2026 Best Louisiana Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Programs

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a Post-MSN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, designed for advanced practice nurses seeking specialization. This online program requires 20 credit hours over four semesters, with 510 clinical hours completed in Louisiana. Tuition is $480 per credit, totaling approximately $9,600. Admission requires an MSN from a CCNE-accredited program, a 3.0 GPA, current RN and APRN licenses, and national certification. Applicants need a $25 fee, resume, statement of purpose, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. The program prepares graduates for the national PMHNP certification exam.

• 20 credit hours total.
• Four semesters program length.
• 510 clinical hours required.
• 100% online didactic courses.
• $480 per credit tuition.
• Approximately $9,600 total cost.
• MSN degree required for admission.
• 3.0 minimum GPA needed.
• Current RN license required.
• Current APRN license required.

Loyola University New Orleans offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Nurse-Midwifery for advanced practice nurses seeking specialized skills. This hybrid program combines online coursework with 910 clinical hours. It prepares graduates to provide comprehensive care to women across the lifespan. Admission requires a master's in nursing, 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure. Tuition is $885 per credit hour. The program is pre-accredited and includes individualized study plans.

• Hybrid program format.
• 32-50 credit hours.
• 910 clinical hours required.
• $885 per credit hour.
• Pre-accredited by ACME.
• Individualized study plans.
• Online synchronous coursework.
• In-person clinical components.
• Requires MSN or DNP degree.
• 3.0 GPA minimum.

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner for MSN-prepared nurses seeking to expand their scope of practice. This one-to-two-year, primarily online program with occasional in-person intensives is designed to fit the schedules of working nurses. The curriculum includes practicum and seminar courses that immerse students in primary care across the lifespan, with a special focus on rural and medically underserved communities. Graduates are prepared to sit for board certification as family nurse practitioners, ready to serve as compassionate providers in clinics, hospitals, and community health settings. The program is accredited by ACEN and emphasizes collaborative, evidence-based care aligned with Franciscan values, fostering leaders who address health disparities and improve access to quality care.

• ACEN accredited
• Entrance exam required
• Complete in one-to-two-year
• Rolling admissions
• Starts rolling
• 95% licensure pass rate
• 100% job placement rate
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Work experience required

Grambling State University offers a Post Master's FNP program for nurses with a master's degree in nursing. This 39-credit hour curriculum prepares graduates for advanced practice roles. The hybrid format combines on-campus classes with clinical experiences arranged in your geographic area. You'll gain over 700 clinical hours under approved preceptors. The program focuses on family dynamics, rural health, and primary care management. Graduates become eligible for national certification and advanced practice licensure.

• Post Master's FNP program available.
• 39 credit hours required.
• Hybrid program format.
• On-campus classes weekly.
• Clinical experiences arranged locally.
• Over 700 clinical hours.
• Approved preceptors guide students.
• Focus on family dynamics.
• Emphasis on rural health.
• Advanced assessment skills taught.