Nurse Practitioner Programs (2026)

Choose a nurse practitioner specialty to compare accredited online and campus MSN and DNP programs, tuition, timelines, and state-by-state practice authority.

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Care for individuals and families across the lifespan.

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Care for patients across the lifespan living with mental health and substance-use conditions.

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

Care for acutely and critically ill adolescent, adult, and older-adult patients.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

Care for infants, children, and adolescents.

Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)

Care for women across the lifespan — reproductive, prenatal, and menopausal health.

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)

Care for adolescents, adults, and older adults in primary care settings.

What are the main nurse practitioner specialties?
The most common NP specialties on this site are Family (FNP), Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP), Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (AGACNP), and Pediatric (PNP). Each is a separate population focus with its own national certification exam. Source: AANP and ANCC national NP certification exams named on each specialty hub. Last verified 2026-07-30.
Do I need an MSN or a DNP to become a nurse practitioner?
Either pathway can lead to NP practice. An MSN is the traditional entry point; a DNP adds doctoral-level systems leadership training. Both require national certification in the chosen specialty before state NP licensure. Source: AANP and ANCC national NP certification exams named on each specialty hub. Last verified 2026-07-30.
Can nurse practitioner programs be completed online?
Many NP programs deliver didactic coursework online or in hybrid format. Supervised clinical hours must be completed in person at approved sites. Confirm the program is authorized to place students in your state. Source: CCNE and ACEN programmatic accreditation standards; state boards of nursing require in-person clinical hours for initial RN licensure. Last verified 2026-07-30.
How much do nurse practitioners earn?
Nurse practitioners earn a national median of $129,210 per year (May 2024). Earnings vary by specialty, setting, and geography. The national median for registered nurses is $93,600. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024. Last verified 2026-07-12.

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