Nurse Practitioner Options in Dayton, Ohio

Campus, hybrid, and online NP programs accessible to Dayton-area nurses across every major specialty and degree level.

Most important takeaways…

  • Dayton-area students can choose from 27 NP program listings across six specialties, with FNP offered at 15 of them.
  • In-state tuition ranges from roughly $14,000 to over $60,000 depending on the school and degree level.
  • NPs in the Dayton metro earn salaries competitive with Ohio and national benchmarks, supporting strong return on investment.
  • Most BSN-prepared nurses can complete an MSN NP program in two to three years through part-time or online formats.

Which NP programs can you actually reach from Dayton without uprooting your life or quitting your hospital job? It is a fair question. The Dayton metro sits within commuting distance of several major university systems, and its own health networks, including Premier Health and Kettering Health, fuel steady demand for advanced practice providers.

Dayton-area nurses can choose from campus, hybrid, and fully online programs across Ohio, covering specialties from FNP and PMHNP programs in Ohio to acute care tracks, at both the MSN and DNP level. Tuition ranges widely, from roughly $13,000 at public universities to more than $70,000 at private institutions. With most programs requiring 500 or more clinical hours, proximity to Dayton's concentrated network of hospitals and outpatient clinics is a real logistical advantage.

NP Programs in and Near Dayton at a Glance

Dayton-area nurses have a strong selection of NP programs available across Ohio, ranging from nationally ranked research universities to smaller private institutions with competitive tuition. While no school on this list is headquartered in Dayton itself, several are within easy commuting distance, and most offer online or hybrid formats that let you complete coursework from home while arranging clinical hours at local healthcare facilities. Below is an overview of programs accessible to students in Dayton and surrounding communities such as Springfield, Middletown, Xenia, and Fairborn.

Factors considered
  • Institutional graduation and retention rates
  • Program specialty breadth
  • Tuition and net price
  • Clinical placement accessibility
  • Delivery format flexibility
Data sources
OH

Ohio State University

Columbus, OH · $17,000/yr (net price)

Best for: Nurses wanting broad specialty choices

Ohio State University in Columbus, roughly 70 miles from Dayton, fields one of the widest NP specialty menus in Ohio, spanning FNP, PMHNP, AGNP (primary and acute care), PNP, WHNP, and neonatal tracks at both MSN and DNP levels. The school offering these programs holds an institution-wide graduation rate of about 88%, and its online MSN has earned a No. 1 national ranking for 2026. Online NP students can arrange clinical placements near their home communities across Ohio, making the program practical for Dayton residents who prefer to stay local for hands-on hours.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Ohio State University
    • BSN-to-DNP hybrid pathway with FNP concentration
    • Synchronous online classes with minimal campus visits
    • Clinical placements arranged near students' Ohio communities
    • Prepares for AANP or ANCC FNP certification
    • Full-time and part-time scheduling available
    • Financial aid and scholarships offered
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
    Ohio State University
    • Hybrid format with 600 required clinical hours
    • Covers lifespan mental health assessment and intervention
    • Coursework in neuroscience, psychopharmacology, crisis care
    • Preceptors provided for students in Ohio
    • Prepares for PMHNP national certification
    • Available as MSN or BSN-to-DNP track
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Ohio State University
    • Online or on-campus delivery options
    • 16 to 20 hours of weekly clinical practice expected
    • Comprehensive care focus for patients ages 13 and older
    • Evidence-based curriculum taught by expert faculty
    • Prepares for AGPCNP board certification
    • Ranked among the top five nationally by U.S. News
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Ohio State University
    • On-campus specialty ranked No. 5 nationally
    • Clinical rotations at Wexner Medical Center and community sites
    • Covers birth through young adulthood patient populations
    • Eligible for PNCB board certification
    • Multiple degree pathways including BSN-to-DNP
    • 16 to 20 weekly clinical hours required
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Ohio State University
    • On-campus program with holistic reproductive health focus
    • Prepares for NCC national certification
    • Part-time and full-time study options
    • Clinical sites across Ohio including specialty centers
    • Dual midwifery and WHNP track also available
    • Over 1,000 clinical hours for the dual pathway
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
    Ohio State University
    • Distance-enhanced hybrid learning format
    • Requires 24 months of NICU experience for admission
    • Clinicals arranged near the student's community
    • World-class neonatal faculty instruction
    • Multiple degree pathway options available
    • Evidence-based neonatal care curriculum
    Visit Website
UN

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH · $26,000/yr

Best for: Southwest Ohio nurses seeking clinical support

The University of Cincinnati sits about an hour south of Dayton, making it one of the closest options on this list. UC offers NP tracks at both MSN and DNP levels in FNP, PMHNP, AGNP (primary and acute care), WHNP, pediatric acute care, and neonatal specialties. Its 100% online FNP program reports certification pass rates above 95%, and a dedicated clinical planning team helps students secure preceptors across the southwest Ohio and tri-state corridor. The school offering these programs posts a 75% institution-wide graduation rate.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
    University of Cincinnati
    • Fully online with asynchronous coursework
    • No required campus visits for FNP track
    • Spring, summer, and fall start dates available
    • Certification pass rates consistently above 95%
    • Faculty are practicing nurse practitioners
    • Clinical planning support team assists with placements
    Visit Website
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    University of Cincinnati
    • Online coursework with brief on-campus immersions
    • Prepares for PMHNP-BC and PMHNP-C exams
    • Full-time and part-time options offered
    • Dedicated enrollment advisor, success coordinator, and clinical coordinator
    • $836 per credit hour for Ohio residents
    • Fall semester start with June application deadline
    Visit Website
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
    University of Cincinnati
    • Hybrid format with hands-on skills labs
    • Dual AGACNP certification preparation available
    • Guaranteed local preceptor placements for eligible students
    • Limited to residents of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana
    • On-campus lab sessions required in two semesters
    • Faculty who are active clinical practitioners
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    University of Cincinnati
    • 100% online program with three yearly start dates
    • Focus on care from puberty through the lifespan
    • Wellness, prenatal, and gynecological management training
    • Flexible scheduling for working nurses
    • Prepares for national WHNP certification
    • Outpatient and inpatient care preparation
    Visit Website
  • Post-Master's Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    University of Cincinnati
    • Completable in as few as 16 months online
    • Requires MSN, active RN license, and 3.0 GPA
    • Individualized program plan for each student
    • Spring, summer, and fall course availability
    • Payment plans offered for certificate students
    • Prepares for national PMHNP certification exam
    Visit Website
MI

Miami University

Oxford, OH · $18,000 – $41,000/yr

Best for: Commutable hybrid learners near Dayton

Miami University in Oxford is located just 45 minutes northwest of Dayton, making it one of the most conveniently commutable campuses for Dayton-area nurses. Its hybrid MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner blends online coursework with in-person clinical experiences and can be completed in 21 months full time. The program reports a 100% FNP certification pass rate and guarantees clinical placement for admitted students. Applicants must reside in Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, or Kentucky. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of about 80%.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
    Miami University
    • 21-month full-time program with part-time option
    • Hybrid: online coursework plus in-person clinicals
    • 630 total clinical hours included
    • 100% FNP certification pass rate reported
    • Clinical placement guaranteed upon admission
    • Requires 1,000 prior RN clinical hours for entry
    • CCNE accredited with APEA test preparation included
    • On-campus skills workshop as part of curriculum
    Visit Website
FR

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Steubenville, OH · $24,000/yr

Franciscan University of Steubenville offers a hybrid MSN Family Nurse Practitioner track with a published total tuition of $28,800 across 48 credit hours, making it one of the more budget-friendly options for Ohio nurses. Over 300 preceptors are available across the state for clinical rotations. The university is located in eastern Ohio, so most coursework is delivered remotely, with clinical sites arranged closer to students' home communities. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of roughly 75%.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
    Franciscan University of Steubenville
    • 48 credit hours at $600 per credit
    • Total estimated tuition of $28,800
    • Six-semester structure across fall, spring, and summer
    • Over 300 preceptors available statewide
    • Part-time study option for working nurses
    • CCNE accredited with post-master's certificate available
    Visit Website
KE

Kent State University

Kent, OH · ~$21,000/yr (est.)

Kent State University in northeast Ohio provides one of the broadest post-master's certificate menus in the state, covering FNP, PMHNP, WHNP, and AGNP. It also offers MSN concentrations in PMHNP, AGNP, pediatric primary care, and WHNP, with several tracks delivered 100% online. In-state graduate tuition runs about $613 per credit. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of approximately 64%.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Kent State University
    • 100% online with no required campus visits
    • Fall and spring start dates available
    • Full-time and part-time scheduling
    • CCNE accredited and NLN Center of Excellence
    • Prepares for APRN certification and Ohio licensure
    • Faculty are nationally certified APRNs
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Kent State University
    • Fully online coursework with clinical practicum
    • CCNE accredited with small class sizes
    • Canvas LMS with 24/7 technical support
    • Ambulatory and primary care clinical settings
    • Post-master's certificate pathway also offered
    • Dual MSN-MBA option available
    Visit Website
  • Graduate Certificate, Family Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Kent State University
    • 34 credit hours for post-master's students
    • Mostly online delivery through Kent Campus
    • Flexible fall, spring, and summer admission
    • Clinical practicums in adult, pediatric, and family health
    • Requires master's or doctoral degree in nursing
    • In-state tuition approximately $613 per credit
    Visit Website
  • Graduate Certificate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Kent State University
    • 100% online, 34 credit hours
    • Ohio resident tuition around $613 per credit
    • Covers neurobiology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy
    • Individual and family therapy coursework
    • Prepares for national PMHNP certification
    • CCNE accredited program
    Visit Website
UR

Ursuline College

Pepper Pike, OH · $15,000 – $20,000/yr

Ursuline College in Pepper Pike near Cleveland offers MSN tracks in PMHNP, AGNP (primary and acute care), and post-graduate certificates in those same specialties plus AGACNP. Programs use hybrid delivery with an 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, one of the lowest in Ohio. While the campus is about three hours from Dayton, online and hybrid components reduce travel. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of roughly 67%.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Ursuline College
    • Hybrid format covering lifespan mental health care
    • CCNE accredited through current cycle
    • Minimum one year nursing experience required
    • Advanced practice nursing skills emphasis
    • Active RN license required for admission
    • Fall and spring semester start options
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Ursuline College
    • CCNE accredited campus-based program
    • Comprehensive patient care across the adult lifespan
    • Current RN license and one year experience required
    • Fall and spring admission cycles
    • Nationally ranked MSN program
    • Prepares for AGPCNP national certification
    Visit Website
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner — On-Campus
    Ursuline College
    • Hybrid format with 24-month full-time option
    • Four-year part-time track also available
    • Includes advanced pharmacology and health assessment
    • Leadership in healthcare focus integrated
    • Clinical practicums throughout the program
    • Evidence-based practice at the doctoral level
    Visit Website
MO

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Mount Vernon, OH · $22,000/yr

Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers an online DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at an inaugural tuition rate of $417 per credit hour, potentially making it the lowest per-credit doctoral option on this list. The 60-credit, 1,000-clinical-hour program accepts BSN graduates or students with up to 27 transferable graduate credits. Mount Vernon is about two hours northeast of Dayton. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of about 68%.

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Mount Vernon Nazarene University
    • Inaugural tuition rate of $417 per credit hour
    • 60 credit hours with 1,000 clinical hours required
    • 100% online format for working nurses
    • BSN entry or up to 27 transfer credits accepted
    • Completable in 3.5 years or less
    • Prepares for national FNP certification
    Visit Website
CL

Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH · $15,000/yr (net price)

Cleveland State University delivers both an MSN and a BSN-to-DNP track in FNP, plus MSN and post-graduate certificates in PMHNP, all primarily online with one required on-campus residency. In-state graduate tuition is approximately $637 per credit, among the lowest for a public university on this list. Clinical placement support is provided, though Dayton students should plan for a roughly three-hour drive to Cleveland for the required residency. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of about 51%.

  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner — Hybrid
    Cleveland State University
    • 47 credit hours with 780 clinical hours
    • 100% online coursework with one campus residency
    • In-state tuition approximately $637 per credit
    • Completable full time in two years
    • Clinical placement support provided
    • Three start dates per year: fall, spring, summer
    Visit Website
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Cleveland State University
    • 100% online, two-year full-time program
    • 48 credit hours with 780 clinical hours
    • Lifespan mental health focus
    • CCNE accredited with experienced faculty
    • Clinicals begin in the fourth semester
    • Three annual intake windows
    Visit Website
AS

Ashland University

Ashland, OH · ~$22,000/yr (est.)

Ashland University offers a fully online DNP with an FNP concentration built around a cohort model with periodic residency requirements. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and leadership, culminating in a DNP scholarly project. Transfer of up to nine graduate credits is accepted. Ashland is about two and a half hours northeast of Dayton. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of approximately 61%.

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Ashland University
    • 100% online format with cohort-based residencies
    • Prepares for AANPCB or ANCC FNP certification
    • Up to nine graduate transfer credits accepted
    • Scholarly project as culminating experience
    • Meets Ohio APRN licensure requirements
    • Interview required as part of admission
    Visit Website
YO

Youngstown State University

Youngstown, OH · $13,000/yr

Youngstown State University provides a fully online post-master's certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with a total in-state tuition of about $19,548 across 36 credit hours. The seven-week course format and multiple start dates are designed for working nurses. Youngstown is roughly three hours from Dayton, but the online delivery keeps travel minimal. The school offering these programs has an institution-wide graduation rate of about 51%.

  • Post-Master's Certificate, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner — Online
    Youngstown State University
    • 36 credit hours completable in as few as 18 months
    • Total in-state tuition approximately $19,548
    • 100% online with seven-week course blocks
    • 540 clinical practicum hours in acute care settings
    • Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification exams
    • Multiple start dates throughout the year
    Visit Website

NP Specialties Available to Dayton-Area Students

Ohio programs accessible from Dayton offer six distinct nurse practitioner specialties, with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) appearing in 15 of the 27 program listings in the Dayton region. Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) tracks round out the core offerings, while Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) options are more limited but available through select programs.

Most Widely Available Tracks

Family Nurse Practitioner programs dominate the Dayton landscape. Wright State University in Dayton itself offers a 49-credit hybrid MSN-FNP track, while nearby programs at Miami University, Cedarville University, University of Cincinnati, Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and Cleveland State University expand options for students willing to commute or enroll online. Students considering the University of Cincinnati may also want to explore NP programs in Cincinnati for a broader look at that metro area's offerings. FNP preparation spans all age groups and primary care settings, making it the versatile choice for nurses seeking breadth.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner tracks address Ohio's growing behavioral health workforce gap. Ursuline College in Pepper Pike offers a post-graduate PMHNP certificate, targeting nurses who already hold an MSN and want to add mental health credentials. As telehealth expands and rural Ohio counties report critical shortages of mental health providers, PMHNP graduates enjoy strong job security and above-average salary potential.

Acute-Care and Pediatric Specializations

Youngstown State University delivers an online AGACNP post-master's certificate in 18 months, requiring 540 clinical hours and one year of critical care experience. This track prepares nurses for acute hospital settings, intensive care units, and specialty inpatient services.

Ohio State University in Columbus offers a campus-based Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program, ranked fifth nationally by U.S. News, with clinical rotations at Wexner Medical Center. The University of Akron lists a campus-based Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner certificate with an acute-care concentration, though it requires an existing MSN and Ohio APRN licensure.

Degree Levels: MSN, DNP, and Post-Master's Pathways

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs typically require 40 to 51 credit hours and suit BSN-prepared nurses entering advanced practice for the first time. Full-time students finish in 18 to 28 months, and part-time tracks extend to three years. If you are weighing programs beyond Ohio, our guide to online MSN nurse practitioner programs provides a useful national comparison.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) pathways, such as Ashland University's online FNP-DNP and Mount Vernon Nazarene's 60-credit DNP, prepare nurses for clinical leadership, policy roles, and academic positions. DNP programs often accept transfer credits from prior master's work and emphasize evidence-based capstone projects.

Post-master's certificates serve board-certified NPs adding a second specialty. Kent State, Ohio University, Franklin University, and Otterbein University each offer 10- to 34-credit post-graduate FNP certificates for nurses holding MSN or DNP degrees and current APRN licensure. These condensed tracks streamline the path to dual certification without repeating foundational graduate coursework.

Online vs. On-Campus Programs for Working Nurses

Choosing between online and on-campus NP programs is one of the biggest decisions you will make as a working nurse. Both formats can lead to the same credentials and scope of practice, but the day-to-day experience differs significantly. Many Ohio universities now offer hybrid models that require only a few on-campus intensives per year, giving you a practical middle ground.

Pros

  • Online programs let you complete asynchronous coursework around 12-hour shifts, so you never have to choose between a paycheck and a lecture.
  • Studying online opens the door to accredited programs across the country, not just those within commuting distance of Dayton.
  • On-campus and hybrid formats provide access to simulation labs, direct faculty mentorship, and built-in clinical site networks in the Dayton metro.
  • In-person cohort models foster peer camaraderie and accountability, which many nurses find essential for staying motivated through rigorous coursework.
  • Hybrid programs split the difference nicely, combining online flexibility with a handful of on-campus intensives each year for hands-on skills validation.

Cons

  • Many fully online programs require you to find your own preceptors, which can be time-consuming in competitive clinical markets like southwest Ohio.
  • Online students may have limited hands-on practice opportunities until they reach their clinical rotations later in the curriculum.
  • On-campus class schedules are often rigid and can conflict directly with rotating or 12-hour nursing shifts, making attendance a logistical challenge.
  • Committing to a traditional on-campus program limits your choices to schools within driving distance, potentially ruling out stronger programs in other parts of the state or country.

Cost Comparison and Financial Aid in the Dayton Area

Tuition for NP programs at Ohio schools varies widely depending on whether you attend a public university or a private college, and whether you qualify for in-state rates. The table below sorts programs by in-state tuition from lowest to highest. Keep in mind that the estimated net price shown for each school is an institution-wide average for all students receiving aid; it is not specific to NP or graduate programs, so your actual out-of-pocket cost will differ. Beyond tuition, Dayton-area nurses should explore several Ohio-specific funding sources. The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment Program offers substantial loan forgiveness for primary-care NPs who commit to practicing in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas, and several HPSAs exist in the greater Dayton region. Major local health systems such as Kettering Health and Premier Health commonly offer tuition reimbursement benefits for employees pursuing advanced nursing degrees, so check with your HR department before enrolling. The Ohio Nurses Foundation awards merit- and need-based scholarships to Ohio RNs in graduate programs, and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses (OAAPN) offers a $1,500 APRN scholarship for students who have completed at least 12 semester hours with a 3.2 GPA or higher. The Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program (NEALP) provides forgivable low-interest loans to nursing students who demonstrate financial need.

SchoolCityIn-State TuitionOut-of-State TuitionEst. Net Price (Institution Avg.)NP Program Format
Youngstown State UniversityYoungstown$6,848$7,028$12,767Online
University of AkronAkron$10,125$15,885$13,946On-Campus
Cleveland State UniversityCleveland$11,297$21,107$14,764Hybrid
Ohio State UniversityColumbus$13,901$42,740$17,339On-Campus
Wright State UniversityDayton$15,771$25,759$15,415Hybrid
Miami University (Hamilton)Hamilton$16,359$37,399$11,286Hybrid
University of ToledoToledo$17,605$29,426$17,249Hybrid
Mount Carmel College of NursingColumbus$22,602$22,602$10,420Online
Ursuline CollegePepper Pike$31,864$31,864$16,164On-Campus

Clinical Placements and Preceptor Support Near Dayton

Securing quality clinical placements is one of the most important steps in your NP education, and Dayton's healthcare landscape offers meaningful advantages for students in the region.

Major Health Systems Accepting NP Students

Dayton is home to several large health systems that regularly host NP students for nurse practitioner clinical rotations:

  • Kettering Health Network: Multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities across the Miami Valley provide diverse clinical experiences in primary care, acute care, and specialty settings.
  • Premier Health: This regional system, which includes Miami Valley Hospital, accepts graduate nursing students through a formal placement program. Current employees receive priority consideration, and the system requires affiliation agreements with your school. Plan for an eight-week onboarding lead time, and note that Women's Health and Mental Health placements face restrictions.2
  • Dayton VA Medical Center: Federal facilities offer exposure to complex patient populations and interprofessional care teams.
  • Wright-Patterson USAF Medical Center: Military medical facilities provide unique clinical opportunities, particularly for students interested in serving veteran or active-duty populations.

Specialty-Specific Placement Considerations

Certain NP tracks require specialized sites. Pediatric NP students should explore Dayton Children's Hospital, which accepts clinical placement applications through an online system with seasonal deadlines: October 31 for spring, February 28 for summer, and May 31 for fall rotations.1 Placements are not guaranteed, so applying early is essential. PMHNP students will need behavioral health sites, which can be more competitive to secure in any metro area.

How Online Programs Handle Placements

If you are enrolled in an online program, expect to take the lead on finding your own preceptors. Programs such as Walden, Chamberlain, and Purdue Global require students to propose and secure clinical sites themselves, though they provide guidance on the process.3 Third-party preceptor matching services like NPHub and Clinical Match Me are commonly used by Ohio NP students who need help connecting with willing preceptors. For a deeper look at coordinating rotations remotely, see our guide on online programs and local clinical placements.

Dayton's concentration of health systems gives local students a real advantage. Building relationships with clinical educators early and applying to placement programs well ahead of your rotation start dates can make the process considerably smoother.

What Dayton-Area NPs Earn

Nurse practitioner salaries in the Dayton metro area are competitive with both state and national benchmarks. The figures below put local earning potential in context. Program-level earnings shortly after graduation are not yet published for most Ohio NP programs, so the comparisons here draw on broader occupational wage data.

National median NP salary of $138,140, with entry-level and experienced ranges, alongside total U.S. NP employment of 185,150 as of 2025

How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Ohio?

Whether you are starting from a BSN or already hold a master's degree, the path to practicing as a nurse practitioner in Ohio follows a clear sequence. Timelines vary by degree level and enrollment pace, but most Dayton-area nurses can move from enrollment to independent patient care in roughly two to four years.

Five-step pathway from active RN license through graduate NP education, national certification, Ohio APRN licensure, and standard care arrangement, with typical timelines of two to four years

Ohio NP Licensing at a Glance

All NP Programs Available to Dayton-Area Students

Here is a full directory of nurse practitioner programs accessible to Dayton-area students, including online, hybrid, and campus-based options across Ohio. These programs are presented in alphabetical order by region to help you explore every available pathway.

Southwest Ohio

Wright State University Dayton, OH · Hybrid
Offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, combining online didactic courses with on-campus clinical skills training 1-2 times per semester.
  • Master of Science, Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care Graduate Certificate
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
  • Master of Science, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Master of Science, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Concentration
Xavier University Cincinnati, OH · Online
Online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program, 100% online, 46 credit hours, includes 600 clinical hours and prepares for FNP certification.
  • Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Post-Master's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Miami University-Middletown Middletown, OH · Hybrid
Offers an online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program with a hybrid format including on-campus skills workshops and 630 clinical hours.
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Miami University-Hamilton Hamilton, OH · Hybrid
The online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner track requires a BSN, 2.75 GPA, and 1,000 RN hours, with 630 clinical hours and a 100% certification pass rate.
  • Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner
Cedarville University Cedarville, OH · Hybrid
Provides an online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program with biblically integrated coursework, 800 clinical hours, and optional scholarships.
  • MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care)

Central Ohio

Mount Carmel College of Nursing Columbus, OH · Online
Offers online FNP and PMHNP programs, plus a hybrid AGACNP program, with 18-month completion and scheduled immersions.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Post-Graduate Certificate: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Otterbein University Westerville, OH · Hybrid
Hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate requires 31 credits and 600 clinical hours, with on-campus labs for hands-on skills.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner, Post-Graduate Certificate
  • Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post-Graduate Certificate
  • Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Northeast Ohio

Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, OH · Hybrid
Offers a distance-friendly hybrid MSN FNP program (40 credits, 600 clinical hours) and multiple other NP tracks including PMHNP, WHNP, and PNP.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care
  • Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, MSN
University of Akron Akron, OH · Campus
Offers campus-based and hybrid NP certificates and MSN tracks in pediatric, adult-gerontology, psychiatric, and family care.
  • Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner, Certificate (Acute Care)
  • Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
  • Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Certificate
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Certificate
  • Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Track
  • Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner (Primary Health Care)
Walsh University North Canton, OH · Online
Online MSN-FNP program with 45 credits, 700 clinical hours, and three start dates per year; also offers PMHNP certificate and DNP tracks.
  • Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
  • Post-Graduate FNP Certificate
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
  • Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
  • BSN-DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner
University of Mount Union Alliance, OH · Hybrid
Hybrid MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program, 46 credits, can be completed in 22 months, with two on-campus intensives.
  • MSN Program (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))
  • MSN Program (Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP))
  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) (Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) certification)
Malone University Canton, OH · Campus
Campus-based MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program with 51 credits, 608 clinical hours, and cohort-based fall starts.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Northwest Ohio

University of Toledo Toledo, OH · Hybrid
Offers hybrid MSN FNP and PMHNP programs, plus online BSN-to-DNP and post-master's DNP with FNP concentration.
  • Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) - Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice: (Post-Baccalaureate to DNP) Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Post-Baccalaureate to D.N.P. (Family Nurse Practitioner)
  • Post Baccalaureate (B.S.N.) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
  • Post-Baccalaureate to D.N.P. (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
  • Post-Baccalaureate to D.N.P. (Nurse Executive)
  • Post Master's (M.S.N.) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) (Family Nurse Practitioner)
  • Post-Baccalaureate to Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
The University of Findlay Findlay, OH · Campus
Campus-based BSN-to-DNP programs in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care and Primary Care, focusing on critical thinking and leadership.
  • Adult-Gero Acute Care BSN to DNP
  • Adult-Gero Primary Care BSN to DNP

Southeast Ohio

Ohio University Athens, OH · Online
Online post-graduate certificates in FNP, PMHNP, and AGACNP, plus BSN-to-DNP programs with 70 credits and 1,000 clinical hours.
  • Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
  • Online Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate
  • Post-Graduate Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
  • Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • BSN-DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
  • BSN-DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
  • BSN-DNP (Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
  • BSN-DNP (Adult Gero-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

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