Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a nurse practitioner? Are you curious about how involved the process for becoming one is in Delaware? The answer is that it’s easier than you might think! Whether you’re located in Wilmington or Newark, Delaware is one of the best states to look for nurse practitioner programs if you’re looking to make a change in your nursing career. Below, we’ll show you how to access these specialized programs and give some tips for starting this exciting new journey. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Delaware

Looking for the best online nurse practitioner programs in Delaware? RegisteredNursing.org ranks top options to help you advance your nursing career with flexible distance learning. Online programs make education accessible for busy professionals, allowing you to balance work and studies from anywhere. We consider hybrid and partially online programs as online options, providing various virtual formats to suit different needs. Our rankings highlight programs that deliver quality education through remote methods, ensuring you get the training needed for certification. Explore our detailed list to find a program that fits your goals. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

University of Delaware

Newark, DE - Public 4-Year - udel.edu

BSN to MSN - Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Delaware's online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares baccalaureate nurses for advanced primary care roles across all life stages. This 3-year program offers flexible application deadlines and competitive tuition at $848 per credit. Students develop comprehensive patient care expertise through interprofessional education and evidence-based practice, with no entrance exam required for admission.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner track available
  • 3-year program completion
  • Multiple application deadlines
  • $848 per credit tuition
  • Multiple advanced practice tracks
  • Interprofessional education opportunities
  • Fall application deadline July 1
  • Winter application deadline October 15
  • Spring application deadline December 15
  • Summer application deadline April 1

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Delaware's online MSN in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares experienced nurses for complex patient care in acute and critical settings. This 3-year program features 42 credit hours and 816 practicum hours, with 100% online coursework and clinical placements. No entrance exam is required, and the program offers competitive tuition at $848 per credit through a Dean's Scholarship.

  • 100% Online Delivery
  • 42 Total Credit Hours
  • 816 Practicum Hours
  • $848 per Credit Tuition
  • 3-Year Completion Path
  • Advanced Clinical Training
  • 100% Clinical Placement
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Part-Time Flexible Schedule
  • Acute Care Specialty Focus

BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Delaware's hybrid MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares baccalaureate nurses for advanced mental health practice. This 3-year program combines online and in-person learning with a focus on clinical progression and care transitions. No entrance exam is required, and tuition is $886 per credit after scholarship. Students learn to manage patient care individually and in groups within complex healthcare systems.

  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track.
  • Hybrid program format.
  • Three-year completion time.
  • $886 per credit tuition.
  • Requires bachelor's in nursing.
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
  • Interprofessional education opportunities.
  • Evidence-based practice training.
  • Focus on clinical progression.
  • Care transitions emphasis.

Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner at University of Delaware prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver high-quality primary care to adults. This 2-3 year part-time program requires 24-40 credit hours and 750+ clinical hours, with 100% online coursework and clinical placement support. No entrance exam is required, but applicants need a Master of Science in Nursing with a 3.5 GPA and multi-state RN license.

  • Online program format.
  • $886 per credit tuition.
  • 750+ clinical hours required.
  • 2-3 years part-time completion.
  • 24-40 credit hours.
  • 100% clinical placement support.
  • Master's in Nursing required.
  • 3.5 minimum GPA needed.
  • Multi-state RN license required.
  • NP or CNS certification required.

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Delaware's hybrid DNP in Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals for specialized pediatric healthcare. This intensive program offers 3-5 year completion options with 100% online coursework and clinical placements. No entrance exam is required, and tuition is $1,069 per credit. Students gain advanced clinical skills to provide comprehensive care for children and improve population health outcomes.

  • 100% Online with Clinical Placements
  • Advanced Pediatric Care Focus
  • $1,069 per Credit Tuition
  • 3-5 Year Completion Options
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Practice Doctoral Degree
  • 100% Board Pass Rate
  • Comprehensive Clinical Training
  • Population Health Emphasis
  • Expert Faculty Mentorship

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family/Individual Across the Lifespan)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • 81 total credit hours
  • 1,120 clinical training hours
  • Primary care across lifespan
  • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
  • 3.0/3.5 minimum GPA requirement
  • One year RN experience required
  • CCNE accredited program

MSN to DNP - DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • 81 total credit hours
  • 1008 clinical training hours
  • Hybrid delivery model
  • Psychotherapy and medication management
  • Lifespan mental health focus
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Interview required for admission
  • Washington State approved

MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • 81 total credit hours
  • 1120 clinical training hours
  • Specialized adult/elderly care focus
  • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Delaware RN licensure required
  • One year nursing experience
  • Interdisciplinary healthcare preparation
Show 7 More Programs ˅
#2

Wilmington University

New Castle, DE - Private 4-year - wilmu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner (Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wilmington University's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner program offers an Adult/Gerontology concentration, preparing registered nurses for primary care roles from late adolescence through elderly populations. This 48-credit program requires 600 clinical hours over three years and admission requires a BSN with a minimum 2.75 GPA. The hybrid format combines online and face-to-face courses, providing flexibility for working professionals. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • 48-credit graduate nursing program
  • 600 clinical practicum hours
  • Hybrid learning format
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 3-year completion timeline
  • BSN required for admission
  • 2.75+ GPA preferred
  • Adult/Gerontology concentration
  • Primary care focus
  • Online and face-to-face courses

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Wilmington University's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing - Nurse Practitioner program with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for comprehensive primary care. This 48-credit program requires 600 clinical hours over three years, with admission requiring a BSN degree and preference for applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher. The program offers online, face-to-face, and hybrid course formats at multiple campus locations. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • 48 credit hour program
  • 600 clinical hours required
  • 3 year completion timeframe
  • BSN degree required for admission
  • 3.0 GPA preferred for admission
  • 2.75 GPA minimum considered
  • Online course delivery available
  • Face-to-face course delivery available
  • Hybrid course format available
  • Wilson Graduate Center location

Graduate Certificate - Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wilmington University's online Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares nurses for advanced mental health care through a 31-credit program requiring 750 clinical hours. Focusing on psychopharmacology, neurobiology, and therapeutic interventions across the lifespan, this program emphasizes evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. Graduates are eligible for national board certification, and the program is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in psychiatric nursing. No entrance exam is required for this online certificate program.

  • Online program format.
  • 31 credits required.
  • 750 clinical hours.
  • Prerequisite courses needed.
  • Eligible for board certification.
  • Focus on psychopharmacology.
  • Neurobiology of disorders.
  • Therapeutic modalities included.
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis.
  • Interprofessional collaboration focus.

MSN to DNP - Combined Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wilmington University's online combined Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice program offers a dual-track pathway for master's-prepared nurses. This 60-credit program requires 700 clinical hours and prepares graduates for advanced mental health care across patient lifespans with leadership expertise and national certification eligibility. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and healthcare policy. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral level program.

  • Online dual-degree program
  • 60 total credit hours
  • 700 clinical hours
  • National certification eligible
  • Master's degree required
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Leadership skill development
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Two separate applications
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Delaware State University

Dover, DE - Public 4-Year - desu.edu

BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Delaware State University's online Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based care across all life stages. With a strong focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and addressing social determinants of health, this program emphasizes holistic patient treatment and health equity. Students develop clinical skills for independent or collaborative practice, with training tailored to state-specific requirements. As a master's level program, it requires no entrance exam. This online format provides flexible education while maintaining a commitment to diverse healthcare perspectives and social justice.

  • APRN independent practice training
  • Comprehensive patient care focus
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Lifespan patient care approach
  • Health disparities emphasis
  • Social determinants study
  • State-specific practice requirements
  • Diverse healthcare perspectives

BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Delaware State University's online MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in mental healthcare across the lifespan. The curriculum emphasizes holistic, evidence-based approaches, integrating therapeutic modalities, health promotion, and management of mental health disorders. With a strong focus on diversity, equity, and social determinants of health, graduates meet educational requirements for APRN licensure in most states. This master's level program requires no entrance exam. The online format offers flexibility while addressing health disparities and preparing graduates for certification and practice in psychiatric mental health nursing.

  • Online program format.
  • Focus on holistic evidence-based care.
  • Covers lifespan mental health.
  • Integrates therapeutic modalities.
  • Emphasizes health disparities.
  • Prepares for APRN licensure.
  • Includes primary prevention.
  • Addresses social determinants.
  • Promotes diversity and equity.
  • Part of MSN nursing program.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Delaware has considerably low-cost and fast-paced nurse practitioner programs available in the state which means you don’t have to sacrifice your current nursing schedule for your future nurse practitioner career.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

Depending on whether you’re enrolled part-time or full-time, you can generally expect to complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree between 2 and 6 years, generally making it the fastest option for getting a nurse practitioner license (following a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree). The other option is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, but this can take upwards of 8 years to complete. One example of a fast MSN program in Delaware is the Online MSN offered by the University of Delaware which takes about 3 years to finish part-time.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

MSN programs, as a result of their timeliness, are usually the most affordable NP degree option as well. This of course will depend on where in Delaware you’ll be studying, the size of your prospective nursing program, and other factors such as cost of living, textbooks, and technology fees. You may also potentially save money on tuition if you have established residency in Delaware. One of the of the cheapest MSN programs in Delaware is Delaware State University which offers a tuition range of $700 – $1,400 per credit.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the most appealing aspects of nurse practitioner programs is the specialized curriculum. Enrolling in a nursing graduate program usually means that you’ll be given the opportunity to specialize in a specific practice area (or multiple practice areas) such as midwifery or pediatrics. One great specialized NP program you can find in Delaware is the Family Nurse Practitioner program offered by Wilmington University.

Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).

Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus

Beyond the traditional MSN and DNP degree programs, there are also a few alternative routes you can take to becoming a nurse practitioner based on the education or experience you already have. Below is the full list of NP degree program options and where you can find them in or near Delaware.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs are typically the most common type of traditional NP degree program. They typically take about 2 years to complete once you’ve graduated from a BSN program. Examples in Delaware include:

RN to NP Programs

If you’ve already gained some experience as an RN, are licensed, and have an ADN or ASN, you may be eligible to enroll in an RN to NP program, also known as an ADN to MSN or an RN to MSN program. This is a bridge program that allows you to complete your MSN in a faster amount of time without having to get a traditional BSN. Examples close to or in Delaware include:

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

If time and money are not a factor in your decision, you may want to look at Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. This is the highest level of degree that a nurse practitioner can obtain and having one often leads to more job security and higher pay. You can find these types of programs offered at:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

If you already have an MSN or DNP and you’d like to tack on another specialization, you don’t necessarily have to complete a whole new degree. A Post-Master's Nursing Certificate is a 1-year certificate program that allows your to do so. Examples in or near Delaware include:

Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice

If you have a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than nursing, a Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) program, also called a direct-entry or accelerated MSN program, is another great alternative. These types of programs allow you to get an MSN without having to get a BSN. You can find these programs offered at institutions such as:

General Admissions Requirements

If you’re ready to start applying, take a look at the following admissions requirements. Keep in mind that these may not be representative of your particular schools requirements:

  • BSN from an accredited school
  • Transcripts from all colleges attended
  • Minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
  • Active, unencumbered RN license
  • Essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
  • Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
  • Resume or CV

Delaware NP License and Certification Requirements

If you want to work as a nurse practitioner in Delaware, the final step is getting licensed and certified as a nurse practitioner. To complete the application for NP licensure in Delaware, candidates must submit detailed documentation, including proof of their RN license and verification of their graduation from an accredited NP program. The application process involves completing a formal application and paying a fee, which is usually in the range of $170. You can find comprehensive guidelines and application materials on Delaware's nursing board website.

Certification in the chosen specialty area is also required for NPs in Delaware. Most applicants pursue certification through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which certifies NPs in various specialties. Certification eligibility typically requires holding a valid RN license and graduating from a master's or doctoral-level nursing program in the specialty area.

In Delaware, as of 2024, nurse practitioners have full practice authority, meaning they are legally allowed to assess patients, diagnose conditions, and prescribe treatments independently without needing physician supervision. This level of autonomy enables NPs to provide a broad spectrum of healthcare services. Support, professional development opportunities, and further resources are available through organizations such as the Delaware Nurses Association (DNA), which advocates for advanced nursing professionals across the state.

List of NP Programs in Delaware

Jump to City:

Dover, DE

Delaware State University

  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • APRN independent practice training
    • Comprehensive patient care focus
    • Evidence-based curriculum
    • Lifespan patient care approach
    • Health disparities emphasis
    • Social determinants study
    • State-specific practice requirements
    • Diverse healthcare perspectives
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Focus on holistic evidence-based care.
    • Covers lifespan mental health.
    • Integrates therapeutic modalities.
    • Emphasizes health disparities.
    • Prepares for APRN licensure.
    • Includes primary prevention.
    • Addresses social determinants.

New Castle, DE

Wilmington University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 48-credit graduate nursing program
    • 600 clinical practicum hours
    • Hybrid learning format
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 3-year completion timeline
    • BSN required for admission
    • 2.75+ GPA preferred
    • Adult/Gerontology concentration
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 48 credit hour program
    • 600 clinical hours required
    • 3 year completion timeframe
    • BSN degree required for admission
    • 3.0 GPA preferred for admission
    • 2.75 GPA minimum considered
    • Online course delivery available
    • Face-to-face course delivery available
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • 31 credits required.
    • 750 clinical hours.
    • Prerequisite courses needed.
    • Eligible for board certification.
    • Focus on psychopharmacology.
    • Neurobiology of disorders.
    • Therapeutic modalities included.
  • MSN to DNP - Combined Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate and Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online dual-degree program
    • 60 total credit hours
    • 700 clinical hours
    • National certification eligible
    • Master's degree required
    • Advanced clinical training
    • Leadership skill development
    • Evidence-based curriculum

Newark, DE

University of Delaware

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Delivery
    • 42 Total Credit Hours
    • 816 Practicum Hours
    • $848 per Credit Tuition
    • 3-Year Completion Path
    • Advanced Clinical Training
    • 100% Clinical Placement
    • CCNE Accredited Program
  • BSN to MSN - Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Family Nurse Practitioner track available
    • 3-year program completion
    • Multiple application deadlines
    • $848 per credit tuition
    • Multiple advanced practice tracks
    • Interprofessional education opportunities
    • Fall application deadline July 1
    • Winter application deadline October 15
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • Three-year completion time.
    • $886 per credit tuition.
    • Requires bachelor's in nursing.
    • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
    • Interprofessional education opportunities.
    • Evidence-based practice training.
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • $886 per credit tuition.
    • 750+ clinical hours required.
    • 2-3 years part-time completion.
    • 24-40 credit hours.
    • 100% clinical placement support.
    • Master's in Nursing required.
    • 3.5 minimum GPA needed.
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Post-Master's Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Post-Master's Certificate program.
    • Adult Gerontology Acute Care focus.
    • Online delivery format.
    • 100% clinical placement support.
    • $886 per credit tuition.
    • Dean's Scholarship for all students.
    • 24-40 credit hours required.
    • 2-3 years completion time.
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 81 total credit hours
    • 1120 clinical training hours
    • Specialized adult/elderly care focus
    • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Delaware RN licensure required
    • One year nursing experience
    • Interdisciplinary healthcare preparation
  • MSN to DNP - DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 81 total credit hours
    • 1008 clinical training hours
    • Hybrid delivery model
    • Psychotherapy and medication management
    • Lifespan mental health focus
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
    • CCNE accredited program
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family/Individual Across the Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 81 total credit hours
    • 1,120 clinical training hours
    • Primary care across lifespan
    • Post-baccalaureate and post-master's options
    • 3.0/3.5 minimum GPA requirement
    • One year RN experience required
    • CCNE accredited program
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 100% Online with Clinical Placements
    • Advanced Pediatric Care Focus
    • $1,069 per Credit Tuition
    • 3-5 Year Completion Options
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Practice Doctoral Degree
    • 100% Board Pass Rate
    • Comprehensive Clinical Training
*Source data: IPEDS 2024, compiled by NCES.