Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Iowa

The University of Iowa's Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Acute Care is a specialized hybrid online program designed for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses seeking expertise in acute pediatric care. This post-master's certificate provides comprehensive training across 21 semester hours, requiring a minimum 2.50 GPA. The program combines rigorous didactic coursework with intensive clinical practicums, focusing exclusively on acute care pediatric settings. Students develop advanced diagnostic skills, specialized pharmacology knowledge, and evidence-based clinical competencies. With multiple clinical experiences and a commitment to compassionate healthcare, graduates emerge as highly skilled pediatric acute care specialists ready to address complex pediatric health challenges.

• Post-master's APRN certificate
• 21 semester hours total
• Minimum 2.50 GPA required
• Clinical and didactic courses
• Advanced pediatric acute care focus
• Gap analysis determines coursework
• Multiple clinical practicums
• Specialty pharmacology training
• Advanced diagnostic procedures
• Evidence-based clinical training

The University of Iowa's Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate offers a robust hybrid online program for experienced nurses seeking comprehensive patient care specialization. This post-master's 26-semester-hour certificate provides advanced clinical training across all life stages, from infants to older adults. With an individualized curriculum determined through gap analysis, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice and inclusive healthcare delivery. Requiring an existing master's nursing degree, students engage in extensive clinical practicums and specialized diagnostic procedure training. The flexible format accommodates working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic and clinical standards.

• 26 semester hours total
• Post-master's APRN program
• Minimum 2.50 GPA required
• Comprehensive clinical practicum
• Advanced patient care focus
• Covers infants to older adults
• Evidence-based clinical training
• Specialized diagnostic procedures
• Pharmacology specialty courses

University of Iowa's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) hybrid online program represents a cutting-edge doctoral-level curriculum preparing nurses for advanced psychiatric practice. Renowned for its exceptional outcomes, the program boasts a 100% certification exam pass rate and job placement. Limited to 24 students, the program offers 3-4 year study plans with comprehensive didactic and clinical experiences. Accredited by CCNE and approved by Iowa Board of Nursing, students develop leadership skills while preparing for versatile healthcare roles in psychiatric-mental health environments.

• Hybrid online & on-campus delivery.
• 3-Year/4-Year Plan of Study.
• Class size limited to 24 students.
• 100% certification exam pass rate.
• 100% job placement rate.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
• Focus on leadership in healthcare.
• Comprehensive didactic & clinical experiences.
• Prepares for advanced psychiatric practice.

The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Primary Care program is a hybrid online offering designed to cultivate advanced pediatric healthcare professionals. With 630 comprehensive clinical hours, the program prepares nurses to deliver exceptional care across diverse settings including rural and urban environments, school-based health centers, and outpatient clinics. As one of the nation's earliest PNP-PC programs, it provides intensive pediatric-focused coursework and strong clinical preceptorship. Students develop critical expertise in primary care, positioning themselves at the forefront of pediatric healthcare delivery.

• One of nation's earliest PNP-PC programs
• 630 total clinical hours
• Strong clinical preceptorship
• Pediatric-focused coursework
• Advanced practice registered nurse training

University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program is a unique hybrid online curriculum exclusively designed for BSN-prepared nurses. As Iowa's sole PNP-Acute Care program, it accepts only 10 students annually, ensuring personalized educational experiences. The program blends online coursework with specialized clinical training, focusing intensively on acute, critical, and chronic pediatric patient care. With a comprehensive DNP project requirement, students develop advanced skills to manage complex pediatric healthcare challenges, preparing them to provide expert care for critically ill children.

• Only PNP-AC program in Iowa
• 10 students accepted annually
• Online and clinical hybrid format
• DNP project requirement
• Specialized pediatric acute care focus

The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Family Nurse Practitioner represents a transformative hybrid online program recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Designed to cultivate healthcare leaders, this innovative curriculum equips nurses with advanced primary care skills and comprehensive clinical experiences. Students develop expertise in delivering high-quality, cost-efficient patient care while practicing to the full extent of their advanced training. The nationally recognized program emphasizes leadership development and prepares graduates to address complex healthcare challenges across diverse patient populations.

• CCNE Approved DNP Program
• Advanced Practice Nursing Leadership
• Primary Care Focus
• Hybrid Program Format
• Nationally Recognized Nursing College

University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers a flexible hybrid online program with multiple entry tracks. Students can choose from three to four-year BSN to DNP or two-year post-MSN options, providing accessible advanced mental health education. The curriculum combines rigorous didactic learning with extensive clinical experiences, preparing students for American Nurses Credentialing Center certification. As the first nationally approved DNP program in this specialty, it emphasizes comprehensive mental healthcare delivery and advanced clinical practice.

• Doctorate-level mental health education
• Multiple program track options
• Nationally recognized nursing program
• Practice to full education extent
• Advanced clinical experiences
• ANCC Certification preparation
• First DNP program nationally approved

The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid online program preparing nurses for advanced healthcare leadership. First approved in 2009, this comprehensive curriculum equips students with doctoral-level knowledge and clinical expertise. Focused on delivering high-quality, cost-efficient care, the program prepares graduates for national certification exams and positions them to address complex patient needs across adult and geriatric populations. The flexible format accommodates working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

• Doctoral-level nursing education
• Hybrid program format
• National certification exam preparation
• Advanced clinical practice focus
• First DNP program approved in 2009

University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a top-10 nationally ranked hybrid online program. Accepting up to 12 BSN-prepared nurses annually, the curriculum emphasizes complex patient management with 720 comprehensive clinical training hours. Students develop advanced skills in stabilizing physiologically unstable patients, managing symptoms, and supporting care transitions. With a strong focus on leadership skill development and a post-graduate certificate option, the program prepares nurses for exceptional acute healthcare practice.

• Hybrid Learning Format
• 720 Clinical Training Hours
• BSN to DNP Path
• Complex Patient Care Focus
• Post-Graduate Certificate Option
• Leadership Skill Development

The University of Iowa's DNP in Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care) is a distinguished hybrid online program ranked among the top 10 by U.S. News & World Report. Initially offering online courses and transitioning to cohort-based learning, the program prepares nurses to care for adults and older adults with acute, critical, and complex chronic conditions. Students complete a minimum of 720 clinical hours under close faculty advisor guidance. Flexible options include a 1-year Post Graduate Certificate for primary care NPs and post-MSN to DNP paths, accommodating diverse professional backgrounds.

• Hybrid program type
• 720 clinical hours required
• Online initial courses
• Cohort-based learning later
• 1-year Post Graduate Certificate
• Post MSN to DNP options
• Faculty advisor support
• Focus on acute, critical care
• For BSN prepared nurses

The University of Iowa's DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for leadership roles in primary care through a blend of didactic and clinical experiences. This hybrid program aligns with the AACN's recommendation for the DNP as the preferred degree for advanced practice nurses. It focuses on equipping graduates to deliver high-quality, cost-efficient care and to be integral partners in healthcare redesign. The program is designed for those seeking to advance their practice with a doctoral degree, offering a curriculum that meets the evolving needs of the healthcare system.

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on primary care
• Leadership in healthcare
• Doctoral degree preparation
• Blend of didactic and clinical

The University of Iowa's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program prepares nurses for advanced practice through comprehensive didactic and clinical training. Graduates earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, qualifying them to sit for the American Nurses Credentialing Center Certification Exam. The program offers flexible pathways including BSN to DNP options and post-MSN/NP to DNP tracks, catering to nurses at various career stages. Focused on high-quality, cost-efficient patient care, the curriculum aligns with the Institute of Medicine's recommendations for nursing education. This hybrid program combines online and campus learning, designed to fit the schedules of working professionals.

• DNP degree with PMHNP specialization
• Eligible for ANCC Certification Exam
• Flexible BSN to DNP pathways
• Post-MSN/NP to DNP options
• Hybrid online and campus learning
• Focus on cost-efficient patient care
• Aligns with IOM nursing recommendations
• Comprehensive clinical training
• Designed for working professionals
• Prepares for advanced practice roles

The University of Iowa's DNP in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care) program prepares nurses for advanced practice in acute care settings. Focused on infants, children, and adolescents, the program combines didactic and clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible for national certification. The hybrid program offers flexibility with BSN to DNP and Post MSN to DNP options. It emphasizes leadership in healthcare, aligning with AACN recommendations. The curriculum is designed for those seeking to enhance their clinical expertise in pediatric acute care.

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on acute care
• BSN to DNP options
• Post MSN to DNP available
• National certification eligible
• Leadership in healthcare focus
• Clinical expertise enhancement
• Flexible study options
• Pediatric acute care specialization
• Combines didactic and clinical

The University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care prepares advanced nursing professionals to excel in comprehensive pediatric healthcare. This innovative program focuses on developing nurse leaders capable of addressing complex healthcare challenges through evidence-based practice. Students gain intensive clinical experiences and doctoral-level education, positioning them to provide high-quality primary care for children. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with advanced clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and leadership competencies needed in today's dynamic healthcare environment.

• DNP terminal degree program
• Hybrid learning format
• Advanced pediatric clinical training
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Nurse leadership development

Morningside University's online Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program offers a comprehensive pathway for advanced nursing practice. This 50-credit track prepares students to deliver holistic family healthcare across all age groups. Students complete 750 clinical hours and two on-site residencies, developing critical skills in physical examinations, diagnosis, and treatment administration. With flexible full-time and part-time options and competitive tuition at $655 per credit, the program ensures graduates are well-positioned for national certification and advanced practice roles in primary care settings.

• 50 total credit hours
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• $655 per credit
• Fully online program
• 4-6 semester completion
• Two on-site residencies
• National certification preparation
• Full and part-time options
• 23 core + 27 specialty credits

The online Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN track at Morningside University empowers nurses to become specialized elderly healthcare providers. This 49-credit program develops advanced skills in physical examinations, illness diagnosis, and chronic condition management. With 750 clinical practicum hours and competitive $655 per credit tuition, students receive comprehensive training preparing them for national certification. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners ready to make significant impacts in primary care settings for aging populations.

• 49 total credit hours
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• $655 per credit cost
• Online program format
• Two on-site residencies
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• 4-6 semester completion
• Specializes in elderly care

Morningside University's online Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced practice through a comprehensive 50-credit curriculum. Students develop expertise in health promotion, disease prevention, and patient management, completing 750 clinical hours. Requiring a bachelor's in nursing, 3.0 GPA, and active RN license, the program costs $655 per credit and can be completed in two years. With a focus on evidence-based, compassionate care, graduates are prepared for national certification and leadership roles in community health transformation.

• Online course format.
• 50 total credit hours.
• $655 per credit cost.
• 2 years completion time.
• 750 clinical/practicum hours.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Requires bachelor's in nursing.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
• Active RN license needed.

The online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate at Morningside University is a specialized post-master's program designed for experienced nurses. Spanning 35 credit hours and 750 clinical practicum hours, this program equips nurses with advanced skills to provide expert care for acutely and critically ill patients. At $655 per credit, students receive comprehensive training in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment, preparing them for national certification through ANCC or AACN and positioning them for high-demand roles in acute healthcare environments.

• 35 total credit hours
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• $655 per credit cost
• Fully online program
• Two onsite residencies
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• Post-master's certificate
• Four semester completion
• Advanced nursing practice
• Acute and critical care focus

Morningside University's online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate offers experienced nurses an advanced specialization in adult and elderly patient care. This 35-credit program provides intensive didactic and clinical training, focusing on primary care needs of aging populations. With 750 clinical practicum hours and two on-site residencies, students develop comprehensive skills in advanced health assessment and complex elderly care, preparing them for national certification and specialized roles in geriatric healthcare settings.

• 35 total credit hours
• 100% online program
• $655 per credit
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• Prepares for national certification
• Post-Master's certificate option
• Two on-site residencies
• Specializes in aging population care

Morningside University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult Gerontology Acute Care prepares advanced nursing professionals to lead complex healthcare teams. This rigorous program focuses on delivering high-quality, evidence-based care for adult and geriatric patients in acute settings. With 1,000 practicum hours and flexible rolling semester enrollment, students develop advanced clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and research translation expertise, positioning themselves at the forefront of healthcare innovation and patient-centered care.

• Fully online doctoral program
• Rolling semester enrollment
• Flexible study plan
• 1,000 practicum hours
• Individualized faculty instruction

The online Doctor of Nursing Practice at Morningside University offers a Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical practice. This program combines online coursework with practical experiences, catering to working professionals. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership, the program requires a BSN or MSN and features rolling enrollment. Graduates are prepared for advanced healthcare roles, with a specific focus on family primary care and improving patient outcomes across diverse healthcare environments.

• Online coursework flexibility.
• Family Primary Care concentration.
• BSN or MSN admission paths.
• Rolling enrollment options.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Prepares for advanced roles.
• Individualized faculty instruction.

Clarke University offers a hybrid Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate program, blending online coursework with minimal campus visits. This program is designed for working professionals aiming to specialize in mental health care, covering symptom management, psychotherapeutic treatments, and psychopharmacology. With 81 credit hours and 1000 clinical hours, students can complete the program in three years full-time or five years part-time. The program emphasizes small class sizes and personalized learning, preparing graduates for diverse roles in mental health settings. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for advanced practice nurses seeking to enhance their expertise.

• 81 total credit hours
• Hybrid online/campus program
• Three years full-time option
• Five years part-time option
• 1000 clinical hours
• Only 8 campus visits required
• Post-graduate certificate available
• Small class sizes (20 students)
• Simulation Lab training
• Faculty are practicing DNPs

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Clarke University, with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, is a hybrid program that combines online learning with monthly face-to-face sessions. Spanning 81 credits and requiring 1000 clinical hours, it prepares nurses for national certification and full practice scope. The program focuses on evidence-based, patient-centered care across the lifespan, offering both full-time (three years) and part-time (five years) options. Small cohorts ensure personalized attention, and no entrance exam is specified, highlighting the program's accessibility for advanced nursing professionals.

• 81-credit DNP program
• Hybrid learning format
• Limited 20-student cohorts
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• National certification eligible
• Full practice license scope
• Comprehensive patient care approach

Clarke University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program equips nurses with skills in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. The program requires 81 credit hours and 1000 clinical hours, with flexibility for working professionals through limited campus visits. It prepares graduates for careers in various settings, including clinical practice and community health centers, with no entrance exam required. The curriculum covers psychotherapeutic techniques and psychopharmacology, supported by small class sizes and experienced faculty.

• 81 total credit hours
• Three years full-time program
• Hybrid learning format
• 1000 clinical hours
• Only 8 campus visits required
• Post-graduate certificate available
• Limited to 20 students per class
• Simulation Lab training
• Prepare for various healthcare settings

This hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Clarke University, focusing on Family Nurse Practitioner, offers a blend of online and face-to-face learning. It requires 81 credits and 1000 clinical hours, with completion possible in three to five years. The program prepares graduates for national certification, emphasizing ethical decision-making, interprofessional collaboration, and healthcare advocacy. Small cohort sizes ensure personalized attention, and while an entrance exam isn't mentioned, the program is designed for nurses seeking to advance in family practice with comprehensive, evidence-based care skills.

• Hybrid learning format
• 81 credit hours
• 1,000 clinical hours
• 3-5 year completion
• Small cohort sizes
• National certification eligibility
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Interprofessional collaboration
• Ethical decision-making training
• Healthcare advocacy

Clarke University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration is tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in mental health care. The program features a flexible three-year curriculum with 81 credits and 1000 clinical hours, including limited campus visits. It prepares graduates for diverse mental health practice settings, focusing on psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic treatments. With small class sizes and personalized mentorship, the program is ideal for professionals seeking to make an impact in community mental health, and no entrance exam is required.

• 81 total program credits
• Hybrid learning format
• Only 8 campus visits
• 1000 clinical training hours
• Three years full-time option
• Five years part-time available
• Post-graduate certificate option
• Simulation Lab experiences
• Small class sizes (20 students)
• Clinical rotations included

Briar Cliff University offers an online MSN with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, a three-year, part-time program for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. It requires 750 clinical hours and 54.5 credits, focusing on diagnosing and managing mental health disorders across the lifespan. No GRE is needed for admission. Ranked #2 for Online MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health NP Programs, it prepares graduates for advanced practice with an emphasis on holistic care and leadership, accredited by CCNE.

• 3-year part-time online program
• 750 minimum clinical hours
• No GRE required
• 54.5 total graduate credits
• CCNE accredited program
• Clinical sites near student's location
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Experienced veteran faculty mentors

Briar Cliff University's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program is a three-year, part-time course designed for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. It includes 750 clinical hours and prepares students for ANCC and AANP certification exams. With a focus on holistic care, evidence-based practice, and leadership, the program requires a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and 2000 clinical hours for admission. No GRE is required, and it's CCNE accredited, offering a comprehensive curriculum for aspiring FNPs.

• Online part-time program
• 3-year duration
• 750 clinical hours
• CCNE accredited
• No GRE required
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• 2000 clinical hours needed
• Family Nurse Practitioner focus
• Mandatory on-site days
• Holistic care emphasis

Briar Cliff University's online Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health is tailored for MSN-prepared nurses aiming to specialize. This part-time program, requiring 750 clinical hours over two years, focuses on holistic and evidence-based care for diverse populations. With no GRE required, it offers three NP tracks, including PMHNP, at a competitive tuition of $525 per credit. CCNE accredited, the program emphasizes leadership in healthcare, preparing graduates for advanced practice roles.

• Online part-time graduate program
• 750 minimum clinical hours
• Three specialized NP tracks
• CCNE accredited program
• 3-year program duration
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
• Requires prior MSN degree
• 2,000 RN clinical hours prerequisite
• Competitive $525/credit tuition
• Minimal on-campus requirements

The online Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate in Adult/Gerontology Primary Care at Briar Cliff University is designed for MSN holders seeking specialization. This two-year, part-time program includes 750 clinical hours and 53.5 credits, focusing on advanced assessment and treatment for adult and geriatric patients. With a tuition of $525 per credit and no GRE requirement, it's an accessible option for nurses aiming to enhance their skills in diverse healthcare settings, supported by CCNE accreditation.

• Online part-time graduate program
• 750 minimum clinical hours
• 53.5 total program credits
• $525 per credit tuition
• CCNE accredited program
• Requires prior MSN degree
• Veteran faculty mentors
• Clinicals in diverse settings

Graceland University offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Nursing specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner preparation. Designed for working RNs, this innovative program delivers advanced clinical training through flexible online coursework and local community-based practicums. Students receive supervised clinical experiences with approved preceptors, learning comprehensive patient-centered care across all life stages. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, covering advanced health assessment, pharmacotherapeutics, and primary care strategies. Graduates are fully prepared to pursue National NP Certification Examination, positioning themselves for leadership roles in healthcare. The program uniquely balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring students develop holistic competencies in family-focused nursing practice.

• Online program format
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• Clinical practicum in local communities
• Prepares for NP Certification Exam
• Flexible for working professionals
• Focus on patient-centered care
• Blend of theory and clinical practice
• Supervised by approved preceptors
• Covers pharmacotherapeutics
• Advanced health assessment

Graceland University's online Master of Science in Nursing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty addresses critical mental health provider shortages through advanced professional training. This rigorous program prepares RNs for specialized psychiatric care roles, offering comprehensive training in comprehensive psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment methodologies. Students engage in evidence-based learning, exploring psychopharmacology, behavioral therapy techniques, and ethical considerations in mental healthcare. Clinical practicums provide hands-on experience across patient lifespans. Admission requires a BSN, active RN license, and minimum 2.5 GPA. With competitive tuition at $830 per semester hour and a 15% alumni discount, this program represents an accessible pathway to advanced mental health nursing practice.

• Online format
• Focus on PMHNP
• $830 per semester hour
• BSN and RN license required
• 2.5 GPA for admission
• Clinical practicums included
• Covers psychopharmacology
• Behavioral therapy training
• Ethical issues in mental health
• Evidence-based practice focus