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

Finding the best online nurse practitioner programs in West Virginia helps students advance their careers while balancing life's demands. RegisteredNursing.org ranks these programs to guide your choice, considering both fully online and hybrid options that include distance learning. These flexible paths make quality education accessible across the state, supporting busy professionals. Virtual formats allow you to learn from anywhere, fitting studies around work and family. We evaluate each program carefully to ensure you get reliable information for your decision. For details on how we create these rankings, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

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 online Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) provides advanced practice nurses with specialized training in holistic, patient-centered mental health care. This hybrid program requires a 3.0 GPA, professional nursing license, and application through Nursing CAS, but no entrance exam is specified. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification, with coursework emphasizing integrated systems and shared decision-making for diverse clinical settings.

  • 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.
  • Letter of intent under 500 words.
  • Two professional references.

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Shepherd University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration prepares nurses for healthcare leadership through a hybrid curriculum. The 84-credit program requires 1,080 clinical hours and a 3.0 GPA, but no entrance exam is mentioned. CCNE-accredited, it focuses on evidence-based practices, health policy, and advocacy for vulnerable populations, with full-time completion in three years.

  • 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 online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is a 26-hour postdoctoral program for doctorally prepared nurses seeking advanced mental health expertise. This hybrid pathway includes 540 direct-care clinical hours and requires a 3.0 GPA and national APRN certification, with no entrance exam specified. It trains nurses in psychiatric assessment, addiction management, and psychopharmacology for lifespan care across diverse populations.

  • 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 online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration, focusing on leadership in mental healthcare. This hybrid program requires 1,080 clinical hours and a 3.0 GPA, but no entrance exam is mentioned. CCNE-accredited, it emphasizes translating research into practice, health policy, and advocacy, with full-time completion in three years.

  • 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 ˅
#2

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 in Family Nurse Practitioner is a 30-credit hour hybrid program designed for MSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced primary care roles. This online/hybrid program focuses specifically on family nurse practitioner training, requiring a 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN license, and accredited MSN for admission. The curriculum includes pathophysiology, pharmacology, and family primary care courses with clinical practicums, preparing graduates for national FNP certification exams. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this post-graduate certificate program.

  • 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
  • No January admission accepted
  • 30 credit hours plus prerequisites

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia Wesleyan College offers an online BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, spanning 73-76 credit hours. This doctoral-level program prepares advanced nursing professionals for elevated healthcare roles through evidence-based practice and clinical scholarship. Admission requires an accredited BSN, minimum 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN license, and professional nursing experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this online doctoral program, which emphasizes population health management and sophisticated primary care delivery across diverse family settings.

  • 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 program offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, totaling 79 credit hours of specialized mental healthcare training. This rigorous doctoral program prepares expert clinicians through evidence-based practice, healthcare leadership, and population health integration. Competitive admission requires an accredited BSN, unencumbered RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this online program designed for working nurses seeking advanced psychiatric mental health practice credentials.

  • 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 ˅
#3

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 with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides a comprehensive 47-credit pathway for baccalaureate-prepared nurses. This CCNE-accredited program prepares graduates for national certification through 570 clinical practice hours, blending asynchronous and synchronous online formats. Focused on primary care across the lifespan, it emphasizes evidence-based practice without requiring entrance exams like the GRE. The program offers flexible part-time or full-time enrollment, making it ideal for working nurses seeking advanced clinical skills 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

Designed for nurses with a master's degree, West Virginia University's online Post-Graduate APRN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program prepares graduates for national certification. This 19-25 credit program requires 600 clinical hours and prerequisite courses in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, and assessment. While primarily online, some on-campus sessions in Morgantown or Charleston are necessary. The program focuses on primary care across the lifespan and does not require entrance exams. Clinical placements are arranged, though travel may be needed for on-campus components.

  • 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
  • Care across lifespan
  • Clinical placements arranged

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Psychiatric Mental Health Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

West Virginia University offers an online Post-Graduate APRN Psychiatric Mental Health Certificate for licensed advanced practice nurses with a master's degree. This 21-25 credit program prepares graduates for ANCC/AANP certification exams through 540 clinical hours, personalized via gap analysis. Fully online didactic courses cover neuro-psychopharmacology, psychotherapy modalities, and lifespan management without requiring entrance exams. Clinical placements are arranged with faculty, and the program emphasizes evidence-based psychiatric care across diverse settings, featuring flexible fall, spring, and summer terms with self-paced clinical options.

  • 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.
  • Includes neuro-psychopharmacology course.
  • Psychotherapy modalities training.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

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 a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration provides an affordable, flexible pathway for registered nurses to advance their careers. This CCNE-accredited program delivers all coursework online while allowing students to complete clinical requirements in their local communities. The curriculum focuses on primary care, health promotion, and leadership development, preparing graduates for advanced practice roles. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and background check. Notably, most applicants are not required to submit GRE scores, making this program accessible for working professionals seeking to specialize in family care.

  • 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.
#5

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 Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program is offered in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with clinical, lab, and classroom instruction. This 41-credit program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles with a curriculum that includes 12 credits of core nursing knowledge and 29 credits focused on FNP training. The program emphasizes serving rural and underserved populations, providing unique clinical opportunities. Graduates are eligible to take the AANP/ANCC national certification exams. Admission is competitive with deadlines on September 15 for spring and February 15 for fall. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • 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
#6

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 offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed for working RNs seeking career advancement. This fully online program requires 42 credits and 750 clinical hours, typically completed in 5 full-time semesters. The curriculum prepares graduates to provide comprehensive patient care across all age groups and to sit for national certification exams. With spring and fall start dates, no campus residency requirements, and ACEN accreditation, this program provides a flexible pathway for BSN-prepared nurses with an active RN license and 2.50 GPA. No entrance exam is required for admission.

  • 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
*Data compiled from: IPEDS 2024 survey, NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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.