University's Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner transforms experienced RNs into specialized acute care practitioners. This online program offers strategic career advancement through 18 credit hours and 660 clinical practice hours. Designed for master's-prepared nurses, the curriculum prepares graduates for board certification and potential annual earnings around $121,610. Priced at $825 per credit hour with military and veteran discounts, the program supports diverse healthcare professionals. With no GRE requirement, doctoral-level faculty, and a maximum of 15 students per class, nurses can enhance their expertise in hospitals, urgent care facilities, and veterans' healthcare settings.

  • Online flexible learning platform
  • 18 total credit hours
  • 660 clinical practice hours
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Military/veteran discounts available
  • Maximum 15 students per class
  • Doctoral-level faculty
  • RN license required
  • 3.0 GPA minimum
  • Multiple certification exam prep
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Vermont

Burlington, VT - Public 4-Year - uvm.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Vermont's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an intensive 76-credit program designed to transform experienced nurses into advanced primary care professionals. Students engage in comprehensive clinical training, accumulating 1000 clinical practice hours across pediatric, adult, and geriatric domains. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, integrating scholarly research with hands-on clinical experiences. Uniquely structured with expert faculty clinicians, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared for national APRN certification. Admission requires an active RN license, nursing bachelor's degree, and competitive 3.0 GPA. With a remarkable 95% exam pass rate, UVM's DNP program stands out for its rigorous academic approach and commitment to healthcare excellence.

  • 76 total credit hours
  • 1000 clinical practice hours
  • Two concentration tracks available
  • Expert faculty clinicians
  • Small class sizes
  • Collaborative academic medical center
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Hybrid course delivery
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • RN licensure prerequisite
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

Program Curriculum & Length

Length

Curriculum

Advanced Health Assessment
Advanced Pathophysiology
Advanced Pharmacology
FNP Roles & Issues
Clinical Readiness & Practicum Courses

Clinical Rotations

Are Online Nurse Practitioner Programs Available in Vermont

Vermont NP programs often use a hybrid model, delivering didactic content online through asynchronous modules and live webinars complemented by on‑campus intensives for simulation labs. Norwich University’s fully online RN‑to‑MSN FNP track allows working nurses statewide to complete coursework remotely, requiring only local clinical placements. Clinical rotations are arranged at approved healthcare sites under qualified preceptors, ensuring hands‑on experience close to home. This flexibility helps students balance work, family, and academic commitments.

2026 Fastest NP Program Options in Vermont

Nursing professionals seeking accelerated advanced practice routes in Vermont now have compelling options to quickly enhance their careers. The Green Mountain State offers several nursing programs designed for working healthcare professionals who want to advance their credentials efficiently. These programs focus on the fastest pathways to graduate-level nursing certifications, with an emphasis on minimizing time commitment while maintaining high educational standards. Healthcare workers in Burlington, Montpelier, and other Vermont regions can explore these streamlined educational tracks that enable rapid skill development and career progression. By selecting programs with shorter completion times, nurses can rapidly transition into advanced practice roles, meet growing healthcare demands, and reduce overall educational investment.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Norwich University
  • Online Master of Science
  • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
  • 100% online coursework
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • Military discounts available
  • RN license required
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Prepares for PMHNP certification
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
University of Vermont
  • 76 total credit hours
  • 1000 clinical practice hours
  • Two concentration tracks available
  • Expert faculty clinicians
  • Small class sizes
  • Collaborative academic medical center
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Hybrid course delivery
  • Graduation Rate: 79%
  • Retention Rate: 88%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
*Analysis based on: NCES IPEDS 2023 survey data.

Admission Requirements

BSN Degree, Competitive GPA
From accredited institution, typically around 3.0
Active RN License
Current and unencumbered Vermont RN license
Application Materials
Official transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation, résumé
Insurance and Health Requirements
Professional liability insurance, proof of immunizations, Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
Background Check
Criminal history screening and drug screening required
Clinical Experience
Typically 1–2 years of RN clinical experience required before clinical placements

Certification and Licensing

Certifying BoardVermont State Board of Nursing – APRN Section
CertificationCompletion of an accredited NP program, active VT RN license, and national APRN credential
Renewal PeriodBiennial, expiring March 31 of odd-numbered years
Continuing Education400 practice hours or 20 CE hours per cycle, prescribers add 2 controlled-substance CE hours
Fees$75 initial application, $145 renewal
Clinical HoursGraduate transcripts verifying required practicum
Processing3–5 business days, application valid for one year
EndorsementRequires VT RN licensure, APRN verification, and 400 practice hours in 2 years (or 960 in 5 years, expedited after 3 years)

Salary and Job Outlook

Nurse practitioners in Vermont earn an average annual salary of about $125,000, with entry‑level positions starting near $100,000 and experienced practitioners in metropolitan areas like Burlington earning upwards of $150,000. Compensation packages often include health benefits, retirement plans, and loan repayment assistance. Rural practice settings sometimes offer additional incentives such as relocation stipends or sign‑on bonuses. Advanced certifications and leadership roles can further elevate earning potential.

Salary & Career OutlookVermontUSA
Avg Annual NP Salary$141,140$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$67.85$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$155,000$80,510
Median Salary$141,140$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$118,000$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032)~45%3%
Annual Job Openings~75~54,000

2026 Affordable NP Program Options in Vermont

Aspiring healthcare professionals seeking advanced nursing education in Vermont now have access to several affordable program options across the state. From the Burlington area to the rural Green Mountain regions, nurses can find quality master's, graduate certificate, and doctoral programs that balance academic excellence with reasonable tuition costs. These programs recognize the financial challenges many students face and aim to provide accessible pathways into advanced nursing practice. By offering competitive pricing and diverse educational opportunities, these Vermont institutions support students' professional growth without creating overwhelming financial burdens. Nurses can explore various program highlights that align with their career goals while maintaining financial practicality.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Norwich University
  • Online Master of Science
  • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
  • 100% online coursework
  • Competitive tuition rates
  • Military discounts available
  • RN license required
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Prepares for PMHNP certification
  • $19,900 - $29,900 (Graduate)
University of Vermont
  • 76 total credit hours
  • 1000 clinical practice hours
  • Two concentration tracks available
  • Expert faculty clinicians
  • Small class sizes
  • Collaborative academic medical center
  • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
  • Hybrid course delivery
  • $11,400 - $17,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $26,400 - $39,600 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics.

Advancement Pathways

Many NP graduates pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice to deepen clinical expertise and prepare for leadership, academic, or policy‑making roles. Post‑master’s certificate programs enable practitioners to add new specialties, such as acute care or women’s health, without completing another full degree. Those interested in research may enroll in PhD programs in nursing, while others transition into roles in healthcare administration, informatics, or telehealth leadership. Vermont’s focus on community health and rural access also opens doors to roles in public health initiatives and interdisciplinary care management.

List of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Vermont

Jump to City:

Burlington, VT

University of Vermont

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Campus Based - Website

    • 76 total credit hours
    • 1000 clinical practice hours
    • Two concentration tracks available
    • Expert faculty clinicians
    • Small class sizes
    • Collaborative academic medical center
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Hybrid course delivery

Northfield, VT

Norwich University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 45 total credit hours
    • As few as 27 months completion
    • No entrance exam required
    • 660 clinical practice hours
    • $825 per credit hour
    • 15 students per class max
    • Military/first responder discounts
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 45 credit hours total
    • As few as 27 months completion
    • Military/veteran discounts available
    • Cost $825 per credit hour
    • Four annual start dates
    • No GRE/GMAT required
    • 15 students maximum per class
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 45 credit hours total
    • 27-month completion time
    • No GRE required
    • 15 students per class
    • 660 clinical practice hours
    • Military/first responder discounts
    • Doctoral-level faculty
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master of Science
    • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
    • 100% online coursework
    • Competitive tuition rates
    • Military discounts available
    • RN license required
    • Flexible for working professionals
    • Prepares for PMHNP certification
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible learning platform
    • 18 total credit hours
    • 660 clinical practice hours
    • No GRE/GMAT required
    • Military/veteran discounts available
    • Maximum 15 students per class
    • Doctoral-level faculty
    • RN license required
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online flexible learning platform
    • 18 total credit hours
    • 660 clinical practice hours
    • 3 specialized practice tracks
    • $825 per credit hour
    • Military/veteran discounts available
    • No GRE/GMAT required
    • 15 students max per class
*Source documentation: IPEDS 2023 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.