Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs Online in Wisconsin

After your first few years of nursing, there may come a point where you start to consider your options for advancing your career. One way that many RNs decide to do this is by becoming a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners in Wisconsin often practice independently, similarly to physicians, and specialize in specific areas such as cardiology or neurology. If you think that this career path is the right fit for you, take a look at the sections below to learn about nurse practitioner programs in Milwaukee or Green Bay or somewhere else amongst the beautiful rolling hills of Wisconsin. Jump to program listings.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

If your goal is to save money and time on your nurse practitioner education, you’re in luck — Wisconsin is home to both cheap and quick nurse practitioner programs located across the state. This is especially true if you already have some education such as a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program and you’re open to online classes.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

You may be surprised to learn that even though the role of a registered nurse is very different from a nurse practitioner, the training involved can be completed in as little as two years following a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN). This amount of time can be shortened even more if you have transferable credits and you are able to utilize online classes and summer classes.

Between the two nurse practitioner options (a Master of Science in Nursing and a Doctor of Nursing Practice), an MSN is usually the quickest as a DNP can take as much as 8 years to complete. If you’re looking to save as much time as possible in Wisconsin when getting your nurse practitioner degree, one great school to consider is The University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh which offers a 100% online program.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

If you’re hoping to save money on your nurse practitioner education (and what student isn’t) you’re probably going to want to go with an MSN degree program. Less time in school means that you’ll likely be spending less money. One of the most affordable MSN programs located in Wisconsin is offered by Concordia University which offers a tuition of $12,000 to $18,000.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the coolest things about becoming a nurse practitioner is that a lot of the graduate programs you’ll be required to take to become one offer ways to get specialized training in a variety of practice areas. This makes getting certified much easier. One example of a specialized nurse practitioner program in Wisconsin is Alverno College which offers a Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program.

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

If an MSN or DNP isn’t really your first choice, don’t fret! There are plenty of alternative nurse practitioner programs that may make more sense for your particular educational and professional background. Below is a complete list of the type of nurse practitioner programs you may see available in this state or nearby.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, most nursing students decide on Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs due to their speed, cost, and their entry requirements. They take about two years to complete. Here are some examples available in Wisconsin:

• University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh – Oshkosh, WI
• University of Wisconsin, Green Bay – Green Bay, WI

RN to NP Programs

If you’ve already gained some experience as an RN, are licensed, and have an ADN or ASN, you may be eligible to enroll in an RN to NP program, also known as an ADN to MSN or an RN to MSN program. This is a bridge program that allows you to complete your MSN in a faster amount of time without having to get a traditional BSN.

• University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh – Oshkosh, WI
• Marian University – Fond Du Lac, WI

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree an NP can obtain. These programs typically take 4-6 years to complete, though this may be higher or lower depending on the number of credits you enroll with. DNP programs located in Wisconsin:

• University of Wisconsin, Madison – Madison, WI
• University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee – Milwaukee, WI

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

If you already have an MSN or DNP and you’d like to tack on another specialization, you don’t nessecarily have to complete a whole new degree. A Post-Master's Nursing Certificate is a 1-year certificate program that allows your to do so. You can find these types of programs located at the following schools:

• Marquette University – Milwaukee, WI
• Concordia University – Mequon, WI

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 have already graduated from a bachelor’s degree program with a non-nursing major but would like to become nurse practitioners without getting another bachelor’s degree. They are longer than a traditional MSN program, but they are shorter than having to earn two degrees. Here are a few located in Wisconsin:

• Carroll University – Waukesha, WI
• University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee – Milwaukee, WI

General Admissions Requirements

You’ll likely find that most nurses practitioner programs will require the following items. Keep in mind that this may vary from program to program.

• 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

Wisconsin NP License and Certification Requirements

To qualify as a nurse practitioner in Wisconsin, candidates must fulfill several essential requirements, ensuring that they are fully prepared for the responsibilities of advanced practice nursing. The main eligibility criteria are as follows:

• Active RN License: Applicants must hold a current registered nurse (RN) license issued by the state of Wisconsin, ensuring that their license is in good standing.
• Educational Background: Candidates are required to graduate from an accredited nurse practitioner program, which typically includes both specialized coursework and clinical experience in a specific area of practice.

Once these foundational requirements are met, aspiring NPs will need to provide the appropriate documentation, including proof of RN licensure, transcripts from their nurse practitioner program, and details of their clinical hours. The application process also involves completing a formal application and paying a fee, which is usually around $132. Applicants can find more detailed guidance and application instructions through Wisconsin's official licensing website.

NPs in Wisconsin must also obtain certification in their chosen field of practice. Certification can be pursued through recognized organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Generally, applicants must possess an active RN license and have completed a graduate-level program in a specialized area of nursing. A certification exam is often required to demonstrate proficiency in the chosen specialty.

As of 2024, nurse practitioners in Wisconsin have full practice authority. This allows them to independently diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and manage patient care without the need for physician oversight. This autonomy enhances their ability to serve patients in a variety of healthcare settings. Additional resources, professional support, and continuing education options are available through the Wisconsin Nurses Association (WNA), which serves as a hub for NP advocacy and development across the state.

List of NP Programs in Wisconsin