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.

2027 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Nevada

Registerednursing.org has ranked the best online nurse practitioner programs in Nevada. Online learning opens doors for working nurses who need flexibility. Programs that are hybrid or partially online also count as online, giving students more options. These formats let nurses keep their jobs while earning an advanced degree. The top programs in Nevada offer strong clinical training and support for distance learning. Whether attending classes remotely or completing coursework online, students gain the skills needed to become nurse practitioners. Choosing an online program can make a big difference in career growth and patient care. See the full ranking method at 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

The University of Nevada-Reno offers a Post Master's Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with an Acute Care concentration. This online program prepares nurses for high-acuity pediatric care from infancy to young adulthood. It includes 500-780 clinical hours arranged by the school, focusing on acute and critical health conditions. Graduates are eligible for certification and benefit from a rigorous curriculum. The program is accredited by CCNE, ensuring quality education. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing. Costs vary, and application deadlines are typically in fall and spring. This certificate suits experienced 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

The BSN to DNP with an Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) specialization at the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing prepares nurses to deliver advanced care to aging adults in acute settings. The curriculum blends online coursework with clinical placements, covering evidence-based practice, healthcare systems leadership, and policy. Students develop skills in managing complex acute conditions, leading interprofessional teams, and translating research into practice. Graduates are ready for roles such as acute care NPs in hospitals, ICUs, and specialty clinics. The program stands out for its fully online format, coordinated clinical placements, and accreditation by the CCNE. With start dates in fall and spring, it offers flexibility for working nurses seeking to advance their impact without relocating.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 7 concentration options
  • Starts fall/spring
  • Clinical placement support provided
  • Fully online nationwide access
  • Carnegie R1 research institution

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN to DNP program at the University of Nevada, Reno Orvis School of Nursing offers a specialization in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP). This fully online, nationwide program prepares nurses for advanced clinical and leadership roles. Students develop expertise in evidence-based practice, healthcare innovation, and patient-centered care for adult and older adult populations. The curriculum emphasizes translating research into practical solutions and leading healthcare teams. With clinical placements coordinated by the school, graduates are equipped to drive transformative change in healthcare systems and improve health outcomes. Accredited by CCNE, this Carnegie R1 institution provides affordable, high-quality education.

  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
  • 7 concentration options
  • Starts fall/spring
  • Fully online and nationwide
  • Clinical placement coordination provided
  • Carnegie R1 research institution
  • Affordable, high-quality education
  • BSN-to-DNP pathway for advanced practice
  • Emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership
  • Community Engaged classification

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada, Reno's Orvis School of Nursing offers a BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration. This hybrid pathway allows registered nurses to earn a terminal degree while continuing to work. The curriculum blends online coursework with clinical placements, emphasizing evidence-based practice, leadership, and healthcare innovation. FNP students gain the skills to provide primary care across the lifespan, from pediatrics to geriatrics. The program leverages the resources of a Carnegie R1 research institution, ensuring a strong foundation in research-driven care. Clinical placement coordination reduces the burden on students, letting them focus on advanced training. Graduates are prepared for roles as family nurse practitioners in diverse settings, including community health centers, private practices, and hospitals. With multiple specializations available, the program also offers flexibility for those exploring other advanced practice roles. The DNP capstone project further develops skills in translating research into practice.

  • CCNE accredited
  • 7 concentration options
  • Fully online nationwide
  • Carnegie R1 research institution
  • Clinical placement coordination provided
  • BSN-to-DNP pathway
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 Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares graduates for advanced practice nursing roles. Students can enroll part-time or full-time. The program includes mandatory on-campus sessions each semester. It meets AACN's Essentials of Master's Education in Nursing. Clinical placements are guaranteed for Nevada RN license holders in the Las Vegas area. Out-of-state students must secure approved preceptors in specific states. The curriculum focuses on health assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and patient education.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner track
  • Part-time or full-time enrollment
  • Mandatory on-campus sessions
  • Meets AACN Essentials
  • Clinical placements guaranteed in Nevada
  • Out-of-state preceptor requirements
  • Online MSN program
  • Two-day orientation on campus
  • Seven campus visits required
  • Prepares for nurse practitioner roles

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track. This online program provides advanced training for nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care. It includes mandatory on-campus sessions for hands-on skills development. The curriculum meets national standards and prepares graduates for advanced practice roles. Admissions require a valid RN license, with specific state requirements for out-of-state students. Costs and application details are available through the university's resources. The program focuses on clinical skills, research integration, and ethical practice.

  • 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

The University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for Family Nurse Practitioners. This 21-credit post-master's program prepares FNPs to manage acute and chronic psychiatric conditions. It combines online learning with mandatory on-campus sessions. The three-semester curriculum builds on primary care skills and meets national certification requirements. Clinical placements are guaranteed for Nevada-licensed students in the Las Vegas area. Out-of-state students must secure approved preceptors in specific states or relocate. The program focuses on holistic mental health treatment, ethical practice, and professional development.

  • 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

University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Post-Bachelor's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track, delivered online. This terminal practice degree prepares registered nurses for advanced clinical roles and leadership positions in healthcare. The curriculum covers evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and healthcare policy analysis, equipping graduates to provide high-quality, culturally competent care. DNP graduates can pursue careers as family nurse practitioners, nursing faculty, healthcare executives, or policy analysts. The program emphasizes serving the health needs of Nevada and beyond. With an online format and flexible scheduling, working nurses can advance their education while continuing to practice. Scholarships are available to support students in this rigorous, career-focused program.

  • 4 concentration options
  • Scholarships available
  • Available online
  • Terminal professional practice degree
  • Prepares for leadership roles in clinical practice
  • Career possibilities: nursing faculty, healthcare executives
  • Ph.D. and DNP scholarships available
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 prepares registered nurses for family nurse practitioner certification in 20 months. This hybrid program combines online coursework with three on-campus clinical intensives. Admission requires an active RN license, BSN degree from an accredited program, 3.0 GPA, resume, personal statement, and $75 application fee. The curriculum includes clinical practicum placement assistance and prepares students for AANP and ANCC national certification exams. Three start dates are available each year.

  • 20-month program duration
  • Hybrid online and on-campus format
  • Three on-campus clinical intensives
  • Three start dates per year
  • 95% graduation rate
  • Active RN license required
  • BSN degree required
  • 3.0 cumulative GPA required
  • $75 application fee
  • Clinical practicum placement assistance

Graduate Certificate - Post-MSN Graduate Certificate - FNP

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Touro University Nevada's Post-MSN Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses for advanced practice. The hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. It requires a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. Graduates are eligible for national FNP certification exams through AANP and ANCC. The program is CCNE-accredited and offers practicum placement assistance.

  • 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 ˅
*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2025.

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).

See Related Articles

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

Browse Our List of Programs

Jump to City:

Henderson, NV

Touro University Nevada

  • BSN to MSN - MSN-FNP Program

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 20-month program duration
    • Hybrid online and on-campus format
    • Three on-campus clinical intensives
    • Three start dates per year
    • 95% graduation rate
    • Active RN license required
    • BSN degree required
    • 3.0 cumulative GPA required
  • 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

    • Family Nurse Practitioner track
    • Part-time or full-time enrollment
    • Mandatory on-campus sessions
    • Meets AACN Essentials
    • Clinical placements guaranteed in Nevada
    • Out-of-state preceptor requirements
    • Online MSN program
    • Two-day orientation on campus
  • 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

    • 4 concentration options
    • Scholarships available
    • Available online
    • Terminal professional practice degree
    • Prepares for leadership roles in clinical practice
    • Career possibilities: nursing faculty, healthcare executives
    • Ph.D. and DNP scholarships available

Reno, NV

University of Nevada-Reno

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • 780 clinical hours
    • Prepares for Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Emphasis on chronic disease management
    • Health promotion and disease prevention
    • Interprofessional team collaboration
    • Clinical placements secured by Orvis School of Nursing
  • BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
    • 100% licensure pass rate
    • 780 clinical hours
    • Prepares for Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam
    • Most cohorts achieve 100% pass rate
    • Clinical hours in OSN-secured placements
    • Focus on family-centered care across lifespan
  • BSN to MSN - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Acute Care - Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time and part-time options
    • Starts fall
    • 3.0 GPA minimum
    • 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
    • Prerequisite courses required
    • Thesis or capstone option
    • Prepares for CPNP-AC
    • Statement of intent required
  • 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

    • 7 concentration options
    • Complete in 8-12 semesters to complete
    • 72 total credit hours
    • Full-time and part-time options
    • 780 clinical hours
    • Capstone required
    • 72 credits required
    • 780 specialty practicum hours
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited
    • 7 concentration options
    • Fully online and accessible nationwide
    • Clinical placements coordinated for you
    • Carnegie R1 research institution
    • Community Engaged classification
    • BSN-to-DNP pathway
    • MSN-to-DNP pathway
*Source: NCES, IPEDS 2025 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/