The demand for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) continues to rise nationwide, fueled by growing provider shortages, an aging population, and a shift toward preventative, team-based care. APRNs—who include nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse-midwives, and nurse anesthetists—play a critical role in expanding access to high-quality healthcare.
In response to this demand, many graduate-level APRN programs now offer online or hybrid formats, providing greater flexibility for BSN-prepared nurses and working RNs seeking to advance their careers without putting them on hold.
This article highlights several respected APRN schools offering online options and explains what prospective students should know about APRN education, specialization choices, and how to evaluate program quality.
What Is an APRN?
An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a licensed registered nurse who has completed graduate-level education and clinical training in one of four specialized roles. APRNs provide advanced care services that often include diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and managing complex patient needs. Each role requires national certification and state licensure, typically with a defined population focus or specialty area.
The four recognized APRN roles are:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): Delivers primary, acute, or specialty care across patient populations. Common specialties include Family NP (FNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP), and Adult-Gerontology NP (AGNP).
- Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): Focuses on improving patient outcomes and nursing practices through advanced clinical expertise, consultation, and systems-level interventions.
- Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM): Specializes in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care, and reproductive health for women, often working in hospitals, birthing centers, or community settings.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA): Provides anesthesia and pain management services in surgical, emergency, and critical care settings.
Each APRN role serves a distinct function in the healthcare system, but all share a foundation in advanced nursing practice, evidence-based care, and interprofessional collaboration. Choosing the right path depends on your interests, clinical experience, and long-term career goals.
Can APRN Programs Be Completed Online?
Many APRN programs—especially those for nurse practitioners (NPs) and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs)—are now available in online or hybrid formats, making it easier for working nurses to advance their education while maintaining professional and personal responsibilities. These programs typically offer flexible didactic coursework, allowing students to complete lectures, assignments, and exams remotely.
However, it’s important to understand that APRN education cannot be completed entirely online. All APRN programs require in-person components, which may include:
- Clinical practicums: Usually between 500 and 1,000 hours, completed under supervision in approved healthcare settings
- On-campus immersions or skills labs: Often required for advanced physical assessment, procedural training, or simulation exercises
- Certification-aligned assessments: May include proctored exams or competency evaluations
Despite these in-person requirements, online APRN programs often provide supportive features such as:
- Asynchronous coursework that can be completed on your schedule
- Clinical placement assistance to help locate preceptors and sites
- Regional licensure alignment, ensuring that graduates are eligible for certification and practice in their home states
While the flexibility of online learning is a significant advantage, prospective students should be prepared for the time and logistical commitment of clinical training, and carefully review each program’s format and expectations.
What to Look for in an Online APRN Program
Selecting the right online APRN program requires more than just finding a flexible format. To ensure the program supports your licensure and long-term career goals, it’s important to evaluate key factors related to quality, eligibility, and support.
Accreditation
Start by confirming that the program is accredited by the appropriate national body:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for NP and CNS programs
- Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) for CRNA programs
- Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME) for CNM programs
Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and clinical standards—and that you’ll be eligible for national certification and state licensure upon graduation.
Licensure Eligibility
The program should clearly state that it prepares graduates to sit for certification exams through bodies such as:
- AANP (American Association of Nurse Practitioners)
- ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center)
- AMCB (American Midwifery Certification Board)
- NBCRNA (National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists)
Ensure that your state accepts the certification exam and degree offered by the program for licensure.
Clinical Placement Support
Online students often face challenges securing preceptors or clinical sites. Look for programs that:
- Offer assistance with clinical placements
- Have established partnerships with healthcare facilities in your area
- Provide clear guidelines on clinical hour requirements and expectations
Format and Flexibility
Online APRN programs vary widely in delivery:
- Fully online vs. hybrid (some in-person requirements)
- Asynchronous (on your own schedule) vs. synchronous (live sessions at set times)
- Options for full-time or part-time enrollment
Make sure the format supports your work schedule and personal responsibilities.
Specializations Offered
Not all programs offer every APRN role or specialty. Some may focus exclusively on:
- NP tracks such as FNP, PMHNP, AGNP, or PNP
- CNS roles in adult health, pediatrics, or geriatrics
- CNM or CRNA pathways, which are more specialized and may have more on-campus requirements
Choose a program that aligns with your intended clinical focus and patient population.
By evaluating these core elements, you can narrow your options and find an online APRN program that delivers both academic excellence and practical support for your career advancement.
Top Online APRN Programs
The programs listed here represent a cross section of high-quality APRN education options available online.This list was curated based on the strength and relevance of each program’s curriculum and format, along with the overall academic reputation of the institution.
While not comprehensive, these programs reflect some of the strongest offerings available from top-tier schools. Use this list as a starting point, but be sure to visit individual program pages, review admissions requirements, and speak with advisors to make the most informed decision.
Emory University
Atlanta, GA
Multiple APRN Tracks
- Online DNP program with required in-person intensives held in Atlanta
- Offers multiple APRN specialty tracks in a hybrid format:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
- Family NP
- Family/Emergency NP (part-time option for Nell Fellows only)
- Pediatric Acute Care NP
- Pediatric Primary Care NP
- Psychiatric Mental Health NP
- Women’s Health/Gender-Related NP
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP
- Full-time and part-time formats available; standard duration is approximately 2.5 years
- Nurse Anesthesia is offered in-person only
- Clinical placements available across the U.S.; experience required for some tracks
- Accredited and nationally recognized program with a strong emphasis on leadership, innovation, and health equity
George Washington University
Washington, DC
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse-Midwifery
- Online program designed for BSN-prepared nurses pursuing certification as nurse-midwives
- Combines asynchronous coursework with two final semesters of intensive clinical immersion
- Clinical placements arranged by the university to support achievement of midwifery competency
- Emphasizes holistic, patient- and family-centered care with a strong foundation in reproductive justice and health equity
- Curriculum supports two courses per semester, with all didactic coursework completed before clinical immersion
- Pre-accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME)
Georgetown University
Washington, DC
Multiple APRN Tracks
- MSN Online Specializations (for BSN-prepared RNs):
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP)
- Nurse-Midwifery/Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (NM/WHNP)
- Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- BSN to DNP (Online):
- Designed for RNs with a BSN; leads to APRN preparation and leadership training
- Designed for RNs with a BSN; leads to APRN preparation and leadership training
- Post-Graduate Certificate Programs (Online):
- Available in FNP, AG-ACNP, NM, and WHNP for MSN- or doctoral-prepared RNs
- Available in FNP, AG-ACNP, NM, and WHNP for MSN- or doctoral-prepared RNs
- Programs combine live online classes with in-person clinical placements
- All nursing programs are CCNE-accredited
Gonzaga University
Spokane, WA
Multiple APRN Tracks
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Baccalaureate)
- Prepares BSN-prepared nurses for APRN roles while earning a terminal degree
- Delivered online and designed for working professionals
- Prepares BSN-prepared nurses for APRN roles while earning a terminal degree
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master’s)
- For APRNs or MSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced leadership and clinical practice skills
- Focuses on health policy, systems-level change, and evidence-based practice
- For APRNs or MSN-prepared nurses seeking advanced leadership and clinical practice skills
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- APRN specializations offered:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Nursing Leadership in Healthcare track also available for non-clinical roles
- APRN specializations offered:
- Second MSN Degree
- Offers FNP or PMHNP tracks for those already holding an MSN
- Offers FNP or PMHNP tracks for those already holding an MSN
- All programs are online with flexible delivery formats and CCNE-accredited
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
- Online hybrid program for licensed nurses without a prior MSN
- Combines online coursework with two on-campus Clinical Intensive weekends
- Offers both part-time and full-time options; duration is 2 to 3 years
- Includes 720 hours of hands-on clinical experience across the lifespan
- Prepares graduates to sit for national FNP certification exams
- Accredited and delivered through Northeastern’s Bouvé College of Health Sciences
University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
Multiple APRN Tracks
- Online MSN specializations (asynchronous coursework with required on-campus intensives):
- Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
- Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Programs include scheduled on-campus intensives each term for hands-on skills, simulation, and assessments
- DNP pathway available as a Post-Master’s option only; no BSN-to-DNP route currently offered online
- All nursing programs are CCNE-accredited
- Programs available in most U.S. states; some state exclusions apply due to licensure regulations
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online/Hybrid)
- Primarily online DNP program with asynchronous coursework and required on-campus week-long intensives each semester
- Offers three tracks: Advanced Clinical Practice, Advanced Systems Practice, and Executive Leadership
- BSN to DNP path available; full-time completion in 7–8 semesters (64–77 credits), part-time options available
- Supports a wide range of APRN specialties, including FNP, AGACNP, PMHNP, WHNP, and more
- Includes a scholarly project in lieu of a dissertation, tailored to each student’s practice context
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and aligned with AACN and NONPF standards
Before selecting a program, prospective students should consider which APRN role they’re most interested in pursuing, as different specialties (such as family nurse practitioner or psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner) may influence program choice and clinical preparation. As always, the best program is the one that aligns most closely with your personal goals, career plans, and life circumstances.
Tips for Choosing the Right Online APRN Program
With so many online APRN programs available, it’s essential to select one that fits your professional goals, learning style, and state licensure requirements. Here are practical tips to guide your decision:
1. Identify Your Target APRN Role and Specialty
Decide early whether you want to become an NP, CNS, CNM, or CRNA, and determine which population or specialty area (e.g., family practice, psychiatric-mental health, pediatrics) best aligns with your interests and career aspirations.
2. Confirm State Authorization
Not all online programs can accept students from every state. Before applying, verify that:
- The school is authorized to enroll students in your state
- The program’s clinical and licensure pathway is recognized by your state’s board of nursing
3. Review Certification Pass Rates and Faculty Credentials
Look for programs that publish:
- First-time certification exam pass rates
- Faculty experience and qualifications, especially in your intended APRN role
High-quality programs often have instructors who are currently practicing or board-certified in the specialty they teach.
4. Ask About Clinical Placement Assistance
If you don’t already have clinical connections, find out whether the program:
- Provides clinical placement support
- Has a network of affiliated healthcare partners
- Offers guidance on identifying preceptors in your area
5. Verify Residency or Immersion Requirements
Some programs, even those labeled “online,” may require:
- On-campus skills labs or simulation-based assessments
- One or more residency intensives throughout the program
Confirm these details in advance so you can plan for travel or time off work.
Taking time to thoroughly evaluate these factors can help you choose an online APRN program that supports your learning needs, prepares you for certification, and aligns with your long-term goals in advanced nursing practice.
FAQ
Can I complete a CRNA or CNM program online?
While some didactic coursework for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) programs may be offered online, these roles require extensive hands-on training that cannot be completed entirely remotely. Most CRNA and CNM programs follow a hybrid model, blending online learning with on-campus labs and in-person clinical rotations. Be sure to check each program’s format and residency requirements.
What’s the difference between an NP and CNS program?
Both NPs and CNSs are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, but they have distinct roles:
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs) provide direct patient care, often in primary or specialty settings, and can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications.
- Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) focus more on improving healthcare systems, mentoring staff, and influencing patient care at the organizational level—though they may also provide direct care.
Do online APRN programs provide clinical placement?
Many do, but the level of support varies. Some programs help arrange clinical placements or maintain networks of affiliated sites, while others expect students to secure their own preceptors. This is an important detail to clarify before enrolling, especially if you live in a rural or underserved area.
Are part-time APRN programs available for working nurses?
Yes. Many online APRN programs offer part-time tracks that allow working RNs to balance education with employment and family responsibilities. These tracks extend the program length but offer greater flexibility in course scheduling and clinical hour completion.
Exploring Your Options
Online APRN programs offer a flexible, accessible path for BSN-prepared nurses and practicing RNs to advance into specialized, high-impact roles in healthcare. While no program is entirely remote—due to required clinical hours and potential campus immersions—the ability to complete coursework online makes these pathways more manageable for working professionals.
As you consider your next steps, focus on accredited, licensure-aligned programs that offer support with clinical placement and match your career goals. Exploring national directories, reviewing program websites, and speaking with admissions advisors can help you find the right fit and begin your journey toward advanced practice nursing with confidence.
