Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kentucky

The University of Louisville's Master of Science in Nursing provides a dynamic Family Nurse Practitioner concentration tailored for ambitious nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Leveraging a hybrid learning model, the program accommodates working professionals through flexible scheduling and multiple annual start dates. Students engage in comprehensive training, completing 672 patient care hours that integrate simulation experiences and real-world clinical practice. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based care strategies, and preparing graduates to address complex healthcare challenges across diverse patient populations.

• Hybrid learning format
• Three annual start dates
• 672 clinical hours minimum
• Nationally recognized faculty
• Holistic admission review
• Interdisciplinary healthcare preparation
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration

The University of Louisville's Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN concentration provides comprehensive training for advanced practice nurses dedicated to pediatric healthcare. Utilizing a hybrid learning format, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced clinical skills. Students complete 672 patient care hours, developing expertise in managing complex pediatric health conditions. Supported by nationally recognized faculty, graduates gain critical capabilities to improve pediatric health outcomes and navigate evolving healthcare landscapes with sophisticated clinical and professional competencies.

• Hybrid learning format
• 672 minimum clinical hours
• Three annual admission cycles
• Nationally recognized faculty
• Holistic admission review process

University of Louisville's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration offers baccalaureate-prepared nurses an advanced pathway to specialized healthcare practice. The hybrid program provides flexible learning with three annual start dates, enabling students to complete 672 clinical training hours through in-person and simulation experiences. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches and evidence-based practice, the curriculum prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive care for adult and elderly populations, developing sophisticated clinical skills and professional leadership capabilities.

• Hybrid learning format
• Three annual start dates
• 672 clinical training hours
• Nationally recognized faculty
• Holistic admission review
• Advanced practice nursing preparation
• Interdisciplinary healthcare approach

The University of Louisville's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN concentration equips baccalaureate-prepared nurses with advanced skills to address complex mental health challenges. Through a hybrid learning model, students engage in blended online and on-campus instruction, completing 672 clinical hours. The program develops comprehensive expertise in evidence-based mental health practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced patient care strategies. Graduates are prepared for board certification and positioned to provide holistic mental health care across diverse patient populations.

• Hybrid learning format
• 672 minimum clinical hours
• Three annual admission cycles
• Nationally recognized faculty
• Holistic admission review process
• Clinical preceptor provided
• Prepares for board certification

The Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) concentration at the University of Louisville prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver specialized healthcare for newborns and infants up to two years old. This comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing program equips students with advanced clinical skills to assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic conditions in the most vulnerable patient population. Designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses, the program typically takes two years to complete, with flexible full-time and part-time options. Graduates are prepared to sit for board certification and play a critical role in neonatal intensive care settings.

• Two-year MSN program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Specialized neonatal healthcare focus
• Board certification preparation
• Advanced clinical skills training

• Hybrid format learning.
• Six advanced practice specialties.
• Requires master's degree in nursing.
• Classes on campus 4-6 times/semester.
• Focus on student's area of interest.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Tailored educational experience.
• Ideal for career advancement.
• Combines online and on-campus classes.
• Classes typically on Thursdays.

• MSN, DNP, Post-Grad options.
• Specializations in acute care, family, mental health.
• Flexible learning for working professionals.
• Clinical expertise and practical skills focus.
• Financial aid and scholarships available.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for leadership in healthcare.
• Admission requires nursing degree.
• Specialized tracks for diverse interests.
• Comprehensive curriculum for advanced practice.

• Six APRN specialty options
• Minimum 504-672 clinical hours
• Requires Master's or terminal degree
• Holistic admission review process
• Prepares for national certification
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• NursingCAS application platform
• Advanced clinical training
• Professional role development
• Diverse healthcare practice settings

• Hybrid learning format
• 672 minimum clinical hours
• On-campus sessions quarterly
• Advanced nursing specialty
• Accredited nursing program

• Hybrid learning format
• 672 clinical hours required
• Specialization in Adult Gerontology
• For MSN/Doctoral degree holders
• National certification preparation

• 75-112 credit hours total
• Hybrid online/campus format
• 1000+ clinical hours required
• Multiple entry pathways
• Leadership-focused curriculum

• 3-year full-time BSN-DNP track
• 77 total credit hours
• Hybrid program format
• Extensive clinical practicums
• Work experience recommended
• Advanced mental health focus
• Comprehensive coursework
• Evidence-based practice emphasis

• BSN and MSN entry pathways
• Minimum 1000 clinical hours
• Online and hybrid learning
• Seven nursing specialties
• Leadership-focused curriculum
• DNP project capstone experience
• Prepares APRN certification

• BSN to DNP pathway
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• 75-112 credit hours
• 3 years full-time
• Hybrid learning format
• 1000 clinical hours minimum
• Leadership and clinical focus
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Health policy integration
• APRN certification preparation

• Full-time BSN-DNP Program
• Hybrid Learning Format
• 77 Total Credit Hours
• Recommended Work Experience
• Comprehensive Clinical Practicums
• Advanced Mental Health Focus
• Leadership and Policy Courses
• Evidence-Based Practice Emphasis

• 76 credit hours.
• Hybrid program format.
• Focus on pediatric acute care.
• Advanced pathophysiology covered.
• Includes pharmacology and physical assessment.
• Leadership and EBP integrated.
• BSN degree required for admission.
• Financial aid available.
• Prepares for advanced practice roles.
• Combines online and clinical experiences.

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Acute Care offers specialized training for licensed nurse practitioners seeking advanced pediatric skills. This unique hybrid program provides comprehensive clinical preparation through online coursework and immersive on-campus experiences. Designed for post-graduate advanced practice registered nurses, the program enables seamless specialty transition with multiple population-focused tracks. Students benefit from targeted 16-31 credit curriculum, competitive $1,002 per credit cost, and preparation for specialty certification in pediatric acute care nursing.

• For post-graduate APRN nurses
• Online with in-person components
• 16-31 credit hours total
• $1,002 per credit cost
• Multiple specialty tracks
• Requires graduate nursing degree
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Immersion blocks twice per semester
• Prepares for specialty certification
• Executive leadership option available

University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Family Care empowers advanced practice nurses to expand clinical expertise through a flexible hybrid program. Tailored for licensed nurse practitioners, this innovative curriculum offers comprehensive training across diverse population-focused tracks. Students engage in online coursework complemented by strategic in-person immersion experiences, gaining advanced practice competencies. The program's 16-31 credit structure, competitive $1,002 per credit rate, and focus on professional versatility make it an ideal pathway for healthcare professionals seeking career enhancement.

• Online with in-person immersions
• 16-31 credit hours
• $1,002 per credit
• Multiple specialty tracks
• Post-graduate APRN focus
• Prepare for certification
• Designed for career transition
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• MSN/DNP/PhD prerequisite
• Twice-semester campus visits

The University of Kentucky's Postgraduate Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner provides advanced nursing professionals an opportunity to specialize in mental health care. This hybrid program offers a comprehensive 9-12 credit curriculum designed to enhance clinical skills and career potential. With 100% online and campus-based options, nurses can seamlessly transition into specialized mental health roles. The program prepares graduates for national certifications, emphasizes advanced practice role development, and provides flexible learning accommodations for working professionals.

• 100% online/hybrid options
• Multiple nursing specialties
• 9-12 credit certificate programs
• Prepare for national certifications
• Advanced practice role enhancement
• Campus-based immersion components
• CCNE accredited program
• Flexible for working professionals

University of Kentucky's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program delivers specialized training for nurses focusing on adult and elderly acute care. This innovative hybrid curriculum combines online learning with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing students to expertly assess, diagnose, and manage complex health conditions. Designed for working professionals, the program equips graduates with advanced skills for intensive care units and specialty clinics. Participants become eligible for national certification exams, enhancing their career prospects in acute healthcare settings.

• Hybrid program format
• Focuses on acute care
• Prepares for national certification
• Requires advanced courses
• Combines online and on-campus learning
• For working professionals
• Eligible for certification exams
• Specializes in adult and elderly care
• Enhances acute care skills
• Offers flexible learning options

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Primary Care offers advanced practice nurses a transformative pathway into specialized pediatric healthcare. This hybrid program provides comprehensive training for licensed nurse practitioners seeking expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing pediatric patients. With a competitive $1,002 per credit cost and 16-31 credit hours, students engage in robust online coursework and immersive clinical experiences. The program demands a 3.0 graduate GPA and prepares graduates for specialized pediatric nurse practitioner certification.

• Hybrid online and in-person format
• 16-31 total credit hours
• $1,002 per credit cost
• 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
• Pediatric Primary Care concentration
• In-person clinical rotations
• Immersion activities twice per semester
• Prepares for national certification

• Only Acute Care PNP Program in Kentucky
• Doctoral-level pediatric nursing curriculum
• Multidisciplinary healthcare training
• Pediatric Nursing Certification Board recognized
• Advanced research integration skills

• Hybrid program format
• Three-year full-time study
• Online courses with campus visits
• Certification exam eligibility
• Focus on acute and critical care
• Admissions in fall only
• Practical skills emphasis
• Works in intensive care settings
• Specialty clinics training
• Multidisciplinary team member

Northern Kentucky University's online Master of Science in Nursing for Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioners transforms experienced nurses into specialized acute care professionals. This CCNE-accredited program prepares students to diagnose and treat patients across adolescent and geriatric stages in complex medical settings. With 47 credit hours, intensive clinical residencies, and a 24-month completion timeline, graduates develop sophisticated skills for high-intensity healthcare environments, positioning themselves as advanced practice providers in acute care specialties.

• 100% Online MSN Program
• CCNE Accredited Nursing Degree
• Total Tuition: $32,956
• 24-Month Program Length
• 47 Total Credit Hours
• Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration
• Clinical Residency Included
• Prepares for Certification Exam

Northern Kentucky University's online Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive pathway for nurses to become specialized mental health providers. Spanning 47 credit hours and completed in 22 months, the curriculum integrates advanced psychopharmacology, mental health assessment, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions. With an impressive 88.94% ANCC certification exam pass rate, graduates are equipped to diagnose and treat mental health disorders across patient lifespans, addressing critical healthcare needs.

• 100% Online Program
• Total Tuition: $32,956
• 47 Credit Hours
• 22-Month Completion
• CCNE Accredited Program
• 88.94% ANCC Exam Pass Rate
• Covers Lifespan Mental Health Care
• Advanced Psychopharmacology Focus
• 5 Clinical Courses
• 750 Total Clinical Hours

Northern Kentucky University's online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate accelerates specialized mental health training for experienced nurses. Designed for advanced practice professionals, this 14-month program delivers comprehensive psychiatric care expertise across patient lifespans. Students complete 20 credit hours and 750 clinical residency hours, preparing for the ANCC certification exam. The program's flexible online format, competitive tuition of $16,918, and focus on advanced psychopharmacology make it an attractive option for nurses seeking to expand their mental health practice capabilities.

• 100% Online Program
• 14-Month Completion Time
• 20 Total Credit Hours
• 750 Clinical Hours
• CCNE-Accredited Program
• Total Tuition: $16,918
• Prepares for ANCC Certification
• Serves Patients Across Lifespan
• Advanced Psychopharmacology Focus
• Requires 3.0 MSN GPA

Northern Kentucky University's Post-Master's Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers a strategic pathway for nurses to specialize in high-intensity medical environments. This comprehensive online program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver advanced care for adolescents through geriatric patients in emergency departments, intensive care units, and specialty clinics. With 35 credit hours and 750 clinical residency hours, graduates develop sophisticated skills to manage complex acute care scenarios across diverse patient populations.

• Online post-master's nursing certificate
• 35 total credit hours
• Program length: 20 months
• Total tuition: $25,828
• Prepares for AGACNP certification exam
• Clinical residency: 750 hours
• Covers adolescence to geriatrics
• Advanced practice nurse preparation
• Accredited nursing program

Northern Kentucky University's Post-Master's Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Primary Care empowers nurses to become expert healthcare providers for patients from adolescence through geriatrics. This online program emphasizes comprehensive primary care strategies, enabling graduates to manage chronic conditions, promote wellness, and deliver holistic healthcare interventions. With 31 credit hours and 500 clinical hours, the curriculum equips nurses with advanced skills to address complex health needs and expand their professional opportunities in adult-gerontological primary care.

• Online post-master's certificate program
• 31 total credit hours
• 500 clinical residency hours
• Prepares for certification exam
• Primary care adult-gerontology focus
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Requires current RN license
• 1,000 prior clinical hours needed
• Coursework completable in 20 months

Spalding University's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program stands out with its robust 45-credit curriculum and impressive 96% board certification pass rate. Students engage in comprehensive clinical training through 750 supervised hours across diverse healthcare environments. The hybrid program offers exceptional flexibility for working professionals, enabling full-time completion in two years or part-time study over two and a half years. Emphasizing interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice, the program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver culturally competent care. Clinical rotations provide hands-on experience in health assessment, wellness promotion, and comprehensive patient management.

• 45-credit MSN-FNP program
• 750 clinical training hours
• 96% board exam pass rate
• Rolling admissions available
• Flexible Wed-Thurs class schedule
• Full/part-time study options
• On-campus housing available
• Classes start every May
• CCNE accredited program
• Clinical sites provided

Spalding University's Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Track provides comprehensive advanced nursing education focusing on primary healthcare for adult patients. This flexible MSN program accommodates both full-time and part-time learners, enabling career advancement while maintaining professional commitments. Students develop specialized clinical skills through rigorous training, preparing for national board certification via ANCC or AANP. The curriculum emphasizes holistic patient care, advanced assessment techniques, and evidence-based practice. Graduates emerge as competent practitioners ready to deliver high-quality healthcare across diverse adult and geriatric clinical settings.

• Flexible full-time/part-time options
• Primary adult healthcare focus
• ANCC/AANP certification preparation
• Comprehensive clinical training
• Advanced practice nursing track

Spalding University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program prepares advanced nursing professionals for transformative mental health care roles. This hybrid program combines flexible learning with intensive clinical training, requiring a BSN, current nursing license, and minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. Students develop critical skills in ethical decision-making, interprofessional collaboration, and comprehensive patient care. The curriculum supports certification preparation through recognized credentialing agencies, emphasizing service learning and precepted practice hours. Graduates are equipped to make significant impacts in diverse mental health nursing environments.

• Hybrid program format
• CCNE accredited program
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Multiple enrollment tracks
• Service learning integrated
• Precepted practice hours required
• Five-year degree completion
• Certification exam preparation

Spalding University's Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an innovative hybrid learning model for aspiring advanced practice nurses. The 44-credit program provides flexible full- and part-time study options, welcoming nurses with diverse educational backgrounds including ADN and BSN. Emphasizing ethical decision-making and interprofessional collaboration, the curriculum prepares students for complex mental health practice. Small class sizes ensure personalized learning, with a focus on critical analysis and advanced practice skills. Graduates develop comprehensive competencies to address contemporary psychiatric healthcare challenges.

• Hybrid learning model
• 44 credit hours
• Flexible study options
• Bachelor's degree required
• Small class sizes
• Personalized academic counseling
• Diverse faculty
• Prepares for advanced practice
• Emphasis on ethical decision-making
• Interprofessional collaboration focus

Designed for experienced nurses seeking advanced specialization, Spalding University's Post-Master's Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner offers a strategic pathway to expanded clinical expertise. The 45-credit hybrid program delivers comprehensive training through 750 clinical hours, preparing graduates for transformative healthcare roles. Featuring a flexible Wednesday-Thursday class schedule, the program accommodates working professionals while maintaining high academic standards. With a remarkable 96% board certification pass rate, students develop skills to provide holistic, patient-centered care across diverse primary care settings, positioning themselves as dynamic healthcare professionals.

• 45-credit MSN-FNP program
• 750 clinical training hours
• 96% board exam pass rate
• Flexible hybrid learning format
• Rolling admissions available
• Two-year full-time completion
• Multiple practice setting opportunities
• CCNE accredited program
• Experienced practicing faculty
• Post-Master's Certificate option

• 44 credit hour hybrid program
• 750 clinical hours required
• Small cohorts of 15 students
• CCNE accredited nursing program
• Guaranteed clinical placements
• Work in diverse mental health settings
• 20 professional service hours
• Enrollment starts in May
• Post-Master's Certificate available

• Designed for MSN graduates.
• Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification.
• Specialization in acute care.
• Tailored credit hour requirements.
• Second-year specialization courses.
• Potential first-year courses.
• Focus on adult/gerontology care.
• Enhances clinical expertise.
• Develops leadership skills.
• Campus-based program.

Eastern Kentucky University's Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program offers a comprehensive online pathway for advanced practice nurses targeting primary care delivery in rural healthcare environments. Uniquely designed for healthcare professionals, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based skills addressing acute and chronic conditions with a strong disease prevention focus. Students benefit from flexible 8-week terms, complimentary textbooks, and rigorous clinical training. The program's remarkable 100% first-attempt national certification exam pass rate positions graduates for impactful careers in diverse healthcare settings, particularly addressing rural health challenges.

• Online 47-credit MSN program
• Online tuition $703/credit hour
• Free textbooks for students
• No campus visits required
• Spring, summer, fall start dates
• 750 direct patient care hours
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• 1+ year RN experience required
• Accredited nursing program
• 100% first attempt certification pass

Eastern Kentucky University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to address critical mental health needs across diverse care environments. The intensive 49-credit curriculum develops sophisticated diagnostic, treatment, and management skills for complex psychiatric conditions. With an outstanding 98.6% first-attempt certification exam pass rate, the program offers unprecedented flexibility through online delivery, multiple annual start dates, and no campus visit requirements. Affordable tuition, free textbooks, and comprehensive clinical training make this an exceptional pathway for nurses seeking specialized mental health practice.

• Online 49-credit MSN program
• $703 per credit hour
• Free textbooks for students
• 98.6% certification exam pass rate
• No campus visits required
• Multiple start dates annually
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Requires active RN license
• Minimum one year RN experience
• Top 50 online graduate nursing program

This specialized Rural Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration at Eastern Kentucky University targets advanced practice nurses committed to serving underserved rural communities. The meticulously structured 49-credit program combines intensive theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical training, preparing nurses to provide comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Requiring a BSN, unencumbered RN license, and minimum one-year nursing experience, the curriculum emphasizes practical skills essential for addressing complex psychiatric needs in rural healthcare landscapes.

• Online graduate nursing program
• Rural psychiatric mental health focus
• 49 total credit hours
• 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
• Comprehensive clinical practicum
• Advanced practice nurse preparation
• Unencumbered RN license needed
• Eight-course concentration sequence
• Oral comprehensive exam required

This Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate at Eastern Kentucky University provides experienced nurses an advanced specialization opportunity. Tailored for professionals with existing master's degrees, the 22-32 credit program delivers comprehensive training in primary care across patient lifespans. Featuring an impressive 100% first-attempt national certification exam pass rate, the program offers affordable in-state tuition and innovative learning formats. Designed with working professionals in mind, students can leverage flexible online modalities, free textbooks, and structured coursework to elevate their clinical expertise.

• 23-32 Credit Hours Required
• Full-Time, In-State Tuition $703
• Free Books for Students
• 100% First Attempt Certification Pass
• No Campus Visits Required
• 8-Week Core Course Terms
• Spring, Summer, Fall Start Dates
• Up to 9 Transfer Credits
• Online Program Format