The role of a registered nurse is rewarding on its own, but there comes a time in every nurse’s career when they may consider career options that allow them to specialize as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in higher-paying and more advanced fields. If you’re interested in becoming a nurse practitioner, there’s no reason to look beyond Iowa. This state is full of great nurse practitioner programs in cities like Iowa City or Des Moines or even in rural communities within Iowa’s beautiful heartland. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Iowa

Finding the best online nurse practitioner programs in Iowa helps students advance their careers with flexibility. At registerednursing.org, we rank these programs to guide your choice, considering hybrid and partially online options as online for convenience. Distance learning and virtual formats make education accessible while balancing work and life. These programs prepare nurses for advanced practice roles through quality coursework. Explore our detailed rankings to find a program that fits your goals. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA - Public 4-Year - uiowa.edu

Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Acute Care, Graduate Certificate (Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Acute Care is a 21-credit hybrid program for post-master's APRNs, focusing on acute care for pediatric patients. This online program combines didactic and clinical coursework over two years, requiring a 2.50 GPA and including pharmacology and diagnostic procedures. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. It prepares nurses for specialized pediatric acute care settings, with an application deadline of February 1.

  • 21 credit hours required.
  • Hybrid program format.
  • Post-master's APRN students eligible.
  • 2.50 minimum GPA required.
  • Two-year program duration.
  • Includes clinical practicum courses.
  • Pediatric acute care focus.
  • Curriculum includes pharmacology.
  • Advanced diagnostic procedures covered.
  • Multiple clinical practicum levels.

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner, Graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa offers a 26-credit Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner for post-master's APRNs seeking a second specialty. This online hybrid program emphasizes family primary care across all ages, with curriculum covering pharmacology and diagnostic procedures through three clinical practicums. No entrance exam is specified. It develops advanced clinical competence with evidence-based, person-centered approaches for expanded family practice roles.

  • 26 semester hours required
  • Hybrid program format
  • Post-master's APRN students only
  • Second specialty focus
  • Minimum 2.50 GPA required
  • Curriculum includes gap analysis
  • Pharmacology specialty course
  • Diagnostic procedures training
  • Pediatric primary care courses
  • Adult and geriatric care courses

Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid online program with flexible 3-year or 4-year plans. It prepares nurses for advanced practice in psychiatric settings, featuring a class size of 24 and a 100% certification exam pass rate. No entrance exam is mentioned. Accredited by CCNE, it focuses on leadership and clinical skills for mental health care advancement.

  • Hybrid online and on-campus delivery.
  • 3-year or 4-year plan options.
  • Class size of 24 students.
  • 100% certification exam pass rate.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
  • Application deadline February 1.
  • 100% job placement rate.
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
  • Focus on psychiatric-mental health environments.

MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's DNP in Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner is a hybrid online program designed for advanced nursing professionals. It prepares graduates for national certification exams and practice across adult and geriatric populations. No entrance exam is specified. This program provides doctoral-level knowledge and clinical expertise to address complex patient needs in an evolving healthcare landscape.

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

BSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's DNP in Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care) is a top-10 ranked hybrid online program, initially online with cohort-based learning later. It requires 720 clinical hours and offers options like a 1-year Post Graduate Certificate. No entrance exam is specified. This program prepares nurses to care for adults with acute, critical, and chronic conditions, with faculty advisor support and a focus on clinical excellence.

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

BSN to DNP - DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

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

BSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

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

BSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care) (Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

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

BSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care) (Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • DNP terminal degree program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced pediatric clinical training
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Nurse leadership development
Show 8 More Programs ˅
#2

Morningside University

Sioux City, IA - Private 4-year - morningside.edu

BSN to MSN - Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Morningside University's online Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN program prepares nurses for holistic care across all ages through a 50-credit curriculum. Students complete 750 clinical hours and two on-site residencies, gaining skills in diagnosis, treatment, and chronic health management. With competitive tuition of $655 per credit and flexible full-time or part-time options, graduates become eligible for national certification. This master's-level program does not require an entrance exam.

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

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Morningside University's online Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN track specializes in elderly healthcare through a 49-credit curriculum. Students gain advanced skills in physical exams, diagnosis, and chronic condition management, with 750 clinical hours and two on-site residencies. At $655 per credit, the program prepares for ANCC certification and does not require an entrance exam.

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

Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Morningside University's online Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate requires 35 credits at $675 per credit. The four-semester program includes 750 clinical hours and two on-site residencies, focusing on acute, chronic, and critically ill patients. Admission requires an MSN degree, with a GAP analysis customizing the course of study. This certificate prepares graduates for national certification and does not require an entrance exam.

  • 35 total credit hours.
  • $675 per credit cost.
  • Online course format.
  • Four semesters completion.
  • 750 clinical practicum hours.
  • Two on-site residencies required.
  • Post-Master's Certificate program.
  • Focus on acute care patients.
  • Prepares for national certification.
  • Admission requires MSN degree.

Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Morningside University's online Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate focuses on aging populations in primary care settings. The 35-credit program at $675 per credit includes 750 clinical hours and two on-site residencies, preparing graduates for ANCC or AANP certification. Admission requires an MSN degree, and this post-master's certificate does not require an entrance exam.

  • 35 total credit hours.
  • $675 per credit cost.
  • Online course format.
  • Four semesters completion time.
  • 750 clinical practicum hours.
  • Two on-site residencies required.
  • Post-master's certificate program.
  • Focuses on aging population care.
  • Eligible for national certification.
  • ANCC and AANP certification preparation.

MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Morningside University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult Gerontology Acute Care equips nurses with specialized expertise for acute settings. This rigorous program includes 1,000 practicum hours and emphasizes evidence-based care, leadership, and research translation. As a doctoral-level program, it does not require an entrance exam.

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

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online coursework flexibility.
  • Family Primary Care concentration.
  • BSN or MSN admission paths.
  • Rolling enrollment options.
  • Focus on evidence-based practice.
  • Prepares for advanced roles.
  • Individualized faculty instruction.
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#3

Clarke University

Dubuque, IA - Private 4-year - clarke.edu

MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Clarke University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner as a hybrid program requiring only 8 campus visits. This 81-credit program includes 1,000 clinical hours and can be completed in three years full-time. Students develop comprehensive skills in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, with no entrance exam required. The program features small class sizes, simulation lab training, and prepares graduates for diverse mental healthcare settings in this Roman Catholic-affiliated, military-friendly institution.

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

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Clarke University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program blending online learning with monthly face-to-face sessions. This 81-credit program requires 1,000 clinical hours and can be completed in 3-5 years, preparing graduates for national certification. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and ethical decision-making with no entrance exam required. Small cohort sizes ensure personalized attention in this Roman Catholic-affiliated, military-friendly institution.

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

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Clarke University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program requiring only 8 campus visits. This comprehensive 81-credit program includes 1,000 clinical hours and can be completed in 3-5 years, focusing on mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across the lifespan. No entrance exam is required for admission. Students benefit from simulation lab experiences and small class sizes in this Roman Catholic-affiliated, military-friendly institution.

  • 81 total program credits
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Only 8 campus visits
  • 1000 clinical training hours
  • Three years full-time option
  • Five years part-time available
  • Post-graduate certificate option
  • Simulation Lab experiences
  • Small class sizes (20 students)
  • Clinical rotations included
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Briar Cliff University

Sioux City, IA - Private 4-year - briarcliff.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Briar Cliff University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration is a three-year, part-time program requiring 54.5 credits and 750 clinical hours. This program prepares graduates for the ANCC certification exam with no GRE required for admission. The curriculum focuses on lifespan psychiatric care through convenient online coursework with hybrid lab components. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, 2000 hours of RN experience, and two letters of recommendation. This CCNE-accredited program includes clinical fees and offers financial aid for eligible students. Applications are accepted year-round.

  • Online part-time program.
  • 54.5 credit hours.
  • 750 clinical hours required.
  • No GRE required.
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
  • 2000 RN hours needed.
  • Two recommendation letters.
  • ANCC exam eligible.
  • CCNE accredited program.
  • Three-year duration.

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate (Psychiatric Mental Health)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Briar Cliff University's online Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares MSN-holding nurses for advanced practice roles. This 54.5-credit program requires 750 clinical hours and typically takes two years to complete. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based psychiatric care across the lifespan, covering neuroscience and therapeutic modalities. With minimal on-site requirements and clinical placements arranged near students' homes, this CCNE-accredited program requires no entrance exam. Graduates are eligible for certification exams and can pursue mental health care roles. Admission requires an MSN, 3.0 GPA, 2000 hours of RN experience, and two recommendation letters.

  • Online program format.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health concentration.
  • 54.5 total credits required.
  • 750 clinical hours minimum.
  • Two years to complete.
  • Requires MSN degree for entry.
  • Part-time study schedule.
  • Minimal on-site requirements.
  • Clinical placements near home.
  • CCNE accredited program.

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate (Adult/Gerontology Primary Care)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Briar Cliff University offers an online Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate with an Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. This 53.5-credit program prepares MSN-holding nurses for primary care roles with adult and elderly populations in two years. The curriculum includes 750 clinical hours and features online coursework with some on-campus lab days. No entrance exam is required for admission. This CCNE-accredited program requires an MSN, 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and 2000 clinical hours. Clinical preceptors are arranged, and students can transfer up to 9 credits. Applications are accepted year-round.

  • Online program format.
  • Two years to complete.
  • 53.5 total credits.
  • 750 clinical hours required.
  • Adult/Gerontology Primary Care concentration.
  • CCNE accredited.
  • $525 per credit tuition.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • MSN degree required.
  • RN licensure needed.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

Mount Mercy University

Cedar Rapids, IA - Private 4-year - mtmercy.edu

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mount Mercy University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration that prepares healthcare professionals for leadership roles through a hybrid learning model. This program requires entrance exams such as the GRE for admission and can be completed in 12-24 months with flexible scheduling. Students develop advanced clinical skills using state-of-the-art simulation labs while focusing on transformative patient care. The curriculum emphasizes leadership and professional networking, with experienced faculty guiding students through one course at a time. Graduates are equipped to provide comprehensive healthcare in diverse clinical settings.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 1-3 year completion time
  • Clinical simulation lab
  • MSN to DNP pathway
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • One course at a time
  • 3.5 GPA minimum requirement
  • Professional network building
  • Experienced practicing professors
  • Flexible 5-10 week blocks
*Data reference: IPEDS 2024, U.S. Department of Education, NCES.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Many registered nurses looking to invest in their education and become nurse practitioners are typically looking for the cheapest and quickest graduate programs to fully take advantage of their studies and resume a new role in the medical field as quickly as possible. The good news is that there are plenty of remarkably fast and affordable NP programs available in Iowa if you know where to look.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

If you have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you may only be two years away (or even less) to your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. These types of degrees are usually the fastest option when matched against longer NP programs such as Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. Check out the state’s fastest MSN programs below:

NP ProgramLengthOnline/Campus
Mount Mercy University16-17 MonthsOnline
Mercy College of Nursing2 YearsOnline
University of Iowa2.5 YearsCampus

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

If you ask any student what the most significant setback is with going to graduate school, they will almost unanimously say, “the cost of tuition.” While you’ll need to invest at least a few thousand dollars in your education, regardless of where you go, there are still plenty of affordable MSN programs located in Iowa. If you’re looking to maximize your savings, check out schools that lower their rates for in-state students! Below are some of the cheapest options for MSN programs in the state:

School NameTuition RangeEstimated Credits
Briar Cliff University$30,000 – $32,00053.5 – 56.5
Iowa Wesleyan University$30,000 – $34,00033 – 66
Mercy College of Nursing$36,000 – $40,00036

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the most appealing aspects of nurse practitioner programs is that they offer opportunities to specialize in a number of exciting fields, such as pediatrics, psychiatry, or women’s health. As you begin your search for the perfect MSN or DNP program, you will likely find that most offer at least one or two specialized curriculums for nurse practitioners. Here are a few examples in Iowa:

School NameNP SpecialtyCredits Required
Mercy College of NursingFamily Nurse Practitoner36
University of IowaClinical Nurse Leader66
Briar Cliff UniversityPsychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner53.5 – 56.5

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

Traditional MSNs may be one of the more common routes to becoming a nurse practitioner, but they are far from the only route. Depending on your credentials, licensure, and previous education, you may be able to graduate even faster and for less money than if you had enrolled in an MSN program. Here are the various types of NP programs available to you in Iowa.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

The minimum educational requirement for getting licensed as a nurse practitioner is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs take 2 – 6 years to complete and often come in a variety of specializations. Here are a few examples of MSN programs in Iowa:

RN to NP Programs

Students who have completed ADN or ASN and have a current RN license may be eligible to complete their MSN degree much faster through a bridge program referred to an RN to NP program (also known as an ADN/ASN to MSN or an RN to MSN). These programs can allow you to graduate with an MSN in four years as opposed to six years (or more). As of now, you can only find this type of program available at the University of Iowa.

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

If the time in which you graduate is not a factor in your decision, you may want to look into Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. This is the highest level of degree that a nurse practitioner can achieve, and they often unlock many highly advanced nurse practitioner positions that pay very well. On average, you can expect to be enrolled for at least six years following your BSN if you want to complete a DNP. Here are a few DNP programs located in Iowa:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

Though on their own, Post-Master's Nursing Certificates won’t allow you the credentials needed to become a nurse practitioner, you can enroll in these highly informative 1-year programs to specialize in a new area if you already have your NP license. Take a look at these Post-Master's Nursing Certificates available in Iowa:

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

Deciding to become a nurse practitioner later in life? Accelerated, direct-entry MSN and master’s entry to nursing practice programs are a bridge program that allows you to combine your BSN and MSN into one nursing program. This type of program isn’t for everyone — it is long and very intense, but for many, it is worth the time and money saved. There is currently one available in the state located at the University of Iowa.

General Admissions Requirements

If you’re ready to start applying to nurse practitioner programs, you will generally need to provide the following with your application:

  • 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

Iowa NP License and Certification Requirements

To become a nurse practitioner, applicants must gather relevant documentation that proves their ability to serve as an RN, including proof of RN licensure, official nursing graduate program academic transcripts, and details about their clinical experience. Once prepared, candidates are required to complete the application process, which includes submitting an application form and paying an application fee, generally around $80. Comprehensive instructions on how to apply for NP licensure or certification in Iowa are available on the Iowa Board of Nursing website.

Nurse practitioners in Iowa are required to be certified in their chosen specialty. Certification can be obtained through recognized bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or other national certifying agencies. In most cases, certification requires an active RN license and completion of a graduate-level nursing program that is focused on the applicant’s specialty area. Candidates will typically need to pass a national certification exam to demonstrate their competency.

As of 2024, nurse practitioners in Iowa enjoy full practice authority. This status allows them to evaluate patients, diagnose medical conditions, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications independently without the need for physician supervision. Iowa’s nurse practitioners can work in various healthcare settings, providing essential services to patients across the state. For additional resources, professional development opportunities, and support, NPs can connect with the Iowa Nurses Association (INA), which serves as a valuable resource for ongoing education and advocacy in the state.

List of NP Programs in Iowa

Jump to City:

Cedar Rapids, IA

Mount Mercy University

  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Hybrid program format
    • 1-3 year completion time
    • Clinical simulation lab
    • MSN to DNP pathway
    • Leadership focused curriculum
    • One course at a time
    • 3.5 GPA minimum requirement
    • Professional network building

Dubuque, IA

Clarke University

  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 81 total credit hours
    • Hybrid online/campus program
    • Three years full-time option
    • Five years part-time option
    • 1000 clinical hours
    • Only 8 campus visits required
    • Post-graduate certificate available
    • Small class sizes (20 students)
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

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

Iowa City, IA

University of Iowa

  • Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner, Graduate Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 26 semester hours required
    • Hybrid program format
    • Post-master's APRN students only
    • Second specialty focus
    • Minimum 2.50 GPA required
    • Curriculum includes gap analysis
    • Pharmacology specialty course
    • Diagnostic procedures training
  • Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Acute Care, Graduate Certificate

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 21 credit hours required.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • Post-master's APRN students eligible.
    • 2.50 minimum GPA required.
    • Two-year program duration.
    • Includes clinical practicum courses.
    • Pediatric acute care focus.
    • Curriculum includes pharmacology.
  • Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and on-campus delivery.
    • 3-year or 4-year plan options.
    • Class size of 24 students.
    • 100% certification exam pass rate.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
    • Application deadline February 1.
    • 100% job placement rate.
  • MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Doctoral-level nursing education
    • Hybrid program format
    • National certification exam preparation
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • First DNP program approved in 2009
  • MSN to DNP - Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Top 10 Nationally Ranked Program
    • Hybrid Learning Format
    • 720 Clinical Training Hours
    • BSN to DNP Path
    • Complex Patient Care Focus
    • Post-Graduate Certificate Option
    • Leadership Skill Development
  • MSN to DNP - DNP in Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Approved DNP Program
    • Advanced Practice Nursing Leadership
    • Primary Care Focus
    • Hybrid Program Format
    • Nationally Recognized Nursing College
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Acute Care)

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Only PNP-AC program in Iowa
    • 10 students accepted annually
    • Online and clinical hybrid format
    • DNP project requirement
    • Specialized pediatric acute care focus
  • MSN to DNP - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care)

    Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • One of nation's earliest PNP-PC programs
    • 630 total clinical hours
    • Strong clinical preceptorship
    • Pediatric-focused coursework
    • Advanced practice registered nurse training
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

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

Sioux City, IA

Briar Cliff University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

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

    • Online part-time program.
    • 54.5 credit hours.
    • 750 clinical hours required.
    • No GRE required.
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
    • 2000 RN hours needed.
    • Two recommendation letters.
    • ANCC exam eligible.
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate

    Concentration: Adult/Gerontology Primary Care - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Two years to complete.
    • 53.5 total credits.
    • 750 clinical hours required.
    • Adult/Gerontology Primary Care concentration.
    • CCNE accredited.
    • $525 per credit tuition.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Psychiatric Mental Health concentration.
    • 54.5 total credits required.
    • 750 clinical hours minimum.
    • Two years to complete.
    • Requires MSN degree for entry.
    • Part-time study schedule.
    • Minimal on-site requirements.

Morningside University

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 50 total credit hours
    • 750 clinical practicum hours
    • $655 per credit
    • Fully online program
    • 4-6 semester completion
    • Two on-site residencies
    • National certification preparation
    • Full and part-time options
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 35 total credit hours.
    • $675 per credit cost.
    • Online course format.
    • Four semesters completion.
    • 750 clinical practicum hours.
    • Two on-site residencies required.
    • Post-Master's Certificate program.
    • Focus on acute care patients.
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 35 total credit hours.
    • $675 per credit cost.
    • Online course format.
    • Four semesters completion time.
    • 750 clinical practicum hours.
    • Two on-site residencies required.
    • Post-master's certificate program.
    • Focuses on aging population care.
  • MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online doctoral program
    • Rolling semester enrollment
    • Flexible study plan
    • 1,000 practicum hours
    • Individualized faculty instruction
*IPEDS 2024 statistics, sourced from NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/