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

At RegisteredNursing.org, we understand the critical role that accessible education plays in training the next generation of nurse practitioners in Delaware. Our comprehensive rankings of the best online nurse practitioner programs highlight institutions that provide high-quality distance learning opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. These virtual programs offer incredible flexibility for working nurses seeking advanced degrees, allowing them to balance professional responsibilities with academic growth. Delaware's online nurse practitioner programs enable students to gain advanced clinical skills, specialized knowledge, and professional credentials without geographical constraints. By leveraging cutting-edge digital learning platforms, these programs ensure that students receive top-tier education comparable to traditional on-campus experiences. Our expert team has carefully evaluated each program's curriculum, faculty expertise, clinical placement support, and student outcomes to create these definitive rankings. Review our detailed ranking methodology.
#1

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 equips advanced practice nurses with comprehensive training to diagnose and treat patients across all life stages. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based healthcare, health promotion, and addressing social determinants of health. As an HBCU institution, the program provides diverse healthcare perspectives and prepares students for independent or collaborative medical care. Students develop advanced clinical skills focused on wellness and equity, with specialized training in state-specific practice requirements and comprehensive patient care approaches.

  • 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

The online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Delaware State University delivers advanced training in comprehensive mental healthcare across patient lifespans. Fully accredited by ACEN, the program focuses on holistic, evidence-based interventions addressing critical mental health needs. Students gain expertise in primary prevention, therapeutic strategies, and understanding health disparities. The curriculum prepares graduates for advanced practice roles by emphasizing sophisticated mental health management techniques and developing clinical competencies essential for professional certification and impactful psychiatric care delivery.

  • Online Master's Degree Program
  • ACEN Fully Accredited Program
  • Holistic Mental Health Focus
  • Evidence-Based Care Approach
  • Advanced Practice Preparation
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Delaware

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

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Delaware's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for Family Nurse Practitioners offers a comprehensive pathway for baccalaureate nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This flexible program emphasizes evidence-based practice and complex healthcare system navigation, preparing students for comprehensive patient care. With multiple application deadlines and competitive tuition at $848 per credit, students can complete the three-year program while maintaining professional commitments. The curriculum provides interprofessional education opportunities and advanced clinical skills training, positioning graduates to make meaningful healthcare contributions across diverse patient populations.

  • 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

The University of Delaware's fully online Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program equips experienced nurses with advanced skills for complex acute and critical care settings. Featuring 42 credit hours and 816 comprehensive practicum hours, students can complete the program in three years while maintaining full-time employment. The curriculum emphasizes pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning, with 100% clinical placement support. With a competitive $848 per credit tuition and CCNE accreditation, this program provides flexible, rigorous training for nurses seeking specialized acute care expertise.

  • 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 Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track offers a transformative hybrid master's program for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. Designed to cultivate advanced mental health practice skills, the curriculum focuses on evidence-based, interprofessional education. Students develop holistic mental health care competencies across diverse patient populations, with a competitive $848 per credit tuition through a Dean's Scholarship. The three-year program prepares nurses to address complex psychological healthcare challenges with comprehensive, patient-centered approaches.

  • 3-year program completion
  • Advanced mental health practice
  • Interprofessional education focus
  • $848 per credit tuition
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Delaware's online Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate provides specialized training for existing nurse practitioners seeking advanced clinical expertise. Designed for professionals aiming to expand their practice, this program offers over 500 clinical training hours and individualized study plans. With a competitive tuition rate of $848 per credit, students prepare for national certification exams while developing comprehensive skills in adult and older adult patient care. Requiring a minimum 3.5 master's GPA, the program ensures high-quality advanced practice preparation.

  • Post-Master's Certificate Program
  • Over 500 clinical training hours
  • Individualized study plans
  • $848 per credit tuition
  • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Minimum 3.5 master's GPA required
  • Admits students annually
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Delaware's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Pediatric Primary Care prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver exceptional children's healthcare. This innovative program combines 100% online learning with clinical placements, focusing on pediatric care, healthcare innovation, and population health improvement. With flexible completion options spanning 3-5 years and a competitive $1,069 per credit tuition, students develop expert clinical skills and scholarly expertise. The CCNE-accredited program ensures a comprehensive educational experience with a 100% board pass rate and expert faculty mentorship.

  • 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 ˅
#3

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 Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner concentration within the Master of Science in Nursing provides a robust hybrid program for registered nurses advancing their clinical expertise. Spanning 48 credit hours, this program prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care for patients from late adolescence through geriatric stages. With 600 clinical hours integrated throughout the three-year curriculum, students gain extensive hands-on experience. The program's flexible learning format combines online and face-to-face instruction, accommodating working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic standards and professional development.

  • 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 Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program offers a comprehensive 48-credit hybrid pathway for nurses expanding their primary care capabilities. Designed for completion in three years, this program emphasizes healthcare delivery across all patient life stages. Students benefit from a flexible learning approach, combining online and face-to-face coursework. The curriculum includes 600 clinical practicum hours, enabling students to develop advanced clinical skills and patient care strategies. With competitive admission standards and multiple entry points, the program provides a robust educational experience for dedicated nursing professionals seeking advanced practice opportunities.

  • 48-credit hour program
  • 3-year completion timeline
  • 600 clinical practicum hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple learning format options
  • Fall and Spring admission
  • Maximum 6 transfer credits
  • Competitive admission standards
  • Online and hybrid options

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wilmington University's Post-MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers an advanced online program targeting experienced nurses seeking specialized mental health expertise. This intensive 27-credit curriculum prepares professionals for national board certification through comprehensive training in psychiatric assessment and clinical interventions. Students complete 700 clinical hours across diverse healthcare settings, developing advanced skills in mental health management. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, social justice principles, and interprofessional collaboration, enabling graduates to deliver high-quality, holistic psychiatric care across patient populations.

  • Post-Masters Graduate Certificate
  • 700 Clinical Practice Hours
  • National Board Certification Eligible
  • 27 Total Credit Hours
  • Advanced Mental Health Specialization
  • Comprehensive Clinical Preparation
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Diverse Patient Population Training
  • Interdisciplinary Healthcare Approach

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 innovative online dual-track program combines a Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. This comprehensive 60-credit program is tailored for master's-prepared nurses seeking advanced mental health specialization. Participants gain extensive clinical skills, leadership expertise, and national certification eligibility through rigorous coursework and 700 clinical hours. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and transformative patient care strategies, preparing graduates to deliver holistic mental health interventions across diverse patient populations and healthcare settings.

  • 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 ˅
*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2024, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

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
    • 3-year completion timeline
    • 600 clinical practicum hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Online, face-to-face, hybrid formats
    • BSN degree required
    • 3.0 GPA preferred
    • Two concentration options
  • 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.