2026 Best Pennsylvania Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Programs

Thomas Jefferson University's Advanced Certificate Program in Nursing Education: Academic Nursing is a 9-credit online graduate certificate designed for registered nurses seeking teaching roles in academic settings. The curriculum covers contemporary curriculum design, instructional methodologies, student assessment, and program evaluation, aligning with National League for Nursing competencies. Students complete three courses, including 224 hours of preceptor-facilitated experiential learning through two practicums. This flexible asynchronous format supports working professionals. Graduates are prepared to pursue NLN Certified Nurse Educator certification. Credits may transfer to Jefferson's MSN in Nursing Education program, and the certificate serves as a foundation for further graduate study.

• National League for Nursing accredited
• 9 credits program
• 9 total credit hours
• 3 total courses
• Full-time and part-time options
• Asynchronous online classes
• 224 clinical hours
• Prepares for NLN-CNE certification
• Preceptor-facilitated practicums included
• Credits transfer to MSN programs

This post-graduate certificate at Thomas Jefferson University prepares nurses with master's or doctoral degrees for advanced pediatric primary care. The 18-credit hybrid program combines online coursework with clinical experiences, focusing on direct care for infants and children across diverse settings. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and family-centered care, the curriculum covers holistic care planning, quality improvement, and cultural responsiveness. Graduates meet eligibility requirements for the CPNP-PC certification exam through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. Prior academic credit may be considered. The hybrid format offers flexibility, with online coursework and in-person clinical components at the Center City campus. Ideal for nurses seeking specialized pediatric primary care expertise, the program supports career advancement in pediatric nursing.

• 18 credit hours
• Hybrid format delivery
• Center City campus location
• Graduate certificate degree
• Online coursework available
• Prepares for CPNP-PC exam
• Focuses on pediatric primary care
• For master's or doctoral nurses
• Advanced nursing practice focus
• Clinical practice integration

Jefferson's Post-Graduate Family-Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner Certificate is an 18-credit hybrid program for nurses holding master's or doctoral degrees. It prepares graduates for advanced primary care roles across the lifespan, emphasizing family-centered health promotion and illness intervention. The curriculum stresses interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based practice. Graduates qualify for both ANCC and AANPCB Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams. The program may grant credit for prior clinical experience through portfolio review. Combining online coursework with practical clinical components, the certificate builds on existing nursing expertise to expand career opportunities in primary care. The program is based at Jefferson's Center City campus in Philadelphia.

• 18-credit graduate certificate
• Online program format
• Center City campus location
• Hybrid program type
• Prepares for FNP certification
• Family-centered care approach
• Comprehensive lifespan care
• Interdisciplinary collaboration focus
• Primary care specialization
• Requires master's or doctoral degree

Thomas Jefferson University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a 36-credit hybrid program for graduate nurses with master's or doctoral degrees. The curriculum includes training in substance use disorders and clinical opportunities across the lifespan and diverse settings, with a focus on integrated healthcare. Graduates are eligible for the ANCC certification exam and can earn the PMHNP-BC credential. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional communication, and culturally appropriate care. A gap analysis may be used to assess prior academic experience for credit. Program outcomes include leadership skills and high-acuity patient care competencies. Offered through the College of Nursing, it supports career advancement in mental health nursing.

• Online format.
• 36 credits required.
• Graduate certificate program.
• Post-graduate certificate program.
• Prepares graduate nurses.
• Requires master's or doctoral degree.
• Training in substance use disorders.
• Clinical opportunities across lifespan.
• Clinical opportunities across multiple settings.
• Focus on integrated healthcare setting.

Designed for health professionals with a master's or doctoral degree in a related field, this post-graduate certificate in midwifery at Thomas Jefferson University spans three years of part-time study, starting each fall. The hybrid format blends online coursework with full-time clinical rotations. The curriculum closely mirrors the MS in Midwifery, omitting four master's-level courses, and covers women's health, evidence-based care, and midwifery practice. An Advanced Placement Option reduces repetition for nurse practitioners, physicians, and experienced midwives. A Certified Midwife pathway exists for those without a nursing background. Graduates may pursue national board certification and work in hospitals, birth centers, or community practices. Financial aid and scholarships are available.

• 3-Year program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Starts fall
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Become a board-certified midwife
• Advanced Placement Option for clinicians
• Same curriculum as MS in Midwifery
• Clinical portions are full-time
• CM pathway requires three extra CM courses

• 18 credit hours
• Hybrid online format
• Center City campus
• Graduate certificate program
• College of Nursing
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• Prepares for AANPCB certification
• For master's or doctoral nurses
• Primary care focus
• Adult-gerontology population

Villanova University's Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate is a flexible 12-credit hybrid program tailored for master's or doctoral-level nurses. The curriculum emphasizes curriculum development, instructional design, and advanced teaching strategies, preparing graduates for academic or clinical teaching roles. Completion can range from one to five years, with synchronous online sessions and optional on-campus components. Admission requirements do not list a standardized entrance exam. This certificate offers a strategic pathway for experienced nurses to advance their educational expertise while balancing professional commitments.

• Post-Master's Certificate Program
• 12 total credit hours
• Online and hybrid options
• One-year minimum completion
• Five-year maximum completion
• Core courses in curriculum development
• Elective courses in teaching strategies
• For master's/doctoral nurses
• Synchronous online format
• Professional teaching preparation

Villanova's Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate provides a hybrid route to advanced primary care practice. The program requires 25-35 credits and 730 clinical hours, with support courses offered online or on-campus in Villanova, PA, while clinical experiences are on-site. Students can finish in as little as 1.5 years, with up to five years allowed. A master's degree in nursing is required for admission, and no entrance exam is listed in the requirements. This certificate prepares nurses for independent or collaborative primary care across the lifespan. For tuition details, contact [email protected].

• 25-35 credit hours
• 730 clinical hours required
• Minimum 1.5 year completion
• Up to five years to finish
• Hybrid program format
• Support courses online or on-campus
• Clinical courses on-site
• Prepares for primary care roles
• For experienced nurses
• Career advancement focus

Villanova University's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate builds on existing nursing skills to prepare nurses for advanced behavioral health roles. This hybrid program blends online support courses with on-site clinical training, requiring 25-35 credits and 600 clinical hours. Completion takes 1.5 to five years, with clinical experiences in diverse settings under physician and nurse practitioner preceptors. The admission process does not specify a standardized entrance exam. This certificate equips nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.

• 25-35 credit hours
• 600 clinical hours required
• 1.5 year minimum completion
• Five year maximum completion
• Hybrid program format
• Online support courses
• On-site clinical courses
• Villanova University location
• Post-graduate certificate level
• Psychiatric mental health focus

Villanova's Nurse Manager Certificate is a fully online professional development program for nursing leaders. Across six four-week modules, participants earn 48 contact hours while covering leadership theory, decision-making, team building, performance management, and financial skills. The curriculum integrates design thinking and AI applications in healthcare, plus emotional intelligence and CliftonStrengths assessments. At $1,549, it includes pre/post competency evaluations and a digital badge aligned with 2021 AACN Essentials. This professional certificate does not require an entrance examination.

• Online Professional Certificate Program
• 48 Contact Hours Awarded
• Six 4-Week Modules
• $1,549 Total Cost
• Digital Badge Earned
• Pre/Post Competency Assessments
• Emotional Intelligence Training
• CliftonStrengths Assessment
• Synchronous/Asynchronous Learning
• Prepare for ANCC Certification

Villanova's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares experienced nurses for advanced care of adults and older adults. The hybrid format couples online support courses with on-site clinical training, requiring 25-35 credits and 730 clinical hours. Students may complete the program in 1.5 to five years, benefiting from clinical agency partnerships and physician/NP preceptors. A master's degree is required for admission, and no entrance exam is mentioned among requirements. For a personalized program plan, contact [email protected].

• 25-35 credit hours
• 730 clinical hours required
• 1.5 year minimum completion
• 5 year maximum completion
• Hybrid program format
• Online support courses
• On-site clinical courses
• For experienced nurses
• Adult gerontology focus
• Primary care specialization

Carlow University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) prepares registered nurses for advanced mental health practice. The 100% online program focuses on assessment, treatment, and medication management for mental health disorders. Priced at $918 per credit, it comprises 14 courses and can be completed in as few as 28 months. Applicants must hold a graduate degree with a 3.0 GPA, submit a CV, essay, graduate transcript, and three professional recommendations. Applications are accepted year-round for fall starts. The curriculum includes national certification exam preparation, and no entrance exam (e.g., GRE) is required.

• Online delivery format.
• $918 per credit cost.
• 3.0 GPA minimum required.
• Fall semester start.
• As few as 28 months.
• 14 courses for Post-MSN.
• Transfer up to 18 credits.
• Requires CV and essay.
• Three professional recommendations.
• Accepts international students.

Carlow University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, a CCNE-accredited program designed for board certification preparation. Licensed nurse practitioners can finish in three semesters; others take seven semesters. The curriculum includes 525-600 clinical hours and covers health promotion and advanced practice across women's lifespan. Tuition is $946 per credit for 35 credits. Admission requires an MSN with a 3.0 GPA, an unrestricted RN license, transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. The program does not require the GRE or other entrance exams. It is offered entirely online with flexible learning for working professionals.

• CCNE-accredited program.
• Online and on-campus options.
• Cost: $946 per credit.
• 35 credit hours total.
• Duration: 2 years.
• Licensed NPs: 3 semesters.
• Others: 7 semesters.
• 525-600 clinical hours.
• Prepares for board certification.
• 100% board pass rate.

Carlow University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner post-master's certificate offers a specialized track in Children's mental health. The program trains nurses in assessment, counseling, and medication management for pediatric patients. Costing $918 per credit, it requires 14 courses for the Post-MSN certificate. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA, current CV, graduate transcript, essay, and three recommendations. Applications are accepted anytime for fall starts, with up to 18 transfer credits allowed. The curriculum prepares students for national certification and board exams, with strong pass rates. No GRE is required for admission. This 100% online format is ideal for working professionals.

• Online delivery format.
• $918 per credit cost.
• 14 Post-MSN courses required.
• 3.0 GPA admission minimum.
• Fall semester start dates.
• Transfer up to 18 credits.
• International students accepted.
• CV and essay required.
• Three professional recommendations.
• Specialize in children patients.

Carlow University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Families concentration focuses on providing mental health care to families through counseling and medication management. The program charges $918 per credit and consists of 14 courses. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, CV, graduate transcript, essay, and three professional recommendations. Applications are accepted anytime for fall semester starts, and up to 18 post-master's credits can be transferred. This fully online program includes board exam preparation and is designed for working nurses. No standardized entrance exam, such as the GRE, is required.

• Online delivery format.
• Families concentration available.
• $918 per credit cost.
• 14 courses required.
• 3.0 GPA minimum admission.
• Fall semester start.
• Apply anytime.
• Transfer up to 18 credits.
• Current CV required.
• Graduate transcript needed.

Carlow University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Substance Abuse concentration. This program prepares nurses to assess and treat mental health and substance use disorders. With tuition at $918 per credit, the certificate comprises 14 courses and can be completed in as few as 28 months. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, CV, graduate transcript, essay, and three professional recommendations. Fall start dates are available, and applications are accepted anytime. The curriculum emphasizes specialized treatment strategies and readies graduates for national certification and state licensure. The program does not require an entrance exam, and it is fully online for working professionals.

• Online program delivery.
• Substance Abuse concentration available.
• Cost is $918 per credit.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
• Start dates in fall semester.
• As few as 28 months to complete.
• 19 courses for MSN.
• 14 courses for Post-MSN.
• 9 courses for Post-MSN NP.
• Transfer up to 18 credits.

Duquesne University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Family (Individual Across the Lifespan) Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses for advanced primary care roles across all ages. This 2.5-year, 33-credit program includes 700 clinical hours and is accredited by CCNE. Admissions require both BSN and MSN degrees, a current RN license, and a statistics course with a C or higher. The curriculum covers physical assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, emphasizing family care from infancy through older adulthood. The program addresses the nationwide primary care shortage and prepares graduates for national certification exams. While the format is online, students attend on-campus labs. No entrance exam is mentioned in the admission requirements.

• Online program modality.
• 2.5 years duration.
• 33 credit hours required.
• 700 clinical hours included.
• Post-Master's Certificate degree.
• Family Nurse Practitioner focus.
• Prepares for national licensure exam.
• BSN and MSN prerequisites needed.
• Current RN license required.
• Statistics course with C or higher.

Duquesne University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, designed to equip nurses to address mental health and substance abuse issues. This 2.5-year program requires 35 credit hours and 550 clinical hours, preparing students for PMHNP-BC certification. Admission requires a BSN and MSN from accredited institutions, a current RN license, and a statistics course. The curriculum blends online coursework with two campus residency experiences, covering advanced pharmacology, neuroscience, and clinical practice across diverse populations. Accredited by CCNE, the program is tailored for working professionals. The admissions process does not specify an entrance exam requirement.

• Online program format.
• 2.5-year duration.
• 35 credit hours required.
• 550 clinical hours included.
• Prepares for PMHNP-BC exam.
• BSN and MSN prerequisites.
• Current RN license needed.
• Statistics course required.
• Blends online and residency learning.
• Two campus residency experiences.

Duquesne University's Executive Nurse Leadership and Health Care Management post-master's certificate is a one-year, fully online program requiring 18 credit hours. Designed for nurses with an MSN, it blends business and nursing coursework to prepare graduates for executive roles in health care. Admission demands a 3.0 GPA, an RN license, and an MSN, along with an undergraduate statistics course; a BSN is preferred. The CCNE-accredited curriculum includes social justice, nursing informatics, entrepreneurship, leadership, budgeting, and managing innovation, promoting data-driven decision-making. An interview may be part of the application process. No entrance exam is specified, but transfer credits are accepted up to 9 hours with a B or higher.

• Online program.
• One-year duration.
• 18 credit hours required.
• Post-Master's Certificate.
• Focus on executive nurse leadership.
• Blended business and nursing curriculum.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires MSN for admission.
• 3.0 GPA required.
• RN license needed.

Duquesne University's Post-Master's Forensic Nursing Certificate is a fully online program for nurses holding an MSN. It prepares practitioners to advocate for crime victims and apply forensic science within legal settings, enhancing skills in medical analysis and patient care. The curriculum builds on existing graduate knowledge to support patient recovery and legal processes, making it ideal for career advancement without relocating. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing; no entrance exam is mentioned. As part of Duquesne's School of Nursing, this certificate offers flexibility for working professionals. Tuition varies, so prospective students should consult the university's website for current rates and application details.

• Online program format.
• Post-Master's Certificate type.
• Forensic Nursing specialization.
• Requires MSN degree.
• Builds on graduate coursework.
• Focus on victim advocacy.
• Uses forensic science.
• Enhances legal defense skills.
• Supports patient recovery.
• Part of nursing graduate programs.

Drexel University's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid program blending online coursework with mandatory on-campus intensives. Designed for nurses holding a master's degree, this 34-credit curriculum spans approximately two years of part-time study on a quarter system. Students explore evidence-based practice, psychopathology, and collaborative care across diverse settings. Admission requires Pennsylvania RN licensure, a minimum of one year of psychiatric nursing experience, a 3.0 GPA, two professional references, and an 800-1600 word personal statement; an interview may be required. International applicants may need TOEFL scores. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification. The program is CCNE-accredited, with students responsible for securing their own clinical sites.

• Post-Master's Certificate program.
• 34 credits required.
• Hybrid online and campus format.
• About 2 years part-time.
• Eligible for ANCC certification.
• Requires master's degree in nursing.
• Minimum 1 year psychiatric experience.
• Pennsylvania RN licensure needed.
• Quarter-based calendar system.
• Financial aid eligible.

Drexel University's online Graduate Certificate in Nursing Leadership in Health Systems Management equips RNs with administrative expertise through four core courses totaling 13.5 quarter credits. The curriculum covers healthcare economics, operations management, business principles, conflict resolution, and team-building strategies. Designed for completion within one year, this CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN from an accredited institution, a 2.75 GPA, and an unrestricted RN license. No standardized entrance exams, references, or prior work experience are needed; applicants submit transcripts, a resume, and a personal statement. Earned credits can be applied toward Drexel's MSN in Nursing Leadership, making it a strategic step for career advancement.

• Online instructional delivery.
• 13.5 credits to completion.
• Quarter calendar system.
• Maximum time frame: 1 year.
• Post-baccalaureate certificate type.
• Graduate admission level.
• BSN degree required.
• 2.75 minimum GPA.
• No standardized tests.
• Official transcripts required.

Drexel University offers an online Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner, ideal for MSN-prepared nurses seeking specialized practice. This 37-credit program can be completed part-time in about 1.5 years, featuring synchronous online lectures and optional campus intensives. Coursework emphasizes reproductive and gynecologic health across the lifespan, including well-woman care, prenatal/postpartum services, and gender-related health promotion. Admission requires an MSN, a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, two professional references, and a personal statement. No standardized tests are needed. Clinical preceptorships near home, board-certified faculty, and NCC certification eligibility enhance the experience. The program is CCNE-accredited and financial aid eligible, with some state restrictions.

• Post-Master's Certificate program.
• 37 credits required.
• Online instructional delivery.
• Part-time study option.
• 1.5 years completion time.
• MSN degree prerequisite.
• 3.0 GPA minimum.
• RN licensure required.
• Two professional references.
• Personal statement needed.

Drexel University's online Post-Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares master's-prepared nurses for advanced acute care practice. This 29-credit program, completed in about one year part-time, integrates interactive e-learning with mandatory on-campus or virtual intensives. Students gain expertise in diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making for acutely ill adults and older adults. Admission requires a master's in nursing, a 3.5 GPA, Pennsylvania RN licensure, two professional references, and a personal essay under 1,000 words; some students may need 800 clinical hours. Graduates qualify for ANCC or AACN certification. The CCNE-accredited program uses a quarter-based calendar and offers gap analysis to reduce coursework for eligible applicants.

• Online delivery format.
• 29 credits total.
• One-year part-time completion.
• Mandatory on-campus intensives.
• Eligible for ANCC certification.
• Master's degree required.
• 3.5 GPA admission requirement.
• Pennsylvania RN license needed.
• Two professional references required.
• Personal essay under 1,000 words.