Online Post-Master’s Women’s Health NP Programs – What’s the Best WHNP Graduate Certificate Program for You?
For registered nurses who have already completed their MSN, earning a post-master’s graduate certificate (sometimes called a post-graduate certificate) allows for education in a specific area of nursing. A women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP) post-master’s certificate program is a popular option for advanced practice registered nurses who have decided that they’d like to focus their career on women’s health.
A graduate degree in nursing is required, as well as one to two years of experience in women’s health. Nurses applying to a post-master’s certificate program will also need a current, unencumbered registered nursing license, and may be required to submit a resume and/or statement of purpose as a part of their application package.
2026 Best Online Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Programs
Duke University
Durham, NC - Private 4-year - duke.edu
Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Duke University's online Post-Graduate Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized training. The program distinguishes itself through an innovative approach to women's healthcare education, emphasizing health equity and comprehensive reproductive health training. Students benefit from a curriculum requiring fewer credits compared to traditional programs, enabling accelerated career progression. With over 2,000 global clinical partners, learners receive personalized clinical placement opportunities. The program's holistic admissions approach ensures diverse student representation, while preparing graduates for the projected 38% growth in advanced practice registered nursing roles. Unique program highlights include Centering Group Facilitation Certification and comprehensive training across diverse populations.
- 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
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu
Graduate Certificate - Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Vanderbilt University offers a dynamic hybrid Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner certificate program designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized expertise. The comprehensive curriculum spans five semesters, integrating online learning with extensive clinical training. Students accumulate 1,190 clinical practice hours, preparing them for diverse healthcare environments. The program uniquely provides dual specialty certification and focuses on developing robust clinical reasoning skills. Graduates receive comprehensive preparation for national certification exams, with opportunities to serve patients across various practice settings. Military-friendly and featuring small collaborative classes, this program emphasizes comprehensive patient care and advanced women's healthcare knowledge.
- 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
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, MO - Public 4-Year - umkc.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a dynamic Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate that leverages a hybrid learning model to prepare advanced practice nurses for specialized women's healthcare. This 18-credit program uniquely blends online coursework with strategic campus visits, enabling nurses to enhance their expertise in gynecological, prenatal, and primary care. Designed for post-master's nurses with a minimum 3.2 GPA and two years of clinical experience, the program facilitates national certification preparation and potential doctoral pathway progression. With an estimated total cost of $15,851.70, students can complete the curriculum within 18-24 months. The CCNE-accredited program stands out for its comprehensive training and flexible educational approach.
- 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
Kent State University
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University's online Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate delivers a robust 21-credit program tailored for registered nurses seeking advanced women's healthcare expertise. The fully digital curriculum comprehensively prepares practitioners to provide specialized care across female patient lifecycles, emphasizing reproductive health and preventative wellness strategies. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible part-time enrollment with competitive per-credit tuition ranging between $594-$605. Graduates are strategically positioned for national certification, with the program's CCNE accreditation ensuring high-quality educational standards. Applicants must hold an active RN license and a master's nursing degree, maintaining a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA. Clinical practicum courses enhance practical skills, transforming experienced nurses into advanced women's health specialists.
- 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
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 offers a unique Post-APRN Graduate Certificate in Women's Health, tailored for advanced practice nurses seeking specialty expansion. This hybrid program provides flexible distance learning options, accommodating nurses from rural areas and neighboring states. While not fully online, the program enables certified APRNs to develop an individualized study plan spanning 4-6 semesters. Participants can pursue national certification in Women's Health, with a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance clinical expertise. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, APRN certification, and includes practicum requirements. Prospective students must submit a statement of interest, resume, three recommendation letters, and transcripts. Note that federal financial aid is unavailable for this non-degree seeking program.
- 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.
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA - Private 4-year - drexel.edu
Graduate Certificate - Women's Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Drexel University offers a comprehensive online Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized gender-related healthcare expertise. The 37-credit program uniquely blends synchronous online learning with flexible clinical preceptorships, enabling students to gain advanced skills in women's comprehensive healthcare across different life stages. Emphasizing reproductive health and complex gender-related medical needs, the program prepares nurses for national certification. Students benefit from clinically active faculty, interactive learning environments, and opportunities to develop expert-level competencies in women's primary and specialty healthcare settings. The program maintains full CCNE accreditation and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Graduate Level Post-Master's Certificate
- 37 Total Credit Hours
- Online and Campus Options
- Part-time Study, 1.5 Years
- Synchronous Interactive Learning
- CCNE Fully Accredited Program
- Clinically Active Faculty
- National Certification Eligible
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
- Clinical Preceptorships Available
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - famu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Masters Certificate - APN - WHNP
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University's online Post-Masters Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) offers a dynamic 42-credit program tailored for experienced advanced practice nurses. As a historically Black university (HBCU), the program emphasizes comprehensive women's healthcare education across the lifespan. Students benefit from flexible distance learning formats, enabling substantial credit transfer of up to 22 credits from previous master's programs. The curriculum strategically blends advanced theoretical knowledge with intensive clinical practicums, covering critical domains like health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and specialized women's health management. Graduates emerge with advanced clinical expertise and comprehensive skills to deliver high-quality women's healthcare services in diverse professional settings.
- 42-credit Post-Masters Certificate
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Focus
- DL (Distance Learning) Format
- Advanced Clinical Practicums
- Up to 22 transferable credits
- Comprehensive APRN Core Courses
- Specialized Women's Health Curriculum
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate: Nurse Practitioner (Women's Health)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University offers a robust online and hybrid Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, strategically designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized expertise. The 27-credit program uniquely prepares healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive women's care spanning adolescence through adulthood. Students explore critical domains including well-woman examinations, high-risk prenatal management, family planning, menopause support, and fertility care. Requiring prior master's degree credentials and prerequisite courses in physical assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, the program emphasizes advanced clinical skills and professional practice transitions. The curriculum integrates specialized healthcare disparities training, ensuring graduates are equipped to address complex women's health challenges with cultural competence and advanced clinical acumen.
- Post-Master's Certificate Program
- 27 total semester credit hours
- Requires master's in nursing
- Advanced practice registered nurse focus
- Comprehensive women's health coverage
- Multiple clinical practice courses
- Specialized healthcare disparities training
- Professional practice transition
Carlow University
Pittsburgh, PA - Private 4-year - carlow.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Carlow University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner offers a comprehensive 35-credit program designed for advanced nursing professionals. Accredited by CCNE, the curriculum prepares students to deliver specialized women's healthcare across different life stages. Students complete 525-600 clinical hours, meeting board certification requirements. The flexible online format accommodates both licensed and non-licensed nurse practitioners, with competitive tuition at $918 per credit. Graduates can anticipate robust career opportunities, with women's health nurse practitioners earning an average annual salary of $96,601. The program emphasizes clinical expertise, comprehensive patient care, and can be completed in 3-7 semesters while maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement.
- CCNE-Accredited Program
- 35 Total Credit Hours
- 525-600 Clinical Hours
- $918 Per Credit
- Online and Campus Options
- Licensed NP Preparation
- Board Certification Track
- Comprehensive Clinical Experience
- 3-7 Semester Completion
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus
Teaneck, NJ - Private 4-year - fdu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-graduate Certificate Program
Concentration: Women’s Health Care - Online Learning - Visit Website
Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a comprehensive online Post-graduate Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate designed for experienced nurses seeking advanced specialization. This fully online program provides a targeted curriculum focusing specifically on women's health care, requiring 24-25 credits and 750 clinical training hours. Students benefit from flexible learning formats including synchronous and asynchronous classes, preparing for certification exams while accommodating professional schedules. The program requires applicants to hold a prior MSN/DNP degree, maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA, possess active RN licensure, and complete specific prerequisite coursework. Military-friendly and tailored for working healthcare professionals, this certificate enables nurses to expand their expertise in women's health through a rigorous, career-advancing educational pathway.
- Four NP concentration options
- Fully online program
- 750 clinical training hours
- 24-25 total credits
- Part-time and accelerated pacing
- Certification exam preparation
- Synchronous and asynchronous classes
- Requires prior MSN/DNP degree
Why Get a Post-Master’s Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate?
Earning a post-graduate certificate allows advanced practice nurses to gain experience in leadership, learn about healthcare administration, and prepare to act as supervisors in their field. This pathway is popular for nurses who wish to switch to the WHNP specialty from another concentration, or for those who wish to deepen their practice with additional certification.
Many women’s health nurse practitioners who have earned their post-graduate certificates work in large public and private health care organizations, either as practitioners or as managers/supervisors of other staff members. Some nurses at this level go into private practice, while others go on to become nurse educators.
Take a look at some of the reasons that a women’s health nurse practitioner post-master’s certificate program may or may not be right for you:
Pros
- Focus on leadership and administration skills
- May be able to seamlessly transition to a DNP program following the certificate completion
- Faster and cheaper than completing an additional degree program (such as another MSN or a DNP)
- Easy way for APRNs to switch or add a niche area of care to their repertoire
Cons
- Lack of an additional degree
- May not hold the same weight as a doctorate of nursing practice with employers
- Not available to nurses with a BSN or ADN degree
How to Choose an Online Post-Master’s Women’s Health NP Certificate Program
You’ll have many options when searching for the right online women’s health nurse practitioner post-master’s grad certificate program. There are many factors you’ll want to consider as you find the right program for you. Most post-grad certificate programs take between one and a half to two years to complete and require approximately 36 credits. You may want to discuss whether you’re able to complete any of your coursework on the job, or if your employer is willing to give you some time to study while at work as a part of your continuing education.
While choosing a fully online option can be a great way to get the information you need on your own time, a hybrid option can also offer a great way to interact with faculty face to face. Many hybrid programs provide courses at night or on the weekend, allowing you to work at a time that’s convenient for you.
Post-Master’s WHNP Certificate Curriculum
Through the course of your women’s health nurse practitioner post-master’s certificate program, you can expect to take courses including:
- Advanced pharmacology
- Care and management of OB-GYN patients
- Advanced midwifery care of childbearing women and newborns
- Comprehensive antepartum and postpartum care
- Primary care of women
Regardless of whether you choose fully online or hybrid education, you’ll need to complete approximately 540 clinical hours, depending on the specific requirements in your state. You may be able to complete these requirements at the job you have now. If you aren’t currently working in a women’s healthcare nursing position, you may want to talk with your academic advisor about how you can get your clinical hours in the most convenient way possible.
List of Online Post-Master’s Women’s Health NP Graduate Certificate Programs
To see what kind of online/hybrid WHNP post-master’s certificate programs are available near you, check the listings below.
Florida
Tallahassee, FL
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Masters Certificate - APN - WHNP
Online Learning - Website
- 42-credit Post-Masters Certificate
- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Focus
- DL (Distance Learning) Format
- Advanced Clinical Practicums
- Up to 22 transferable credits
- Comprehensive APRN Core Courses
- Specialized Women's Health Curriculum
Maine
Bangor, ME
Husson University
- Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Certificate for master's-level nurses
- 21 credit hours total
- 688 internship hours
- Online and classroom learning
- Prepares for national certification
- Women's health focus
- 12-month program duration
- Covers adolescence to menopause
Missouri
Kansas City, MO
University of Missouri-Kansas City
- Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
North Carolina
Durham, NC
Duke University
- Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid distance-based learning
- Top-ranked nursing school
- Lowest credit requirements
- Personalized clinical placements
- Centering Group Facilitation Certification
- 2,000+ global clinical partners
- Holistic admissions approach
- Specialization in women's health
New Jersey
Teaneck, NJ
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus
- Graduate Certificate - Post-graduate Certificate Program
Concentration: Women’s Health Care - Online Learning - Website
- Four NP concentration options
- Fully online program
- 750 clinical training hours
- 24-25 total credits
- Part-time and accelerated pacing
- Certification exam preparation
- Synchronous and asynchronous classes
- Requires prior MSN/DNP degree
Ohio
Kent, OH
Kent State University
- Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 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
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University
- Graduate Certificate - Women's Health/Gender Related Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Graduate Level Post-Master's Certificate
- 37 Total Credit Hours
- Online and Campus Options
- Part-time Study, 1.5 Years
- Synchronous Interactive Learning
- CCNE Fully Accredited Program
- Clinically Active Faculty
- National Certification Eligible
Pittsburgh, PA
Carlow University
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- CCNE-Accredited Program
- 35 Total Credit Hours
- 525-600 Clinical Hours
- $918 Per Credit
- Online and Campus Options
- Licensed NP Preparation
- Board Certification Track
- Comprehensive Clinical Experience
Tennessee
Nashville, TN
Vanderbilt University
- Graduate Certificate - Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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
Texas
Denton, TX
Texas Woman's University
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate: Nurse Practitioner (Women's Health)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post-Master's Certificate Program
- 27 total semester credit hours
- Requires master's in nursing
- Advanced practice registered nurse focus
- Comprehensive women's health coverage
- Multiple clinical practice courses
- Specialized healthcare disparities training
- Professional practice transition
Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
University of Utah
- Graduate Certificate - Post-APRN Licensure Certificate
Concentration: Women's Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 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.
