Online Post-Master’s Women’s Health NP Programs – What’s the Best WHNP Graduate Certificate Program for You?

Last Updated/Verified: Aug 12, 2025

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

Navigating the world of advanced nursing education has never been easier with online Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) certificate programs. Nursepractitioneronline.com has carefully evaluated and ranked the top distance learning options for nurses seeking specialized training in women's healthcare. These virtual programs offer flexibility for working professionals, allowing nurses to advance their expertise without disrupting their current career commitments. The best online WHNP certificates provide comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, and cutting-edge clinical training that prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, specialized care for women across different life stages. Our comprehensive rankings consider program quality, clinical placement opportunities, faculty credentials, and student support services to help you make an informed educational decision. Review our detailed ranking methodology.
#1

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's Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner certificate program offers a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience tailored for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized expertise. The comprehensive five-semester curriculum uniquely blends online coursework with intensive clinical training, providing students with 1,190 clinical practice hours across diverse healthcare environments. Students gain advanced skills in women's healthcare spanning different life stages, preparing for national certification exams and developing robust clinical reasoning capabilities. The program's military-friendly approach and small collaborative classes ensure personalized learning, enabling graduates to excel in specialized women's health roles across internal medicine, primary care, and specialized clinical settings.

  • 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
#2

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 designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized expertise. Through a strategic hybrid learning model, students engage in comprehensive online coursework complemented by periodic campus visits. The 18-credit program equips nurses with advanced skills in women's gynecological, prenatal, and primary healthcare. Prospective students must possess a minimum 3.2 GPA, current nursing licensure, and two years of clinical experience. With an estimated total program cost of $15,851.70, participants can complete the certificate within 18-24 months, positioning themselves for national certification and potential doctoral pathway advancement. The program is CCNE accredited and military-friendly.

  • 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
#3

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 Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner provides a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized training. The program distinguishes itself with the lowest credit requirements in nursing education, enabling faster career progression. Students benefit from personalized clinical placements across 2,000+ global partners, focusing on health equity and comprehensive reproductive healthcare. With an innovative approach to clinical training, the program offers unique opportunities like Centering Group Facilitation Certification. Graduates are positioned for exceptional career growth, aligning with the Bureau of Labor Statistics' projected 38% expansion in advanced practice registered nursing roles and competitive median annual salary of $129,480.

  • 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
#4

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 provides advanced practice nurses with comprehensive training in women's healthcare. This 42-credit distance learning program prepares nurses to deliver specialized care across the female lifespan. Uniquely designed for experienced clinicians, the curriculum integrates advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacological management. As a historically black university (HBCU), FAMU offers flexibility through potential credit transfer and intensive clinical practicums. Students can leverage up to 22 transferable credits from previous master's programs, enhancing educational accessibility and professional development in women's health specialization.

  • 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
#5

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 offers a specialized online and hybrid pathway for already certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurses seeking to expand their clinical expertise. Designed as a flexible, individualized program, it enables nurses to pursue national certification in Women's Health while accommodating professional schedules. Spanning 4-6 semesters, the program provides distance learning options for rural practitioners. While not fully online, it offers significant remote learning components. Candidates must hold current APRN certification, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and submit comprehensive application materials including a statement of interest, resume, and three recommendation letters. Note that federal financial aid is unavailable for this non-degree seeking certificate 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.
#6

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 37-credit online Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate that equips advanced practice nurses with specialized skills in women's healthcare. The program emphasizes comprehensive care across women's lifespans, covering reproductive health and complex gender-related medical needs. Students engage in synchronous online learning with clinical preceptorships near their location and simulation experiences. Designed for experienced nurses, the program prepares graduates for Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certification and positions them to excel in primary and specialty healthcare settings. With a focus on interactive learning and clinically active faculty, this CCNE-accredited program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and offers part-time study options completed in approximately 1.5 years.

  • 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
#7

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 offers a dynamic 21-credit program designed for experienced registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Targeting comprehensive women's healthcare, the curriculum emphasizes reproductive health, prenatal care, and holistic patient wellness. Fully accredited by CCNE, the program enables part-time study and provides flexible learning for working professionals. Graduates are primed for national certification, with robust clinical training preparing them for specialized women's health practice. Admission requires a master's nursing degree, active RN license, and maintaining a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA. Tuition ranges competitively between $12,500-$12,700, making advanced specialization accessible.

  • 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
#8

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 delivers a robust online Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, strategically designed for advanced practice nurses expanding their specialized clinical expertise. The 27-credit hybrid program prepares practitioners to deliver comprehensive women's healthcare across diverse life stages, encompassing well-woman examinations, high-risk prenatal management, family planning, and menopause support. Candidates must hold a master's degree and complete prerequisite courses in physical assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. The curriculum emphasizes professional practice transitions, healthcare disparities training, and advanced clinical skills development for women's health specialization. Graduates emerge equipped to provide nuanced, patient-centered care in women's healthcare settings.

  • 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
#9

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 Post-Master's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate stands out as a comprehensive online program designed for advanced nursing professionals seeking specialized expertise. The CCNE-accredited curriculum encompasses 35 credit hours with an intensive clinical training component requiring 525-600 hands-on clinical hours. Flexible online delivery allows practicing nurses to advance their credentials without disrupting current employment. Graduates are strategically positioned for board certification and can expect competitive career opportunities, with women's health nurse practitioners averaging $96,601 annually. The program accommodates both licensed and non-licensed nurse practitioners, offering a robust pathway to specialized women's healthcare practice. Notably, the program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and provides comprehensive clinical experience across various healthcare settings.

  • 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
#10

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's online Post-graduate Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is strategically designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized advancement. Focused exclusively on Women's Health Care, the program equips nurses with comprehensive training through a fully online format. Students complete 24-25 credits and 750 clinical hours, preparing for advanced practice certification exams. The program accommodates working healthcare professionals with flexible synchronous and asynchronous learning options. Ideal for MSN/DNP graduates, it offers part-time and accelerated pacing, ensuring professionals can seamlessly integrate advanced education into their current clinical roles. Admission requires a 2.8 GPA, accredited nursing degree, and active RN licensure.

  • 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
*IPEDS 2023 data, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

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.

Jump to City:

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.
*Source: IPEDS 2023 postsecondary education data, NCES.