Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs Online in North Dakota
- 2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in North Dakota
- Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
- Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
- General Admissions Requirements
- North Dakota NP License and Certification Requirements
- List of NP Programs in North Dakota
North Dakota is a hidden gem of a state that is sadly overlooked in terms of healthcare careers. However, that simply means that there are more opportunities available for those special individuals who have decided to reside here. Whether you live in Fargo or Bismark, registered nurses looking for a new opportunity for upward mobility may be interested in a career as a nurse practitioner. These talented and highly trained individuals can enjoy the benefits of better pay and more specialized practice options without having to pay an arm and leg for their degree and without very much time invested. Jump to program listings.
2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in North Dakota
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND - Public 4-Year - und.edu
BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (M.S.)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers BSN-prepared nurses a flexible path to advanced practice. This hybrid program features 100% online coursework with only two campus visits, spanning 49 credit hours over eight part-time semesters. CCNE-accredited, it prepares graduates for FNP certification exams through rigorous family-focused curriculum and personalized clinical placement support. Admission deadlines are July 1 for fall and November 1 for spring. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.
- 100% online coursework
- 49 total credit hours
- 8 semesters part-time
- Fall deadline: July 1
- Spring deadline: Nov. 1
- CCNE accredited program
- Two campus visits required
- Personalized clinical placement support
- Eligible for FNP certification exams
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's mostly online Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for comprehensive healthcare of adult and older adult populations. This 47-credit curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced health assessment, and specialized illness management through three clinical practicum courses. Admission requires a BSN, current RN licensure, minimum 3.00 GPA, and preferably one year of nursing experience. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.
- Mostly online graduate nursing program
- 47 total credit hours
- Requires current RN licensure
- Minimum 3.00 GPA required
- Three clinical practicum courses
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at the University of North Dakota prepares nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across all ages. Featuring 100% online coursework with no campus visits required, the 49-credit program spans seven part-time semesters. CCNE-accredited, it includes training in psychiatric diagnoses, therapy, and medication management, making graduates eligible for ANCC certification. Admission requires a BSN, and no entrance exam is required for this master's-level program.
- 100% online coursework.
- No campus visits required.
- 49 credit hours.
- Part-time, 7 semesters.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Eligible for ANCC certification.
- Clinical placement support.
- Master of Science degree.
- Focus on psychiatric diagnoses.
- Includes therapy training.
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Post-Graduate Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate at the University of North Dakota provides certified nurse practitioners with specialized acute care training. Delivered asynchronously online with two campus visits per semester, the 22-credit program can be completed in three semesters. Designed for those holding master's or doctoral degrees, it prepares graduates for dual certification to enhance marketability in acute care settings. No entrance exam is required for this post-graduate certificate program.
- Online format.
- Three semesters to complete.
- 22 credit hours.
- Post-graduate certificate.
- Asynchronous courses.
- Two campus visits per semester.
- For certified nurse practitioners.
- Requires master's or doctoral degree.
- Prepares for acute care certification.
- Higher marketability with dual certification.
MSN to DNP - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Dakota's online Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers registered nurses an advanced pathway to specialized primary care expertise. This rigorous 83-credit program requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate nursing GPA and at least one year of RN experience. It features advanced coursework in pharmacology, health promotion, and evidence-based research, complemented by extensive clinical practicums. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral-level program.
- 83 total credit program
- Minimum 3.0 nursing GPA
- One year RN experience required
- Advanced clinical practicums
- Leadership and research focus
- Multiple clinical specialty courses
- Comprehensive health assessment training
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
- 100% Online Doctoral Program
- 85 Total Credit Hours
- 8-11 Semester Completion
- No Campus Visits Required
- Clinical Placement Support
- CCNE Accredited Program
- National Certification Eligible
- 40% Job Growth Projection
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - Private 4-year - umary.edu
MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Mary's online BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a hybrid format with online coursework complemented by on-campus institutes. This 2.7-year program requires no entrance exam and prepares nurses for advanced clinical leadership through evidence-based practice and interprofessional care. With a 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate and CCNE accreditation, the program emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and Benedictine values at $685 per credit.
- 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate
- Online with campus institutes
- 2.7 year program length
- $685 per credit tuition
- CCNE accredited program
- Customizable concentration options
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Multiple career path opportunities
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing specifically on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, this online BSN to DNP program at University of Mary combines digital learning with campus institutes over 2.7 years. No entrance exam is required for this CCNE-accredited pathway that develops clinical leadership skills in health promotion and disease management. The program boasts a 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate, serves military personnel, integrates Benedictine values, and costs $685 per credit.
- 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate
- 2.7 year program length
- Online with campus institutes
- $685 per credit tuition
- CCNE Accredited program
- Serves active/veteran military
- Benedictine values integration
- Multiple career path options
- Optional concentration sequences
North Dakota State University
Fargo, ND - Public 4-Year - ndsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Dakota State University's hybrid Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certificate program is designed for Family Nurse Practitioner graduates seeking specialization. This online-accessible program requires 25 credits and prepares students for the Acute Care NP exam through distance learning combined with clinical experiences. Focusing on advanced therapeutics, diagnostics, and management of adult-gerontology patients, it offers flexibility for working professionals. Admission requires a graduate degree in nursing, and no entrance exam is specified. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical training, making it ideal for nurses advancing their careers in acute care settings.
- Hybrid program format.
- Prepares for Acute Care NP exam.
- 25 total credits required.
- Includes distance learning courses.
- Clinical experience provided.
- Focus on adult-gerontology care.
- Advanced therapeutics and diagnostics.
- For Family Nurse Practitioner graduates.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Graduate degree in nursing required.
Mayville State University
Mayville, ND - Public 4-Year - mayvillestate.edu
RN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Mayville State University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a 37-credit program designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This CCNE-accredited program requires a BSN and RN license for admission, with no entrance exam specified. The curriculum integrates family-focused care with leadership development, evidence-based practice, and health informatics, offering flexibility for working professionals. Competitive tuition and financial aid options support accessibility, preparing graduates for doctoral studies or clinical advancement in family healthcare settings.
- Online MSN program.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- 37 credits required.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Flexible for working nurses.
- BSN and RN license needed.
- Competitive tuition costs.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on leadership skills.
- Evidence-based practice emphasis.
Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
Regardless of which required degree you want to pursue, it goes without saying that you will likely want to save money and time if at all possible. If you’ve flipped through the various types of MSN programs available in North Dakota, you’ll likely see that there are many cheap and quick nurse practitioner programs located right in your area.
What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?
To become a nurse practitioner in North Dakota, you’ll need either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The faster of these two options is of course an MSN, which usually lasts 2 years, or even less if you’re able to transfer a significant number of credits and you have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) already. Mayville State University offers an MSN program that can be completed in as little as 21 Months.
What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?
If you’ve already undergone a nursing program, you know that they can get pretty pricey especially once you tally up the hidden costs. If you’re going back to school, you’ll likely want to save as much money as possible. If you’re looking for a cheap option in North Dakota, check out The University of North Dakota’s MSN program which only costs between $20,000 and $40,000 for the entire program.
Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
As mentioned, future nurse practitioners can look forward to a variety of specialized curriculums. Nearly every nurse practitioner program, whether it’s an MSN, DNP, or even a post-grad certificate (read more below), offers many options for nurse practitioners to specialize in an exciting field that interests them. If you’re interested in a particularly high-paying NP specialty, the University of North Dakota offers a Nurse Anesthesia DNP.
Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).
Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
Beyond the traditional programs like MSN and DNP programs, there are also many other types of accelerated and bridge programs that you may be interested in depending on your professional background and the level of degree and experience you already have.
MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, as we’ve discussed, are usually the most common option for nurse practitioners as it’s usually the fastest and cheapest option available to nurses who are already working in the field. Here are a few examples located in North Dakota:
- Mayville State University – Mayville, ND
- University of North Dakota – Grand Forks, ND
RN to NP Programs
RN to NP programs is an umbrella term that typically refers to ADN to MSNs, in which RNs who hold an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) complete accelerated BSN and MSN-level nurse practitioner coursework.As of now, RN to MSN programs do not exist in North Dakota, but you can find them in Minnesota at Minnesota State University, Moorhead.
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 North Dakota:
- University of North Dakota – Grand Forks, ND
- North Dakota State University – Fargo, ND
Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs
A Post-Master's Nursing Certificate is designed for MSN-educated nurses who want to enter or switch to a new NP specialty. While not a degree in and of itself, they’re a shorter and often more affordable way for eligible nurses to gain NP training, typically completed in a year or less. North Dakota examples include:
- Mayville State University – Mayville, ND
- University of North Dakota – Grand Forks, ND
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.
- North Dakota State University – Fargo, ND
- University of Jamestown – Fargo, ND
General Admissions Requirements
While each specific nurse practitioner degree level will have its own set of requirements, most NP programs will require the following to be eligible for admission:
- 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
North Dakota NP License and Certification Requirements
The two main requirements for getting licensed and certified as a nurse practitioner is having an RN license and a graduate degree in nursing. Once these prerequisites are met, applicants are required to submit their application along with supporting documentation, such as transcripts and proof of clinical hours, and pay a licensure fee that is typically around $150. Detailed guidance on how to apply for NP licensure in North Dakota is provided on the state’s nursing board website.
Additionally, certification is required for NPs in most specialty areas. Certification is available through recognized bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). To be eligible for certification, applicants usually need to complete a graduate-level program in their specialty and pass a certification exam that validates their expertise.
In North Dakota, nurse practitioners have full practice authority, meaning they can independently assess, diagnose, and manage patient care, including prescribing medications, without the need for physician supervision. This authority allows NPs to serve patients in a variety of healthcare settings throughout the state. For ongoing professional development and additional support, NPs can access resources through the North Dakota Nurses Association (NDNA).
List of NP Programs in North Dakota
Bismarck, ND
University of Mary
- MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% 2024 FNP exam pass rate
- Online with campus institutes
- 2.7 year program length
- $685 per credit tuition
- CCNE accredited program
- Customizable concentration options
- Advanced clinical leadership focus
- Multiple career path opportunities
Fargo, ND
North Dakota State University
- BSN to MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 25-credit post-graduate certificate
- Hybrid distance learning format
- Prepares for certification exams
- For FNP program graduates
- Advanced clinical training
- Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Prepares for Acute Care NP exam.
- 25 total credits required.
- Includes distance learning courses.
- Clinical experience provided.
- Focus on adult-gerontology care.
- Advanced therapeutics and diagnostics.
- For Family Nurse Practitioner graduates.
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus DNP program
- 100% FNP certification rate
- Face-to-face instruction
- CCNE accredited program
- Faculty-secured clinical placements
- Synchronous class options
- Evidence-based curriculum approach
Grand Forks, ND
University of North Dakota
- BSN to MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner (M.S.)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% online coursework
- 49 total credit hours
- 8 semesters part-time
- Fall deadline: July 1
- Spring deadline: Nov. 1
- CCNE accredited program
- Two campus visits required
- Personalized clinical placement support
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Mostly online graduate nursing program
- 47 total credit hours
- Requires current RN licensure
- Minimum 3.00 GPA required
- Three clinical practicum courses
- BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online coursework.
- No campus visits required.
- 49 credit hours.
- Part-time, 7 semesters.
- Accredited by CCNE.
- Eligible for ANCC certification.
- Clinical placement support.
- Master of Science degree.
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Online format.
- Three semesters to complete.
- 22 credit hours.
- Post-graduate certificate.
- Asynchronous courses.
- Two campus visits per semester.
- For certified nurse practitioners.
- Requires master's or doctoral degree.
- MSN to DNP - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- 83 total credit program
- Minimum 3.0 nursing GPA
- One year RN experience required
- Advanced clinical practicums
- Leadership and research focus
- Multiple clinical specialty courses
- Comprehensive health assessment training
- MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Doctoral Program
- 85 Total Credit Hours
- 8-11 Semester Completion
- No Campus Visits Required
- Clinical Placement Support
- CCNE Accredited Program
- National Certification Eligible
- 40% Job Growth Projection