13 Best (1-YEAR) Post-Masters FNP Online Programs – 2025


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

Are you one of the APRNs who’s considering adding a new specialization area to your existing repertory of clinical skills? The national shortage of healthcare providers has resulted in a surge of professionals pursuing dual certification. Of all the NP concentrations, family nurse practice may be the most flexible in terms of career options, and many 1-year online FNP post-master’s programs exist that will allow you to get your degree conveniently and quickly without sacrificing the quality of your education.

So, what are the best 1-year post-masters FNP programs online? One of the programs in the list below of the 13 best 1-year post-masters FNP online programs will be the right one for you!



WHAT ARE THE BEST (1-YEAR) POST-MASTERS FNP ONLINE PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 13 best 1-Year Post-Masters FNP online certificate programs for 2025. You can complete these programs in 1 Year or less.)


1. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Vanderbilt University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: If you are wondering if there are any 1-year post-masters FNP certificate programs online in TN, then you’re in for some good news. Vanderbilt University offers a post-masters FNP certificate that can be completed within just 12 months.

Program Details: For nurses seeking to expand their role in advanced practice nursing, Vanderbilt University offers an excellent pathway that leads to the FNP certification. The program builds on your master's knowledge and provides specialized skills in primary care. The curriculum’s family-oriented approach prepares graduates for health promotion and disease prevention. While graduation requirements are based on a gap analysis of your previous transcripts, students must also complete at least 500 clinical hours in primary care settings. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be eligible for the FNP certification exam.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for Vanderbilt University’s 1-year online post-masters FNP program, you must have an active RN license and an accredited MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. To complete the application, you must submit your statement of purpose, an essay, three letters of recommendation, and your official transcripts.


Why Choose Vanderbilt University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Vanderbilt University’s graduate nursing program ranks among the best in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• Vanderbilt University is designated as an NLN Center of Excellence. Therefore, FNP students can rest assured of receiving a high-quality education.


2. Ohio University - Athens, OH


Program Length: 3 Semesters


How Fast Can You Complete Ohio University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: To complete Ohio University’s FNP program all it takes is three semesters.

Program Details: If you are seeking to become a primary care provider, then Ohio University offers one of the best 1-year post-masters FNP programs online through which you can advance your nursing practice. The 20-credit certificate coursework offers a patient-centric curriculum that prepares graduates to work in a range of primary care settings. In addition to online didactic courses, the program also includes 750 hours of clinical practice. The coursework trains you for the primary healthcare management of individuals and families across the lifespan.


Admission Requirements: To apply for Ohio University’s online post-Masters FNP program, you must have an MSN and an active and unencumbered RN license. The admission requirements also require the submission of transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Ohio University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Ohio University’s 1-year post-masters FNP online certificate program offers generous financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help cut down on the cost of your education.
• Ohio University’s online post-masters FNP program is taught by expert faculty members who are leaders in their field of professional practice.
• Ohio University is ranked as one of the best public universities in Ohio as per the U.S. News & World Report.


3. University of Missouri-Kansas City - Kansas City, MO


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete University of Missouri-Kansas City Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Family nurse practitioners play a vital role in the healthcare team and if you are eager to enter this advanced practice field quickly, then the University of Missouri-Kansas City is an excellent place to begin. Here, you can complete your post-masters FNP training within just one year, that too through the convenience of online classes.

Program Details: University of Missouri-Kansas City’s 1-year online post-masters FNP program prepares you as a primary healthcare provider, wherein you’ll use evidence-based knowledge to improve health outcomes. Graduates are well-trained to explore employment opportunities in a variety of settings, including, hospitals, community clinics, rural health clinics, prisons, and emergency rooms, to name a few. The program comprises 18 credits and mainly emphasizes primary care of families and includes pharmacology across the lifespan. The coursework also includes at least 660 hours of clinical work.


Admission Requirements: The application requires candidates to have at least two years of RN experience and an MSN from an accredited university or college. Other requirements for this 1-year post-masters FNP online certificate program include the submission of a personal statement, a personal goal statement, a current resume, and all your transcripts.


Why Choose University of Missouri-Kansas City Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• University of Missouri-Kansas City’s online graduate program ranks among the top in the nation as per the U.S. News & World Report.
• University of Missouri-Kansas City’s faculty offers personalized attention to ensure students are prepared to accomplish academic and professional success.


4. Western University of Health Sciences - Pomona, CA


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Western University of Health Sciences Post-Masters FNP Online Program: To complete the Western University of Health Sciences FNP program all it takes is one year of full-time study. While it is preferred that you refrain from employment while enrolled, if you want to work, then you must opt for the part-time coursework. The part-time program takes two years to complete.

Program Details: If you are searching for the best 1-year post-masters FNP online certificate programs in CA, then Western University of Health Sciences offers an excellent FNP that can be completed sooner than you think. The program builds on your master's in nursing education and includes online didactic courses and diverse clinical experiences. The curriculum offers self-directed courses that can be taken anytime. Plus, there are two on-campus intensives per semester to allow for in-person interaction with faculty and peers. The program comprises 29 didactic and 15 clinical credits. Precisely, students must complete 675 clinical hours in primary care.


Admission Requirements: For admission into Western University of Health Sciences’ 1-year online post-masters FNP program, applicants must have an accredited MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. Also, you must submit your completed application along with a copy of your valid and unencumbered RN license, two references, a resume, a personal statement, and official transcripts. Additionally, a phone interview may be required.


Why Choose Western University of Health Sciences Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Western University of Health Sciences online post-masters FNP program is offered by an expert faculty that is experienced at delivering quality online education.
• Western University of Health Sciences online FNP graduates become part of a thriving alumni community that includes professional nurses working across the globe.
• Western University of Health Sciences online post-masters FNP program offers excellent support to facilitate an engaging and fruitful online learning experience.


5. West Texas A&M University - Canyon, TX


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete West Texas A&M University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: West Texas A&M University’s post-masters FNP online program, starting twice a year, takes one year to complete. Depending on when you are ready, you can enroll either in spring or fall.

Program Details: One of the affordable 1-year post-masters FNP online programs, West Texas A&M University offers a quick pathway to a rewarding career as a family nurse practitioner. The program consists of 36 credits and 675 hours of clinical practice. The coursework mainly consists of courses that prepare you for the healthcare management of chronically and critically ill male and female patients of all age groups.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for West Texas A&M University’s 1-year online post-masters FNP certificate program, you must have an accredited MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires the submission of a resume, a goal statement, references, and all your transcripts. Applicants must also be prepared to submit a copy of their active and unencumbered RN license.


Why Choose West Texas A&M University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• The U.S. News & World Report ranks West Texas A&M University for offering high-quality online graduate nursing education.
• West Texas A&M University’s online post-masters FNP program is grounded in interdisciplinary education. Therefore, FNP graduates are well-prepared to work in a variety of healthcare settings.


6. Wright State University - Dayton, OH


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Wright State University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Wright State University’s post-masters FNP online program can be completed within as little as 12 months. The program starts in the summer semester and ends in the spring semester, spanning over three consecutive semesters.

Program Details: For nurses who want to expand their nursing practice, Wright State University offers one of the best 1-year post-masters FNP certificate programs online that can easily accommodate a busy work schedule. All the didactic courses are offered online and students are required to visit the campus only five times. Because the program leverages your graduate nursing education, you are required to complete only a minimum of 17 credits. The coursework equips you with evidence-based skills required for the health promotion and disease prevention of adults, women, children, and adolescents. In the end, you’ll complete a clinical practicum in primary care.


Admission Requirements: Wright State University’s 1-year post-masters FNP online program is open to registered nurses who have a master's degree or are currently enrolled in an MSN program. Also, courses in pharmacology, health assessment, and advanced life span pathophysiology must be completed to qualify for admission. The program also requires you to have an unencumbered RN license. Submission of your official transcripts and a professional resume are also needed.


Why Choose Wright State University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Wright State University Online Post-Masters FNP Program students gain ample practice experience at its state of art simulation lab. Also, the on-campus sessions allow students to engage in enriching research activities with expert faculty members.
• Wright State University maintains strong ties with several schools, hospitals, health agencies, and organizations in the region to provide FNP students with diverse interdisciplinary learning experiences.


7. Hawai‘i Pacific University - Honolulu, HI


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete Hawai‘i Pacific University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: If you are passionate about family care and do not wish to waste any more time in obtaining your FNP certification, then enrolling into Hawai‘i Pacific University’s FNP is an excellent idea. Here you can complete your training and become a primary care provider within just 12 months.

Program Details: Another of the best 1-year post-masters FNP online programs is offered by Hawai‘i Pacific University. The program allows you to complete your training within a brief period and you also enjoy the convenience of taking classes from anywhere. The program comprises 24 credits and starts thrice a year, in fall, spring, and summer. The program enhances skills in critical thinking and clinical analysis and prepares you to provide evidence-based care to diverse patient populations, especially underserved and vulnerable communities. Graduates are prepared to sit for the FNP certification.


Admission Requirements: To qualify for Hawai‘i Pacific University’s online post-masters FNP program, you must be a registered nurse with an active and unencumbered RN license. The admission requirements also include the submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal goal statement. An MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. is also required.


Why Choose Hawai‘i Pacific University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Hawai‘i Pacific University’s online post-masters FNP students study in small-sized classes where they not only receive individualized attention but bond with faculty and peers.
• Hawai‘i Pacific University’s one-year online post-masters FNP program offers students excellent clinical training and solid placement support to help them find a clinical site that matches their goals.


8. San Francisco State University - San Francisco, CA


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete San Francisco State University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: It is possible to complete San Francisco State University’s post-masters FNP online program within just 12 months. The program starts each summer, with the average duration of completion being 15 months.

Program Details: If you are shortlisting the best 1-year online post-masters FNP programs in the nation, then you must add San Francisco State University’s FNP to your list. Grounded in interprofessional collaboration, the program comprises 31 credits and mainly offers online classes with few on-campus visits. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion, and disease prevention and prepares graduates for the health restoration of patients suffering from chronic and acute health conditions. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the California FNP certification exam.


Admission Requirements: Applicants for San Francisco State University’s one-year online post-masters FNP program must have at least a master's degree in nursing. Further, a valid RN license is required. The program’s admission requirements also require the submission of a personal statement, unofficial transcripts, three reference letters, and a resume.


Why Choose San Francisco State University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• San Francisco State University’s online post-masters FNP program students study in small-sized classes, enjoying the support of a close-knit cohort.
• San Francisco State University has been imparting quality nurse training for more than 50 years. The online FNP leverages the school’s rich experience and strong industry partnerships to offer students an excellent education.


9. Spring Arbor University - Spring Arbor, MI


Program Length: 8 Months


How Fast Can You Complete Spring Arbor University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Have you ever thought of becoming a primary care provider? If so, Spring Arbor University can accelerate your move by offering its online FNP. The program can be completed within just eight months, provided you already have an NP certification in another population focus. The program not only finishes rather quickly but also allows you to continue full-time work while taking classes at your convenience.

Program Details: Spring Arbor University provides the quickest way of becoming a certified FNP by offering one of the best online FNP programs in the nation. Its 8-month online post-masters FNP program focuses on the healthcare management of children, adults, elders, and women. Graduates are prepared to offer care in interdisciplinary healthcare environments where they effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals. Courses are offered in a seven-week format, allowing 1-week breaks in between classes. Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to take the FNP certification exam.


Admission Requirements: Students interested in applying for Spring Arbor University’s online post-masters FNP program must have an accredited MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, to complete the program within the short-time frame of eight months, an active NP license is required. Besides, an active and unencumbered RN license in your state of employment is a must. The program also requires applicants to complete prerequisite courses in advanced pharmacology, advanced pathophysiology, advanced physical assessment, and health promotion. A complete application must also include official transcripts and a short statement of purpose.


Why Choose Spring Arbor University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Spring Arbor University’s 8-month post-masters FNP online program is rooted in Christian values, promoting the intellectual as well as spiritual growth of its students.
• Spring Arbor University’s online post-masters FNP program offers a supportive learning environment where students have a dedicated “success advisor” to help them achieve their academic and professional goals.
• Spring Arbor University’s online post-masters FNP program offers high-quality online nursing education and therefore is highly ranked nationally by some of the leading online publications.


10. Utica University - Utica, NY


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Utica University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Utica University’s post-masters FNP online program can be completed within hardly 12 months of full-time study. There is also a part-time option that may take around 20 months to graduate.

Program Details: Among the best one-year post-masters FNP programs online, Utica’s FNP can prepare you to become a family nurse practitioner rather swiftly. The 31-credit coursework includes online lectures plus in-person clinicals. The program offers employable training and a research-backed curriculum. The coursework focuses on health promotion, evidence-based primary care, health assessment, diagnostic reasoning, and pharmacology. Towards the end of the program, students complete a culminating seminar and an FNP skills residency. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to sit for the FNP certification exam.


Admission Requirements: To apply for Utica University’s 12-month online post-masters FNP certificate program, you must submit an online application along with a fee. Also, applicants must have an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. To complete the application, submission of official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement is required. The program also requires applicants to have at least 2000 hours of RN work experience.


Why Choose Utica University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Utica University’s online post-masters FNP is offered in small-sized classes where students receive personal attention.
• Utica University’s online post-masters FNP program offers financial aid and scholarship opportunities to make FNP education more affordable.
• Utica University faculty is highly experienced and dedicated to helping FNP students reach their personal and professional goals.


11. Malone University - Canton, OH


Program Length: 3 Semesters


How Fast Can You Complete Malone University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Malone University’s post-masters FNP online program can be completed within just 12 months or three semesters.

Program Details: Another of the nation’s best 12-month post-masters FNP programs online, offered by Malone University, is an excellent choice for nurses eager to join the primary care team. Designed for working nurses, the program’s flexible online classes easily accommodate the needs of adult learners. The program prepares graduates with collaborative and critical thinking skills to offer high-quality patient care. You’ll expand on your nursing knowledge by learning about health promotion, disease prevention, acute & chronic health conditions, and healthcare management of patients across the lifespan. Graduation requires completion of a total of 16.5 hours, including, 500 hours of clinical practice.


Admission Requirements: Similar to other 1-year online post-masters FNP certificate programs, Malone University’s FNP is open to registered nurses who have an accredited MSN. To apply, you must be prepared to submit your resume, two references official transcripts. Also, an interview may be required. The program also requires you to possess an active and unencumbered RN license in your state of practice.


Why Choose Malone University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Malone University offers Christ-centered FNP education that provides students with a transformative learning experience.
• Malone University’s FNP graduates not only perform well on the FNP certification exam but also find suitable placements soon upon graduation.
• Malone University's online FNP offers affordable tuition costs, compared to most other 12-month post-masters FNP programs online in the region.


12. New Mexico State University - Las Cruces, NM


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete New Mexico State University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Whether you desire the convenience of online classes or want to become an FNP as soon as possible, at New Mexico State University, you’ll be able to fulfill your dreams in a way that suits you just right. Here, you can complete your post-masters FNP online program within just one year.

Program Details: New Mexico State University’s one-year post-masters FNP online certificate program consists of as few as 18 credits. Leading to the FNP certification exam, the program provides a fine blend of online instructions and hands-on learning. The curriculum prepares graduates for the identification, evaluation, and management of chronic and acute health conditions in individuals across their lifespan. You’ll also gain knowledge in interprofessional competencies, and healthcare management of patients in diverse settings, focusing on the underserved and vulnerable sections. Also, included in the program are 500 hours of primary care clinical training.


Admission Requirements: New Mexico State University’s FNP starts every fall. The program takes registered nurses who have an accredited MSN with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires a valid APRN and RN license. Also, you must be prepared to submit your resume, transcripts, letter of intent, and three recommendation letters.


Why Choose New Mexico State University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• New Mexico State University’s online post-masters FNP program is not only affordable but also offers generous financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
• New Mexico State University’s online post-masters FNP program is delivered by dedicated and supportive faculty members who are invested in your journey of becoming a family nurse practitioner.


13. Indiana Wesleyan University - Marion, IN


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete Indiana Wesleyan University Post-Masters FNP Online Program: Indiana Wesleyan University’s post-masters FNP online program can be completed within just one year.

Program Details: If you are looking for a 1-year online post-masters FNP certificate program in IN, then Indiana Wesleyan University’s FNP is a terrific choice. The program not only offers flexible online classes but also comes with multiple start dates to allow beginning as soon as you are ready. This FNP program equips you with the tools and knowledge to offer competent patient care in a variety of primary care settings. The coursework comprises just four courses that mainly cover the professional role development for APRNs and primary care across the lifespan. Upon completion of the 20-credit coursework, graduates are prepared to work as family nurse practitioners in hospitals, clinics, independent practices, schools, community healthcare agencies, etc.


Admission Requirements: For admission into Indiana Wesleyan University’s FNP, you must have an MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, you must possess an active and unencumbered RN license. The program also requires the submission of three letters of reference, official transcripts, and a resume.


Why Choose Indiana Wesleyan University Online Post-Masters FNP Program

• Indiana Wesleyan University’s 12-month post-masters FNP online program offers several financial aid opportunities, including, loans, grants, scholarships, veterans, and employer discounts.
• Indiana Wesleyan University’s FNP program classes are 100% online and clinical experiences are arranged within your home community.
• Indiana Wesleyan University, being a Christ-centered academic environment, offers FNP students a well-rounded education where they are nurtured for professional and personal growth.


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