2026 Best Ohio Post-Graduate Certificate in Nursing Programs

Kent State University offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate for registered nurses with a graduate nursing degree. This program provides advanced training in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, preparing graduates for national certification. The 34-credit curriculum includes courses in psychotherapy, neurobiology, and pharmacology, with clinical practicums. Tuition starts at $612.62 per credit hour for Ohio residents. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, and professional references. The program is fully online and accredited by CCNE.

• 34 total credit hours.
• 100% online course delivery.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Requires master's degree in nursing.
• Minimum 3.000 graduate GPA.
• Active, unrestricted RN license.
• Curriculum vitae required.
• Goal statement needed.
• Three professional references.

Kent State University offers a Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Administration and Health Systems Leadership. This online program prepares graduate-prepared nurses for advanced roles in healthcare leadership. It focuses on administrative skills and health systems management. The certificate is 100% online, providing flexibility for working professionals. Cost and admissions details vary, so check the university website. Applicants need a master's degree in nursing. The program helps nurses advance their careers in administration.

• 100% online format.
• Post-Master's certificate program.
• Focus on nursing administration.
• Health systems leadership concentration.
• Designed for graduate-prepared nurses.
• Prepares for advanced specialties.
• Course requirements vary.
• Gap analysis for transfers.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Offered as space available.

Kent State University offers an online Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate for registered nurses with a graduate nursing degree. This 30-credit program prepares nurses for national certification, focusing on reproductive health, prenatal care, and lifespan care for women. Tuition is approximately $18,300 for Ohio residents and $18,600 for non-residents. Admissions require a master's degree in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, and professional references. The program is fully online and accredited by CCNE, providing flexible learning for working professionals.

• 30 total credit hours.
• 100% online delivery.
• CCNE accreditation.
• Ohio resident tuition $612.62/credit.
• Non-Ohio resident tuition $622.62/credit.
• Master's degree required for admission.
• Minimum 3.0 graduate GPA.
• Active unrestricted RN license needed.
• Three professional references required.
• Goal statement or admission essay.

The University of Cincinnati offers a Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate, a hybrid program designed for nurses seeking advanced skills. It prepares graduates to manage complex acute and critical illnesses in infants, children, adolescents, and young adults across various healthcare settings. The curriculum includes flexible online coursework combined with in-person clinical practice and on-campus immersions, leading to eligibility for the CPNP-BC national certification exam. Admission requires a BSN and MSN from accredited institutions, a minimum 3.25 BSN GPA, and at least one year of RN experience in the U.S. Tuition varies by residency, with Ohio residents paying $836 per credit part-time. Applicants must reside in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana, and the program admits only for fall semesters.

• Hybrid program delivery.
• Prepares for CPNP-BC exam.
• Requires BSN and MSN.
• Minimum 3.25 BSN GPA.
• One year RN experience needed.
• Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana residency.
• Fall semester start only.
• Tuition $836 per credit.
• Part-time and full-time options.
• Online coursework available.

The University of Cincinnati College of Nursing offers a Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares advanced nurses to deliver comprehensive mental health care. It focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and managing psychiatric conditions across the lifespan. The curriculum includes psychotherapy and medication management training. Courses are taught by clinically active faculty. The program prepares graduates for national certification exams. It combines flexible online coursework with in-person clinical practice. Students complete clinical requirements in the United States. The program can be finished in as few as 16 months. Admission requires a Master of Science in Nursing. Applicants need a current RN license and clinical experience. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. The program includes support from enrollment to graduation. Tuition involves a distance learning fee. Additional non-resident fees apply for out-of-state students. Financial aid is not available, but payment plans are offered. Application deadlines vary by semester.

• Online with clinical requirements.
• Complete in as few as 16 months.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Taught by practicing faculty.
• Requires Master of Science in Nursing.
• Current RN license needed.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
• One year clinical experience required.
• Courses in spring, summer, fall.
• Individualized program plan.

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate at the University of Cincinnati prepares registered nurses for advanced care in high-acuity settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical practice and on-campus labs. It leads to national certification from ANCC or AACN. Admission requires an MSN, active RN license, and residency in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana. Tuition starts at $836 per credit for Ohio residents. The program admits for fall starts only, with application deadlines like July 1, 2026. Students gain hands-on skills in procedures like suturing and airway management.

• Hybrid program delivery.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Requires MSN and RN license.
• Residency in OH, KY, or IN.
• Tuition from $836 per credit.
• Fall semester start only.
• Online coursework with in-person labs.
• Clinical practice included.
• Skills like suturing taught.
• Admission via NursingCAS.

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP Post-Graduate Certificate at University of Cincinnati prepares nurses to deliver advanced care for patients aged 13 and older. This hybrid program combines flexible online coursework with in-person clinical practice and on-campus immersions. It focuses on physical exams, diagnostics, prescribing, and holistic care, considering social and environmental factors. Graduates are ready for national certification exams. Admission requires a BSN and MSN from accredited institutions, active RN licensure, and residency in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana. Tuition is $836 per credit for Ohio residents, with part-time and full-time options available. The program offers support from enrollment advisors and clinical coordinators.

• Hybrid program delivery.
• Online coursework with in-person clinicals.
• Prepares for national certification exams.
• Focuses on patients 13 and older.
• Includes holistic care considerations.
• Requires active RN licensure.
• BSN and MSN from accredited institutions.
• Minimum BSN GPA of 3.25 recommended.
• Minimum science GPA of 3.0.
• One year RN experience required.

Ohio University offers an online Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate for nurses with an MSN degree. This 20-credit program prepares you to provide primary care to patients of all ages. It includes 750 hours of clinical experience across three semesters. Ohio residents pay $684 per credit, with total tuition around $13,680. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, MSN degree, RN licensure, and three letters of recommendation. No GRE is needed. The program is CCNE-accredited and focuses on advanced pharmacology, health assessment, and diagnostic reasoning. Graduates gain skills for diverse healthcare settings.

• Online program format.
• 20 credit hours total.
• Three semesters length.
• $684 per credit (Ohio resident).
• $13,680 total tuition (Ohio resident).
• 750 clinical hours required.
• CCNE-accredited program.
• No GRE required.
• 3.0 minimum GPA for admission.
• MSN degree prerequisite.

Ohio University's online Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate prepares nurses for advanced psychiatric mental health care. This 20-credit program develops skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. Students learn psychopharmacology, evidence-based practices, and culturally sensitive care. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals. Graduates can pursue roles in various healthcare settings with competitive salaries. The program requires a master's degree in nursing for admission.

• Online delivery format.
• 20-credit program length.
• Post-master's certificate program.
• Focuses on psychiatric mental health.
• Teaches assessment and diagnosis skills.
• Covers psychopharmacology topics.
• Includes evidence-based practices.
• Emphasizes culturally sensitive care.
• Develops critical thinking skills.
• Enhances communication abilities.

Ohio University's online Post-Graduate Nurse Leader Certificate prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. This 21-credit program covers organizational management, strategic planning, and financial skills. It requires an MSN degree with a 3.0 GPA and valid RN licensure. Costs are $528 per credit for Ohio residents. The program is fully online with five semesters. No GRE is needed. It includes 500 clinical hours and prepares for national certification. Scholarships are available for military and alumni.

• 21 credit hours.
• Five semesters length.
• 100% online coursework.
• $528 per credit resident.
• MSN degree required.
• 3.0 minimum GPA.
• No GRE or GMAT.
• Valid RN licensure needed.
• 500 clinical hours.
• Fall term start only.

Ohio University's online Post-Graduate Adult Gerontology-Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares nurses to care for acutely ill patients. The 20-credit program spans three semesters with 750 clinical hours. Ohio residents pay $785 per credit. Admission requires an MSN degree, a 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure. No GRE is needed. The curriculum includes advanced pharmacology and diagnostic reasoning. Graduates can pursue roles in emergency departments and intensive care units.

• Three semesters program length.
• 20 total credit hours.
• $785 per credit Ohio resident.
• Online program format.
• No GRE required.
• MSN degree prerequisite.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
• 750 clinical hours included.
• Four total courses.
• Accredited by CCNE.

Walsh University's Nursing Education Certificate prepares nurses for educator roles in academic and clinical settings. This hybrid program combines online coursework with face-to-face sessions at the North Canton campus, offering flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum focuses on teaching strategies, leadership in healthcare education, and analyzing legal and ethical issues in nursing education. Students develop skills to create dynamic learning environments and engage in scholarship activities. The program prepares graduates to sit for the NLN Certified Nurse Educator exam and includes opportunities for global experiences and state-of-the-art simulation labs. Designed for post-master's nurses and current master's students, it can be completed within one year and emphasizes real-world faculty expertise.

• 1-Year program
• Full-time and part-time options
• Synchronous and asynchronous options
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Prepares for NLN Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) Exam
• Access to faculty with real-world experience
• State-of-the-art simulation and lab experience
• Global experience opportunity available
• Hybrid delivery with face-to-face components

Walsh University offers a Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate for master's-prepared nurses seeking to expand their clinical practice. This hybrid program combines distance learning with face-to-face sessions at the North Canton campus, allowing working professionals to balance education with career demands. The curriculum focuses on primary care across the lifespan, with customized coursework based on each student's background. Students gain access to experienced faculty and interprofessional learning environments with simulation labs. The program prepares nurses for in-demand FNP roles in diverse healthcare settings. No federal financial aid is available for this certificate program.

• Hybrid program delivery
• Distance learning methodology
• Face-to-face campus sessions
• For master's-prepared nurses
• Customized coursework available
• Access to experienced faculty
• Interprofessional learning environments
• Simulation lab experiences
• Focus on primary care
• Across lifespan care

Walsh University's Post-Master's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate equips experienced nurses with specialized skills in psychiatric and mental health care across the lifespan. The hybrid program blends online coursework with face-to-face sessions at the North Canton, Ohio campus. Students gain expertise in crisis intervention, substance use disorders, and pharmaceutical management. The curriculum includes didactic and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for the national PMHNP certification exam. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, current RN license, official transcripts, resume, and a 1000-word essay. The program offers unique opportunities like global experiences and simulation labs. Federal financial aid is not available for this certificate.

• Post-master's certificate program.
• Hybrid delivery model.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Focuses on lifespan care.
• Includes crisis intervention training.
• Covers substance use disorders.
• Teaches pharmaceutical management.
• Combines online and campus sessions.
• Requires 3.0 GPA for admission.
• Needs current RN license.

Franklin University's online Post-Graduate Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares registered nurses with an MSN or DNP for advanced clinical roles. This 31-credit program offers 100% online coursework with flexible six-, twelve-, and sixteen-week courses. Students can finish in as few as 24 months. The curriculum includes built-in practicum hours using simulation software like Shadowhealth and iHuman. Clinical experiences cover patients of all ages. Admission requires an MSN or DNP with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. GMAT/GRE scores are not needed. Tuition costs $670 per credit hour. Transfer credits up to 12 hours may shorten completion time. Graduates become eligible for FNP certification exams from ANCC or AANP.

• 31 credit hours.
• 24-month completion.
• 100% online coursework.
• No GMAT/GRE required.
• CCNE accredited.
• $670 per credit hour.
• Transfer up to 12 credits.
• Active RN license needed.
• MSN or DNP prerequisite.
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement.

Franklin University's online Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate equips nurses to address mental health gaps. The 40-credit program can be completed in 24 months with 100% online coursework and built-in clinical hours. Competitive tuition is $670 per credit hour, plus fees. Admission requires an MSN or DNP with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. Transfer up to 12 credits to finish faster. Graduates prepare for ANCC or AANPCB certification exams.

• 40 credit hours.
• 24 month completion.
• 100% online coursework.
• $670 per credit hour.
• Competitive tuition rates.
• Built-in clinical hours.
• Transfer up to 12 credits.
• MSN or DNP required.
• 3.0 GPA minimum.
• Active RN license needed.

Franklin University's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate prepares nurses for advanced roles in adult and geriatric care. The 39-credit program is fully online and can be completed in 24 months. It includes built-in clinical hours and hands-on training. Competitive tuition is $670 per credit hour. Applicants need an MSN or DNP with a 3.0 GPA and an active RN license. The program is CCNE-accredited and prepares graduates for certification exams. Flexible start dates are available throughout the year.

• 39 credit hours.
• 24-month completion.
• 100% online format.
• $670 per credit hour.
• CCNE accredited.
• Built-in clinical hours.
• Transfer credits available.
• GMAT/GRE not required.
• Active RN license needed.
• MSN or DNP prerequisite.