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

RegisteredNursing.org is proud to showcase the best online Nurse Practitioner programs available in Iowa, helping aspiring healthcare professionals advance their careers through flexible distance learning opportunities. These virtual programs provide critical pathways for registered nurses seeking advanced education without disrupting their current work schedules. With comprehensive curriculum and cutting-edge technology, online Nurse Practitioner programs in Iowa offer students the chance to specialize in areas like family practice, pediatrics, and mental health while maintaining professional flexibility. Our expert team has carefully evaluated each program based on academic quality, clinical training opportunities, student support services, and overall educational value. These online programs represent an essential bridge for nurses wanting to expand their clinical skills and increase their professional earning potential. Learn about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

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 Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares baccalaureate-prepared nurses for advanced practice. This three-year part-time program encompasses 54.5 credits and 750 clinical hours, equipping students to diagnose, treat, and manage mental health disorders across patient lifespans. The curriculum emphasizes holistic patient care and evidence-based practice, positioning graduates as healthcare leaders. With no GRE requirement, clinical sites near student locations, and experienced veteran faculty mentors, this CCNE-accredited program offers a comprehensive pathway for nurses seeking specialized psychiatric mental health expertise.

  • 3-year part-time online program
  • 750 minimum clinical hours
  • No GRE required
  • 54.5 total graduate credits
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Clinical sites near student's location
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Experienced veteran faculty mentors

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Briar Cliff University's online Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner provides MSN-prepared nurses an advanced specialization pathway. This part-time program spans two years and requires 750 clinical hours, offering comprehensive training in mental health care. Students develop advanced skills in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions across patient lifespans. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and holistic care, preparing healthcare professionals to serve diverse populations. With no GRE requirement and competitive $525 per credit tuition, the CCNE-accredited program enables nurses to expand their professional capabilities through flexible online learning and strategic clinical experiences.

  • Online part-time graduate program
  • 750 minimum clinical hours
  • Three specialized NP tracks
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 3-year program duration
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
  • Requires prior MSN degree
  • 2,000 RN clinical hours prerequisite
  • Competitive $525/credit tuition
  • Minimal on-campus requirements

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Briar Cliff University's online Post-Graduate ARNP Certificate in Adult/Gerontology Primary Care transforms experienced nurses into specialized practitioners. This 53.5-credit program enables MSN-prepared professionals to develop advanced skills for treating adult and geriatric patient populations. Students complete 750 clinical hours across diverse healthcare settings, gaining comprehensive diagnostic and treatment expertise. The two-year, part-time curriculum provides flexible online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. With veteran faculty mentors, CCNE accreditation, and affordable $525 per credit tuition, nurses can strategically advance their careers through this comprehensive online program.

  • Online part-time graduate program
  • 750 minimum clinical hours
  • 53.5 total program credits
  • $525 per credit tuition
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Requires prior MSN degree
  • Veteran faculty mentors
  • Clinicals in diverse settings
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

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

The University of Iowa offers a specialized Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Acute Care Graduate Certificate designed for experienced Advanced Practice Registered Nurses seeking advanced pediatric acute care expertise. This hybrid online program requires 21 semester hours and maintains a minimum 2.50 GPA threshold. The post-master's certificate provides comprehensive clinical training with multiple practicums, emphasizing evidence-based pediatric acute care techniques. Students receive specialized training in advanced diagnostic procedures, clinical pharmacology, and comprehensive patient management strategies. The program uniquely determines individual coursework through personalized gap analysis, ensuring targeted professional development.

  • Post-master's APRN certificate
  • 21 semester hours total
  • Minimum 2.50 GPA required
  • Clinical and didactic courses
  • Advanced pediatric acute care focus
  • Gap analysis determines coursework
  • Multiple clinical practicums
  • Specialty pharmacology training
  • Advanced diagnostic procedures
  • Evidence-based clinical training

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner, Graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate offers advanced nursing professionals a comprehensive 26-semester-hour post-master's program. This hybrid online curriculum prepares experienced nurses to deliver inclusive healthcare across patient life stages, from infants to older adults. The program combines rigorous didactic coursework with extensive clinical practicums, focusing on evidence-based clinical training and specialized diagnostic procedures. Admission requires an existing master's nursing degree, with individualized coursework determined through gap analysis. Students develop advanced patient care skills emphasizing compassionate, comprehensive healthcare delivery.

  • 26 semester hours total
  • Post-master's APRN program
  • Minimum 2.50 GPA required
  • Comprehensive clinical practicum
  • Advanced patient care focus
  • Covers infants to older adults
  • Evidence-based clinical training
  • Specialized diagnostic procedures
  • Pharmacology specialty courses

Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate PMHNP Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Iowa's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program delivers a robust hybrid doctorate-level curriculum designed to prepare advanced nursing professionals for leadership roles in psychiatric healthcare. With a 100% certification exam pass rate and job placement, this program offers flexible learning accommodating various life stages. Students benefit from limited class sizes, comprehensive didactic and clinical experiences, and preparation for versatile healthcare roles. The curriculum focuses on advanced psychiatric practice, leading to a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and equipping graduates with exceptional clinical skills.

  • Hybrid online & on-campus delivery.
  • 3-Year/4-Year Plan of Study.
  • Class size limited to 24 students.
  • 100% certification exam pass rate.
  • 100% job placement rate.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Approved by Iowa Board of Nursing.
  • Focus on leadership in healthcare.
  • Comprehensive didactic & clinical experiences.
  • Prepares for advanced psychiatric practice.

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice Pediatric Nurse Practitioner—Primary Care program prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive pediatric healthcare. This hybrid program distinguishes itself with 630 clinical training hours, enabling students to develop critical expertise across diverse healthcare settings including rural and urban environments, school-based health centers, and outpatient specialty clinics. As one of the nation's earliest PNP-PC programs, it offers strong clinical preceptorship and pediatric-focused coursework, positioning graduates to meet growing demands in pediatric primary care.

  • 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 - Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Iowa's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals for evolving healthcare landscapes. This hybrid program equips nurses with doctoral-level knowledge and comprehensive clinical expertise across adult and geriatric populations. Graduates become eligible for national certification exams and are positioned to practice at nursing's highest level. As the first DNP program approved in 2009, it offers a robust curriculum emphasizing advanced clinical practice and preparing students to address complex patient needs effectively.

  • 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

  • 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
Show 8 More Programs ˅
#3

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's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative educational pathway for advanced practice nurses. The hybrid program uniquely combines online coursework with immersive clinical experiences, enabling students to complete their degree within 12-24 months. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum emphasizes leadership development, advanced clinical skills, and comprehensive patient care strategies. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation laboratories, one-course-at-a-time learning, and mentorship from experienced practicing professors. The program maintains a rigorous 3.5 GPA minimum requirement and provides flexible 5-10 week course blocks, making it ideal for nurses seeking to elevate their professional expertise in family healthcare practice.

  • 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
#4

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 offers a comprehensive 50-credit pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Designed to prepare students for holistic family healthcare, the program integrates 750 clinical hours and two on-site residencies. Students develop critical skills in physical examinations, illness diagnosis, and chronic health management. With flexible full-time and part-time options, competitive per-credit tuition of $655, and preparation for national certification, graduates are positioned to excel in family primary care nursing. The fully online format accommodates working healthcare professionals seeking advanced practice credentials.

  • 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

The online Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner MSN track at Morningside University empowers nurses to specialize in comprehensive elderly healthcare. This 49-credit program develops advanced clinical skills for diagnosing acute illnesses and managing chronic conditions in aging populations. With 750 clinical practicum hours and two on-site residencies, students receive intensive training preparing them for ANCC certification. Competitively priced at $655 per credit and completed in 4-6 semesters, the program offers a flexible pathway for nurses seeking specialized geriatric primary care expertise.

  • 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

This specialized post-master's online certificate in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner provides experienced nurses an advanced practice pathway. Spanning 35 credit hours with 750 clinical practicum hours, the program equips nurses to deliver expert care for acutely and critically ill patients. Students gain comprehensive training in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and clinical practice, with a focused curriculum preparing graduates for ANCC or AACN certification. Priced at $655 per credit, the program offers two onsite residencies and a four-semester completion track, ideal for nurses seeking specialized acute care expertise.

  • 35 total credit hours
  • 750 clinical practicum hours
  • $655 per credit cost
  • Fully online program
  • Two onsite residencies
  • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Post-master's certificate
  • Four semester completion
  • Advanced nursing practice
  • Acute and critical care focus

Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Morningside University's online Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate provides nurses an advanced specialization in adult and elderly patient care. This 35-credit program emphasizes comprehensive skills in advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and complex elderly care. With 750 clinical practicum hours, students develop expertise in primary care needs of aging populations. The fully online format offers national certification preparation through ANCC or AANP, positioning graduates for high-demand roles in geriatric healthcare settings. Competitive tuition and flexible learning make this an attractive option for experienced nursing professionals.

  • 35 total credit hours
  • 100% online program
  • $655 per credit
  • 750 clinical practicum hours
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Post-Master's certificate option
  • Two on-site residencies
  • Specializes in aging population care

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 prepares advanced nursing professionals to lead complex healthcare teams. This rigorous doctoral program focuses on delivering high-quality, evidence-based care for adult and geriatric patients in acute settings. With 1,000 practicum hours and individualized faculty instruction, students develop advanced clinical skills and leadership capabilities. The flexible online format with rolling semester enrollment allows working professionals to advance their careers while translating research into innovative patient-centered care strategies.

  • 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 ˅
#5

Clarke University

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

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Clarke University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides a flexible hybrid program designed for working professionals seeking advanced mental healthcare training. Spanning three years full-time or five years part-time, the program includes only 8 required campus visits and offers 1,000 clinical hours. Students develop comprehensive expertise in symptom management, psychotherapeutic treatments, and psychopharmacology. The small 20-student cohorts ensure personalized learning experiences with practicing DNP faculty. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in private practice, clinical settings, community mental health centers, and public health research.

  • 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)
  • Simulation Lab training
  • Faculty are practicing DNPs

MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Clarke University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers an advanced hybrid learning experience for nursing professionals. The 81-credit doctoral program requires only 8 campus visits and provides 1,000 clinical training hours. Students gain comprehensive skills in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, mastering psychotherapeutic techniques and psychopharmacology. The small 20-student classes feature simulation lab training and experienced faculty, positioning graduates for diverse career opportunities in clinical settings, private practice, community health centers, and research domains.

  • 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 provides a flexible hybrid pathway for advanced nursing education. The 81-credit program spans three to five years, integrating 1,000 clinical hours with monthly face-to-face sessions. Students develop comprehensive skills in evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and ethical decision-making. The program prepares nurses for national certification and advanced practice roles, emphasizing lifespan care and healthcare advocacy. Small cohorts ensure personalized attention and comprehensive professional development.

  • 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 in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers an innovative hybrid program for advanced healthcare professionals. This three-year curriculum prepares nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions in adolescents and adults. With only 8 campus visits, 1,000 clinical training hours, and a focus on psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic treatments, students gain specialized expertise. The small 20-student classes feature simulation lab experiences and personalized faculty mentorship, positioning graduates to make significant contributions to community mental health.

  • 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 3 More Programs ˅
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2024, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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/