The Best Accelerated Online NP Programs for 2025

Nurse practitioners (NPs) can follow various educational pathways. While the full path to NP status can take 6-8 years, an online accelerated NP program can take just one year for full-time students.

Online learners can take classes wherever there is internet access. This flexibility allows you to arrange your schedule and coursework in the way that best suits you.

Explore how online NP programs work, what to look for, and more information on choosing the best program for your career goals.

When exploring online accelerated NP programs, keep in mind the metrics listed below — factors that also shape our rankings.

There are three major agencies that accredit nursing schools: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). One of these agencies reviews a nursing program and ensures it meets the standards for education and clinical practice training.

Choosing a non-accredited program could seriously limit your options:

How to check accreditation? Visit the program’s website and look for accreditation info, often listed on the “About Us” page. You can also check on the ACEN or CCNE agencies’ website by searching for the school’s name in their directory.

Some accelerated NP programs have no set class times. Students can take classes at their own pace, but they may have to meet certain deadlines. Other programs require students to attend class at a specific time. In this case, students may access lecture recordings.

Regardless of whether coursework occurs in person or online, students must physically attend clinical rotations. Some programs help students find facilities where they can complete their clinical hours, while in others, students must find facilities on their own.

Instead of the usual 15-week courses, online accelerated NP programs often offer courses that last 4-6 weeks. Due to the pace, full-time students usually can’t work while in school. Part-time learning options take longer but allow more time for work.

Your application is the admissions department’s first impression of you. Make it count by following the directions carefully and submitting everything by the deadline. Although some programs may ask you for materials unique to their needs, expect to provide the following information:

Accelerated online NP programs are often fast-paced, leaving little room for full-time employment. However, many people cannot afford to stop working. For some, that means needing to save in advance — especially if their income supports their household. Financial aid options can help offset some expenses and make this transition more affordable.

Loans — both private and federal — provide financial aid to nursing students to pay for tuition and books. While taking on debt is a big decision, federal loans generally have lower interest rates and more lenient repayment plans than private loans. You can also explore nursing scholarships and grants, which do not need to be repaid.

Employers may also help with education costs. Some facilities, especially medical centers, offer tuition remission or reimbursement. Many RNs work and undertake NP programs at the same time, until clinicals start.

An NP’s advanced education allows them to perform assessments, make diagnoses, and prescribe medication. NPs may collaborate with physicians or work independently. Each state regulates NP practice authority and determines whether NPs work in full practice, reduced practice, or restricted practice.

The pay for NPs exceeds what RNs earn. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2024, RNs make an average annual salary of $98,430, while NPs earn an average annual salary of $132,000.