Best Online Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) Programs

Last Updated/Verified: Aug 1, 2025

2026 Best Online Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Programs

Choosing the right online women's health nurse practitioner program can be a game-changer for healthcare professionals seeking advanced specialization. At NursePractitionerOnline.com, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the top distance learning programs that offer comprehensive training in women's health nursing. These virtual programs provide flexible, high-quality education for nurses looking to expand their expertise and career opportunities. Our rankings consider factors like curriculum depth, clinical placement support, faculty credentials, and student success rates. With the growing demand for specialized women's healthcare providers, these online programs make advanced education more accessible than ever before. Nurses can now pursue their professional goals without sacrificing work commitments or personal responsibilities. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-APRN Licensure Certificate

Concentration: Women's Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Post-APRN Graduate Certificate in Women's Health is a strategic program for certified advanced practice nurses seeking to expand their specialty expertise. Tailored for experienced professionals, this hybrid program offers distance learning options for rural practitioners. While not fully online, it provides a flexible pathway to national certification in Women's Health. The program typically spans 4-6 semesters with individualized study plans. Candidates must hold existing APRN certification and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. Though federal financial aid is unavailable for this non-degree program, it offers a targeted approach to professional development with comprehensive clinical training.

  • For certified APRNs.
  • Expands nursing specialties.
  • Distance learning available.
  • Not fully online.
  • 4-6 semesters length.
  • Individualized study plans.
  • No federal financial aid.
  • Offers multiple specialties.
  • Includes practicum requirements.
  • Leads to national certification.

Doctorate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner doctoral program delivers comprehensive training for advanced nursing professionals. This hybrid program prepares students to provide specialized women's healthcare across the lifespan through innovative simulation training and evidence-based practice. Students develop critical leadership skills and gain opportunities to influence healthcare systems and public policy. With state-of-the-art clinical partnerships in Salt Lake City, the program offers interprofessional training and national certification preparation. Graduates are positioned to become expert practitioners in diverse women's health clinical settings.

  • Doctoral level women's health specialty
  • Hybrid program with campus requirements
  • National certification preparation
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Interprofessional training opportunities
  • Option for dual certification
  • State-of-the-art simulation center
  • Clinical partnerships in Salt Lake City

Doctorate - Dual Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery

Concentration: Nurse-Midwifery - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Utah's Dual Women's Health/Nurse-Midwifery doctoral track offers an integrated approach to advanced women's healthcare. This comprehensive hybrid program equips nurses with holistic skills in primary care, reproductive health, and newborn management. Students benefit from innovative clinical training, evidence-based practice curricula, and leadership development. The program leverages state-of-the-art simulation centers and provides pathways for dual certification. Graduates emerge as versatile healthcare professionals prepared to deliver high-quality care across various clinical environments, with strong emphases on interprofessional collaboration and advanced practice.

  • Dual Certification Track
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • National Certification Preparation
  • State-of-the-Art Simulation Training
  • Comprehensive Women's Healthcare Focus
  • Leadership and Policy Development
  • Faculty Practice Partnership
  • Clinical Shift Requirements
  • Mentorship Opportunities

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Utah's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Women's Health Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers specialized training for advanced practice nurses. This hybrid program blends online coursework with essential on-campus clinical experiences, accommodating students in and near Utah. Participants develop comprehensive skills in women's healthcare, public policy, and evidence-based practice. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, quality improvement, and interprofessional collaboration. With options for dual specialty certification and high-fidelity simulation training, students prepare for national certification exams. The program uniquely combines distance learning flexibility with hands-on clinical preparation across diverse patient populations.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Focus on women's health
  • Dual specialty option available
  • Eligible for national certification
  • Combines online and on-campus learning
  • Leadership and policy training
  • Evidence-based practice courses
  • Interprofessional collaboration
  • High-fidelity simulation training
  • Diverse patient populations
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu

Master's - Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

This hybrid Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program offers an intensive four-semester curriculum focusing on comprehensive primary healthcare. Students explore critical areas including gynecologic care, pregnancy management, family planning, and sexually transmitted infection treatment. With 600 clinical practice hours and an online/hybrid format, the program integrates the latest 2021 AACN educational standards. Faculty with extensive clinical experience guide students through personalized learning, preparing them for versatile healthcare roles and professional certification.

  • 4 Full-time Semesters
  • Online/Hybrid Learning Format
  • 600 Clinical Practice Hours
  • Small Collaborative Classes
  • Up-to-Date Curriculum
  • Multiple Program Options
  • Faculty with Clinical Experience

Master's - Women's Health Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Vanderbilt's dual specialty Women's Health and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program concentrates on Adult-Gerontology Primary Care. This rigorous five-semester hybrid program equips advanced nursing professionals with comprehensive healthcare skills for women across life stages. Students complete 1,190 clinical hours, gaining expertise in internal medicine and specialized clinics. The program's flexible online format, small collaborative classes, and personalized faculty attention ensure graduates are well-prepared for certification and diverse primary healthcare career opportunities.

  • Five full-time semesters
  • Online/hybrid learning format
  • 1,190 clinical practice hours
  • Dual certification potential
  • Comprehensive women's healthcare focus
  • Small collaborative classes
  • Personalized faculty attention

Graduate Certificate - Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University's hybrid Women's Health Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner program provides advanced practice nurses with comprehensive skills across the patient lifespan. The innovative online curriculum spans five semesters and includes 1,190 clinical practice hours, preparing students for diverse healthcare settings. Graduates develop strong clinical reasoning abilities and are positioned to excel in national certification exams. The program's military-friendly approach emphasizes collaborative learning with small class sizes, integrating evidence-based practice and cutting-edge nursing theory for holistic patient care.

  • Five full-time semesters
  • Online/hybrid learning format
  • 1,190 clinical practice hours
  • Dual specialty certification
  • Small collaborative classes
  • National certification preparation
  • Diverse practice settings
  • Comprehensive patient care focus
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Missouri-Kansas City

Kansas City, MO - Public 4-Year - umkc.edu

Master's - MSN: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UMKC's MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program provides an innovative hybrid learning experience that prepares nurses for advanced practice. Spanning 2-3 years, the 46-credit curriculum combines online instruction with on-campus residencies, offering comprehensive training in women's healthcare. With an estimated program cost of $40,509.90, students develop advanced clinical skills in gynecological, prenatal, and primary care. The program targets experienced nurses, requiring a BSN, minimum 3.2 GPA, and two years of clinical background. Graduates are well-positioned for national certification, with projected employment growth and a median salary of $74,000 in women's healthcare.

  • Hybrid delivery: online + campus
  • 46 total credit hours
  • Estimated $40,509.90 program cost
  • Two years full-time option
  • Minimum 3.2 GPA required
  • Two years clinical experience
  • National certification prep
  • Advanced clinical skills training

Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a comprehensive Post-MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized expertise. This hybrid program uniquely blends online coursework with required campus visits, allowing students to complete 18 credit hours in 18-24 months. With a competitive estimated cost of $15,851.70, the program prepares nurses for national certification and potential doctoral pathways. Admission requirements include a minimum 3.2 GPA, active nursing licensure, and two years of clinical experience. The program emphasizes gynecological, prenatal, and primary care training, positioning graduates to deliver high-quality women's healthcare across diverse clinical settings.

  • Post-Master's Graduate Certificate
  • 18 credit hours total
  • Blended learning format
  • $15,851.70 estimated cost
  • 18-24 month completion time
  • Minimum 3.2 GPA required
  • Two years clinical experience
  • National certification exam eligible
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Prepares for DNP pathway

Doctorate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Missouri-Kansas City's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner represents a comprehensive doctoral pathway for advanced practice nurses. This blended program combines rigorous online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, enabling students to complete 74 credit hours over 4-5 years. With an estimated cost of $65,168, the curriculum emphasizes holistic women's healthcare, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, and advanced practice skills. Requiring an MSN, minimum 3.2 GPA, and current nursing licensure, the program prepares graduates for national certification and leadership roles in women's health specialties.

  • Blended delivery mode
  • 74 total credit hours
  • 4-5 year program length
  • $65,168 estimated cost
  • National certification preparation
  • Minimum 3.2 GPA required
  • Clinical experiences included
  • Online with campus visits
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Health promotion specialization
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Duke University

Durham, NC - Private 4-year - duke.edu

Master's - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Duke University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers an advanced hybrid learning experience that cultivates culturally competent care specialists. Designed for ambitious nurses, this MSN track provides comprehensive training in primary care and reproductive health challenges. Students engage in dynamic distance-based curriculum with robust clinical rotation opportunities across diverse healthcare settings. The program's distinguished faculty mentorship and holistic admissions approach ensure graduates are well-positioned for nationwide career opportunities. Emphasizing advanced clinical skills, the program prepares professionals to address complex women's health issues while supporting the projected significant growth in advanced practice nursing roles.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Distance-based curriculum
  • Clinical placement support
  • Personalized mentorship
  • Lowest credit requirements
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Nationwide career opportunities
  • Holistic admissions approach
  • Expert faculty mentorship

Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Duke University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate offers a cutting-edge hybrid program designed for advanced nursing professionals seeking specialized training. The curriculum emphasizes health equity and comprehensive reproductive healthcare across diverse populations. Students benefit from an innovative learning model with minimal credit requirements, enabling faster career progression. With over 2,000 global clinical partners, participants receive personalized clinical placements and can obtain a Centering Group Facilitation Certification. The program's strategic approach prepares graduates for exceptional career opportunities, aligned with the Bureau of Labor Statistics' projected 38% growth in advanced practice registered nursing roles.

  • Hybrid distance-based learning
  • Lowest credit requirements
  • Personalized clinical placements
  • Centering Group Facilitation Certification
  • 2,000+ global clinical partners
  • Holistic admissions approach
  • Specialization in women's health
  • Diverse career placement options
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

University of Missouri-St Louis

Saint Louis, MO - Public 4-Year - umsl.edu

Doctorate - Nursing DNP, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Emphasis

Concentration: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Missouri-St. Louis delivers an innovative hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program specializing in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner training. Designed for advanced practice nurses, this comprehensive online-hybrid curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and advanced diagnostic skills. Prospective students must possess a BSN with a minimum 3.75 GPA and current professional licensure. The 70-credit program uniquely blends foundational healthcare concepts with extensive clinical expertise, preparing professionals to deliver exceptional patient-centered care. Highlights include an advanced clinical scholarship project, comprehensive policy training, and specialized women's health practice integration.

  • Hybrid DNP program format
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner focus
  • Minimum 3.75 BSN GPA required
  • 70 total program credit hours
  • Advanced clinical scholarship project
  • Comprehensive healthcare policy training
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Doctorate - Nursing DNP, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Emphasis

Concentration: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a transformative DNP program with a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner emphasis, tailored for experienced nurses seeking advanced clinical proficiency. This hybrid online program equips students with sophisticated diagnostic reasoning, leadership capabilities, and specialized women's healthcare skills. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, current nursing license, and statistics coursework. The rigorous curriculum spans 70 credits, incorporating extensive practicum experiences, clinical scholarship projects, and advanced practice training. Students develop expertise in providing comprehensive care across women's lifespans, with a strong focus on evidence-based interventions and professional development.

  • 70-credit comprehensive DNP program
  • Specialized Women's Health focus
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Current nursing license needed
  • 8-hour clinical residency required
  • Includes clinical scholarship project
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced diagnostic reasoning training
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#6

Kent State University

Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu

Master's - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Kent State University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic online pathway for advanced practice nurses to develop comprehensive primary care competencies. Through a 100% virtual learning environment, students acquire critical skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and complex condition management. The program features expert faculty mentorship, small class sizes, and clinical practicums tailored to students' resident states. Graduates can pursue diverse healthcare roles across medical centers, clinics, and administrative settings, with flexible MSN and DNP educational tracks supported by 24/7 technical assistance and virtual exam proctoring.

  • 100% Online Program
  • Expert Nationally Certified Faculty
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Practicum in Resident State
  • Flexible MSN or DNP Paths
  • Small Class Sizes
  • 24/7 Technical Support
  • Virtual Exam Proctoring

Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Kent State University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate delivers a robust online learning experience targeting registered nurses seeking advanced women's healthcare expertise. The 21-credit program comprehensively covers reproductive health, prenatal care, and holistic patient wellness strategies. Students benefit from a flexible part-time format designed for working professionals, with tuition ranging from $12,500-$12,700. Notably, the program requires candidates to hold an active RN license and a master's nursing degree, preparing graduates for national certification through in-depth clinical skills training and advanced practice curriculum.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 21 Total Credit Hours
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • 3.0 Minimum Graduate GPA
  • Must Hold Master's Nursing Degree
  • Active RN License Required
  • Per Credit Hour: $594-$605
  • Multiple Practicum Courses
  • Prepares for National Certification
  • Advanced Clinical Skills Training
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH - Private 4-year - case.edu

Master's - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Case Western Reserve University offers a hybrid Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program uniquely designed for advanced nursing professionals seeking comprehensive women's healthcare expertise. Spanning 38 credit hours with approximately 600 clinical hours, this program prepares students to deliver specialized care across women's entire life stages. The curriculum strategically covers reproductive health, gynecological services, and wellness interventions from adolescence through menopause. Military-friendly and offering flexible part-time options, students can balance professional commitments while gaining advanced clinical competencies. The program's intensive format enables full-time completion in just 12 months, positioning graduates as expert practitioners in women-focused healthcare delivery.

  • 38 total credit hours
  • Approximately 600 clinical hours
  • Full-time completion in 12 months
  • Hybrid course delivery format
  • Comprehensive women's health focus
  • Advanced practice nursing preparation
  • Multiple practice setting opportunities
#8

Georgetown University

Washington, DC - Private 4-year - georgetown.edu

Master's - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Georgetown University offers a dynamic online Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) program tailored for registered nurses seeking advanced specialization. Spanning 23 months with 44 credits, this comprehensive program prepares nurses to deliver holistic women's healthcare across multiple life stages. Students engage in interactive online coursework complemented by two clinical intensives, accumulating 783 clinical hours. The program distinguishes itself with a 100% national certification rate, innovative 3D anatomy tools, and instruction from active clinicians. Graduates develop expertise in primary care, prenatal support, wellness strategies, and reproductive health interventions, positioning themselves as specialized women's healthcare professionals.

  • Online MS in Nursing
  • 44 total credit hours
  • 23 months to complete
  • 783 clinical hours
  • Two clinical intensives
  • 100% NCC Certification Rate
  • Care across entire lifespan
  • Live distance-based classes
  • Interactive 3D anatomy tool
  • Faculty are active clinicians

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Women's Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Georgetown University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner concentration provides advanced preparation for BSN-holding nurses targeting high-level women's healthcare roles. This robust 69-credit program encompasses 1,150 clinical hours, offering flexible full-time and part-time tracks. Emphasizing reproductive, preventative, and comprehensive care, the curriculum integrates leadership, ethics, and epidemiological perspectives. Uniquely designed to prepare graduates for NCC and CCNE certification without birth attendance requirements, the program equips nurses to implement transformative changes in healthcare systems while developing advanced clinical expertise in women's health specialization.

  • Online DNP program
  • WHNP specialization
  • 69 credits required
  • 1,150 clinical hours
  • Full-time or part-time
  • Prepares for NCC certification
  • Meets CCNE standards
  • Focus on women's health
  • Leadership and ethics training
  • No birth attendance required
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

Emory University

Atlanta, GA - Private 4-year - emory.edu

Master's - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Emory University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program stands out with its comprehensive, hybrid online curriculum designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for holistic women's healthcare. Spanning 46 credit hours, the program uniquely incorporates forensic nursing training and emphasizes addressing healthcare disparities. Students benefit from flexible learning options, completing the program full-time in four semesters or pursuing part-time tracks. The curriculum offers 630 clinical practice hours with diverse placement opportunities, enabling graduates to work in academic health centers, private clinics, and LGBTQ health centers. With a focus on inclusive care across women's entire lifespan, the program prepares students for national certification and equips them with specialized skills in sexual and reproductive healthcare.

  • 46 credit hours total
  • Fully online with intensives
  • 630 clinical practice hours
  • Diverse clinical placement options
  • Forensic nursing training
  • Inclusive healthcare focus
  • National certification preparation
  • Part-time and full-time options
#10

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu

Master's - MSN Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Alabama at Birmingham's MSN Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive online and hybrid learning experience designed for working nurses. Students engage in a 45-credit, six-semester curriculum that balances synchronous online coursework with periodic on-campus intensives. The program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and a BSN from an accredited institution. Learners develop advanced diagnostic and therapeutic skills specifically tailored to women's healthcare needs, with 10 dedicated clinical practicum credits. Tuition is competitively priced at $702 per semester, making this an accessible pathway for nurses seeking specialized women's health expertise.

  • Part-time distance-accessible format
  • 45 total credit hours
  • Six semester program length
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Required BSN from accredited program
  • Per semester tuition: $702
  • Online and on-campus intensive classes
  • Advanced women's health specialization
  • 10 clinical practicum credits
  • Synchronous online learning model

Doctorate - DNP Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UAB's DNP Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner program provides an advanced, hybrid educational model for nurses seeking top-tier professional development. Spanning 79 total credit hours, this part-time, distance-accessible program combines online learning with strategic on-campus intensive sessions. Designed for working healthcare professionals, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and advanced clinical reasoning in women's healthcare. Students must maintain a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and will complete a comprehensive DNP project. The program's synchronous online format and clinical practica ensure graduates are equipped with cutting-edge skills to deliver comprehensive women's primary care across diverse life stages.

  • 79 total credit hours
  • Part-time, distance-accessible format
  • Synchronous online classes
  • On-campus intensive sessions
  • Designed for working nurses
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Hybrid program delivery
  • Advanced women's health focus
  • Clinical practica included
  • DNP project requirement
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Original data from: National Center for Education Statistics' IPEDS program (2023).

What Is an Online Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program Like?

For busy nurses who are interested in going through an online women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP) program, it’s important to choose an accredited, high-quality program that is willing to work with your busy schedule. In order to qualify as an online program, a course of study must require fewer than ten visits to campus per year. When you choose an online women’s health nurse practitioner program, you’ll get to complete your coursework on your own time, allowing you to continue providing patient care at work. Unlike a classroom-based program, you’ll get to interact with other students through online message boards, communicate with professors virtually, and learn on your own time. When you choose an online women’s health nurse practitioner program, your faculty members understand that you’re working hard to provide patient care while also earning your education. They appreciate your need for flexibility, and are often willing to work with you to make accommodations to ensure that you get the education you need.

Choosing an Appropriate Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Program

The first step in choosing a women's health nurse practitioner degree program is to see what your options are based on your current education level. The table below displays degree pathways for the most common starting points.

If I Currently Have… Option 1 Option 2
BSN BSN to MSN Programs BSN to DNP Programs
MSN Post-Master’s Certificate MSN to DNP Programs

To see programs at each degree level, click the buttons below:

Ultimately, your long-term career goals will also be a big factor in deciding which women's health nurse practitioner degree program is the right fit for you. The type of employer you wish to work for, the level and role you wish to hold, and even how much money you hope to earn will all be influenced by the type of degree you choose, and can the right choice can make reaching your professional goals much easier.

If you are still undecided on the women’s health nurse practitioner degree route you should take, our table below will help you narrow down your choices based on your interests.

MSN Post-Master's Certificate DNP
I enjoy working directly with patients seeking women's healthcare X X X
I already hold a graduate degree, but I wish to move into specialized women's health practice X X
I feel called to teach at the university level X X
I want to advocate for women's health issues and be a leader in my facility X X X
I have ideas for clinically relevant research projects to improve women's healthcare X
My passion is to create and improve national health policies X
I wish to understand population-based women's health issues in order to improve healthcare outcomes across the nation X
I want to guide healthcare law and ethics related to women's health X
With any degree, it’s important to choose an accredited program so that your hard work will be recognized by health care organizations. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Education in Nursing (CCNE) are a few to look for. Throughout the course of your online women’s health nurse practitioner program, you’ll learn about current research in women’s health, psychosocial issues that affect women’s health, how to develop treatment plans for women’s health needs, how to perform complex in-office procedures, and more. You’ll also learn how to provide top quality pre- and post-natal care. Check out our Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner program guide below.
  1. Online Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Program Admissions & Requirements by Degree Type
  2. Online WHNP Program Classes and Curriculum
  3. Clinical Requirements and Certification

Online Women’s Health NP Program Admissions

As you’re working to further your education, it’s important to consider what type of online WHNP program makes the most sense for you. When choosing the programs you’re going to apply to, you’ll need to consider your prior GPA and education, as well as your future career goals. If you believe you’re well-qualified for a program but fall short of the admissions criteria, you may want to send a letter with your application explaining your reasons for the areas in which you fall short, and how your professional and/or academic experience make up for these areas. Many online women’s health NP programs are willing to make accommodations for nurses in special circumstances. Use the table below to learn more about some of the different admissions requirements for online women’s health NP programs.

MSN-Level Women’s Health NPPost-Master’s Certificate Women’s Health NPDNP-Level Women’s Health NP
Prior Education/GPABSN from an accredited program, GPA of at least 3.0MSN from an accredited program, GPA of at least 3.0BSN or MSN from an accredited program, GPA of at least 3.0
RN LicensureCurrent, unencumbered RN licenseCurrent, unencumbered RN licenseCurrent, unencumbered RN license
Professional ExperienceAt least one year of nursing experienceAt least one year of nursing experienceAt least a year of nursing experience, preferably in the women’s health
Written RequirementsPersonal statement and letters of recommendation may be requiredPersonal statement and letters of recommendation may be requiredResume or CV, admissions essay, personal statement and letters of recommendation may be required

Online Women’s Health NP Curriculum & Classes

Your women’s health NP curriculum may vary based on your school, and your choice of electives. The time it will take you to complete the program may also vary, depending on whether you choose to go to school full or part-time, and whether you choose a standard or accelerated program. For most MSN programs, it takes about two years of full-time coursework to complete the program. For post-grad certificate programs, it typically takes one to two years to complete the program. DNP programs typically take three to four years. Students who work through a DNP program often have up to seven years to complete their studies. Women's health specialty MSN, post-master’s certificate, and DNP programs differ in both the number of course credits and the number of clinical hours required.

DegreeMSNPost-Master’s CertificateDNP
Average Credit Requirements453565

The curriculum for women's health MSN and post-master’s certificates have some overlap, though MSN programs will require more core coursework. At the MSN and DNP level, students will take courses focusing on leadership and policy as well. Those enrolled in the DNP degree program will also take general courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, research, and more. DNP students also complete a capstone course or project which lets them display the knowledge they’ve learned by addressing a clinical problem or question that relates to women’s health. As you go through your women’s health NP curriculum at any degree level, you’ll likely take courses including:

  • Pathophysiology of human disease
  • Diagnostic reasoning and decision making for the WHNP
  • Comprehensive assessment in health care decision making
  • Nursing informatics
  • The role of the women’s health advanced practice nurse

Women’s Health NP Clinical Requirements

Through clinical courses and internships, students are required to complete between 600-1,000 clinical hours. These hours are essential to the successful completion of clinical courses, as nurses discuss what they learn in real-time health care settings within clinical courses. Most schools are willing to work with students to help them find placements that make sense for them. This could mean being flexible with weekend hours, having more than one placement setting, or doing some work home health care settings. WHNP students may complete clinical requirements in hospitals, birthing centers, women’s clinics, family planning facilities, women’s prisons, and more. They are typically under the supervision of an experienced WHNP, physician/physician’s assistant, certified nurse-midwife, or another seasoned practitioner in the field of women’s health.