Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Wyoming

A state with ample natural beauty, Wyoming is home to many skilled nurses. When these nurses want to expand their careers to become Nurse Practitioners (NPs), schools in Wyoming and its surrounding states are there to offer the necessary education. Whether you are in Cheyenne or another part of the state, many online and a few campus-based nurse practitioner programs offer various NP specialties. Read on to learn more about the educational pathways and concentration options available to those who wish to become NPs in Wyoming. Jump to program listings.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

It's no secret that many aspiring NPs are looking to complete their graduate-level education quickly and cheaply. Nurses in Wyoming can choose between two nurse practitioner degree types: the 2-year Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or the 3-4+ year Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

Those looking for fast completion of their NP studies may wish to pursue the MSN route. While this degree type takes two years to complete on average, online and accelerated options may shave some time off the length. DNP programs, while higher level, will take at least 3-4 years to complete, though they open the doors to research and academia NP careers. In Wyoming, the University of Wyoming offers a DNP program that can be completed in just three years, or roughly 73 credits. Those looking for other options may find them at national online schools.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

Tuition is another hot topic amongst prospective NP students. NP program costs can range widely, depending on factors such as degree level, private vs. public institution, city, and more. Budget-conscious students are encouraged to research all tuition costs and mandatory fees before settling on an NP program. Online program can offer some savings, as they eliminate commuting costs and often allow students to work their studies around employment.

For example, Western Governor's University (WGU) offers an online MSN in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty that costs just $6,850 per six-month term, with an average total length of 2.5 years. WGU's online programs are available to students in Wyoming.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

Nurse practitioner programs come in a variety of specialty concentrations that allow students to work with certain patient populations. These specialties are available at the MSN and DNP degree levels. Some common NP specialty programs available to Wyoming students include:

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

Most students are aware of the traditional MSN and DNP routes to NP practice, but there are several other pathways available to qualified students. Bridge programs and accelerated programs can help students gain the NP education level they desire quickly and efficiently. Check out all NP degree options below:

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

The Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), as discussed previously, is one of the most common NP degrees available. It requires prior completion of a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. While no MSN-level NP programs are currently available in Wyoming, there are several national online options available – such as Regis College's online MSN.

RN to NP Programs

RN to NP programs are bridge programs that help nurses complete a graduate degree in a more accelerated fashion. These usually come in the form of an ADN to MSN, or a BSN to DNP. While no Wyoming universities currently offer these programs, national online programs, such as Chamberlain University's online RN to MSN, are an option for students in the state.

DNP Nurse Practitioner Programs

The highest-level degree an NP in Wyoming can obtain is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs can take 3-4 years minimum to complete, and open doors to more than just clinical practice. The University of Wyoming offers a DNP program in two concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

While not a standalone degree, the Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing is designed to help MSN-educated nurses enter or switch to a new NP specialty area. These programs take roughly one year or less to complete, making it an affordable and convenient option for those who don't want to take on another full degree program. These certificates are offered at several national online schools.

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

There are some accelerated options for students looking to earn an MSN-level NP degree. Direct-entry MSN programs (also called Master's Entry) are available to students who have a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These intensive programs allow non-nurses to gain education and enter NP practice. While no such programs exist in Wyoming, national online options are available.

H2: General Admissions Requirements

Each school and degree level in Wyoming has its own set of admissions requirements, but by and large, students can expect the following:

• BSN from an accredited school
• Some professional nursing experience (1-2 years minimum)
• 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

Wyoming NP License and Certification Requirements

The Wyoming State Board of Nursing can issue an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) license. Eligibility requirements include:

• Graduate degree in nursing with a clinical specialty or an advanced practice registered nurse specialty
• Completion of an advanced program of study in a specialty area in an accredited nursing program, along with having taken and passed a national certification exam in the specialty nursing area

Wyoming is a state with a full scope of practice, meaning NPs can practice independently without physician oversight. For further information and resources, visit the Wyoming Nurses Association.

Certification for most of the nurse practitioner specialty areas 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.

List of NP Programs in Wyoming

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