The Best Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) No GRE Programs in 2024

The increasing demand for highly skilled and adaptable nurse practitioners (NPs) is met with a growing array of educational offerings from the nation’s premier nursing institutions. Within this array, there are online NP programs that waive the requirement for Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) for admission.

These progressive programs, available as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), are meticulously tailored to address the needs of registered nurses (RNs) aspiring to transition into more autonomous, responsible, and often higher-paying NP roles. The omission of the GRE requirement enhances the appeal of these programs, removing a significant barrier for numerous potential students.

Our comprehensive compilation covers everything from understanding the prerequisites and enrollment requirements to navigating the financial intricacies of tuition costs and salary expectations. Whether you are a practicing RN aiming to advance your career or a healthcare professional exploring fresh opportunities, you’ve arrived at a valuable resource.

What Is a Health Science Degree?

What Is an Online NP No GRE Program?

An online NP no GRE program denotes a graduate-level nursing program, either an MSN or DNP, that is available for completion online and does not necessitate Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores for admission.

Tailored for registered nurses (RNs) aspiring to elevate their careers by assuming NP roles, these programs involve greater responsibility, autonomy, and often higher remuneration compared to regular RN positions. The absence of the GRE requirement broadens access to these programs, making them more feasible for individuals who may lack the time or resources to prepare for the GRE.

Online NP No GRE Coursework

The coursework in an online NP no GRE program is designed to furnish nurses with advanced knowledge and skills in nursing practice, patient care, and specialized areas of healthcare. The curriculum typically encompasses:

– Advanced Health Assessment: This course delves into comprehensive health assessments, covering physical, psychological, and social aspects of patient care.
– Pathophysiology: Nurses delve into the changes in body systems and functions resulting from diseases.
– Pharmacology: This entails learning about various medications, their effects, and proper administration.
– Primary Care Practices: Courses covering the fundamentals of providing primary healthcare, including the diagnosis and treatment of common health issues.
– Specialized Electives: Depending on the program, electives may be available in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, or mental health.
– Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in healthcare delivery.

Online NP No GRE Clinical Training

Clinical training stands as a pivotal component of an online NP no GRE program, offering practical, hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. This training encompasses:

– Supervised Clinical Hours: Students are mandated to complete a specific number of clinical hours under the guidance of seasoned healthcare professionals.
– Diverse Settings: Clinical training unfolds in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community health centers.
– Patient Care: Students gain experience in diagnosing and treating patients, formulating care plans, and collaborating as part of a healthcare team.
– Specialty Practice: Depending on the NP program’s focus, clinical training may include specialized areas like family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatric care.
– Skill Development: Clinical training fosters the development of advanced nursing skills, including patient communication, critical thinking, and decision-making.

Top Online NP Programs without GRE Requirements

The programs listed below have been chosen using Online Nursing Writings’ approach, which involves surveying our readers to understand their priorities. This includes factors such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates from some of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Duke University

Duke University’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Program offers a comprehensive and flexible approach to advanced nursing education. This program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), is designed to accommodate various nursing professionals with diverse majors and specialties.

Duke University’s MSN program includes eight majors for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and three non-clinical majors. These majors are available as distance-based or online programs, providing flexibility for professionals already in the workforce. The majors cover a broad spectrum, including

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Health Informatics
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing and Healthcare Leadership
• Nursing Education
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

2. University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama offers an online MSN program specifically crafted for nurses looking to specialize in different Nurse Practitioner (NP) fields, including adult-gerontology, family, neonatal, pediatric, psychiatric, and women’s health. These programs emphasize the development of leadership, administrative, and quality improvement skills, crucial for advanced nursing practice.

Program Highlights:

– Online Flexibility: All coursework is delivered online, allowing students to continue working while pursuing their degree.
– Clinical Skills Lab: A state-of-the-art simulation skills lab is available on campus for skill development and competency mastery.
– Doctoral-Level Courses: Four courses in the MSN program are offered at the doctoral level, providing an advantage for those pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
– Learning Outcomes: Graduates are expected to integrate advanced nursing knowledge, demonstrate competence in advanced roles, use scientific inquiry for patient care improvement, influence health policy, and contribute to the nursing profession.

3. Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University’s MSN program is entirely online and designed to elevate the careers of Registered Nurses (RNs). Established in 1992, this program offers various concentrations, including Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Executive Leadership.

Program Highlights:

– Flexibility and Affordability: Tailored for working RNs, the program offers a part-time curriculum that can be completed entirely online.
– Diverse Concentrations: Six different concentrations cater to various interests and career paths in nursing.
– Experienced Faculty: The program features faculty members dedicated to student success with extensive experience in their respective fields.
– High Success Rates: Graduates boast an average passage rate of 92 percent on certification exams by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
– Program Length: Depending on the concentration and full or part-time status, the program requires 33 to 47 credit hours and can be completed in two years or less.

4. Maryville University

Maryville University offers several online MSN programs structured to provide advanced nursing education and clinical experience. These programs focus on developing skills in areas such as health assessment, disease management, and health promotion.

Specializations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

5. Walden University

Walden University provides a CCNE-accredited MSN program designed for ambitious, change-focused nurses. The program is structured to accommodate busy schedules, making it ideal for professionals balancing education with other commitments.

Key Features:

– Specializations: The program offers five Nurse Practitioner (NP) and four specialty practice specializations, tailored to current field demands and evolving nurse aspirations.
– Practicum Support: Walden ensures enhanced practicum support through its Practicum Pledge™, ensuring students find a suitable practicum match.
– Flexible Learning Options: The Tempo Learning option allows students to personalize the length, cost, and pacing of their MSN program.
– Holistic Approach: The curriculum emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care and encourages students to actively contribute to positive changes in healthcare delivery.

6. University of Texas at Arlington

The online MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program at UTA is designed to prepare nurses to take on the role of a healthcare provider and health management resource in various clinical settings. This program enables nurses to expand their advanced practice nursing skills and help patients achieve optimal health throughout their lifespan.

Key Features:

– Development of research, diagnostic, and clinical skills for health management needs of patients and families at each stage of life.
– Specialized knowledge in pharmacology, diagnostics, health assessment, advanced research, and clinical management.
– Clinical experiences in local areas, preparing students to assume a role as an advanced practice primary care nurse.
– Focus on collaborative relationships with other healthcare providers, considering economic, psychosocial, cultural, and environmental factors in healthcare delivery.

7. Regis College

Regis College offers an online MSN program, an extension of their highly regarded on-campus program. This program is one of the largest Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs in Massachusetts, designed for active nursing professionals. The curriculum is rooted in current medical practices and emphasizes critical thinking skills essential for excelling as an NP.

Program Highlights:

– Duration: The program can be completed in 28-36 months.
– Total Credits: It requires 46-64 credits, with 64 credits for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration.
– Specializations: The program offers six specializations, allowing students to focus on nursing areas that serve populations with unique needs.
– Career Paths: Graduates can pursue various roles, including primary care nurse practitioner, research specialist, acute care nurse practitioner, nurse manager, and more.

8. Texas Tech University

The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of master’s programs in nursing, preparing graduates for advanced roles in healthcare. These programs are offered online, providing flexibility for working professionals, and include preceptor-guided clinical learning experiences that can be completed in or near the student’s home community.

Program Highlights:

– Specializations: The master’s programs cover various areas, including family nurse practitioner, adult gerontology acute care, pediatric acute care, pediatrics, and psychiatric mental health.
– Modes of Delivery: The programs are delivered online, making them accessible to nurses across the country.
– Clinical Learning: Clinical experiences are guided by preceptors and can be arranged close to where students live, offering practical, hands-on training in a convenient setting.

9. Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor University offers a comprehensive online MSN program designed for working nurses. Accredited by the CCNE, this program is tailored to meet the needs of busy professionals seeking to advance their nursing careers. Here are some key features of the program:

Program Design:

– The program is uniquely structured for working nurses, allowing them to earn their degree without interrupting their work schedule. It offers a blend of flexibility and rigorous academic standards.
– Specializations: Students can choose from various NP specializations, including Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.
– Flexible Scheduling: The program follows a 7-1-7 model, offering courses in 7-week terms with a 1-week break in between. This model is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.

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Online NP No GRE Prerequisites & Requirements

Enrolling in an Online NP Program without GRE entails meeting specific prerequisites and admission requirements. These criteria are vital to ensure that students possess the foundational knowledge and skills essential for advanced nursing practice.

Online NP No GRE Prerequisites

Prerequisites for an Online NP No GRE program typically encompass:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most programs mandate completion of a BSN from an accredited institution.
2. RN Licensure: Applicants must hold a current and unencumbered RN license.
3. Nursing Experience: Some programs require a specified amount of clinical nursing experience, often one to two years, preferably in a relevant field.
4. Undergraduate GPA: A minimum GPA, usually around 3.0, is often required, though this may vary by program.
5. Prerequisite Courses: Certain undergraduate courses, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics, may be necessary.

Online NP No GRE Requirements

Once admitted, students must fulfill the following requirements to complete the program:

1. Course Completion: Students must fulfill all required coursework, typically encompassing advanced practice nursing core courses and specialty courses.
2. Clinical Hours: Completion of a specified number of supervised clinical hours is mandatory, usually amounting to several hundred hours.
3. Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs may necessitate a capstone project or thesis, demonstrating the application of acquired knowledge to a practical nursing problem.
4. Maintain GPA: Students are generally required to maintain a specific GPA to remain in good standing, often around 3.0.
5. Licensing Examination Preparation: While not always a formal requirement, students must prepare for the nurse practitioner licensing examination, crucial for post-graduation practice.
6. Professional Standards and Ethics: Adhering to professional standards and ethical guidelines in coursework and clinical practice is imperative.

Online NP No GRE Costs & Salary Expectations

The costs and salary expectations of Online NP No GRE programs vary based on factors like institution, program length, and geographic location. Grasping these financial aspects is crucial for prospective students.

Online NP No GRE Costs

Costs associated with Online NP No GRE programs include:

1. Tuition Fees: Vary widely depending on the institution and program length, ranging from $500 to over $1,000 per credit hour on average (30-50 credit hours for full programs).
2. Additional Fees: Beyond tuition, fees for technology, student services, lab work, and other resources may apply.
3. Textbooks and Supplies: Budgeting for textbooks, software, and other necessary supplies is essential.
4. Clinical Placement Fees: Some programs may charge extra for arranging clinical placements.
5. Travel and Accommodation: If on-campus visits or clinical placements require travel, students might incur related costs.

Online NP No GRE Salary Expectations

As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national average NP salary is $124,680. However, this varies based on factors such as location, experience, concentration, etc.

Top-paying states for NPs include

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

While the BLS doesn’t specify between NP concentrations, ZipRecruiter indicates average salaries for specialties like

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): $124,024
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): $128,141
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): $125,190
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): $139,590
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): $130,333
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): $223,503

Prospective NPs are advised to research their specific context, including location and employer, for accurate salary expectations.

Online NP No GRE Pros & Cons

Online NP No GRE programs present unique advantages and disadvantages, crucial considerations for prospective students in making informed decisions.

Online NP No GRE Pros

1. Accessibility and Convenience: Online programs offer flexibility for working nurses, accommodating studies with professional and personal responsibilities.
2. No GRE Requirement: Eliminating the GRE as an entry requirement enhances accessibility for those with test-taking anxieties or those returning to education.
3. Diverse Specializations: Many online programs provide various specializations, enabling focus on areas of interest like family practice, pediatrics, or mental health.
4. Career Advancement: Completion of an NP program can lead to higher salaries, increased autonomy, and advanced career opportunities in nursing.
5. Expanding Healthcare Access: NPs play a crucial role in expanding healthcare access, particularly in underserved areas, contributing to socially impactful careers.

Online NP No GRE Cons

1. Self-Discipline Required: Online learning demands high self-discipline and motivation, posing challenges for some students.
2. Limited Hands-On Experience: While clinical hours are part of the curriculum, online programs may offer fewer opportunities for hands-on experience compared to in-person programs.
3. Networking Challenges: Online students may have fewer opportunities for in-person networking, important for career development.
4. Technology Dependence: Reliable internet access and comfort with digital learning platforms are essential for online learning.
5. Clinical Placement Responsibility: In some online programs, students might be responsible for arranging their own clinical placements, a challenging and time-consuming task.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the key differences between full-time and part-time enrollment in online NP programs?

Full-Time Enrollment: Typically involves a more intensive course load, allowing faster program completion, suitable for those with significant time for studies.

Part-Time Enrollment: Offers a flexible schedule with fewer courses per term, ideal for working professionals or those with additional commitments.

Q: How do online NP programs prepare students for national certification?

Online NP programs cover comprehensive coursework and clinical training aligned with competencies required for national certification exams. Topics include health sciences, health promotion, and evidence-based practice.

Q: What types of financial aid are available for students in online NP programs?

Financial aid options include federal loans, scholarships, grants, and sometimes employer tuition reimbursement. Early research and application for both need-based and merit-based opportunities are crucial.

Q: Are online NP programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)?

Reputable online NP programs are often accredited by the CCNE, ensuring high standards of nursing education. Accreditation is vital for quality assurance and often necessary for licensure and certification.

Q: How does informatics integrate into online NP programs?

Informatics courses are typically included in online NP programs, teaching students how to use digital tools and data for improved patient care, healthcare administration, and evidence-based practice.

Q: What is the role of a practicum in an online NP Program, and how does it work?

A practicum, or supervised clinical experience, is a core component providing hands-on experience in healthcare settings. Students complete practicums locally, with program support for placement in relevant healthcare environments.