Small but mighty, the Appalachian state of West Virginia is ripe with opportunities for nursing career advancement. The state's mountainous beauty and friendly towns, such as Charleston, make West Virginia a big draw. If you're considering becoming a nurse practitioner and reside in West Virginia, read on for information on NP specialties and degree options in the state. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in West Virginia

West Virginia's healthcare landscape continues to evolve, and online Nurse Practitioner programs are becoming increasingly crucial for expanding medical access across rural and urban areas. RegisteredNursing.org has carefully evaluated the state's top online NP programs, considering factors like academic quality, clinical training opportunities, and student support services. These distance learning programs provide working nurses with flexible pathways to advance their careers without disrupting their current professional commitments. Virtual nursing education allows professionals to enhance their skills, specialize in critical healthcare domains, and meet the growing demand for advanced practice nurses in West Virginia's healthcare system. These online programs bridge important educational gaps, enabling nurses to pursue higher credentials while maintaining their existing work and personal responsibilities. Learn more about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Marshall University

Huntington, WV - Public 4-Year - marshall.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Marshall University's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers a comprehensive 41-credit curriculum designed to cultivate advanced nursing professionals. The hybrid program blends classroom, online, laboratory, and clinical instruction, with a distinctive emphasis on rural and underserved healthcare populations. Students benefit from specialized FNP training, core nursing knowledge development, and flexible elective pathways. The program uniquely prepares graduates for national certification examinations like AANP and ANCC, offering strategic professional development opportunities. With competitive admission processes and flexible start dates in spring and fall, the program accommodates diverse student schedules and career goals in advanced nursing practice.

  • 41 total credit hours required
  • Clinical, online, lab instruction
  • Rural healthcare focus
  • AANP/ANCC exam eligibility
  • September 15 spring deadline
  • February 15 fall deadline
  • Competitive admission process
  • Three curriculum components
  • 12 credits core nursing knowledge
  • 29 credits FNP emphasis
#2

Shepherd University

Shepherdstown, WV - Public 4-Year - shepherd.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate Certificate Program (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Shepherd University's Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a comprehensive online-hybrid pathway designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized mental health training. This program uniquely prepares healthcare professionals to address complex psychiatric needs across diverse patient populations. Students develop advanced clinical skills through a rigorous curriculum emphasizing holistic patient-centered care. Graduates are positioned to sit for national certification exams through ANCC and AANP, enhancing professional credentials. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, current nursing licensure, and prerequisite coursework in statistics, research, and pharmacology, ensuring high academic and professional standards.

  • Advanced nursing practice certificate
  • FNP and PMHNP tracks
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • National certification exam preparation
  • Professional licensure mandatory
  • Clinical hours evaluation
  • Holistic patient-centered approach

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Shepherd University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an innovative online-hybrid doctoral program targeting experienced nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. This comprehensive 84-credit curriculum integrates cutting-edge clinical expertise, evidence-based practices, and healthcare policy principles. Students complete 1,080 clinical training hours, developing critical skills to address complex healthcare challenges. The program's flexible format accommodates working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Graduates emerge as transformative healthcare leaders prepared to implement meaningful practice changes, advocate for vulnerable populations, and drive systemic healthcare improvements.

  • 84 total credit program
  • Hybrid learning format
  • 1,080 clinical training hours
  • Multiple entry points
  • CCNE accredited program
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • Full-time students complete in 3 years
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Shepherd University's Post-Doctoral Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides an advanced 26-hour specialized training pathway for doctorally prepared nurses. This online-hybrid program delivers intensive mental health care training across diverse patient populations. Participants gain sophisticated skills in psychiatric assessment, comprehensive treatment strategies, addiction management, and advanced psychopharmacology. The curriculum includes 540 direct-care supervised clinical hours, ensuring practitioners develop nuanced interventional capabilities. Designed for experienced nurses seeking to expand their mental health expertise, the program requires a doctoral degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and prepares students for national APRN certification.

  • 26-hour non-degree certificate
  • 540 direct-care clinical hours
  • Doctoral degree required
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA
  • National APRN certification needed

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Shepherd University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers an advanced online-hybrid program targeting nurses aspiring to leadership roles in mental healthcare. This comprehensive three-year curriculum emphasizes translating research into practical healthcare improvements while developing critical skills in health policy and population health. Students complete 1,080 clinical training hours, gaining expertise in addressing complex mental health challenges. The program's flexible format and multiple entry points accommodate diverse professional backgrounds, preparing graduates to become sophisticated advocates for vulnerable populations and innovative mental health practitioners.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • 1,080 clinical training hours
  • Multiple entry points
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Specialized PMHNP concentration
  • 3-year full-time completion
  • Professional leadership focus
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Charleston

Charleston, WV - Private 4-year - ucwv.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Charleston's online Master of Science in Nursing offers a specialized Family Nurse Practitioner concentration tailored for working registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This comprehensive program uniquely balances academic rigor with professional flexibility, featuring 42 credit hours completed over 5 full-time semesters. Students benefit from a fully online curriculum that requires 750 clinical hours, enabling seamless integration of learning with professional responsibilities. The program strategically prepares graduates for national certification exams, with convenient spring and fall start dates. Admission requires a BSN with a minimum 2.50 GPA and an active RN license. ACEN accreditation ensures high-quality education, making it an excellent pathway for nurses advancing their family healthcare practice.

  • Online, fully flexible program
  • 5 semesters full-time option
  • 42 total credit hours
  • 750 clinical hours required
  • Spring and Fall starts
  • BSN with 2.50 GPA required
  • Active RN license needed
  • No campus residency
  • Prepares for national certification
  • ACEN accredited program
#4

West Virginia University

Morgantown, WV - Public 4-Year - wvu.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive 47-credit pathway for baccalaureate-prepared nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. Designed with flexibility, the program enables part-time and full-time enrollment through asynchronous and synchronous formats. Students complete 570 direct clinical practice hours, gaining advanced skills in primary care and lifespan healthcare. The CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and prepares graduates for national certification, positioning them for impactful roles in diverse healthcare settings.

  • Fully online 47-credit MSN program
  • Part-time and full-time enrollment
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Advanced practice FNP track
  • 570 direct clinical practice hours
  • Asynchronous and synchronous formats
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Primary care clinical focus
  • Lifespan healthcare approach
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia University's Post-Graduate APRN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program provides an online pathway for advanced nursing professionals to expand their clinical expertise. Tailored for nurses holding a master's degree or higher, this 19-25 credit program offers comprehensive training with 600 hours of supervised clinical practice. The curriculum focuses on advanced pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, and primary care skills. Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification examinations, with an emphasis on evidence-based practices and comprehensive healthcare approaches across patient lifespans.

  • Online 19-25 credit program
  • 600 hours supervised clinical practice
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Prerequisites: advanced pathophysiology
  • Primary care clinical focus
  • Comprehensive healthcare training
  • Evidence-based practice approach

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Psychiatric Mental Health Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia University's online Post-Graduate APRN Psychiatric Mental Health Certificate Program equips advanced practice registered nurses with specialized mental health care training. Spanning 21-25 credit hours, the program includes online didactic courses and personalized clinical practicum. Students develop advanced skills in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and evidence-based interventions across the lifespan. With 540 total clinical hours, graduates are prepared for national certification and positioned for roles in diverse mental health settings, including inpatient units, community clinics, and private practices.

  • 21-25 credit hour program
  • Online didactic courses
  • 540 total clinical hours
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Covers lifespan psychiatric care
  • Personalized clinical practicum
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Diverse mental health settings
  • Psychopharmacology training
  • Evidence-based interventions
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

West Virginia Wesleyan College

Buckhannon, WV - Private 4-year - wvwc.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Certificate (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

West Virginia Wesleyan College's Post-Graduate APRN Certificate offers specialized Family Nurse Practitioner training for experienced nurses seeking advanced practice credentials. Delivered through a hybrid format, this 29-35 credit hour program targets MSN graduates wanting to enhance primary healthcare expertise. Candidates must possess an accredited MSN, maintain an unencumbered RN license, and demonstrate a 3.0 GPA. The comprehensive curriculum prepares nurses to diagnose, manage complex health conditions, and promote preventative care. Graduates become eligible for national certification exams, positioning themselves for expanded professional opportunities in family healthcare settings.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty
  • 29-35 Credit Hours Program
  • Requires Existing MSN Degree
  • National Certification Eligible
  • 3.0 GPA Requirement
  • Advanced Healthcare Focus
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Comprehensive Clinical Practicums

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia Wesleyan College's online BSN to DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides a comprehensive doctoral pathway for ambitious nursing professionals. Spanning 73-76 credit hours, this rigorous online curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced clinical skills, and population health management. Students develop sophisticated primary care competencies through integrated coursework and extensive clinical practicums. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and professional nursing experience. The program cultivates advanced clinical scholarship, preparing graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse family healthcare environments.

  • Online BSN to DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • 73-76 total credit hours
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Competitive cohort admission
  • Advanced clinical practicum
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Professional leadership focus
  • Unencumbered RN license required
  • Capstone project component

BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Program (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia Wesleyan College's online BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides an advanced, comprehensive pathway for nurses specializing in mental healthcare. Comprising 79 total credit hours, this rigorous doctoral track blends cutting-edge psychiatric training with evidence-based practice and healthcare leadership principles. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum emphasizes population health, advanced clinical interventions, and doctoral-level research methodologies. Admission requires an accredited BSN, unencumbered RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA. Graduates emerge as expert clinicians prepared to address complex mental health challenges across diverse patient populations.

  • Online Psychiatric Mental Health NP
  • 79 total credit hours
  • Competitive graduate admission
  • Unencumbered RN license required
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Leadership development emphasis
  • Doctoral-level research training
  • Population health integration
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

Wheeling University

Wheeling, WV - Private 4-year - wheeling.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Wheeling University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a strategic pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The fully online program facilitates professional development while accommodating working professionals, featuring comprehensive clinical experiences completed in students' local communities. Notably, the program waives GRE requirements for most applicants and demands a 3.0 GPA, BSN degree, active RN licensure, and successful background check. Graduates receive robust training in advanced pharmacology, health promotion, and inter-professional team collaboration, preparing them for leadership roles in primary care settings. Accredited by CCNE, the program emphasizes critical thinking and systemic healthcare understanding.

  • Online program delivery.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Affordable tuition pathway.
  • Clinicals in home community.
  • BSN required for admission.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • RN licensure needed.
  • Background check required.
  • Two recommendation letters.
  • Statistics and research prerequisites.
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2024 survey data.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Nurses in West Virginia who wish to complete a cheap and quick NP program have several options in the state, with national online NP programs available as well. Assuming you've completed a minimum of a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN), you can easily find an NP program that fits your ideal timeframe and budget.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

Nurses have two degree options when it comes to an NP program: the traditional Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), and the 4+ year Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Those looking to become NPs quickly and affordably may wish to pursue the MSN route. Currently, all MSN-level NP programs in West Virginia take the standard two years minimum to complete. However, some programs may be able to be completed faster depending on the number of transferable credits you bring to the table, and whether summer courses are permitted. Students hoping to complete an MSN-level Family Nurse Practitioner degree may wish to opt for a program like West Virginia University's 46 credit-hour MSN-FNP offering.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

Tuition cost is undoubtedly at the forefront of any student's mind, especially considering NP programs can range in cost from under $20,000 to over $100,000. Those seeking an affordable pathway in West Virginia may wish to look into online NP programs, where tuition can be much less expensive, and commuting costs are eliminated. Overall, things like private vs. public institutions, the city, and the degree level of your NP program will affect how cheap (or expensive) your education will be. Check out some inexpensive NP options in West Virginia below:

School NameTuition Range (In-State)Estimated Credits
West Virginia University (WVU)$500 – $700 per credit hour44-48 credits
Marshall University$430 – $540 per credit hour42-48 credits
Wheeling University$600 – $800 per credit hour48 credits

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

NP programs come in different specialty tracks, where students can focus on one patient population or type of care. Deciding on a specialty is a big part of becoming a nurse practitioner, and these concentrated tracks are available at both the MSN and DNP level. Check out some of the NP specialties available in West Virginia programs:

School NameNP SpecialtyCredits Required
West Virginia University (WVU)Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Grad Certificate21-25 credits
Marshall UniversityFamily Nurse Practitioner (FNP) MSN42-45 credits

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

The most common route to a nurse practitioner education is through an MSN or a DNP, but did you know that there are other program types available? Depending on what education level you have already completed, you may be eligible for a bridge program or accelerated version of your degree of choice. Check out your options below.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

The two-year traditional Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) in West Virginia will teach students the knowledge and skills necessary to enter their NP specialty of choice. Online options are very common for MSN programs. Consider the following West Virginia option:

RN to NP Programs

RN to NP programs, which most commonly come in the form of an ADN to MSN, help RNs enter advanced nurse practitioner roles in an accelerated manner. They combine BSN and MSN education into one intensive program designed specifically for those who hold an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN). In West Virginia, students may opt for the following:

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

The highest degree an NP can hold is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). DNP programs in West Virginia prepare students for advanced careers, sometimes in academia or research. They are frequently offered online and can take four or more years to complete beyond an MSN (some DNP programs will accept students with a BSN). Check out this West Virginia DNP program option:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

While not a standalone degree, West Virginia Post-Master's Certificate programs allow MSN-educated nurses to enter or switch to a new nurse practitioner specialty. These programs can often be completed in a year or less, saving RNs time and money. Consider this option, located in the state:

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

Some schools offer accelerated MSN programs as well as Direct-Entry MSN programs. Direct entry, or Master's Entry to Nursing Practice programs, are eligible for those with bachelor's degrees in a non-nursing subject. These programs are rigorous and often require full-time attendance. There are several national online programs that West Virginians can consider.

General Admissions Requirements

While each specific nurse practitioner degree level will have its own set of requirements, most NP programs in West Virginia 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

West Virginia NP License and Certification Requirements

To obtain a license as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) through the West Virginia RN Board, nurses must meet the following criteria:

  • Fill out an application and submit the applicable fees
  • Have an official hard copy transcript sent directly from the graduate program
  • Have a current, active RN license

Certification for nurse practitioner specialties, such as clinical nurse leaders, nurse midwives, and neonatal nurse practitioners, can be obtained through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Applicants must have an active RN license and have completed a graduate-level nursing program in an applicable specialty. West Virginia grants nurse practitioners full practice authority, meaning they can independently evaluate and diagnose patients and prescribe medication. More information and additional resources can be found here.

List of NP Programs in West Virginia


Jump to City:

Buckhannon, WV

West Virginia Wesleyan College

  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Certificate

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

    • Post-Graduate APRN Certificate program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • 29-35 credit hours
    • Hybrid delivery format
    • Requires MSN degree for admission
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Unencumbered RN license needed
    • Competitive Fall admission only
  • MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online BSN to DNP program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • 73-76 total credit hours
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • Competitive cohort admission
    • Advanced clinical practicum
    • Evidence-based curriculum
    • Professional leadership focus

Charleston, WV

University of Charleston

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online, fully flexible program
    • 5 semesters full-time option
    • 42 total credit hours
    • 750 clinical hours required
    • Spring and Fall starts
    • BSN with 2.50 GPA required
    • Active RN license needed
    • No campus residency

Huntington, WV

Marshall University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 41 total credit hours required
    • Clinical, online, lab instruction
    • Rural healthcare focus
    • AANP/ANCC exam eligibility
    • September 15 spring deadline
    • February 15 fall deadline
    • Competitive admission process
    • Three curriculum components

Morgantown, WV

West Virginia University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online 47-credit MSN program
    • Part-time and full-time enrollment
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Advanced practice FNP track
    • 570 direct clinical practice hours
    • Asynchronous and synchronous formats
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Primary care clinical focus
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery
    • 19-25 credit hours
    • 600 clinical hours required
    • For nurses with master's degree
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Prerequisite courses needed
    • On-campus sessions required
    • Focus on primary care
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Psychiatric Mental Health Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 21-25 credit hours.
    • Fully online didactic courses.
    • 540 clinical hours required.
    • Personalized gap analysis.
    • Prepares for ANCC/AANP exams.
    • For licensed APRNs.
    • Master's degree prerequisite.
    • Covers lifespan psychiatric care.

Shepherdstown, WV

Shepherd University

  • Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate Certificate Program

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

    • Post-Graduate Certificate Program.
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • Hybrid program type.
    • Eligible for ANCC certification.
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
    • Professional nursing license needed.
    • Submit resume or CV.
    • Official transcripts required.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 84 total credit program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • 1,080 clinical training hours
    • Multiple entry points
    • CCNE accredited program
    • 3.0 minimum GPA required
    • Full-time students complete in 3 years
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 26-hour non-degree certificate
    • 540 direct-care clinical hours
    • Doctoral degree required
    • Minimum 3.00 GPA
    • National APRN certification needed
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 1,080 clinical training hours
    • Multiple entry points
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Specialized PMHNP concentration
    • 3-year full-time completion
    • Professional leadership focus
*Higher education data sourced from: IPEDS 2024, National Center for Education Statistics.