Most important takeaways…
- George Mason, Radford, and Old Dominion offer some of the lowest net-price NP options in Virginia.
- BSN-to-DNP fast tracks in Virginia can be completed in as few as three years of full-time study.
- Most Virginia NP programs use a hybrid format, requiring students to secure their own clinical preceptors.
- An MSN takes roughly two to three years while a DNP adds one to two additional years and a scholarly project.
Virginia is home to 15 ranked nurse practitioner programs spanning public research universities, private colleges, and career-focused institutions. In-state graduate tuition starts below $8,400 at UVA Wise and climbs past $26,000 at Shenandoah, while program lengths range from 22-month accelerated tracks to three-year part-time plans built for nurses who cannot step away from clinical shifts.
That spread in cost and pace is the core tension. A lower price tag may mean fewer preceptor placement resources; a faster timeline may demand 30-plus clinical hours per week on top of coursework. Virginia grants NPs reduced practice authority, so the degree you choose and the certification exam you pass shape not just your title but your day-to-day autonomy in the state. Below, you will find ranked programs, cost comparisons, accelerated pathway breakdowns, and guidance on choosing between an MSN and a DNP.
Virginia's Leading Online Nurse Practitioner Programs, 2027 Rankings
Virginia's NP programs now span fully asynchronous master's tracks, hybrid doctorates with monthly campus days, and short post-master's certificates for nurses who already hold an advanced degree. Every school below offers at least one pathway a working nurse can complete mostly from home, and each entry notes what the program costs, how it is delivered, and how the school's graduates fare overall. Read these as starting points, then confirm current deadlines directly with each program, since several Virginia schools changed their admissions cycles for 2026.
Factors considered
- Earnings ten years after entry
- Tuition adjusted for local living costs
- Availability of online delivery
- Graduation rates and graduate debt
- Accreditation and certification preparation
- Program-level records maintained in house
- Independent editorial research
- National Center for Education Statistics (IPEDS) — nces.ed.gov
- State cost-of-living adjustment from BEA Regional Price Parities — bea.gov
- Federal College Scorecard outcomes data — collegescorecard.ed.gov
University of Virginia
Virginia's flagship public university in Charlottesville covers family, adult-gerontology acute care, psychiatric-mental health, and pediatric primary care practice at the master's, post-master's certificate, and DNP levels. Most formats are hybrid, with campus class days roughly once a month and faculty help in securing clinical preceptors. The school's overall graduation rate is 96%, and federal data put median earnings for its graduates near $86,900 ten years after entry. One 2026 change matters: the School of Nursing is not accepting MSN nurse practitioner applications for fall 2026 entry and is directing NP applicants to the DNP pathway instead.
- Hybrid format with classes on Thursdays and Fridays
- Full-time in two years, or part-time in three
- $914 per credit; $25,756 total for Virginia residents
- $40,328 total for non-residents
- 3.0 GPA, one year of RN experience, three recommendations
- No GRE required; January 5 application deadline
- CCNE accredited; prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- Guaranteed admission for UVA School of Nursing alumni
- 23 credits and 616 clinical hours
- Hybrid format for nurses who already hold a master's degree
- Prepares for national FNP certification exams
- Primary care focus across family health and the lifespan
- Simulation activities included in the practicum courses
- Hybrid format with class once a month
- More than 500 clinical hours
- Requires an active APRN license and a graduate nursing degree
- No GRE required; January 5 application deadline
- Part-time study option for working clinicians
- 500 clinical hours, much of it at UVA Medical Center
- Full-time in two years or part-time in three
- Reported tuition of $21,942 for residents, $35,832 non-resident
- 3.0 GPA, Virginia RN license, one year of experience
- No GRE required; $85 application fee
- Hybrid delivery with monthly in-person classes
- Two years full-time or three years part-time
- Over 500 clinical hours, mostly completed in Virginia
- Focus on care for underserved populations
- 3.0 GPA, one year RN experience, no GRE
- $914 per credit; three-year plan of study
- 750 clinical hours plus a capstone
- In-person class about once a month
- Clinical placements at UVA Health
- Prepares for ANCC or PNCB certification
- Guaranteed admission for UVA Nursing alumni
- $914 per credit; full-time and part-time options
- 750 clinical hours with guidance finding qualified preceptors
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- Practice-focused doctorate with class about once a month
- Post-professional certificate option available
- $914 per credit; part-time and full-time tracks
- 750 clinical hours plus a capstone project
- Monthly on-campus class with online coursework
- Prepares for AACN or ANCC certification
- Access to interdisciplinary study across the university
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) MSN — Hybrid
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate — Hybrid
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate — Hybrid
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) MSN — Hybrid
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN — Hybrid
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care DNP — Hybrid
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) DNP — Hybrid
Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) DNP — Hybrid
George Mason University
George Mason pairs a 100% online MSN family nurse practitioner track with hybrid doctoral and certificate options in psychiatric-mental health and adult-gerontology primary care practice. The online FNP runs $850 per credit, about $43,365 total, with asynchronous classes and rolling admissions. The school's overall graduation rate is 68%. Its Fairfax location keeps students within reach of the dense Northern Virginia health systems where many graduates eventually practice.
- 23 graduate credits in a hybrid format
- Minimum 3.00 GPA and a current RN license
- Prepares for national certification and prescriptive authority
- Part-time study available; open to students in 49 states
- Coursework in medication management and psychotherapy
- 72 credit hours with four concentration options
- 1,000 clinical hours plus a capstone
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP curriculum tracks
- Transfer up to 30 credits
- CCNE accredited; prepares for the NP certification exam
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways available
- Requires an active RN license and CPR certification
- Goals statement, resume, and two recommendations
- Work experience and prerequisite courses required
- Spring start available
- 100% online with asynchronous classes
- $850 per credit; $43,365 total program tuition
- 49 credits, part-time, completed in about two years
- Rolling admissions; $75 application fee
- 500 clinical hours and two recommendations
- CCNE accredited; prepares for ANCC and AANP exams
- Transfer up to 9 credits
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
James Madison University
James Madison University in Harrisonburg runs an unusual joint psychiatric-mental health NP pathway: the first year at JMU and the second at Shenandoah University, with graduates earning an MSN from JMU and a post-graduate certificate from Shenandoah. It also offers a hybrid DNP with a family nurse practitioner concentration. The school's overall graduation rate is 80%. Published tuition is about $8,150 in state and $25,496 out of state, and neither track is fully online, so plan for regular travel to the Shenandoah Valley.
- Hybrid format; first year at JMU, second at Shenandoah
- 22 credits at JMU plus 29 credits at Shenandoah
- Graduates earn an MSN from JMU and a certificate from Shenandoah
- Full-time or part-time during the first year
- CCNE accredited
- 77 total credit hours across two concentration options
- 1,000 clinical hours, including 650 practicum hours
- 3.2 GPA minimum and two recommendations
- Capstone required; prepares for FNP certification
- Primary care across the lifespan
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
University of Virginia's College at Wise
The University of Virginia's College at Wise is the smallest and lowest-cost campus in this group, with a three-year, part-time family nurse practitioner MSN built for nurses who keep working while they study. More than 600 clinical hours are completed through semester-long preceptorships, mostly in Virginia. Published tuition is about $6,160 in state and $21,662 out of state. The school's overall graduation rate is 47%, which reflects a very different student profile than the Charlottesville flagship.
- Three-year part-time hybrid program
- Over 600 clinical hours through semester-long preceptorships
- Didactic coursework online with clinical placements in Virginia
- Designed so students can keep working full time
- Focus on holistic care for patients, families, and communities
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond offers one of the broadest NP portfolios in the state, spanning family, psychiatric-mental health, and adult-gerontology acute care practice at the certificate and DNP levels. Clinical training happens at VCU Medical Center, a Magnet-designated academic medical center, and the school matches preceptors rather than leaving placement entirely to students. The school's overall graduation rate is 63%, and published tuition is about $13,200 in state and $35,674 out of state. Important for applicants: the family nurse practitioner concentration is closed for fall 2026 because of capacity limits.
- Two-year part-time hybrid for nurses who hold a master's degree
- 91% certification exam pass rate reported
- Six consecutive semesters with one on-campus day weekly
- Preceptors matched for students by the school
- Guaranteed admission for VCU BSN graduates
- 21 credit hours in a hybrid format
- Coursework in psychiatric disorders, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology
- Requires a master's or doctoral nursing degree and a current RN license
- Rolling admissions for spring; 3.0 GPA minimum
- Practicum courses included
- 10-semester, 3.5-year part-time hybrid plan
- 91% licensure pass rate reported
- Practice-focused DNP project instead of a dissertation
- School-matched preceptors and clinical placement support
- Graduate assistantships cover tuition
- 3.5-year part-time hybrid with one campus day a week
- 100% licensure pass rate reported
- Practice-focused project that can be completed at your workplace
- $85 application fee; financial aid and scholarships available
- 10-semester part-time hybrid program
- 100% licensure pass rate reported
- Training at a Magnet-designated medical center
- Preceptors matched by the program
- Capacity-limited enrollment
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate — Hybrid
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Regent University
Regent University in Virginia Beach delivers its NP pathways mostly online with short campus residencies, which suits nurses who need to keep working. Options include an MSN family nurse practitioner track at $590 per credit, a post-master's FNP certificate at $580 per credit, and DNP tracks in family and psychiatric-mental health practice. Military and veteran benefits are accepted across the portfolio, and the school's overall graduation rate is 57%. The Christian worldview framing shapes coursework and cohort culture.
- 47 credit hours at $590 per credit
- Online coursework with one required on-campus residency in Virginia Beach
- BSN, 3.0 GPA, and an active RN license required
- One year of clinical experience and a faculty interview
- CCNE accredited; prepares for APRN certification
- Military benefits accepted
- 26 credit hours at $580 per credit, about $15,080 total
- Online delivery with a two-day on-campus residency
- Licensure-eligible preparation for FNP practice
- One year of clinical RN experience required
- Advanced primary care training
- 74 credit hours at $590 per credit
- Online with an on-campus residency and White Coat ceremony
- Clinical partnerships with EVMS
- 3.0 GPA, prerequisites, and work experience required
- Veteran discount and military benefits accepted
- 74 credit hours, fully online with a two-day residency
- Three start dates each year
- Full-time and part-time options
- Prepares for national PMHNP certification
- Military benefits accepted
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Graduate Certificate, Family Nurse Practitioner (Post-Master's) — Online
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
Liberty University
Liberty University in Lynchburg runs one of the largest online NP portfolios in Virginia, with DNP tracks in family and psychiatric-mental health practice, a BSN-to-DNP option, and a postgraduate PMHNP certificate. Courses run in 8-week terms with three start dates a year, and the family nurse practitioner DNP lists tuition at $610 per credit, with an active-duty military rate of $375. Up to half of previously earned credits may transfer. The school's overall graduation rate is 65%.
- 18 credit hours, fully online with no set login times
- $850 per credit for the 2025-2026 academic year
- Open to nurses with an MSN or DNP and a 3.0 GPA
- Requires current RN and APRN licenses and professional certification
- Practicum plus a comprehensive exam; telehealth hours allowed
- 78 credit hours, online with a required virtual intensive
- $610 per credit; military rate of $375 per credit
- Transfer up to half of your credits
- Three start dates each year with no entrance exam
- Focus areas include acute and chronic health, women's health, and pediatrics
- 59 credit hours at $850 per credit
- Three start dates with 8-week online courses
- Up to 50% of practicum hours may be completed by telehealth
- Prepares for ANCC PMHNP certification
- No entrance exam; $50 application fee
- 73 credit hours; earn the DNP directly from a BSN
- 1,000 clinical hours plus a capstone
- Online with a required residential intensive
- Three start dates each year
- Transfer up to 50% of credits
Postgraduate Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
BSN to DNP, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
Radford University
Radford University built its family nurse practitioner MSN around working nurses, with cohort-based distance learning, a dedicated clinical resource coordinator, and a reported certification pass rate near 100%. It adds a one-year psychiatric mental health certificate and online DNP tracks in family and psychiatric-mental health practice. Published tuition is about $8,528 in state and $21,166 out of state. The school's overall graduation rate is 49%.
- Cohort-based, flexible distance learning for working nurses
- Nearly 100% national certification exam pass rate reported
- Clinical resource coordinator supports placement
- Prepares for AANP or ANCC certification
- Loan forgiveness programs available
- 23 credit hours with 540 clinical hours
- One year full time or 18 to 24 months part-time
- Open to master's-prepared NPs with a 3.5 graduate GPA
- No GRE required; interview required
- ANCC exam eligibility
- Prepares for AANP or ANCC certification
- Hybrid format with main campus sessions
- Holistic, family-centered primary care across the lifespan
- Online format with treatment across the lifespan
- Focus on psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions
- Addresses acute and chronic mental illness
- Prepares for PMHNP certification
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate — Hybrid
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University in Norfolk offers MSN tracks in family, pediatric, and psychiatric-mental health practice, plus post-master's certificates and a DNP for psychiatric mental health NPs. The FNP program is approved by the Virginia Joint Boards of Nursing and Medicine and reports a 96% certification pass rate and 95% employment rate for recent cohorts. Published tuition is about $7,800 in state and $28,305 out of state, and the school's overall graduation rate is 46%. Most tracks are primarily online with required on-campus clinical sessions in Virginia Beach.
- Primarily online with on-campus clinical sessions in Virginia Beach
- 3.0 GPA, RN license, and one year of experience
- 500-700 word essay and three recommendations
- 96% certification pass rate and 95% employment rate reported for 2024
- Approved by the Virginia Joint Boards of Nursing and Medicine
- Student Clinical Services Coordinator supports placements
- Four semesters; requires an APRN MSN degree
- Virginia resident rate $486 per credit; non-resident $1,334.50
- Prepares for FNP board certification
- January admission cycle with an August 1 application deadline
- 560 clinical hours plus on-campus simulation
- 100% licensure pass rate and 91% job placement reported
- Hybrid delivery through the Canvas platform
- No GRE required for applicants with a 3.5 GPA or higher
- Two-year, 40-credit hybrid program
- 22 core MSN credits plus 18 PMHNP credits
- Current RN license and 3.0 GPA required
- Clinical site arrangements required
- Seven-semester post-master's DNP track
- $486 per credit
- Scholarships and assistantships available
- Application deadline of September 1
- Current RN license and a master's in nursing required
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Post-Professional Certificate, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Master of Science in Nursing, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
What Virginia NP Graduates Earn, and What Programs Cost
Program-level earnings and tuition data for Virginia NP programs are not yet available in the current College Scorecard release. When updated figures are published, this section will feature a side-by-side comparison of median first-year post-completion earnings and graduate tuition at leading Virginia NP schools, giving you a quick return-on-investment snapshot.
The NP Landscape in Virginia: Demand, Scope of Practice, and Salary
How many nurse practitioner programs are available in Virginia, and is the job market strong enough to justify the investment? Both questions have encouraging answers, but the details matter before you commit to a program.
Workforce Demand and Salaries Across Virginia
Virginia consistently ranks among the stronger mid-Atlantic states for NP employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics places the statewide median annual wage for nurse practitioners well above the national average, with notable variation across the state's three major metro regions. The Northern Virginia and Washington D.C. corridor tends to produce the highest compensation figures, reflecting both the cost of living and the concentration of federal health systems and large hospital networks. The Richmond metro sits in the middle range, buoyed by a growing academic medical hub anchored by VCU Health and HCA facilities. Hampton Roads, while historically more military-health-care-focused, has seen steady NP demand grow as civilian health systems expand.
For working nurses weighing whether to pursue an NP credential, those regional salary differences are worth mapping against where you actually plan to practice, not just statewide averages.
Scope of Practice: What Virginia Currently Allows
Virginia operates under a reduced practice model as of 2026. That means newly licensed NPs must complete a two-year transition period under a collaborative agreement with a physician before they can practice with greater autonomy. After that period, autonomous practice becomes available. NPs in Virginia hold prescriptive authority across Schedules II through VI, which covers the broad range of medications most primary care and specialty NPs prescribe daily. For a broader look at how Virginia compares, our nurse practitioner scope of practice guide breaks down rules across all 50 states.
No full practice authority legislation was enacted during the 2025 to 2026 legislative session, despite ongoing advocacy from nursing organizations.4 Bills have been introduced and tracked by groups like the Virginia Nurses Association, but the collaborative requirement for new graduates remains in place for now. That is worth factoring in if your career plan involves opening an independent practice quickly after graduation.
The MSN-to-DNP Shift and Program Count
Virginia is home to more than a dozen NP programs spanning public universities, private institutions, and online-focused schools, giving applicants a genuine range of format, cost, and specialty options. One notable trend shaping that landscape: the University of Virginia has moved away from offering a master's-level NP pathway, joining a national shift toward the Doctor of Nursing Practice as the terminal entry credential. Other Virginia schools are watching that transition closely, and the MSN versus DNP question is becoming less theoretical and more urgent for nurses who are planning a two-to-four year timeline. If you are still leaning toward the master's route, our ranking of the best online MSN nurse practitioner programs can help you compare what is available nationally. That distinction gets its own section later in this guide.
Explore By State
Related Articles
Lowest-Tuition NP Programs in Virginia: A Cost Comparison
Sticker price rarely tells the full story. The net price column below reflects an institution-wide average after grants and scholarships have been applied, so it gives you a more realistic sense of out-of-pocket costs than published tuition alone. Keep in mind that net price is not a program-specific quote; your actual cost will depend on your financial aid package, residency status, and enrollment pace. To bring costs down further, look into the HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program, which covers full tuition, required fees, and a monthly stipend of $1,490 for full-time NP students who commit to two years of service in a high-need area (applications for 2026 closed April 9). Virginia also participates in state loan repayment initiatives for nurses serving in underserved communities, and many health systems across the commonwealth offer employer tuition assistance that can offset thousands of dollars per year. Combining even two of these resources can dramatically shrink your total graduate debt.
| School | NP Program Offered | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Avg. Net Price (Institution-Wide) | Median Graduate Debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia's College at Wise | MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid) | $8,352 | $8,352 | $9,210 | $16,750 |
| Mary Baldwin University | MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid) | $18,865 | $18,865 | $12,756 | $26,586 |
| Radford University | PMHNP Graduate Certificate (Hybrid) | $13,762 | $23,525 | $14,578 | $24,000 |
Questions to Ask Yourself
Accelerated and Fast-Track NP Programs in Virginia
Speed versus depth: that is the central tradeoff when evaluating accelerated NP pathways. A faster program gets you into practice sooner, but the right pace depends on your current credentials, your clinical availability, and how much intensity your life can absorb right now.
What "Accelerated" Actually Means for NP Programs
The term accelerated gets applied loosely in graduate nursing, so it helps to know what you are comparing. Nationally, intensive BSN-to-DNP programs can run as short as 18 to 30 months, though programs at that pace are uncommon and are rarely built around full family nurse practitioner preparation.1 Post-MSN DNP completion tracks, on the other hand, can often be finished in 12 to 18 months, but these typically focus on leadership or health systems work rather than NP clinical training.1 If you already hold an MSN with an NP specialty, a DNP completion program is the fastest available path. If you are starting from a BSN, you should expect a longer runway regardless of how a program markets itself. For a deeper look at how timelines vary by entry point, our guide on how long a DNP program takes breaks down each pathway in detail.
Virginia-Specific Timelines
At the University of Virginia, the BSN-to-DNP nurse practitioner program runs between 36 and 60 months depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, and part-time enrollment is available, which matters enormously for working nurses who cannot step away from their jobs. Virginia Commonwealth University also offers a BSN-to-DNP post-baccalaureate pathway, with fall start terms.3 For both programs, and for others at institutions like Liberty University, George Mason, Old Dominion, Radford, Marymount, and Shenandoah, the specific timelines depend on your enrollment pace, the specialty track you choose, and how clinical hours are scheduled across semesters. If you are specifically considering a doctorate, our roundup of online DNP NP programs in Virginia compares costs, formats, and completion timelines side by side.
How to Find the Most Current Information
Program structures change more often than most prospective students expect. The most reliable approach is to go directly to each school's graduate nursing program page and look specifically for sections labeled "fast-track," "accelerated," or "nurse practitioner pathways." From there, contact the admissions office by phone or email and ask three targeted questions: What is the minimum time to completion for a full-time student? Is part-time enrollment available, and what does that add to the timeline? Is year-round enrollment an option?
For broader context on NP career outlook and educational standards, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing both publish updated guidance on program formats and professional requirements. You can also review our list of accelerated nurse practitioner programs nationwide for comparison. Cross-referencing those resources with what a specific Virginia school tells you directly will give you the clearest, most current picture of your options.
Online Vs. Hybrid NP Programs in Virginia: Format, Clinicals, and Preceptor Support
Format alone doesn't tell you what you need to know about a Virginia NP program. Two schools can both call themselves "online," yet one ships you a confirmed preceptor and the other hands you a directory and wishes you luck. That distinction shapes your stress level, your timeline, and sometimes whether you finish at all.
Three Delivery Formats You'll Encounter
Virginia programs generally fall into three buckets. Fully asynchronous online programs let you watch lectures on your own schedule and complete clinicals near home. Synchronous online programs (Shenandoah's MSN-FNP is the clearest example) hold live virtual class sessions on set evenings, with a short on-campus immersion in the fall.1 Hybrid programs, including the University of Virginia DNP-FNP and Old Dominion's FNP MSN, blend distance coursework with periodic in-person sessions on campus.2
None of these formats reduce the clinical hours you owe. FNP tracks in Virginia typically require 500 to 720 supervised clinical hours, completed locally with approved preceptors regardless of how lectures are delivered. If you're wondering how that process works in practice, our guide on how online NP students arrange local clinical placements walks you through the logistics.
Who Finds Your Preceptor?
This is the question prospective students ask too late. Policies vary sharply:
- Shenandoah University (MSN-FNP): The school finalizes preceptor selection and clinical placement. You provide leads and preferences; faculty handle confirmation.1
- University of Virginia (DNP-FNP): Faculty offer guidance and help you identify placements, with structured support through the process.
- Old Dominion University (FNP MSN): Student-initiated placement with school approval. You source the preceptor; the school vets and approves.2
- Radford University (BSN-DNP FNP): Student responsibility with faculty oversight. The legwork is yours.
If you live in a rural area or work in a saturated market like Northern Virginia, the difference between "we place you" and "you find your own" can add months to your timeline.
Out-of-State Enrollment and Licensure Portability
Most Virginia online NP programs accept students from other states, but state authorization rules limit which ones. Shenandoah explicitly accepts out-of-state students and asks that your RN license cover both Virginia (or the multistate compact) and the state where you complete clinicals.1 Old Dominion accepts out-of-state students subject to authorization limits, so confirm your state is approved before applying.2 For a deeper look at navigating these rules, see our resource on online NP programs for out-of-state students. Always verify that the program meets the NP licensure requirements in the state where you intend to practice after graduation.
MSN Vs. DNP for Nurse Practitioners in Virginia: Cost, Time, and Career Impact
One of the biggest decisions you'll face as a Virginia nurse weighing NP programs is whether to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Both degrees qualify you to sit for national certification and practice as an NP in Virginia, but they differ meaningfully in cost, time commitment, and long-term career positioning. The University of Virginia stopped accepting MSN-NP applications for Fall 2026, shifting nurse practitioner preparation entirely to its DNP track. While schools like Old Dominion University, Regent University, UVA Wise, and Mary Baldwin University still offer MSN-level NP pathways, the trend toward DNP-only entry is gaining momentum nationally. No state or federal regulation currently mandates a DNP to practice as a nurse practitioner in Virginia, so an MSN remains a fully valid entry point. Program-level earnings data for MSN and DNP NP completers at Virginia schools are not yet available, which makes direct salary comparisons program by program difficult. However, DNP holders often qualify for leadership, faculty, and health-system roles that command higher pay over a career.
| Factor | MSN (Nurse Practitioner) | DNP (Nurse Practitioner) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Credit Hours | 42 to 50 credits (e.g., Regent University requires 47 credits; Mary Baldwin University requires 47 credits) | 70 to 90+ credits for BSN-to-DNP pathways; post-master's DNP tracks are shorter (30 to 40 credits) |
| Time to Complete | 2 to 3 years (full-time to part-time). UVA Wise, for example, offers a 3-year part-time MSN-FNP. | 3 to 4 years for BSN-to-DNP (full-time). Post-master's DNP completion may take 1.5 to 2 years part-time. |
| Clinical Hour Requirements | Approximately 500 to 700 supervised clinical hours. Old Dominion and Mary Baldwin both require around 600 hours. | Approximately 1,000+ total practice hours, including a scholarly DNP project with a clinical component. |
| Estimated Total Tuition (Virginia Resident, In-State Public) | Roughly $25,000 to $35,000 at public schools. UVA listed approximately $25,756 total for Virginia residents in its MSN-FNP track. | Roughly $40,000 to $65,000+ at public schools due to additional credit hours and longer enrollment. |
| Virginia Schools Still Offering This Pathway | Old Dominion University, UVA Wise, Mary Baldwin University, Regent University, and others | University of Virginia (DNP only for NP entry as of 2026), George Mason University, Radford University (BSN-to-DNP), and VCU |
| Required for NP Licensure in Virginia? | Yes. Virginia's Board of Nursing accepts an MSN with NP preparation for APRN licensure. | Not currently required. No Virginia or national mandate exists requiring a DNP for NP practice as of 2026. |
| Career and Salary Implications | Fully qualifies you for clinical NP roles. Lower upfront cost and faster entry into practice can mean earlier earning potential. | Opens doors to academic faculty positions, executive leadership, and health-system quality roles. May offer a salary premium in organizational and educational settings over time. |
| Key Consideration | If your goal is clinical practice and you want to start earning NP wages sooner, the MSN is a practical, cost-effective choice. | If you anticipate wanting leadership roles, teaching opportunities, or future-proofing against potential regulatory changes, the DNP positions you well. |
From RN to NP in Virginia: A Step-By-Step Pathway
Wondering how long it actually takes to go from bedside nurse to practicing nurse practitioner in Virginia? Here is the credentialing ladder, with realistic timelines at each stage. Most nurses complete the journey in five to eight years after earning a BSN, depending on whether they pursue an MSN or DNP and how quickly they log the required practice hours for autonomous authority.
Virginia NP Program Questions, Answered
These are the questions working nurses ask most often when exploring nurse practitioner programs in Virginia. Each answer draws on current program details and state requirements to help you plan with confidence.
- How long does it take to go from BSN to nurse practitioner in Virginia?
- Most BSN to MSN nurse practitioner programs in Virginia take about two to three years of full-time study. Part-time tracks, which are popular with working nurses, typically run three to four years. Accelerated BSN to DNP pathways can be completed in as few as three years at schools like George Mason University or the University of Virginia, though many students finish in four years when balancing clinical work.
- What are the cheapest NP programs in Virginia, and how can I lower my cost further?
- Radford University and Old Dominion University consistently rank among the most affordable NP programs in the state, with in-state graduate tuition well below the national average. To reduce costs further, look into employer tuition reimbursement, federal NURSE Corps scholarships, and HRSA loan repayment programs for graduates who practice in underserved areas. Virginia state financial aid and graduate assistantships can also make a meaningful difference.
- Can I earn my nurse practitioner degree entirely online through a Virginia school?
- Several Virginia schools offer NP programs with fully online coursework, including Old Dominion University, Radford University, and George Mason University. However, no program is 100 percent remote because accreditation standards require hands-on clinical hours. You will complete clinical rotations in person, often at a site near your home. Many programs provide preceptor placement support to help you secure local clinical sites.
- How many clinical hours do Virginia NP programs require?
- Virginia NP programs typically require a minimum of 500 direct patient care clinical hours for MSN tracks, consistent with national certification board standards from ANCC and AANP. DNP programs often require 1,000 or more total practice hours, which may include a scholarly project component. Some schools, such as the University of Virginia, build additional clinical time into their curricula beyond the minimum threshold.
- What is the difference between MSN and DNP for nurse practitioners in Virginia?
- The MSN is a master's level degree that prepares you to sit for NP certification and begin practice, usually in two to three years. The DNP is a doctoral degree that adds training in leadership, evidence-based practice, and systems improvement, typically requiring one to two additional years beyond the MSN. Both qualify you to practice as an NP in Virginia. A DNP may open doors to faculty roles, executive positions, and slightly higher earning potential over time.
More Virginia NP Programs Worth Exploring
In addition to the top-ranked programs, several other Virginia schools offer quality NP education. Here are more options worth exploring, each with unique features and formats.
Northern Virginia
Marymount University Arlington, VA · Online
- Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner Program
- Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
- Online BSN to DNP PMHNP
Richmond Area
South University-Richmond Glen Allen, VA · Online
- RN to Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Hampton Roads
ECPI University Virginia Beach, VA · Online
- MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
South University-Virginia Beach Virginia Beach, VA · Online
- Master of Science in Nursing with a Specialization in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Shenandoah Valley
Mary Baldwin University Staunton, VA · Hybrid
- Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner Track (MSN)
- Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certification
- Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner Track (DNP)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner
Shenandoah University Winchester, VA · Online
- Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate
- Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate
- MSN Psychiatric Mental-Health Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Southwest Virginia
Bluefield University Bluefield, VA · Hybrid
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Leadership/Education)
- Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- RN to BSN-MSN (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Explore Virginia
State by State
Southeast
Northeast
Midwest
Southwest
DC & Territories
Explore More State Topics
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
- Best Accelerated Nurse Practitioner
- Best Affordable Nurse Practitioner
- Best Online Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
- DNP NP
- Best Online Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP)
- Best Online FNP
- MSN NP
- Best Online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
- Best Online PMHNP Programs ( Rankings & Guide)
- Best Online PNP
- Post-Master's Certificate NP
- Best Online WHNP
- Cardiology Nurse Practitioner (CNP)
- Critical Care Nurse Practitioner (CCNP)
- Dermatology Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
- Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Forensic Nurse Practitioner
- Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner (FMNP)
- Holistic Nurse Practitioner (HNP)
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
- Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner (OHNP)
- Oncology Nurse Practitioner (ONP)
- Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner
- Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner (PCNP)
- Pediatric ER Nurse
- Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Guide
- Trauma Nurse Practitioner (TNP)
- What Do Urgent Care Nurse Practitioners Do? Role Guide
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
