Dermatology is an increasingly popular specialty among advanced practice nurses who want to focus on skin health, medical dermatology, and aesthetic procedures. As patient demand rises for both medical and cosmetic skin care, dermatology nurse practitioners (NPs) are playing a larger role in diagnosing skin conditions, performing procedures, and promoting long-term skin wellness.
Dermatology NP programs—while not standardized as a standalone NP degree—offer targeted pathways for registered nurses and nurse practitioner students to build expertise in this dynamic field. Whether through elective coursework, post-master’s fellowships, or on-the-job clinical experience, these programs prepare NPs for specialized roles in dermatology clinics, medical spas, and private practices.
Awareness of skin health continues to grow alongside demand for cosmetic treatments and skin cancer screening. This article explores what it takes to become a dermatology NP, how to choose the right educational path, and which programs stand out for their training and specialization opportunities.
What Is a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner?
A dermatology nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions. Dermatology NPs work independently or alongside dermatologists to deliver both medical and cosmetic care to diverse patient populations.
Common Responsibilities
Dermatology NPs perform a variety of clinical tasks, including:
- Conducting full-body skin assessments
- Diagnosing and managing conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea
- Performing procedures such as skin biopsies, cryotherapy, and excisions
- Administering cosmetic treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, and laser therapies
- Educating patients about skin health, sun protection, and skincare regimens
Work Settings
Dermatology nurse practitioners can be found in a range of settings, including:
- Private dermatology clinics
- Medical spas and aesthetic practices
- Hospitals and outpatient specialty centers
- Academic medical centers and research institutions
This specialty allows nurse practitioners to blend clinical acumen with procedural skills, making dermatology both a high-impact and highly marketable area of advanced nursing practice.
Pathways to Becoming a Dermatology NP
There is no single, standardized educational path to becoming a dermatology nurse practitioner. Instead, nurses interested in this specialty typically follow a multi-step route that begins with an advanced practice nursing degree and continues with targeted training in dermatology.
1. Complete an NP Program
Most dermatology NPs are either:
- Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs)
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners (AGNPs)
Both tracks offer broad primary care training and qualify graduates to pursue dermatology-specific roles. Aspiring dermatology NPs typically earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in one of these generalist NP specialties.
2. Pursue Dermatology-Specific Training
After becoming certified as an NP, individuals may deepen their dermatology expertise through:
- Post-master’s dermatology certificates
- Dermatology NP fellowships or residency programs
- Continuing education courses focused on dermatologic conditions or aesthetic procedures
These programs often include didactic coursework, hands-on procedural training, and clinical preceptorships with experienced dermatology providers.
3. Gain On-the-Job Experience
Many dermatology nurse practitioners develop their specialization by working directly in dermatology clinics, cosmetic practices, or skin-focused medical environments. On-the-job training under the supervision of dermatologists or experienced NPs is a valuable way to build both clinical confidence and procedural skill.
Important Note:
Dermatology is not currently recognized as a formal nurse practitioner population focus area like Family, Pediatric, or Adult-Gerontology NP tracks. As a result, there are no accredited NP programs that confer a primary degree in dermatology. Instead, specialization in dermatologic care is achieved through a combination of elective coursework, clinical experience in dermatology settings, post-graduate fellowships, and continuing education. This makes it especially important for aspiring dermatology NPs to choose programs that offer relevant exposure and opportunities to build expertise in skin-focused care.
Criteria for Choosing a Top Dermatology NP Program
For registered nurses and NP students pursuing a career in dermatology, selecting the right educational program is a critical first step. While no formal dermatology NP programs exist at the entry level, many nurse practitioner programs offer valuable dermatology-focused training opportunities through electives, partnerships, or post-graduate options.
Here are the key criteria to look for when evaluating programs:
Accreditation
Ensure the program is accredited by one of the two primary nursing accrediting bodies:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Accreditation ensures program quality and is typically required for licensure and certification.
NP Track Options
Choose an NP track that aligns with dermatology practice, such as:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – the most common and versatile route
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) – suitable for adult-focused dermatology care
Some programs also offer electives or clinical placements with dermatology exposure.
Dermatology-Focused Curriculum or Electives
Look for programs that offer:
- Dermatology-specific elective courses
- Rotations in dermatology clinics or medical spas
- Exposure to cosmetic dermatology and aesthetic procedures
Even a single dedicated course or rotation can be a valuable differentiator.
Post-Graduate Dermatology Fellowships or Certificates
Programs affiliated with post-master’s dermatology NP fellowships or continuing education certificates can provide a structured path to specialization after graduation.
Clinical Placement Support
Strong programs assist students in securing clinical sites and preceptors, ideally with opportunities in:
- Dermatology practices
- Aesthetic clinics
- Skin cancer screening centers
Programs with established relationships in dermatology settings offer a significant advantage for hands-on learning.
Choosing a program that aligns with your long-term dermatology goals will not only set you up for success but also make you a more competitive candidate in a high-demand and specialized field.
Benefits of Specializing in Dermatology as an NP
Specializing in dermatology offers nurse practitioners a unique blend of clinical care, procedural expertise, and career flexibility. As interest in skin health and aesthetic medicine continues to rise, dermatology nurse practitioners are becoming increasingly sought after in both medical and cosmetic settings.
Here are some of the key advantages of choosing dermatology as your NP specialty:
High Patient Demand
Skin concerns are among the most common reasons people seek medical care. From chronic conditions like acne and eczema to skin cancer screenings and cosmetic treatments, dermatology NPs can address a wide range of patient needs. This broad scope creates consistent demand for skilled providers across age groups and demographics.
Blend of Clinical and Aesthetic Practice
Dermatology offers a unique opportunity to combine medical care with aesthetics. Many NPs perform or assist with:
- Botox and dermal filler injections
- Laser therapies and chemical peels
- Microneedling and scar treatments
- Cosmetic consultations and skincare planning
This variety appeals to practitioners who enjoy a hands-on, procedural role that also prioritizes patient education and outcomes.
Competitive Salary Potential
While earnings vary by setting, dermatology NPs often command higher-than-average salaries, particularly in aesthetic-focused practices or high-demand urban markets. Those who specialize in both medical and cosmetic dermatology may also increase their earning potential through cash-pay services.
Flexible Work Environments
Dermatology NPs can work in diverse settings, including:
- Dermatology group practices
- Outpatient clinics and hospitals
- Private aesthetic clinics or medspas
- Telehealth platforms focused on skin care
This flexibility allows NPs to choose roles that align with their personal and professional goals.
Increased Marketability
Specialized dermatology knowledge can help NPs stand out in competitive job markets. Whether you’re pursuing a role in a traditional clinic or launching a cosmetic-focused practice, having advanced dermatology training enhances your credibility and career options.
For NPs drawn to a specialty that combines precision, patient relationships, and procedural skills, dermatology offers a rewarding and future-forward path.
Some of the Top Dermatology NP Programs and Fellowships
The following programs are recognized by the Society of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (SDNP) and represent some of the most established post-graduate training opportunities in dermatology for nurse practitioners. These include structured fellowships and certificate programs designed to deepen dermatologic expertise through clinical experience and didactic instruction. While not required to practice in dermatology, these programs can significantly strengthen a nurse practitioner’s skills, confidence, and marketability in this competitive field.
Florida Atlantic University – Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Location: Boca Raton, Florida (didactic coursework online)
Format: Online with in-person intensives
Length: 1 year (3 semesters, starts in January)
Cost: $4,000–$6,000 per semester (includes CEUs)
Key Features:
- 140 hours of didactic work + 480 clinical hours
- Focuses on general dermatology across the lifespan
- Includes hands-on workshops and clinical residency
- Taught by certified dermatology NPs and board-certified dermatologists
- Students must secure their own clinical sites and preceptors
Lahey Hospital & Medical Center – Dermatology NP Fellowship
Location: Burlington, Lexington, Lynnfield, and Peabody, Massachusetts
Format: On-site, full-time employment with benefits
Length: 2 years (begins July 1 of even-numbered years)
Key Features:
- Didactic and direct clinical curriculum
- Exposure to Mohs surgery, pediatrics, women’s health, cosmetics, and more
- All department physicians and NPs serve as preceptors
Medical College of Wisconsin – Pediatric Dermatology Fellowship
Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Format: On-site
Length: 12 months
Key Features:
- Experience with pediatric laser therapy and surgical procedures
- Involvement in research and multidisciplinary programs
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center – APC Dermatology Fellowship
Location: Hershey, Camp Hill, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Format: On-site, full-time employment with benefits
Length: 1 year
Key Features:
- Fellows participate in didactic and direct patient care
- Shadowing opportunities in Mohs surgery and subspecialties
- Attending physicians provide guidance during clinical care
Regis University – Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Fellowship
Location: Denver, Colorado
Format: Campus-based
Program Type: Post-graduate fellowship (SDNP-endorsed)
Length: Not specified (includes 630 clinical hours)
Key Features:
- One of the few post-graduate programs designed to meet requirements for national DCNP certification
- Includes 630 of the 3,000 clinical hours required for certification
- Faculty are recognized experts in dermatology
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center – NP Dermatology Fellowship
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Format: On-site, full-time employment with benefits
Length: 2 years (post-master’s)
Key Features:
- Includes didactic conferences, simulation labs, journal reviews, mentoring, and scholarly research
- Opportunities in both medical and procedural dermatology
UC Davis – Advanced Practice Fellowship in Dermatology
Location: Sacramento, California
Format: On-site, paid position (no benefits)
Length: 1 year
Key Features:
- Didactic lectures, dermatopathology sessions, clinical training, surgical skills, and Grand Rounds
- Fellows provide patient care under board-certified dermatologists
University of Rochester Medical Center – NP Fellowship Program in Dermatology
Location: Rochester, New York
Format: On-site
Length: 24 months
Key Features:
- Intensive clinical and academic training in general medical dermatology
- Prepares NPs to serve diverse and clinically complex patient populations
- Fulfills the 3,000-hour requirement for the DCNP exam
Tips for Getting Into Dermatology as an NP
Breaking into dermatology as a nurse practitioner requires more than completing a general NP program—it also takes strategic planning, clinical exposure, and a genuine interest in skin health. Whether you’re an RN preparing to enter graduate school or an NP student already enrolled, these tips can help position you for success in the dermatology field.
Choose the Right NP Track
Select a nurse practitioner concentration that aligns with dermatology practice. The most common and flexible options are:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) – covers all age groups and allows broad clinical exposure
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) – ideal for adult-focused dermatology roles
These tracks are widely accepted in dermatology practices and allow for post-graduate specialization.
Pursue Dermatology-Focused Clinical Rotations
Whenever possible, request clinical placements in:
- Dermatology clinics
- Cosmetic or aesthetic practices
- Skin cancer screening centers
If your program doesn’t offer dermatology placements directly, you may be able to coordinate an elective rotation or find a preceptor with dermatology experience.
Enroll in Continuing Education or Fellowship Programs
Enhance your knowledge and skill set with:
- Post-master’s dermatology certificates
- One-year dermatology NP fellowships
- CEU courses in dermatology or aesthetics through nursing organizations or online platforms
These programs build credibility and offer hands-on exposure to medical and cosmetic dermatology procedures.
Network Through Professional Organizations
Join groups such as:
- Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA)
- National Academy of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners (NADNP)
- American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP)
These organizations provide access to conferences, clinical resources, mentorship opportunities, and job postings in dermatology.
By actively seeking out training opportunities and aligning your clinical experience with your career goals, you’ll improve your chances of standing out in this highly specialized—and competitive—area of advanced practice nursing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do any NP programs offer a formal dermatology concentration?
Currently, no entry-level nurse practitioner programs offer a formal, accredited dermatology concentration. However, some NP programs include dermatology-focused electives, clinical rotations, or offer access to post-master’s certificates and fellowships that provide in-depth training in dermatologic care.
Can I become a dermatology NP right out of school?
Yes—though it may take extra effort. New NP graduates can pursue dermatology roles if they gain relevant clinical experience during school or complete post-graduate training, such as a fellowship. Employers often prefer NPs with dermatology exposure or procedural skills, but mentorship opportunities may be available for motivated new grads.
Are there online dermatology NP programs?
There are online NP programs (primarily FNP and AGNP tracks) that may allow you to arrange dermatology-related clinical rotations locally. While dermatology itself is not offered as a fully online NP specialty, some dermatology certificates and continuing education courses are available online for licensed NPs seeking additional training.
What Certifications Are Available in Dermatology Nursing?
There are two primary certifications available for nurses specializing in dermatology:
- Dermatology Nurse Certified (DNC): This credential is designed for registered nurses (RNs) who have developed clinical expertise in dermatologic care. It demonstrates advanced knowledge in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology and supports professional recognition within the specialty.
- Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP): This certification is intended for nurse practitioners (FNP, AGNP, or Adult NP) who have completed at least 3,000 hours of dermatology practice. It verifies advanced clinical competency in diagnosing and managing skin conditions across patient populations.
Both certifications are administered by the Dermatology Nursing Certification Board and are recognized as benchmarks of professional achievement in dermatology nursing.
Finding the Right Dermatology NP Program
Choosing the right path to become a dermatology nurse practitioner starts with aligning your educational choices with your long-term career goals. Because there’s no single accredited dermatology NP degree, it’s essential to be intentional about selecting a program and gaining the experiences that will prepare you for this specialty.
Align Your NP Track With Dermatology Goals
Select a nurse practitioner program—typically FNP or AGNP—that gives you a broad clinical foundation and access to diverse patient populations. These tracks are the most common entry points into dermatology and offer the flexibility to pursue specialized training later.
Prioritize Dermatology Exposure
Not all NP programs offer dermatology-focused clinical rotations or electives, so be proactive. Look for programs that:
- Include dermatology as part of the curriculum
- Allow students to request elective placements in dermatology or aesthetic clinics
- Offer partnerships with dermatologists or post-graduate fellowship opportunities
Direct clinical exposure is one of the most effective ways to break into the field.
Seek Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
Speak with working dermatology nurse practitioners to learn how they entered the specialty and what training or certifications they recommend. Reaching out to:
- NP faculty advisors
- Program coordinators
- Members of organizations like the Dermatology Nurses’ Association (DNA)
…can give you insights into competitive programs, job market trends, and real-world expectations.
Be Strategic With Your Clinical and Continuing Education Choices
If you’re already in an NP program, explore continuing education options in dermatology, request relevant clinical rotations, and attend dermatology-focused nursing conferences. These steps will help you build a strong foundation and stand out when applying to dermatology roles or fellowships.
With careful planning and a clear focus, you can successfully transition into one of nursing’s most dynamic and in-demand specialties—dermatology.
