The Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Ohio

Ohio, acknowledged for its abundant history and varied landscapes, is also emerging as a center for advanced healthcare education. With the healthcare sector progressing swiftly, there is an increasing demand for nurse practitioners (NPs) who can deliver specialized care across various settings. Recognizing this demand, several esteemed institutions in the state have formulated top-notch NP programs to ready the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Explore these programs below as we provide insights into their offerings, in addition to an overview of the profession, steps to become one, salary expectations post-graduation, and address frequently asked questions.

Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio

The subsequent schools have been chosen based on online nursing writings’ methodology, which involves surveying our readers to comprehend what they value the most, coupled with graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most notable nursing schools in the United States.

1. The Ohio State University

Renowned for its all-encompassing curriculum, OSU’s NP programs underscore evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care. Graduates are well-equipped to lead in diverse healthcare settings.

Ohio State provides three NP concentrations through its traditional MSN program:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Furthermore, OSU’s DNP program provides several concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
• Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (ACP-NP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

Ohio University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

2. Case Western Reserve University

CWRU offers state-of-the-art NP programs that integrate rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. The programs are recognized for their emphasis on innovation and research in nursing practice.

MSN concentrations encompass:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Acute Care
• Adult-­Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)
• Nurse Leadership
• Adult-­Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
• Family Systems Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
• Nurse-Midwifery
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

CWRU is accredited by the CCNE.

3. University of Cincinnati

UC’s NP programs are devised to equip students with advanced clinical skills and a profound understanding of nursing theories. The programs boast a high certification exam pass rate and robust community partnerships.

MSN concentrations include:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Additionally, post-master’s certificate options offer:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

UC is accredited by the CCNE.

4. Kent State University

With a dedication to excellence, Kent State’s NP programs emphasize holistic patient care, leadership, and advocacy. The programs provide multiple specializations to cater to the diverse interests of its students.

Kent State offers six NP concentrations through its MSN track:

• Nurse Practitioner for Acute Care in Adult-Gerontology (AGAC-NP)
• Nurse Practitioner for Primary Care in Adult-Gerontology (AGPC-NP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Nurse Practitioner for Pediatric Primary Care (PPC-NP)
• Nurse Practitioner for Psychiatric-Mental Health (PMHNP)
• Nurse Practitioner for Women’s Health (WHNP)

Students also have the option to dual-enroll in the DNP program.

Kent State is accredited by the CCNE.

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5. Ohio University

OU’s NP programs distinguish themselves for their flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats. The curriculums are grounded in evidence-based practice, promoting lifelong learning in three concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

OU is accredited by the CCNE.

6. The University of Akron

Providing a blend of theory and practice, UA’s NP programs prepare students to tackle complex healthcare challenges. The programs emphasize cultural competence and ethical decision-making.

Advanced practice concentrations include:

• Adult Gerontological Health Nurse Practitioner
• Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Primary Health Care
• Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Acute Car
• Child and Adolescent Health Nurse Practitioner Primary/Acute Care

UA is accredited by the CCNE.

7. Youngstown State University

YSU’s NP programs are recognized for their community-focused approach. Students benefit from extensive clinical rotations and a curriculum that underscores health promotion and disease prevention.

Concentrations include options through online MSN and post-master’s certificates:

• Online MSN
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)

• Post-Master’s Certificates
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP) – Online
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Advanced Placement (FNP) – Online
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Advanced Placement (AGAC-NP) – Online
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – Online

YSU is accredited by the CCNE.

8. Wright State University

WSU’s NP programs are acknowledged for their focus on interprofessional education and collaborative practice. The curriculum is crafted to nurture critical thinking, clinical expertise, and leadership skills.

Through the University’s MSN degree, several NP concentrations are offered:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care (PNP-AC)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

WSU is accredited by the CCNE.

9. University of Toledo

UT’s NP programs provide a dynamic learning environment with state-of-the-art simulation labs and experienced faculty. The programs are dedicated to producing nurse leaders capable of instigating positive change in healthcare.

Through MSN, DNP, and graduate certificates, UT offers five NP concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (PPC-NP)

UT is accredited by the CCNE.

10. Ursuline College

Ursuline’s NP programs, grounded in the college’s core values, emphasize ethical practice, social justice, and patient advocacy. The programs provide a supportive learning environment and a solid foundation in evidence-based practice.

Through the College’s MSN degree, four NP concentrations are offered:

• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPC-NP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP)

Ursuline College is accredited by the CCNE.

11. Ashland University

Ashland’s DNP NP Program prioritizes personalized learning, with small class sizes and dedicated faculty mentors. The program prepares graduates to excel in both primary and acute care settings.

Concentration offered:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

AU is accredited by the CCNE.

12. Franciscan University of Steubenville

Rooted in Catholic values, FUS’s NP Program emphasizes compassionate care, ethical practice, and service to underserved populations. The curriculum integrates faith and reason, preparing graduates for holistic patient care.

Concentration offered:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

FUS is accredited by the CCNE.

Nurse Practitioner Overview

Nurse practitioners (NPs) play a crucial role in advanced practice nursing, possessing extensive clinical expertise suitable for diverse care settings, ranging from acute to primary. Each NP embarks on their journey as a registered nurse (RN) and advances by acquiring either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.

Upon completion of NP studies, graduates must successfully pass a rigorous national certification test to obtain their license. They undergo consistent assessments of clinical outcomes and engage in regular peer evaluations to maintain optimal patient care standards.

Their expertise is highly sought after in various medical settings, including emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, and private practices.

Key NP responsibilities include:

1. Conducting comprehensive physical health evaluations
2. Initiating, overseeing, and analyzing diagnostic tools such as X-rays and laboratory tests
3. Identifying and managing both immediate and long-term health issues
4. Recommending medications and therapeutic treatments
5. Guiding patients on disease prevention, available treatment avenues, and self-care techniques.

NP Concentrations

1. Family NP: FNPs provide comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages, prioritizing health enhancement, illness prevention, and managing chronic ailments, often serving as primary health consultants for families.

2. Women’s Health NP: WHNPs address women-specific health needs, covering stages from adolescence to post-menopause, including reproductive wellness, gynecological care, and guidance during and after pregnancy.

3. Adult-Gerontology NP: AGNPs attend to the health requirements of adults, from early adulthood to the golden years, managing both immediate and long-term health issues, emphasizing health enhancement, illness prevention, and tailored patient guidance for the aging population.

4. Neonatal NP: NNPs dedicate themselves to newborn care, particularly for those born prematurely or with severe health complications. They operate in neonatal intensive care settings (NICUs) alongside a multidisciplinary team to ensure the well-being of neonates.

5. Pediatric NP: PNPs focus on children’s health, from infancy to teenage years, managing typical pediatric health issues, conducting routine health assessments, and offering guidance on nutrition, growth, and developmental milestones.

6. Psychiatric-Mental Health NP: PMHNPs specialize in mental healthcare, diagnosing and treating a range of psychiatric disorders. They provide therapeutic sessions, prescribe relevant medications, and ensure holistic care for individuals dealing with mental health issues.

How to Become an NP

While the path to becoming an NP may vary, here are five steps to become one:

1. Obtain an RN License:
– Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN).
– Pass the NCLEX-RN examination to become a licensed registered nurse in Ohio.
– Note: Some post-graduate programs prefer BSN-prepared applicants.

2. Pursue Advanced Education:
– Enroll in an MSN or DNP program with a focus on a nurse practitioner specialty, ensuring accreditation by recognized bodies like the CCNE.
– Complete required coursework, clinical hours, and other program-specific requirements.

3. Obtain National Certification:
– After completing the advanced degree program, choose a specialty area (e.g., Family NP, Pediatric NP) and take the respective national certification exam offered by certifying bodies like ANCC or AANP.

4. Apply for NP Licensure in Ohio:
– Submit an application to the Ohio Board of Nursing for nurse practitioner licensure.
– Provide proof of RN license, advanced degree, national certification, and other required documentation.
– Complete a mandated criminal background check.

5. Maintain Licensure and Certification:
– Stay updated with the latest practices and regulations in nursing.
– Engage in continuous professional development to meet renewal requirements for both state licensure and national certification.
– Renew license and certification as required, meeting continuing education or clinical practice hour requirements set by the Ohio Board of Nursing and certifying body.

Specific requirements and processes may change, so it’s advisable to check with the Ohio Board of Nursing or relevant institutions for the latest information.

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NP Salary Expectations

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides insights into NP salaries in Ohio. However, individual circumstances and employer factors influence earnings, such as education, experience, healthcare facility, employer, nursing specialty demand, and working hours.

In Ohio, the average NP salary is $117,440, or $56.46 per hour, slightly lower than the national average of $124,680.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need a BSN to enroll in a nurse practitioner program in Ohio?
– Most NP programs in Ohio prefer applicants with a BSN, although some nursing colleges offer bridge programs for those with an associate degree.

2. Are on-campus and online programs available in Ohio?
– Many nursing colleges in Ohio provide both on-campus and online programs, with some offering hybrid options combining online coursework and on-campus clinical experiences.

3. Can I pursue the program part-time?
– Many Ohio degree programs offer both full-time and part-time options, accommodating students based on personal and professional commitments.

4. Are online programs accredited?
– Choose programs accredited by recognized bodies like CCNE to ensure adherence to the highest standards of nursing education.

5. What are the typical admission requirements for these programs?
– Admission requirements may vary but generally include a BSN, a specific GPA, letters of recommendation, and clinical experience. Check with the college of nursing for detailed criteria.

6. After completing the program, do I need to pass any exam for licensure?
– Yes, after completing the nurse practitioner program, you must pass a certification exam recognized by the Ohio Board of Nursing for licensure.

7. How do these programs prepare students for the certification exam?
– Programs provide comprehensive coursework, covering evidence-based practice, clinical experiences, and practicum, ensuring students are well-prepared for certification.

8. Are there opportunities for hands-on clinical experiences?
– Whether enrolled in on-campus or online programs, hands-on clinical experiences are crucial, allowing students to apply coursework in real-world settings under supervision.

9. Is financial aid available for students in Ohio’s nurse practitioner programs?
– Many Ohio nursing colleges offer financial aid options. Check with the institution’s financial aid office for details and opportunities.