Are you a registered nurse looking to try your hand at more advanced nursing roles? Do you feel stuck in a nursing position making the same wage you made when you first started out? Maybe consider getting your nurse practitioner license! Nurse practitioners are healthcare professionals who undergo specialized training and often work independently of a physician (this is true in Nevada, but may not be true in other states).

To become a nurse practitioner, you must first graduate from a nurse practitioner degree program. In the sections below, we’ll discuss what types of nurse practitioner degree programs are available and how you can find them in cities like Las Vegas or beyond. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada

RegisteredNursing.org ranks the best online nurse practitioner programs in Nevada to help students find quality options that fit their needs. Online programs offer flexibility for working nurses, making advanced education more accessible. Hybrid and partially online formats count as online programs, providing options for different learning styles. These programs use distance learning and virtual tools to deliver coursework remotely. Choosing the right program supports career growth in healthcare. For details on how we create these rankings, visit our methodology page. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/
#1

University of Nevada-Reno

Reno, NV - Public 4-Year - unr.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of Nevada-Reno's online Post Master's Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with an Acute Care concentration prepares experienced nurses for high-acuity pediatric care from infancy through young adulthood. This CCNE-accredited program requires 500-780 clinical hours arranged by the school, focusing on acute and critical health conditions in settings like pediatric ICUs and emergency departments. Graduates are eligible for certification exams and benefit from a rigorous curriculum emphasizing family-centered care, advanced assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing; no entrance exam is specified. This online program is ideal for nurses seeking advanced pediatric specialization.

  • Post-master's certificate program.
  • Acute Care concentration.
  • Online delivery format.
  • 500-780 clinical hours.
  • Clinical placements arranged.
  • Prepares for pediatric acute care.
  • Eligible for certification exam.
  • CCNE accredited.
  • Focus on high-acuity settings.
  • Rigorous curriculum.

BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology and Acute Care Specialization

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Nevada-Reno offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with an Adult Gerontology and Acute Care Specialization, blending online and campus learning. Designed for BSN holders pursuing leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, or education, this program focuses on implementing best practices and evaluating care delivery to meet Nevada's healthcare needs. It emphasizes practical clinical skills over research, preparing graduates for various professional paths. As a doctorate-level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE, though specific requirements aren't stated. This hybrid format provides flexibility for working nurses advancing their expertise.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Focus on clinical practice
  • Leadership roles preparation
  • For BSN holders
  • Emphasizes best practices

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Nevada-Reno's hybrid BSN to DNP program with an Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, and education. This program blends online and campus learning, offering full-time and part-time options to accommodate working professionals. It focuses on advanced clinical practice and implementing best practices to serve Nevada's healthcare needs. Graduates can become specialists in advanced practice roles, nursing faculty, or healthcare executives. As a doctorate-level program, it may require entrance exams such as the GRE, though specific exam requirements aren't mentioned in the provided information.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care focus
  • Leadership roles preparation
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • Advanced clinical practice emphasis

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Nevada-Reno's hybrid BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for the highest level of clinical expertise and leadership roles in clinical practice, administration, or education. This flexible program blends online and campus learning, emphasizing advanced clinical practice, best practices implementation, and care delivery evaluation to meet Nevada's and national healthcare needs. Graduates can serve as specialists, nursing faculty, or healthcare executives. As a doctorate-level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE, though specific requirements aren't detailed. The hybrid format is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Prepares for leadership roles
  • Emphasizes advanced clinical practice
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Terminal professional practice degree
  • Serves Nevada and national healthcare needs
  • Opportunities in administration and education
  • Blends online and campus learning
  • For nurses seeking highest clinical expertise
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

University of Nevada-Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV - Public 4-Year - unlv.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This hybrid program combines flexible online coursework with 7 mandatory campus visits, available in both part-time and full-time formats. It prepares nurses for advanced practice roles with comprehensive clinical skills training and guaranteed clinical placements in Nevada. The program meets AACN Master's Education Essentials and requires no entrance exam. Military-friendly and designed for ambitious professionals seeking to transform patient care through evidence-based practice.

  • Online MSN program available
  • Flexible part-time/full-time options
  • 7 mandatory campus visits
  • Advanced practice nurse preparation
  • Comprehensive clinical skills training
  • Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials
  • Clinical placements in Nevada guaranteed
  • Multiple track options available

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track at UNLV provides advanced mental health specialization. This hybrid program includes mandatory on-campus skills labs and offers both part-time and full-time enrollment options. The curriculum meets AACN essentials and prepares graduates for advanced practice roles with training in clinical skills, research integration, and ethical decision-making. Clinical placements are available in Nevada, and the program requires a valid RN license but no entrance exam.

  • Online program available.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track.
  • Mandatory on-campus sessions.
  • Part-time or full-time enrollment.
  • Requires valid RN license.
  • Clinical placements in Nevada.
  • Out-of-state student options.
  • Meets AACN essentials.
  • Advanced practice nursing focus.
  • Skills labs included.

Graduate Certificate - Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for the FNP (Psychiatric Mental Health)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

UNLV's Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for FNPs is a 21-credit post-master's hybrid program. This online certificate focuses specifically on psychiatric mental health, preparing Family Nurse Practitioners to manage acute and chronic mental health conditions. The three-semester program includes mandatory on-campus sessions and guarantees clinical placements for Nevada-licensed students. It emphasizes holistic treatment, ethical practice, and meets national certification requirements. No entrance exam is required for this specialized certificate program.

  • 21-credit post-master's certificate.
  • Three semester program length.
  • Hybrid online and on-campus format.
  • For Family Nurse Practitioners.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health concentration.
  • Mandatory orientation sessions.
  • Clinical placements in Nevada.
  • Requires valid RN license.
  • National certification eligibility.
  • Holistic mental health treatment focus.

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

UNLV's online Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice nurses for leadership roles. This DNP program is available in both post-master's and post-bachelor's tracks, focusing on transformative healthcare innovations, evidence-based practice, and clinical excellence. The online format emphasizes leadership development, interprofessional collaboration, and healthcare policy. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral program, which equips graduates to address complex healthcare challenges and improve patient outcomes.

  • Online DNP program available
  • Post-Master's and Post-Bachelor's tracks
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Advanced clinical practice preparation
  • Evidence-based healthcare approach
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Touro University Nevada

Henderson, NV - Private 4-year - tun.touro.edu

BSN to MSN - MSN-FNP Program

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Touro University Nevada's MSN-FNP Program is a hybrid 20-month online program with three on-campus clinical intensives. This CCNE-accredited program prepares registered nurses for advanced family practice through comprehensive online coursework and hands-on clinical experiences. With a 95% graduation rate and practicum placement assistance, students are well-prepared for AANP/ANCC certification exams. The program requires an active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and offers three annual start dates. No entrance exam is required for admission to this master's level program.

  • 20-month MSN-FNP program
  • Mostly online coursework
  • 3 on-campus clinical intensives
  • 95% graduation rate
  • 3 start dates per year
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Practicum placement assistance
  • Prepare for AANP/ANCC certification
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Active RN license needed

Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Graduate Certificate - FNP

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Touro University Nevada's Post-MSN Graduate Certificate - FNP is a hybrid online program designed for nurses with an MSN degree seeking FNP specialization. This CCNE-accredited program combines online coursework with clinical experiences to enhance clinical skills and evidence-based practice. Graduates are eligible for AANP/ANCC certification exams. The program requires an active RN license, 3.0 GPA, and offers practicum placement assistance. No entrance exam is required for admission to this graduate certificate program, which features three annual cohort start dates.

  • Hybrid program format.
  • Online coursework available.
  • CCNE accredited.
  • Prepares for AANP certification.
  • Prepares for ANCC certification.
  • Requires MSN degree.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • Active RN license needed.
  • Resume or CV required.
  • Personal statement needed.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Roseman University of Health Sciences

Henderson, NV - Private 4-year - roseman.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Roseman University's online Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a 23-month, fully asynchronous pathway for BSN-prepared nurses to advance to family-focused practice. This program emphasizes comprehensive care across all ages and body systems, preparing graduates for APRN certification through evidence-based curriculum and a unique Six-Point Mastery Learning Model. Students can maintain full-time employment while completing clinical hours locally, developing skills in diagnosis, treatment, prescribing, and preventive care. The program does not require an entrance exam and starts in January 2020.

  • 23-month full-time program
  • Asynchronous online format
  • Designed for BSN nurses
  • Prepares for APRN certification
  • Clinical hours in local area
  • Six-Point Mastery Learning Model
  • Comprehensive family healthcare focus
  • Potential full-time work
  • Start date January 2020
*Analysis based on: NCES IPEDS 2024 survey data.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

For many working nurses, going back to school simply isn’t an option. If you’re working 40 hours a week or more on a modest salary, you’re likely to think that you don’t have the time or money to become a nurse practitioner. Don’t give up just yet — there are actually plenty of opportunities to find low-cost and quick nurse practitioner programs in Nevada, especially if you’ve already got a nursing degree such as a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) or even an ADN or ASN.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

If you’re looking for the fastest option, most nurses decide to go with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) over a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. This is because an MSN only takes around 2 – 6 years to complete versus the minimum 6 years it typically takes for students to complete a DNP. However, you may even find that you qualify to graduate from an MSN in even less than 2 -6 years. Here are a few examples of the fastest MSN programs in the state:

NP ProgramLengthOnline/Campus
University of Nevada2 YearsOnline or Campus
Touro University20 MonthsOnline
Nevada State University5 SemestersOnline

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

The cost of college tuition has never been higher and so for many nurses working on a limited salary, it can be hard to rationalize going back to school. However, when you consider the level of salary you could be making as a nurse practitioner and how how much you could be saving by utilizing one of the more affordable Nevada MSN degree programs listed below, it’s hard to not at least look at your options.

School NameTuition RangeEstimated Credits
University of Nevada$15,000 – $20,00046
Nevada State University$8,000 – $20,00036
Touro University$15,000 – $20,00046

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

As mentioned, nurse practitioners often undergo specialized training which allows them to narrow their focus of practice in an area that they’re passionate about. This specialized training usually begins during graduate school and is followed by the certification process (see more below). The following schools offer nurse practitioner specialization in Nevada:

School NameNP SpecialtyCredits Required
University of Nevada, RenoClinical Nurse Leader48
Touro UniversityFamily Nurse Practitioner46
University of Nevada, Las VegasNurse Educator46

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 most common nurse practitioner degrees such as MSNs and DNPs, you can also find that there are plenty of alternative options that allow nursing students to graduate much faster and for less money. Here is a breakdown of the various types of nurse practitioner tracks available in Nevada.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs are usually the fastest and cheapest traditional nurse practitioner program available to students. Here are a few examples of MSN programs in Nevada:

RN to NP Programs

These types of programs are perfect for nurses who are already licensed as RNs and have an associates degree in nursing. RN to NP programs, which are also called RN to MSN programs and ADN/ASN to MSN programs, allow students to become licensed as nurse practitioners in as little as four years without ever having to enroll in a BSN program. Unfortunately, these programs currently do not exist in Nevada.

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

The highest level of education you can obtain as a nurse practitioner is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Though they can take as much as 8 years to complete, they often result in some of the most advanced nursing roles and some of the highest salaries in the healthcare field. Here are some examples in Nevada:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

Post-Master's Nursing Certificates are not technically nurse practitioner degree programs, but they are very useful for nurse practitioners who have an interest in changing or adding to their list of certifications. They also only take about a year to complete. Here are few examples of these types of programs in Nevada:

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

Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs, also called direct-entry or accelerated MSN programs, are perfect for students who decide that they want to become a nurse practitioner after they’ve already undergone a bachelor’s level education in a non-nursing subject. By graduating from these types of programs, they are able to complete their education in a much shorter amount of time. Here are a few you can find in Nevada:

General Admissions Requirements

The specific admissions requirements that you’ll need to meet will differ depending on the school you apply to, however, in general you can expect to provide:

  • 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

Nevada NP License and Certification Requirements

If you want to become a nurse practitioner in Nevada, you’ll need to become licensed. To do this, you’ll need to provide various documents, such as academic transcripts, proof of their RN licensure, and details about their clinical hours. They will also need to complete the official application form and pay an application fee, which is typically around $200. More detailed instructions and guidance on applying for NP licensure in Nevada can be found on the Nevada Board of Nursing’s website.

Nurse practitioners in Nevada are also required to obtain certification in their area of specialization. Certification can be acquired through nationally recognized organizations, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or other accrediting bodies relevant to their specialty. To be eligible for certification, applicants generally need to hold a valid RN license and have completed a graduate-level nursing program that aligns with their specialty. Certification often involves passing an exam to demonstrate expertise in the field.

Since Nevada is among the states that grant full practice authority to nurse practitioners, NPs can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications independently, without physician supervision. This autonomy allows NPs in Nevada to provide comprehensive care in a variety of healthcare settings. For additional support, resources, and professional development opportunities, NPs can join the Nevada Nurses Association (NNA), which plays a key role in advocating for the profession and offering guidance throughout an NP's career.

List of NP Programs in Nevada

Jump to City:

Henderson, NV

Roseman University of Health Sciences

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 23-month full-time program
    • Asynchronous online format
    • Designed for BSN nurses
    • Prepares for APRN certification
    • Clinical hours in local area
    • Six-Point Mastery Learning Model
    • Comprehensive family healthcare focus
    • Potential full-time work

Touro University Nevada

  • BSN to MSN - MSN-FNP Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 20-month MSN-FNP program
    • Mostly online coursework
    • 3 on-campus clinical intensives
    • 95% graduation rate
    • 3 start dates per year
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Practicum placement assistance
    • Prepare for AANP/ANCC certification
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Graduate Certificate - FNP

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Online coursework available.
    • CCNE accredited.
    • Prepares for AANP certification.
    • Prepares for ANCC certification.
    • Requires MSN degree.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
    • Active RN license needed.

Las Vegas, NV

University of Nevada-Las Vegas

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

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

    • Online MSN program available
    • Flexible part-time/full-time options
    • 7 mandatory campus visits
    • Advanced practice nurse preparation
    • Comprehensive clinical skills training
    • Meets AACN Master's Education Essentials
    • Clinical placements in Nevada guaranteed
    • Multiple track options available
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

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

    • Online program available.
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track.
    • Mandatory on-campus sessions.
    • Part-time or full-time enrollment.
    • Requires valid RN license.
    • Clinical placements in Nevada.
    • Out-of-state student options.
    • Meets AACN essentials.
  • Graduate Certificate - Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for the FNP

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

    • 21-credit post-master's certificate.
    • Three semester program length.
    • Hybrid online and on-campus format.
    • For Family Nurse Practitioners.
    • Psychiatric Mental Health concentration.
    • Mandatory orientation sessions.
    • Clinical placements in Nevada.
    • Requires valid RN license.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program available
    • Post-Master's and Post-Bachelor's tracks
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Advanced clinical practice preparation
    • Evidence-based healthcare approach

Reno, NV

University of Nevada-Reno

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Advanced primary care nursing
    • Adult and geriatric focus
    • Scientific inquiry emphasis
    • Autonomous practice preparation
    • Health promotion strategies
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Primary care across lifespan
    • Autonomous clinical practice
    • Multiple healthcare settings
    • Scientific inquiry focus
    • Advanced practice opportunities
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website

    • Comprehensive pediatric acute care training
    • 44-46 total program units
    • Clinical practicum included
    • Certification exam preparation
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Two study plan options
    • Advanced health assessment courses
    • Interprofessional collaboration focus
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • MSN and DNP degree options.
    • 780 clinical hours required.
    • OSN-secured clinical placements.
    • Post-master's certificate available.
    • Campus-based program format.
    • Psychiatric care across lifespan.
    • Assessment and diagnosis training.
    • Pharmacologic interventions included.
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Post-master's certificate option available
    • 780 clinical hours for degree programs
    • 500-780 clinical hours for certificate
    • Clinical placements secured by school
    • Campus-based program delivery
    • Prepares for acute and critical care
    • Eligible for national certification exams
    • CCNE accredited program
  • Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Post-master's certificate option available.
    • 500 clinical hours for certificate students.
    • CCNE accredited program.
    • Eligible for FNP certification exams.
    • Family-centered care across lifespan.
    • OSN-secured clinical placements.
    • Advanced health assessment coursework.
    • Pathophysiology and pharmacology included.
  • Graduate Certificate - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online Learning - Website

    • Post-master's certificate program.
    • Acute Care concentration.
    • Online delivery format.
    • 500-780 clinical hours.
    • Clinical placements arranged.
    • Prepares for pediatric acute care.
    • Eligible for certification exam.
    • CCNE accredited.
  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Post-master's certificate available.
    • 780 clinical hours for degree programs.
    • 500-780 clinical hours for certificate.
    • Campus-based program format.
    • Eligible for national certification.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Prepares for mental health care.
    • Covers lifespan patient care.
  • MSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 72 total program credits
    • 780 specialty practicum hours
    • National certification eligibility
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Interdisciplinary healthcare approach
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Terminal professional practice degree
    • Advanced clinical practice preparation
    • Multiple specialization options
    • Full-time and part-time tracks
    • Leadership and practice-focused curriculum
    • Prepares for advanced nursing roles
    • Serves Nevada and national healthcare needs
*Reference: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024 data system.