2026 Best Kentucky Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Programs

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Teaching Nursing empowers nurses to transform their clinical expertise into exceptional educational leadership. Designed for registered nurses seeking academic or clinical educator roles, this fully online program equips professionals with advanced pedagogical skills to shape future nursing education. Learners develop comprehensive curriculum design strategies, learn innovative teaching methodologies, and gain practical experience through 180 clinical hours. With a competitive per-credit cost of $753 and flexible online format, nurses can advance their careers without disrupting current professional commitments.

• Fully online graduate certificate
• 9 total credit hours
• Cost per credit: $753
• Post-MSN, DNP, PhD program
• 180 clinical hours required
• Designed for RN educators
• No on-campus requirements
• Clinical site often employer
• Focuses on nursing pedagogy

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Professional Nursing is a specialized program designed for licensed nurse practitioners seeking to expand their expertise and transition to new specialty areas. Tailored for advanced practice nurses with an existing graduate degree, this certificate offers targeted training in diverse population-focused tracks like Adult Geriatric Acute Care, Family Care, Psychiatric Mental Health, Pediatric Care, and Executive Leadership. With a cost of $1,002 per credit and a comprehensive 16-31 credit curriculum, students can enhance their clinical skills through online coursework and in-person immersion experiences.

• For post-graduate APRN nurses
• Online with in-person components
• 16-31 credit hours total
• $1,002 per credit cost
• Multiple specialty tracks
• Requires graduate nursing degree
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• Immersion blocks twice per semester
• Prepares for specialty certification
• Executive leadership option available

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Professional Nursing offers advanced practice nurses a strategic pathway to expand their clinical expertise and career opportunities. Designed for licensed nurse practitioners seeking specialty transition, this program provides comprehensive training across multiple population-focused tracks including Adult Geriatric Acute Care, Family Care, Psychiatric Mental Health, Pediatric Acute Care, and Executive Leadership. Students complete online coursework complemented by in-person immersion experiences, gaining advanced practice competencies and preparing for specialized certification. With a flexible 16-31 credit curriculum and a competitive per-credit cost of $1,002, the program enables healthcare professionals to enhance their clinical skills and professional versatility.

• Online with in-person immersions
• 16-31 credit hours
• $1,002 per credit
• Multiple specialty tracks
• Post-graduate APRN focus
• Prepare for certification
• Designed for career transition
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• MSN/DNP/PhD prerequisite
• Twice-semester campus visits

The University of Kentucky's Postgraduate Certificates in Nursing offer advanced professionals targeted opportunities to expand their clinical expertise and career potential. These specialized programs include Teaching Nursing, APRN specialties like Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health, and Executive Leadership, enabling nurses to enhance skills, change clinical focus, or advance into leadership roles. Programs range from 9-12 credits, with hybrid and online formats, preparing graduates for advanced certifications and diverse healthcare settings.

• 100% online/hybrid options
• Multiple nursing specialties
• 9-12 credit certificate programs
• Prepare for national certifications
• Advanced practice role enhancement
• Campus-based immersion components
• CCNE accredited program
• Flexible for working professionals

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Professional Nursing is a targeted program designed for licensed nurse practitioners seeking to expand their specialty expertise. Ideal for career transitions, this certificate allows advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to gain specialized knowledge in areas like Adult Geriatric Acute Care, Family Care, Psychiatric Mental Health, Pediatric Care, or Executive Leadership. With flexible online coursework and strategic in-person immersion experiences, nurses can enhance their clinical competencies and pursue advanced certification. The program requires 16-31 credit hours and costs $1,002 per credit, offering a strategic pathway for professional growth.

• Online with in-person immersions
• 16-31 credit hours total
• $1,002 per credit cost
• Multiple specialty tracks
• For post-graduate APRN nurses
• Requires MSN/DNP/PhD
• 3.0 GPA requirement
• State nursing board licensure
• Certification exam preparation
• Interprofessional team focus

The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Kentucky prepares nurses to specialize in the acute care of adults and the elderly. This hybrid program combines online coursework with on-campus immersions, offering flexibility for working professionals. Graduates are equipped to assess, diagnose, and manage acute health problems, working in settings like intensive care units and specialty clinics. The program requires completion of advanced physiology, pharmacology, and physical assessment courses. Graduates are eligible for national certification exams, enhancing their career prospects in acute care settings.

• Hybrid program format
• Focuses on acute care
• Prepares for national certification
• Requires advanced courses
• Combines online and on-campus learning
• For working professionals
• Eligible for certification exams
• Specializes in adult and elderly care
• Enhances acute care skills
• Offers flexible learning options

The University of Kentucky's Graduate Certificate in Professional Nursing with a Pediatric Primary Care concentration offers advanced practice nurses an opportunity to expand their clinical expertise and transition into specialized pediatric care. This hybrid program provides comprehensive training for licensed nurse practitioners seeking to enhance their skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing pediatric patients. With a competitive cost of $1,002 per credit and requiring 16-31 credit hours, students complete coursework online while participating in immersive clinical experiences. The program demands a graduate GPA of 3.0, an MSN or higher from an accredited nursing program, and prepares graduates for specialized pediatric nurse practitioner certification.

• Hybrid online and in-person format
• 16-31 total credit hours
• $1,002 per credit cost
• 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
• Pediatric Primary Care concentration
• In-person clinical rotations
• Immersion activities twice per semester
• Prepares for national certification

The Post Graduate APRN Certificate at the University of Louisville prepares nurses for national certification in advanced practice specialties. This program is designed for registered nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing or a terminal degree. It offers six specialties, including Adult Gerontology Acute Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, with a hybrid format combining online and on-campus classes. The curriculum focuses on the student's area of interest, ensuring a tailored educational experience. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing or a terminal degree, with classes typically held on Thursdays. This program is ideal for nurses seeking to expand their expertise and advance their careers in specialized areas of nursing.

• Hybrid format learning.
• Six advanced practice specialties.
• Requires master's degree in nursing.
• Classes on campus 4-6 times/semester.
• Focus on student's area of interest.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Tailored educational experience.
• Ideal for career advancement.
• Combines online and on-campus classes.
• Classes typically on Thursdays.

The University of Louisville's School of Nursing offers a comprehensive APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) program designed for aspiring nurses seeking specialization. With options for MSN, Post-Graduate Certificate, and DNP, students can focus on areas like Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health. The program emphasizes practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and clinical expertise. Admission requires a nursing degree, with specific prerequisites for each track. Costs vary by program, and financial aid is available. This program prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare, offering flexible learning options to accommodate working professionals.

• MSN, DNP, Post-Grad options.
• Specializations in acute care, family, mental health.
• Flexible learning for working professionals.
• Clinical expertise and practical skills focus.
• Financial aid and scholarships available.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for leadership in healthcare.
• Admission requires nursing degree.
• Specialized tracks for diverse interests.
• Comprehensive curriculum for advanced practice.

The University of Louisville's Post-Graduate Certificate in Nurse Practitioner (APRN) offers registered nurses with a Master's or terminal degree an advanced pathway to specialized healthcare practice. With six unique specialties ranging from Adult Gerontology to Psychiatric Mental Health, this comprehensive program prepares professionals for national certification across diverse patient populations. Designed for experienced nurses seeking career advancement, the program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and involves rigorous clinical training, including 504-672 specialized clinical hours. Graduates gain advanced skills in assessment, diagnosis, and management across various healthcare settings, positioning themselves for high-demand advanced practice nursing roles.

• Six APRN specialty options
• Minimum 504-672 clinical hours
• Requires Master's or terminal degree
• Holistic admission review process
• Prepares for national certification
• Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
• NursingCAS application platform
• Advanced clinical training
• Professional role development
• Diverse healthcare practice settings

The University of Louisville's Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares experienced nurses to advance their clinical expertise. This hybrid program allows nurses with a master's or doctoral degree to specialize in acute care for adult and geriatric patients. Students complete a rigorous curriculum combining online coursework with periodic on-campus sessions, developing advanced clinical skills. The program requires 672 clinical hours for first-time APRN specialty seekers, ensuring comprehensive practical training.

• Hybrid learning format
• 672 minimum clinical hours
• On-campus sessions quarterly
• Advanced nursing specialty
• Accredited nursing program

The University of Louisville's Post-Graduate Certificate in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner provides registered nurses with advanced clinical training to specialize in adult and geriatric healthcare. This hybrid program prepares nurses for national certification, offering flexible learning with on-campus and online coursework. Designed for nurses holding a Master's or doctoral degree, the program requires 672 clinical hours for first-specialty students, ensuring comprehensive practical experience. Graduates gain expertise in advanced physical assessment, pathophysiology, and specialized clinical skills to provide high-quality care for adult and elderly populations.

• Hybrid learning format
• 672 clinical hours required
• Specialization in Adult Gerontology
• For MSN/Doctoral degree holders
• National certification preparation

Northern Kentucky University's online Nurse Practitioner to Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides an accelerated pathway for experienced nurse practitioners to specialize in mental health care. In just 14 months, students can complete a comprehensive 20-credit program that prepares them for advanced practice across patient lifespans. The program features 100% online coursework, with robust clinical residencies totaling 750 hours, and prepares graduates to take the ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health NP certification exam. With a total tuition of $16,918 and per-credit cost of $578, the program offers an affordable and flexible option for nurses seeking to expand their psychiatric healthcare expertise.

• 100% Online Program
• 14-Month Completion Time
• 20 Total Credit Hours
• 750 Clinical Hours
• CCNE-Accredited Program
• Total Tuition: $16,918
• Prepares for ANCC Certification
• Serves Patients Across Lifespan
• Advanced Psychopharmacology Focus
• Requires 3.0 MSN GPA

Northern Kentucky University's Post-Master's Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers nurses an advanced pathway to specialize in acute care for adolescents through geriatric patients. This comprehensive online program prepares healthcare professionals to work in high-intensity settings like emergency departments, intensive care units, and specialty clinics. With competitive tuition at $578 per credit hour and a total program cost of $25,828, students can complete the 35-credit curriculum in as few as 20 months. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing with a minimum 3.0 GPA, an unencumbered RN license, and 1,000 clinical hours of nursing experience.

• Online post-master's nursing certificate
• 35 total credit hours
• Program length: 20 months
• Total tuition: $25,828
• Prepares for AGACNP certification exam
• Clinical residency: 750 hours
• Covers adolescence to geriatrics
• Advanced practice nurse preparation
• Accredited nursing program

Northern Kentucky University's Post-Master's Adult-Gero Nurse Practitioner Certificate in Primary Care prepares advanced practice nurses to meet growing healthcare demands. This comprehensive online program equips nurses with specialized skills to provide comprehensive care for patients from adolescence through geriatrics. With a curriculum spanning 31 credit hours and 500 clinical hours, graduates become expert primary care providers capable of addressing complex health needs, managing chronic conditions, and promoting wellness across patient lifespans. The program offers a strategic pathway for experienced nurses seeking to expand their clinical expertise and career opportunities in adult-gerontological healthcare.

• Online post-master's certificate program
• 31 total credit hours
• 500 clinical residency hours
• Prepares for certification exam
• Primary care adult-gerontology focus
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Requires current RN license
• 1,000 prior clinical hours needed
• Coursework completable in 20 months

Western Kentucky University's Post-MSN Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides advanced nursing professionals a targeted pathway to expand clinical expertise and national certification. Designed for experienced registered nurses with a master's degree, this comprehensive 17-credit program equips students with specialized skills in primary care across patient life stages. Competitive admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, unencumbered RN licensure, and one year of clinical experience. The curriculum blends rigorous coursework with extensive clinical training, preparing nurses to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in diverse healthcare settings.

• Post-MSN Certificate Program
• 17 Total Credit Hours
• 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
• One Year Clinical Experience
• Primary Care Specialization
• National Certification Preparation
• Advanced Clinical Training
• Comprehensive Patient Care Focus
• Pediatric and Adult Primary Care
• Professional Nursing Management Courses

Western Kentucky University's Post-MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate provides advanced practice registered nurses a specialized pathway to expand their clinical expertise in mental health care. This targeted program prepares nurses to assess, diagnose, and manage psychiatric conditions across diverse age groups, from children to elderly patients. Designed for licensed APRNs with a master's degree or higher, the certificate requires a 3.0 GPA and involves comprehensive clinical training. Graduates become eligible to take the national PMHNP certification examination, enhancing their professional credentials and opportunities in mental healthcare settings.

• Post-MSN Certificate Program
• 18 Total Credit Hours
• Covers Adult and Child Psychiatry
• 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
• Clinical Experience Mandatory
• Focuses on Mental Health Assessment
• Prepares for PMHNP Certification
• Advanced Psychopharmacology Training
• Requires Current APRN License

Spalding University's Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) is a comprehensive 45-credit program preparing advanced practice nurses for transformative healthcare roles. With a remarkable 96% board certification pass rate, students gain extensive clinical experience through 750 supervised hours across diverse healthcare settings. The flexible hybrid program allows working professionals to balance education and career, offering Wednesday and Thursday classes. Graduates emerge equipped to provide holistic, culturally competent care across patient lifespans, with opportunities in various primary care environments.

• 45-credit MSN-FNP program
• 750 clinical training hours
• 96% board exam pass rate
• Flexible hybrid learning format
• Rolling admissions available
• Two-year full-time completion
• Multiple practice setting opportunities
• CCNE accredited program
• Experienced practicing faculty
• Post-Master's Certificate option

Spalding University's Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN-PMHNP) prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care. This 44-credit hybrid program equips students with critical skills to diagnose, treat, and support patients across the lifespan. Graduates learn to create holistic treatment plans, collaborate with medical professionals, and work in diverse clinical settings. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and advanced healthcare technologies, ensuring students are prepared for complex mental health challenges.

• 44 credit hour hybrid program
• 750 clinical hours required
• Small cohorts of 15 students
• CCNE accredited nursing program
• Guaranteed clinical placements
• Work in diverse mental health settings
• 20 professional service hours
• Enrollment starts in May
• Post-Master's Certificate available