Best Post-Master’s Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Programs – 2025

Northeastern University offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Graduate Certificate program designed for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses with a master's degree. This program focuses on expanding clinical expertise across patient lifespans, preparing nurses for national FNP certification. The curriculum, requiring 19-29 semester hours and a minimum 3.0 GPA, is tailored for nurses from various specialties, enabling them to provide healthcare in diverse settings. No entrance exam is required for this online-friendly hybrid program, which emphasizes comprehensive clinical training and life-span healthcare.

• Advanced Practice RN Pathway
• 19-29 Total Semester Hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
• Multiple Specialty Entry Options
• National Certification Preparation
• Comprehensive Clinical Training
• Life-Span Healthcare Focus
• Diverse Clinical Settings

Tailored for licensed pediatric nurse practitioners, Northeastern University's hybrid FNP Graduate Certificate program offers a pathway to national FNP certification. This program, requiring 19-29 semester hours and a minimum 3.0 GPA, focuses on comprehensive family healthcare, including adult and pediatric patient care, pharmacology, and women's health. Designed for advanced practice nurses, it prepares them for holistic care across diverse settings. The hybrid format combines online and in-person learning, with no entrance exam required, making it accessible for working professionals.

• Hybrid program delivery
• 19-29 total semester hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• For licensed pediatric nurses
• National FNP certification preparation

Northeastern University's hybrid FNP Graduate Certificate program is specifically designed for licensed nurse midwives seeking to expand their clinical expertise as Family Nurse Practitioners. This program, requiring 19-29 semester hours and a minimum 3.0 GPA, offers specialized coursework in pharmacology, family care, and women's healthcare. The hybrid learning format supports advanced practice nurses in providing comprehensive healthcare across all life stages. No entrance exam is required, facilitating a seamless transition for experienced nurses into this advanced certification program.

• Hybrid learning format
• 19-29 semester hours
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Advanced Practice Nurse focused
• Multiple specialized course options

Rutgers University-Newark's hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate program is designed for advanced practice nurses aiming to broaden their expertise without a specific concentration. This program stands out for its focus on evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and addressing health disparities. It offers a flexible learning environment for master's and doctoral-level nurses to enhance their clinical skills and leadership abilities. Notably, the program is military-friendly and emphasizes cultural competency and person-centered care. While it's a hybrid program, combining online and in-person learning, it does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for busy professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing.

• Multiple specialty certification options
• For master's and doctoral nurses
• Evidence-based advanced practice focus
• Interprofessional team collaboration
• Health equity and disparities reduction
• Advanced clinical skill development
• Person-centered care approach
• Cultural competency emphasis

The Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care Post-Master's Certificate at Rutgers University-Newark is a hybrid program tailored for nurses specializing in emergency medical settings. This program focuses on developing advanced clinical competencies and evidence-based practices specific to emergency care. It's ideal for experienced nurses looking to enhance their skills in high-intensity environments. The hybrid format offers flexibility for working professionals, and the program is military-friendly. Unlike many advanced programs, it does not require an entrance exam, facilitating easier access for qualified candidates aiming to specialize in emergency care nursing.

• Hybrid program format
• Specialized Emergency Care focus
• Advanced nursing competencies
• Post-Master's Certificate option
• Evidence-based clinical training

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online Post-Graduate Certificate Program for Family Nurse Practitioners, tailored for MSN or DNP-prepared APRNs aiming to specialize in a new population area. This flexible program, available both online and in-person, is designed to accommodate working professionals, focusing on advanced practice registered nursing. It prepares graduates for national certification exams and practice approval in North Carolina, emphasizing practical skills for immediate healthcare application. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for nurses seeking career expansion or role change. The curriculum is structured to meet the needs of those looking to enhance their expertise in family nurse practitioning.

• Online and In-Person options.
• For MSN or DNP-prepared APRNs.
• Focus on new population area.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Eligible for NC practice approval.
• Designed for career expansion.
• Ideal for role change.
• Emphasizes practical skills.
• Curriculum for working professionals.
• Immediate healthcare field application.

Purdue University-Main Campus offers a hybrid Post-Master's Certificate in Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner, tailored for nurses holding a master's degree seeking to specialize further. This program stands out for its focus on advanced clinical training, requiring 10-16 credit hours and 630-645 clinical hours, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and specialized roles in healthcare. With a military-friendly approach, Purdue provides flexibility in credit requirements, catering to the needs of advanced nursing professionals. The program's hybrid format combines online coursework with practical clinical experiences, offering a balanced approach to advanced nursing education without the need for an entrance exam.

• Post-Masters Nursing Certificates
• Three Specialized Practice Areas
• Minimum 10-16 Credit Hours
• 630-645 Clinical Training Hours
• For Accredited MSN Graduates
• Flexible Credit Requirements
• Preparation for Certification
• Advanced Nursing Specialization

Florida State University's online Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program is tailored for registered nurses holding a master's degree, aiming to specialize in family healthcare. This CCNE-accredited program emphasizes a multi-theoretical learning model, combining online coursework with synchronous classes and 585 clinical hours under preceptor guidance. Focused on advanced practice, it covers essential graduate-level courses in health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for busy professionals. Ideal for those looking to enhance their clinical skills in family medicine, this program is also military-friendly, offering flexibility for service members and veterans.

• Online certificate program
• Master's degree prerequisite
• 585 clinical hours required
• Synchronous online classes
• Advanced practice focused
• Multi-theoretical learning model
• Requires prerequisite graduate courses
• CCNE accredited program
• Preceptor-guided clinical experience

Duke University's Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program stands out for its hybrid format, blending online coursework with on-campus intensives, ideal for working professionals. Recognized as the #1 Master's Nurse Practitioner Program by U.S. News & World Report, it focuses on comprehensive primary care across all age groups, with an emphasis on health equity, policy, and leadership. The program allows students to complete clinicals near home and offers optional specialty concentrations in areas like cardiology and oncology. No entrance exam is required for admission. This program is designed to prepare graduates for high-demand roles in healthcare, with the potential to earn significant salaries in the field.

• Online distance-based MSN program
• #1 Master's Nurse Practitioner Program
• Complete clinicals near home
• Optional specialty concentrations
• Global clinical network available
• High-fidelity simulation experiences
• Under three years to graduate
• Comprehensive primary care focus
• Nurse-led care model emphasis
• Holistic admissions approach

The University of Virginia-Main Campus offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program designed for advanced nursing professionals aiming to become primary care providers. This program emphasizes comprehensive skills development for healthcare delivery across patient lifespans, particularly in family and individual care within diverse settings, including rural and underserved areas. With 23 credit hours and 616 clinical training hours, students gain hands-on experience in child health, women's care, and specialized practicums. The curriculum prepares graduates for ANCC/AANP certification exams, focusing on advanced clinical competencies. Notably, this program is military-friendly and benefits from an on-campus hospital, enhancing practical learning opportunities without mentioning specific entrance exams.

• 23 total credit hours
• 616 clinical training hours
• Prepares for ANCC/AANP exams
• Covers child and family health
• Multiple clinical practicums
• Primary care provider focus
• Rural healthcare preparation
• Comprehensive practitioner training

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program tailored for nurses with a master's degree seeking to specialize further. This program stands out for its focus on advanced clinical skills and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates for high-quality healthcare delivery. With a requirement of 840 hours of direct patient care and mandatory on-site clinical sessions, students gain hands-on experience. The curriculum is competency-based, emphasizing critical thinking and holistic patient care. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for qualified candidates. It's an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their expertise in family nursing practice through a flexible, yet rigorous online and in-person format.

• 840 hours direct patient care
• Four specialty certificate options
• Master's degree required
• State licensure prerequisites
• Mandatory clinical on-site sessions
• Advanced clinical skills training
• Interdisciplinary collaboration focus
• High-fidelity simulation center
• Holistic admissions process
• Competency-based curriculum

The University of Arizona offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program tailored for registered nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing aiming to specialize in family healthcare. This part-time program spans four semesters, blending online coursework with practical campus experiences to equip nurses with advanced clinical skills. It requires 38 units of clinical study, including 810 practicum hours, focusing on pharmacology, health assessment, and primary care management. Graduates are prepared to sit for the national FNP certification exam. The program costs $1,053 per credit and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in nursing.

• Part-time, four-semester program
• 31 total credits required
• $1,053 per credit cost
• Requires MSN degree
• 810 clinical practicum hours
• Campus and online learning
• Prepares for national certification
• Advanced pharmacology focus
• Comprehensive health assessment training

New Mexico State University-Main Campus offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate designed for certified nurse practitioners aiming to specialize further. This 18-credit program focuses on enhancing skills in health assessment, pathophysiology, and clinical management, tailored for family health across all ages. Requiring 500 clinical hours, it prepares graduates for the national Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam. The program is entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible for eligible candidates seeking to expand their clinical expertise and advance in primary care settings.

• 18 total credit hours
• 500 clinical hours required
• Online post-graduate certificate
• For certified nurse practitioners
• Prepares for national certification exam
• Focuses on family health across lifespan
• Advanced health assessment training

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a hybrid Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program, designed for nurses seeking to specialize in family healthcare. This 18-credit hour program equips students with the skills to provide primary care across all ages, focusing on evidence-based practices and leadership. The curriculum includes advanced pharmacology, practice techniques, and a synthesis practicum, preparing graduates for ANCC or AANP certification exams. Notably, the program is military-friendly and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of nursing professionals. It's a blend of online coursework and practical experience, eligible for students in all US states and territories.

• 18 total credit hours
• Meets national certification requirements
• Covers pharmacology across life span
• Primary care family focus
• Advanced nursing practice practicum
• Eligible in all US states/territories

The University at Buffalo offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner Advanced Certificate program tailored for licensed nurse practitioners aiming to specialize further in family care. This program stands out with its synchronous online learning format, ensuring interactive and engaging education. It requires a master's degree in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA, active RN and NP licenses, and national certification for admission. The curriculum, priced at $470 per credit hour, spans 37-52 credit hours and includes 750 unique clinical hours, focusing on advanced clinical skills and population health. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for qualified candidates seeking to enhance their expertise in family nurse practice.

• Synchronous online format
• $470 per credit hour
• 37-52 total credit hours
• Part-time completion option
• Master's degree prerequisite
• 750 unique clinical hours
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• 3.0 minimum MS GPA
• Active RN and NP licenses required
• National certification needed

The University of San Francisco's hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program is tailored for doctoral-prepared registered nurses aiming to specialize in family care. This rigorous program emphasizes health promotion and disease prevention, equipping graduates with the skills to serve diverse populations. With a requirement of 500 clinical hours and a completion time of approximately one year, it's designed for efficiency without sacrificing depth. A 3.0 GPA is recommended for applicants, who must hold a DNP or PhD and an active RN license. The hybrid format blends online coursework with practical experience, preparing students for national board certification across various healthcare environments.

• Post-doctorate certificate program
• Hybrid learning model
• 500 clinical hours required
• Minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
• National board certification preparation
• Completed in one year
• DNP/PhD prerequisite
• Multiple healthcare practice settings

Florida International University's online Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate program, specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner, is designed for MSN degree holders seeking to advance their expertise. This hybrid program blends online coursework with practical experiences, offering flexibility for working nurses. With a focus on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, the curriculum prepares graduates for national certification, emphasizing advanced clinical skills. Admission requires an MSN from an accredited program, with no mention of an entrance exam. The program highlights include a 36-credit requirement for the Family track, flexible clinicals for online students, and specific admission deadlines. Financial aid and advising support are available to assist students throughout their educational journey.

• 32 credits for Adult and Child tracks.
• 35 credits for Psychiatric track.
• 36 credits for Family track.
• Online and hybrid program options.
• Requires MSN from accredited program.
• Eligible for national certification post-graduation.
• Focus on clinical specialties.
• Admission deadlines: Fall Term March 1.
• Flexible clinicals for online students.
• Psychiatric track deadline: February 15.

The University of Iowa offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program tailored for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses aiming to expand their expertise. This post-master's certificate requires 26 semester hours, blending rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical practicum experiences. It's designed to enhance skills in evidence-based patient care across all age groups, from infants to older adults, without requiring an entrance exam. The program emphasizes advanced diagnostic procedures and pharmacology, preparing nurses for comprehensive healthcare delivery. With a minimum GPA requirement of 2.50, it's an excellent choice for those seeking to specialize further in family nursing practice. The University of Iowa is recognized for its military-friendly policies and boasts a hospital on campus, enriching the learning environment.

• 26 semester hours total
• Post-master's APRN program
• Minimum 2.50 GPA required
• Comprehensive clinical practicum
• Advanced patient care focus
• Covers infants to older adults
• Evidence-based clinical training
• Specialized diagnostic procedures
• Pharmacology specialty courses

Nova Southeastern University offers a hybrid Postgraduate Certificate program specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), designed for nurses holding an M.S.N. seeking to advance their careers. This program stands out for its focus on the FNP concentration, requiring a 3.0 GPA and active RN licensure for admission. It combines online coursework with on-site requirements, offering flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum includes extensive clinical practicum hours, preparing graduates for national certification. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for qualified candidates. With financial aid available and multiple campus locations, it's a practical choice for nurses aiming for leadership roles in family practice.

• Three APRN certificate specializations
• Requires existing M.S.N. degree
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• Active RN licensure needed
• Extensive clinical practicum hours
• Multiple campus locations
• Prepares for national certification
• 24-27 total credit program
• Online and on-site coursework
• Financial aid available

The University of Utah offers a hybrid Post-APRN Graduate Certificate Program with a concentration in Family, tailored for certified APRNs aiming to broaden their expertise. This program stands out for its flexibility, offering distance learning options to accommodate students from rural areas and nearby states. It features five APRN certificate tracks and allows for an individualized study plan, catering to the unique goals of each student. Admission requires a graduate nursing degree, active APRN licensure, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to qualified candidates seeking to advance their nursing careers without the hurdle of standardized testing.

• 5 APRN certificate tracks
• Individualized study plan
• Distance learning options
• Not a degree program
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• Graduate nursing degree required
• Active APRN licensure needed
• Multiple population focuses
• Non-federal financial aid

The University of South Carolina-Columbia offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate program tailored for nurses holding a master's degree. This program is designed to enhance clinical skills in primary care for patients across all ages, preparing graduates for national certification as Family Nurse Practitioners. With a curriculum focused on patient management, interprofessional collaboration, and professional growth, it requires 18-32 credit hours and a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program stands out for its flexible admission options, catering to both certified and non-certified advanced practice nurses, and includes a clinical practicum. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for busy professionals. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles in primary care settings, from rural practices to urban health centers.

• Post-master's certificate program
• Primary care across lifespan
• 18-32 credit hours
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• National certification preparation
• Advanced practice nursing focus
• Flexible admission routes
• Interprofessional healthcare training
• Clinical practicum included
• Multiple primary care settings

The University of Missouri-Columbia offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program tailored for advanced practice nurses seeking to specialize in primary healthcare. This 19.5-credit program is designed for those with a master's degree, focusing on diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions across all age groups. It stands out for its emphasis on evidence-based practice and serving rural and underserved populations, enhancing clinical skills without requiring an entrance exam. The program prepares graduates for independent and collaborative care, making it a prime choice for nurses aiming to expand their professional scope in primary care settings.

• 19.5 total credit hours
• Comprehensive primary healthcare focus
• All ages patient care
• Evidence-based practice training
• Rural healthcare emphasis
• Master's degree prerequisite
• Advanced practice certification required

Georgetown University offers an online Post-Graduate Certificate program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), designed for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) seeking to broaden their clinical skills. This program stands out for its master's-level coursework, live online classes, and clinical placement opportunities, all aimed at preparing nurses for board certification. With faculty who are active clinicians and a Jesuit care approach, students receive a comprehensive education that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application. The program requires an existing nursing degree and does not mandate an entrance exam, making it accessible for qualified professionals looking to advance their careers in a flexible online format.

• Online post-graduate nursing certificate
• Four APRN specialization tracks
• Master's level coursework
• Clinical placement opportunities
• Live online classes
• Faculty are active clinicians
• Board certification preparation
• Objective clinical intensives
• Jesuit care approach
• Requires existing nursing degree

Villanova University offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program designed for nurses seeking to specialize in primary care. This program, requiring 25-35 credits and 750 clinical hours, emphasizes advanced clinical skills in pathophysiology, pharmacology, and physical assessment. With a flexible completion timeframe of up to five years, students benefit from online support courses and on-site clinical training. The curriculum prepares graduates for comprehensive patient care across all ages, without the need for an entrance exam. Villanova's commitment to flexibility and excellence makes it an ideal choice for working professionals aiming to advance their nursing careers.

• 25-35 credit program
• 750 total clinical hours
• 1.5 year minimum completion
• Online support courses
• On-site clinical training
• Advanced pathophysiology focus
• Lifespan patient care preparation
• Five-year maximum completion time

The University of Arkansas provides an online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Post-Master's Certificate Program tailored for nurses holding a master's or doctoral degree in nursing. This program, requiring no entrance exam, focuses on enhancing clinical skills through 540 hours of hands-on experience, preparing graduates for national certification. With a flexible part-time option and multiple entry points throughout the year, it accommodates working professionals. The curriculum, accredited by CCNE or ACEN, spans 21 credit hours, emphasizing primary care across diverse populations. Ideal for those with at least two years of nursing experience, it's a pathway to advanced practice roles without the need for GRE or other standardized tests.

• Post-graduate nursing certificate
• 21 minimum credit hours
• 540 clinical practice hours
• Part-time program availability
• Master's or doctoral degree required
• Two years nursing experience
• Multiple entry semester options
• CCNE or ACEN accredited
• Advanced practice focus
• National certification preparation

The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a hybrid Post-Graduate APRN Certificate program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, tailored for nurses holding an MSN degree seeking to specialize further. This program stands out for its distance-accessible format, allowing students to balance their studies with professional commitments. Spanning 27 credit hours, the curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for certification in their chosen specialty, focusing on evidence-based practice, interprofessional leadership, and population health. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to qualified candidates. With flexible part-time study options and a focus on enhancing clinical skills, it's an excellent choice for advancing in the nursing field.

• Distance-accessible program format
• Multiple nurse practitioner specialties
• 27 total credit hours
• Requires existing MSN degree
• Prepares for certification exam
• Focuses on evidence-based practice
• Interprofessional leadership emphasis
• Flexible part-time study options

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers an online Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program tailored for advanced nursing professionals seeking to specialize in family healthcare. This program is ideal for those with an MSN or DNP, requiring 12-16 credit hours and including clinical practicums for hands-on experience. Focused on enhancing diagnostic and management skills, the curriculum covers essential areas like pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. A unique feature is the specialized residency experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for board certification. Admission criteria include a 3.0 GPA, current nursing licensure, and completion of prerequisite nursing education. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for qualified candidates. The program's online format offers flexibility for working professionals.

• Minimum 12 credit hours
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Current nursing licensure
• 8 credit hours residency
• Advanced practice preparation
• Board certification eligibility
• MSN or DNP prerequisite
• Specialized clinical practicums

Michigan State University offers a hybrid Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program tailored for advanced practice registered nurses aiming to enhance their clinical skills. This program, focusing on family nurse practitioner concentration, blends online coursework with on-campus and clinical experiences, requiring 27 credits over at least 1.5 years. It's designed for certified nurses with a master's degree in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, and current licensure, emphasizing lifelong patient care in primary settings. Tuition is $867 per credit for in-state students and $1,111 for out-of-state. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible for qualified professionals seeking to broaden their expertise without additional testing hurdles.

• Hybrid program delivery
• 27 total credit hours
• $867 in-state per credit
• 1.5 years minimum duration
• Master's degree required
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Current nursing license
• Specialty certification needed
• Five comprehensive courses
• Lifelong patient care focus