2025 Best Connecticut Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Programs

The University of Connecticut's Online Nurse Educator Graduate Certificate program is designed for RNs aiming to specialize in nursing education. This 40-credit online program focuses on developing evidence-based curricula for nursing students and healthcare professionals, offering two entry points for Post-Bachelor’s and Post-Master’s degree holders. Graduates are prepared for national certification as Academic Nurse Educators or Nursing Professional Development practitioners, with a requirement of 2,080 clinical hours as an RN. The program's flexibility allows for two courses to be applied toward a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, accredited by CCNE, and is military-friendly with a hospital on campus.

• 40-credit online program
• Prepares for national certification
• Two entry points available
• Requires 2,080 RN clinical hours
• Courses applicable to DNP degree
• Focuses on evidence-based curricula
• Online format for flexibility
• Prepares for academic and clinical settings
• Accredited by CCNE
• Designed for RNs with B.S. or M.S.

At the University of Connecticut, the Online Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Administration and Leadership equips nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. This 39-credit program, accredited by CCNE, focuses on leadership, organizational design, and problem-solving, preparing graduates for AONL certification. It offers a pathway to a DNP with two MS courses applicable towards the degree. The program boasts a high-demand career outlook with a median salary of $104,830 for Nurse Administrators, is available online, and welcomes military applicants, with rolling admissions for fall semester entry.

• 39-credit Master of Science.
• Online program format.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for AONL certification.
• Focus on leadership and management.
• Courses applicable to DNP.
• High-demand career outlook.
• Median salary $104,830.
• Rolling admissions basis.
• Fall semester entry only.

The University of Connecticut offers an Online Nursing Administration and Leadership Graduate Certificate for RNs with a BSN or higher, focusing on advanced practice nursing, leadership, and administration. This program does not require GRE scores, offers part-time or full-time online study, and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. Accredited by CCNE, it prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare settings, with rolling admissions for fall semester start. International students are eligible, with specific requirements including TOEFL or Duolingo for non-native speakers.

• Online program format
• Part-time or full-time options
• No GRE required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
• Accredited by CCNE
• For RNs with BSN or higher
• Leadership and administration focus
• Rolling admissions process
• Fall semester start only
• International students eligible

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program at the University of Connecticut is a fully online master's degree designed for RNs with at least two years of acute care experience. It prepares graduates to manage care for acutely ill adult and gerontology populations, offering flexible full or part-time options. The program includes 500 clinical practice hours and two on-campus intensive sessions, preparing students for AACN/ANCC certification. This advanced acute care training is ideal for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers, with multiple degree path options available.

• Fully online master's degree
• 500 clinical practice hours
• Two on-campus intensive sessions
• Prep for AACN/ANCC certification
• For RNs with 2+ years experience
• Multiple degree path options
• Advanced acute care training

Quinnipiac University offers a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing program specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), designed for nurses aiming to advance their expertise in mental health care. This program blends online coursework with three essential campus immersions, providing flexibility alongside hands-on learning. Graduates are equipped to diagnose, treat, and prescribe for psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, preparing them for national certification. Admission prerequisites include a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, active RN licensure, and a detailed application. The curriculum emphasizes psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and clinical practica, offering both part-time and full-time study options to accommodate working professionals.

• Online program with campus immersions
• Prepares for national certification
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• Comprehensive clinical practica
• Prescriptive authority training
• Specializes in psychiatric care
• Part-time and full-time options

Sacred Heart University offers an online Post-MSN FNP Certificate program designed for nurses seeking to specialize as Family Nurse Practitioners. This program stands out for its comprehensive 42-credit curriculum that focuses on advanced clinical skills and family healthcare, all delivered through a flexible online format. With a tuition rate of $955 per credit hour and an estimated total cost of $40,110, it provides an affordable pathway for career advancement. Notably, the university supports military personnel through benefits like the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program, making it a veteran-friendly choice. No entrance exam is required, emphasizing accessibility for working professionals.

• Online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
• 42 credit hours total
• $955 per credit hour
• Total estimated cost $40,110
• Military benefits available
• Yellow Ribbon School
• GI Bill approved
• Clinical oversight included
• Veteran-friendly program

Western Connecticut State University offers a hybrid Post-Master’s Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program designed for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This CCNE-accredited program combines online coursework with clinical practicum experiences, requiring 500+ clinical hours. Tailored for working professionals, the part-time format allows completion in up to six years. Applicants need a BSN, an RN license, and at least one year of nursing experience, with a preferred 3.0 GPA. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and prepares graduates for leadership in psychiatric mental health nursing. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for eligible candidates ready to advance their careers.

• CCNE Accredited Program
• Part-time Online/Hybrid Study
• 500+ Clinical Practicum Hours
• Multiple Advanced Practice Tracks
• Evidence-Based Research Project
• Minimum 1 Year Nursing Experience
• Six-Year Completion Window
• Advanced Role Preparation
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Preferred