16 Best Accelerated FNP Programs For Non-Nurses (Online & Campus-Based)


Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Are you a college graduate with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field? Have you wondered what it would be like to become a nurse practitioner and provide primary care for individuals and families? Perhaps you have considered returning to school to earn a nursing degree but do not know where to begin. If time is of the essence, an accelerated FNP program option is worth considering. Of course, you may have already thought of an accelerated nursing program but question, “What are the best accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses?”

If that sounds familiar, this article may be just what you are looking for! As you read further, I will share with you the 16 best accelerated (campus-based and online) FNP programs for non-nurses in the nation. You will discover information about how long it takes to earn a nursing degree and become an FNP, the criteria for being admitted to the programs, and what makes these schools stand out from all the others!



RECOMMENDED ONLINE NURSE PRACTITIONER PROGRAMS

What Exactly is the Goal of an Accelerated FNP Program for Non-Nurses?


The goal of an accelerated FNP program for non-nurses is to give baccalaureate-prepared college graduates the opportunity to earn an advanced nursing degree specializing as family nurse practitioners in less time than it takes to earn a traditional advanced nursing degree and become an FNP. The programs aim to prepare students with no nursing education or experience to work at masters or doctoral levels in nursing, providing care to patients of all ages with varying degrees of health and illness.


3 Main Advantages of Accelerated FNP Programs for Non-Nurses


I always recommend weighing the pros and cons of any academic or professional pursuit before making a final commitment. By comparing advantages and disadvantages, you can make a more informed decision about what is best for you. The following are three main advantages of earning your degree through one of the best accelerated FNP programs for non-nurses, like those featured in this article.

ADVANTAGE #1: You Can Advance Your Career in a Shorter Time

One of the main advantages of choosing an accelerated FNP program for non-nurses is you can earn a graduate degree in a new field in a shorter time than it takes to complete a traditional nursing degree and become a nurse practitioner. Depending on whether you pursue a Master of Science in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a non-nursing bachelor's, you could become an FNP through an accelerated program in two to four years.

ADVANTAGE #2: There Is an Excellent Job Outlook

A key factor to consider when choosing a career or deciding whether to transition career paths is whether there is a demand for the service you want to provide. A huge advantage of earning your degree through one of the best accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses is that the job outlook is excellent! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for nurse practitioners will grow by 45% between 2022 and 2032, an increase of approximately 118,600 jobs!

ADVANTAGE #3: You Can Earn a Generous Income

While money isn’t everything, making a good income does not hurt, right? When you graduate from one of the nation’s top accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses, you will have excellent income potential. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average starting salary for program graduates is $87,340, with the average for experienced graduates being much higher at approximately $124,680 annually. While these numbers are great, some FNPs earn even higher salaries. Family Nurse Practitioners in the top 25% for income earn between $135,470 and $165,240 per year... Some earn even more!



What are the Best Accelerated (Campus-Based and Online) FNP Programs for Non-Nurses in the Nation?


(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 16 best accelerated FNP programs for non-nurses. The following list includes both (Campus-Based and Online) programs. These programs are for students with a degree in a non-nursing field.)


1. Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 6 Semesters


Program Details: If you are searching for the best accelerated FNP programs for non-nurses with a solid foundation in research and nursing theory, Vanderbilt University’s School of Nursing is a great place to start! The university offers a family-oriented approach to education emphasizing health promotion and maintenance designed to help you develop advanced skills in health assessment, diagnosis, and illness and disease management.

The program is offered in a modified distance learning format. During your first year, you are required to enroll full-time, attend classes on campus, and live within commuting distance of the Nashville campus.

Once you advance to your specialty year, classes will be in a hybrid format, consisting of both face-to-face classes and online classes in your home state.

In the pre-specialty year, the curriculum includes entry-level coursework and 700 hours of clinicals to prepare you to become eligible to take the National Council for Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). If you remain in good standing and progress to the specialty year, you will take the NCLEX-RN in the first semester of the specialty program. You are required to be licensed as a registered nurse prior to beginning specialty clinical courses.

During your specialty year, you will be immersed in a rich curriculum consisting of advanced coursework, studying courses including Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology, Essential Procedures for the Family Nurse Practitioner, and Professional Formation: Roles and Contexts for Advanced Nursing Leadership. You will also have learning opportunities in the university's simulation lab, where you will learn hands-on skills relevant to patient care in a safe, controlled environment. These experiences will prepare you for clinical training. In this portion of the program, you will complete a minimum of 630 clinical practicum hours in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, public health facilities, and skilled nursing facilities.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at Vanderbilt University is designed to be completed in six consecutive semesters.


Admission Requirements: Applicants desiring admission to the FNP accelerated program for non-nurses are holistically reviewed based on several factors. First, you must possess a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. You should begin the process by completing an MSN application and creating a file in the university’s admissions system.

A complete record of your academic history is required, including a list of all post-secondary schools you attended and official transcripts, even if a degree was not earned. Candidates with a college grade point average of at least 3.0 are preferred. Additionally, you must complete all prerequisites with a grade of "C" or higher.

You must provide three letters of academic or professional recommendation, a writing sample based on application questions, and a Statement of Purpose. Your Statement of Purpose should reflect your interest in the family practice specialty and how your nursing career goals align with the specialty.


Why Choose Vanderbilt University Accelerated FNP

• At Vanderbilt University, you may qualify for the Nurse Scholars Program, which pays for up to four semesters of tuition in return for your commitment to work at Vanderbilt University Medical Center after graduation. The program pays up to $7,500 per semester.
• Vanderbilt University has a history of educating nursing students dating back to the early 1900s, which is a true testament to its dedication to the profession.
• Graduates of the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing are known for excellence in practice, research, and informatics, another indication of the strong preparation the school gives students.


2. Emory University - Atlanta, GA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 8 Semesters


Program Details: At Emory University, the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses offers a fast-track opportunity to transition from a career with no nursing experience to one as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed so that you will earn a Master of Nursing in the first 15 months, allowing you to take the NCLEX-RN and become licensed as a registered nurse. You will then complete the Master of Science in Nursing degree, which qualifies you to take the national certification exam to become licensed as a nurse practitioner.

The MN cohort begins in the summer semester annually and lasts four consecutive semesters: summer, fall, spring, and summer. You may choose to begin the MSN component of the program the following fall or spring.

You will begin the accelerated online FNP program by completing the MN degree. This degree plan includes 60 credits of coursework, 519 clinical hours, and 164 laboratory hours. The MSN portion of the program consists of 48 credits and 780 clinical hours. In this component, you will study advanced courses in pharmacology, health assessment, physiology, and pathophysiology. You will also study Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Healthcare quality and patient Safety, and Diagnostics and Clinical Reasoning.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated FNP online program for non-nurses at Emory University takes eight semesters to complete. The first four semesters of the program are the Master of Nursing portion, during which you will qualify to take the NCLEX-RN and become licensed as a registered nurse. The following four semesters are the MSN component, which prepares you for practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner.


Admission Requirements: The FNP accelerated online program is designed for candidates who possess a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. You must complete an admission application and provide official transcripts from each college or university you have attended. Because admission is competitive, candidates with a cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher are preferred. You must also provide a resume, personal statement, and two or three professional or academic letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Emory University Accelerated FNP

• Emory University understands the importance of diverse clinical training, which is evidenced by the school’s numerous clinical partnerships with healthcare facilities in Atlanta and across the United States.
• As a student in the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses, you will complete more than 1,000 hours of clinical training under the direct supervision of clinical faculty and preceptors. Your clinical practicum experiences are designed to prepare you for professional practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
• You will learn from nationally certified faculty who remain engaged in clinical practice and who are actively involved in research.


3. University of California-San Francisco - San Francisco, CA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 3 years


Program Details: Another of the nation’s best accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses is offered at the University of California-San Francisco. The program is designed with a rigorous theoretical and clinical curriculum that will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to transition your career pathway and become a Family Nurse Practitioner. Coursework is delivered with a combination of online classes and face-to-face lectures and simulations.

After completing prelicensure coursework in your first year, you will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam to become a licensed registered nurse. In the second year, you will matriculate into the Master of Science in Nursing program and begin graduate-level nursing studies in the family nurse practitioner specialty.

You will gain more than 600 hours of hands-on experience providing community-based primary care to diverse patient populations across the lifespan, experiencing acute, chronic, and complex health needs. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible to sit for the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and American Nurses Credential Center Family Nurse Practitioner national board certification examinations.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: It takes an average of three years to complete the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at the University of California-San Francisco.


Admission Requirements: With a bachelor’s degree in any field earned from an accredited college or university, you may apply for admission to the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses offered at UCSF. You must submit official transcripts from any post-secondary school you attended and have a college GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. All candidates are required to take and pass a Statistics course within five years of the start of the program.

You must provide three letters of recommendation, a professional resume or CV, a Goal Statement, and a Personal Statement. Some candidates are asked to participate in an admission interview with program faculty.


Why Choose University of California-San Francisco Accelerated FNP

• The University of California-San Francisco offers awesome clinical opportunities through partnerships with renowned hospitals and clinics, including Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, and the UCSF Helen Diller Medical Center.
• UCSF reports high student satisfaction rates, low attrition rates, and excellent NCLEX and national certification pass rates among graduates of the program.


4. Yale University - West Haven, CT


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 3 years


Program Details: At Yale University, you will find another excellent graduate entry pre-specialty nursing program. This accelerated family nurse practitioner online program for non-nurses combines preparation in basic nursing and advanced training that leads to a Master of Science in Nursing.

The program offers rich classroom and clinical experiences based on the most current and relevant evidence-based practices and research findings. In addition to in-depth didactic instruction, you will have more than 1,000 hours of clinical practicum experience, where you can put the theory you learn in the classroom to practice with real patients. You will have opportunities to practice hands-on patient care in primary care, pediatric, community health, and underserved community population settings.

The pre-specialty year consists of 45 credit hours and 357 clinical hours. After completing your
pre-specialty year, you will transition to the FNP specialty curriculum and complete 59.5 additional credits of specialty coursework and 720 clinical hours. You will be immersed in classes including Individual and Family Development During Childhood, Mental Health Management for Advanced Practice Nurses, Statistics and Research for Evidence-Based Practice Nursing, and Advanced Pathophysiology.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The program at Yale University is designed to be completed in three years. The first year is your pre-specialty year, followed by two years of FNP specialty study.


Admission Requirements: To begin the process of applying to the Yale University accelerated FNP online program for non-nurses, you must first complete an online NursingCAS application and pay an $80 application fee. You must provide a current resume or curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and official copies of transcripts from any post-secondary institutions you have attended. You must provide an integrated and comprehensive essay and one to four short answer essays, prompts for which are provided in the application portal.

Candidates with a bachelor's GPA of 3.0 or higher are preferred. If your previous bachelor's grade point average was less than 3.0, GRE exam results are required.


Why Choose Yale University Accelerated FNP

• The Family Nurse Practitioner program offered at Yale University is ranked as one of the top programs by U.S. News & World Report among programs in the Best Graduate Nursing Programs category.
• Yale University reports graduates of the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses have outstanding pass rates on both the NCLEX-RN and FNP Certification exams among first-time testers.


5. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 3 years


Program Details: The accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses at Ohio State University is one of the leading nursing programs in the nation. Students with non-nursing background must attend the campus-based program option with the exception of a few core courses that are offered online. All clinical courses are campus-based and clinical practicums are held within the state of Ohio.

The program requires you to complete between 96 and 116 credits, depending on your previous coursework and the number of transferrable credits. In the first two years of the program, you will take classes including Health Promotion, Theory, Population Health, Evidence-Based Practice, Health Assessment, Cultural Competence in Healthcare, and Nursing Care of Adults and Older Adults. The final year of the program consists primarily of clinical practicums and residencies.

Clinical placement is the result of collaboration between faculty, the Clinical Placement Office, and you. Faculty and Clinical Placement Staff survey students about placement preferences in an effort to find the most suitable clinical sites and preceptors.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Once you satisfy all prerequisite requirements, you can complete the program in three years of full-time study.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the program, you must have a baccalaureate degree in a field other than nursing that was earned at an accredited post-secondary institution. Although applicants with a college GPA of less than 3.0 are considered for admission, those with a minimum 3.0 grade point average are given preference. You must complete an online application and provide official copies of all college transcripts. Additionally, you must provide a current resume or curriculum vitae, a Purpose and Goals Statement, three letters of recommendation, and a recorded online interview.


Why Choose the Ohio State University Accelerated FNP

• Ohio State University is home to one of the leading nursing programs in the country. The school features expert, graduate-prepared faculty and preceptors who remain in active practice. Their dedication to continued practice means they are aware of current trends and research relevant to family practice nursing and that they can help you prepare to succeed in your career.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center has awarded Magnet Recognition to the OSU Wexner Medical Center’s University Hospital, Brain and Spine Hospital, Ross Heart Hospital, and Dodd Rehabilitation Hospital. You will have opportunities to learn at each of these facilities while enrolled in the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses.


6. University of Rochester - Rochester, NY


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 3 Years


Program Details: At the University of Rochester, you will find another excellent accelerated FNP program for non-nurses. The program admits new cohorts in the spring and summer semesters yearly. Coursework is delivered in a hybrid format.

In this program, you will earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in one year and take the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse. You will then transition your studies to earn a Master of Science in Nursing and study to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. Once you begin the master’s portion of the curriculum, you will complete 55 credits. You will study in classes, including Women’s Healthcare for Primary Care Generalists, Family Theoretical Frameworks and Application to Nursing Care of Families, and Evaluation and Management of Common Health Problems.

The program also includes 672 hours of clinical practicum. You will have clinical experiences in pediatric, women’s health, and primary care settings, as well as community and public health facilities. Clinicals are arranged by program faculty at clinical partner sites and are completed either under the supervision of a clinical instructor or approved preceptor.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses at the University of Rochester is a three-year program.


Admission Requirements: Admission to the FNP accelerated program is highly competitive, with limited slots available for each admission cycle. All candidates must have a minimum 3.0 grade point average for their previous non-nursing bachelor's degree and have prior healthcare experience relevant to their chosen specialty.

To apply, you must create an online account and submit an online application. Additionally, you must upload or submit official transcripts from any post-secondary school you attended, a current resume or curriculum vitae, and two letters of recommendation from a professional or academic source. As part of the application process, you must also follow prompts to answer short-answer questions.


Why Choose the University of Rochester Accelerated FNP

• Upon completion of this program, you will be well-prepared to appraise data, communication networks, and information technology to drive patient-centered healthcare decisions that improve efficiency and quality of care delivery.
• As a student in the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at the University of Rochester, you will learn from faculty and preceptors with a broad range of knowledge focused on scientific research from diverse sources. Their knowledge and experience will help you learn to contribute to the production, translation, and dissemination of clinical nursing scholarship.


7. Boston College - Chestnut Hill, MA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 11 Semesters


Program Details: At Boston College, you can prepare to improve the health and well-being of individuals and families by providing acute and primary care throughout the lifespan by earning a degree through the school’s accelerated FNP program for non-nurses. The program admits students in the fall semester annually and is designed to award both a Master of Science/Advanced Nursing Generalist and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

The first five semesters of the program are dedicated to full-time study, preparing you to take the NCLEX-RN and become a licensed registered nurse. At the end of this portion of the program, a generalist Master of Science in nursing will be conferred. The final component of the program involves DNP studies and clinical fieldwork with a focus on family practice.

In addition to a rigorous curriculum plan, you will complete 1,000 hours of clinical training. Boston College has connections with more than 85 clinical sites. Program directors and clinical experience staff will work with you to arrange clinical sites and preceptors.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The FNP accelerated program offered at Boston College takes 11 semesters to complete, including three summer sessions.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the accelerated family nurse practitioner program at Boston College, you must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a non-nursing field from an accredited college or university. You must also have an undergraduate GPA or combined undergraduate and graduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and complete all prerequisite courses.

Candidates must complete an online application and submit a resume or CV, two letters of recommendation, and a goal statement.


Why Choose Boston College Accelerated FNP

• At Boston College, you will gain real-world clinical experience at renowned medical facilities, including Boston Children's Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Boston Medical Center.
• Boston College promotes a holistic approach to education, focusing on each student’s personal, intellectual, spiritual, and professional growth by supporting a culture founded in strong Jesuit traditions.
• You will have opportunities to gain a greater understanding of global healthcare needs through international study opportunities.


8. Northeastern University - Boston, MA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 8 Semesters


Program Details: Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, offers another outstanding accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses. The program admits students in the fall and spring semesters. The learning modality is designed with a mix of online coursework, on-campus practice intensives, and in-person clinicals.

The program consists of two components. The first component is a 16-month pathway that awards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and prepares you to take the NCLEX-RN and become licensed as a registered nurse. After obtaining your RN license, you must obtain one to two years of RN work experience, after which you may transition to the master's component of the program and specialize as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Once you matriculate into the master’s portion of the program, you will complete 47 credits in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. You will study classes, including Pharmacology of Adults and Older Adults, Family Care of the Pediatric and Adolescent Patient, Family Theory, and Healthcare of Women in Family Practice.

You will partner with program faculty to identify clinical placements. The School of Nursing has an extensive network of clinical affiliations at major teaching hospitals, community hospitals, health centers, and public health facilities. By the time you complete the program, you will have at least 500 hours of clinical practicum experience.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at Northeastern University is an 8-semester program.


Admission Requirements: To begin the FNP accelerated program for non-nurses, you must have a minimum baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing field with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. To progress to the FNP component of the program, you must have a current United States RN license and a minimum of one year of work experience as a registered nurse.

You must complete a statistics course that includes hypothesis testing and probability theory and have a grade of "B" or higher in all nursing courses. Additionally, you must provide three letters of academic and professional recommendation, a letter of intent to study, official transcripts from any post-secondary schools you have attended, and a curriculum vitae.


Why Choose Northeastern University Accelerated FNP

• At Northeastern University, you will participate in one-on-one preceptorships with advanced family nurse practitioners and family practice physicians. These individualized preceptorships make it possible for you to get the most out of hands-on learning experiences so you can enter your role as an FNP with confidence!
• U.S. News has ranked Northeastern University in its Best Nursing Schools: Master’s and Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice categories for the last three consecutive years!


9. MGH Institute of Health Professions - Boston, MA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 3 Years


Program Details: MGH Institute of Health Professions is home to another of the nation’s best accelerated FNP programs for non-nurses. The intensive hybrid program begins in the fall of each year and culminates in both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing.

The program is a 93-credit pathway. The curriculum includes classes such as Population Health Nursing, Advanced Health Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning Across the Lifespan, Biobehavioral Principles and Theories, and Advanced Pathophysiology.

You will begin clinical training in the second term of year two. The program features five clinical courses with corresponding clinical practicums. Program faculty assign clinical sites and preceptors. The school offers diverse clinical opportunities in hospitals, health clinics, outpatient centers, and community health centers, as well as other healthcare facilities. Students have the unique opportunity to participate in clinical training at the Ruth Sleeper Nursing Center for Clinical Education and Wellness. The Center is a nurse-led referral, screening, support, and education resource for Greater Boston and Charlestown residents.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: You can complete the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at MGH Institute of Health Professions in three years.


Admission Requirements: All candidates for admission to the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses at MGH Institute of Health Professions must complete an application through NursingCAS. You must have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field from a regionally accredited United States college or university and must complete the prerequisites for the Direct-Entry MSN program. You must provide official transcripts from any college or university you have attended, a Personal Statement, and two letters of recommendation.


Why Choose MGH Institute of Health Professions Accelerated FNP

• MGH Institute of Health Professions is ranked by U.S. News in its Best Grad Schools category for Nursing Master’s Degree 2023-2024.
• The college has over 600 clinical placement sites across its network, offering you exceptional opportunities to gain extensive hands-on experience providing patient care.


10. University of Vermont - Burlington, VT


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 4 Years


Program Details: The accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at the University of Vermont is a Direct-Entry Doctor of Nursing Practice program designed to help non-nurses transition to the FNP role at the highest level of clinical nursing practice.

The accelerated FNP program features a rigorous 112.5 credit curriculum. Coursework includes classes such as Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Advanced Topics in Health Informatics, Genetics for Clinicians, The Science of Nursing: Community/Public Health, and Advanced Neuropharmacology.

Clinical practicums begin in the first semester of the program and continue through the final semester. During clinicals, you will have opportunities to care for adults and geriatric patients, women, newborns, and children. Additionally, you will have experience providing psychiatric mental health and community/public health nursing care. By the time you graduate, you will have completed at least 1,000 hours of hands-on clinical training.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The program is designed to be completed in four years or 11 semesters.


Admission Requirements: To apply for admission to the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses at the University of Vermont, you must complete a NursingCAS application and a UVM Graduate College Application. Additionally, all candidates must provide official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended, three letters of professional or academic recommendation, and an admissions essay. Although GRE scores are not required, you may submit them to help complement your application.


Why Choose the University of Vermont Accelerated FNP

• At the University of Vermont, you will have amazing clinical experiences through the school's affiliations with premier academic medical centers and facilities, including the University of Vermont Health Network. The UVHN is a system comprised of six hospitals, including a children's hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Center, and a cancer center.
• The University of Vermont’s School of Nursing boasts a large group of program faculty who bring a humanistic and holistic approach to nursing and nursing education. Your faculty and preceptors will work closely with you to help you experience diverse opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, classroom, lab, and hands-on learning to prepare you for the transition to a nursing career and practicing Family Nurse Practitioner.


11. University of Hawaii at Manoa - Honolulu, HI


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 4 years


Program Details: At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, you will find another of the nation’s best accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses. The program admits students one time each year in the fall semester and is designed as a full-time cohort model.

The program begins with a three-semester pre-licensure curriculum to prepare you for the advanced nursing program. Emphasis of the curriculum is placed upon health promotion, disease prevention, and care of acutely ill clients and consists of 49 credits. After completing the prelicensure curriculum, you will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and become licensed as a registered nurse.

Once you obtain your RN license, you may transition to the doctoral component of the program. At the University of Hawaii at Manoa, you will complete 77 credits to earn the Doctor of Nursing Practice in the FNP specialization. The curriculum includes classes such as Principles of Evidence-Based Practice for Advanced Nursing, Diagnosis & Management of Complex Care Across the Lifespan, Applied Biostatistics & Epidemiology for Nurses in Advanced Practice, and Acute and Episodic Care Management.

You will also complete 1,080 clinical hours, 765 supervised patient care hours, and 315 supervised hours for completion of the DNP project.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at the University of Hawaii at Manoa takes four years to complete. The first year is dedicated to pre-licensure study and preparing to take the NCLEX-RN. In the second year, you will begin studies in the doctoral program, specializing in family practice nursing.


Admission Requirements: The University of Hawaii at Manoa uses a two-step application process for its accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses. You must complete the requirements for admission to both the Department of Nursing and the UHM Graduate School. All candidates must complete a NursingCAS application and a UH Manoa Graduate Division application, selecting DNP as the planned course of study.

To be eligible, you must have a baccalaureate degree in any non-nursing field. Once admitted, you will complete the pre-licensure year of study, become licensed as an RN, and transition to the doctoral portion of the program. You must have a cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 grading scale.


Why Choose the University of Hawaii at Manoa Accelerated FNP

• The University of Hawaii at Manoa is ranked by U.S. News in its Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice category. This recognition speaks volumes about the quality of education the school provides!
• Faculty of the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at UHM have participated in cutting-edge research, often lend their expertise to national nursing conferences, and many remain in active practice. Having faculty who are so involved in current trends and practices in nursing means you will have access to the most up-to-date information in the field.


12. Simmons University - Boston, MA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 3 Years


Program Details: Simmons University offers another excellent option for anyone looking for a top accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses. The program is a campus-based option for baccalaureate-prepared degree holders from all academic backgrounds.

The program is a 96-credit pathway. The first four semesters are considered the pre-licensure sequence and prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to take and pass the NCLEX-RN and become licensed as a registered nurse. After completing the pre-licensure sequence, you will transition to the post-licensure component of the program, which culminates in a Master of Science in Nursing degree. At that time, you will be eligible to sit for the national certification exam for family nurse practitioners.

Classroom and laboratory learning are complemented by extensive clinical practice training opportunities. The pre-licensure sequence of the program includes six group clinical rotations and a 600-hour final semester preceptorship designed to prepare you for the NCLEX. You will also complete 770 clinical hours over four semesters in the post-licensure sequence. Clinicals are completed in hospitals, community-based health centers, clinics, and nursing homes. During clinicals, you will provide care to patients from diverse populations across the lifespan, including pediatrics, adults, geriatrics, and women’s health.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: You can complete the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at Simmons University in three years.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses at Simmons University, you must have a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Applicants must provide official transcripts from any post-secondary schools they have attended, submit an admissions essay, provide two professional or academic recommendations, and may be asked to participate in an admissions interview.


Why Choose Simmons University Accelerated FNP

• At Simmons University, you will have opportunities to collaborate with faculty and community agencies to develop and implement research and education projects relevant to family practice nursing. These experiences will be beneficial to your academic growth and help broaden your professional network.
• Whenever possible, program faculty work with you to arrange clinical assignments in areas close to your home region, which makes travel to and from clinicals and meeting the demands of clinical practicums easier.


13. Azusa Pacific University - Azusa, CA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)


Program Length: 3 Years


Program Details: The accelerated family nurse practitioner program or non-nurses at Azusa Pacific University is an Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing program designed for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders. The program admits students twice each academic year, once in the spring semester and once in the fall semester.

The first four semesters of the program consist of theoretical and clinical prelicensure courses offered in an accelerated format. During this period, you will also take some graduate nursing courses, followed by a clinical residency, preparing you to take the RN licensure examination. This initial period of the program follows an intense cohort model and is designed for full-time study only. Coursework is delivered primarily on campus.

Once you complete 69 prelicensure credits and pass the NCLEX-RN, you will transition to and complete the master’s-level coursework and clinicals. The MSN portion of the program requires you to complete 45-47 credits and complete an additional 600 clinical hours. You will learn in classes, including Psychosocial Primary Healthcare of the Adult and Aging Family, Transitions Across the Care Continuum, Bioethics and Healthcare Policy, and Research and Theory in Advanced Practice Nursing.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated FNP program for non-nurses offered at Azusa Pacific University can be completed in three years.


Admission Requirements: To begin the process of applying to the Azusa Pacific University accelerated FNP program, you must complete a graduate application for admission. You must provide official transcripts from any institutions you attended that led to earning a bachelor’s degree and any other post-baccalaureate study. Your transcripts must reflect a minimum cumulative college grade point average of 3.0.

Additionally, you must provide a written statement that details your professional nursing goals, your personal definition of nursing, and the career opportunities in this field. You must prepare and submit a current resume and provide two letters of professional recommendation.


Why Choose Azusa Pacific University Accelerated FNP

• If you are looking for a nursing school founded on Christian principles, Azusa Pacific University is an excellent option. The School of Nursing mission statement is “To serve God through excellence in professional nursing education, scholarship, and practice.”
• At Azusa Pacific University, you will learn from experienced faculty who are actively engaged in clinical practice. Their dedication to the nursing profession and nursing education will be instrumental in helping you build the knowledge and experience you need to pass the NCLEX exam and FNP certification exam!


14. University of Massachusetts Medical School - Worcester, MA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 4 Years


Program Details: The accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center offers an awesome opportunity for you to become a registered nurse and earn the highest clinical nursing degree, the Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner. A new cohort is admitted each fall. The curriculum features a hybrid mix of campus-based and online classes, lab simulations, and diverse clinical experiences.

After completing the graduate-entry year’s curriculum, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and become licensed as a registered nurse. At that time, you will begin the doctoral component of the program, preparing to specialize as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The rigorous curriculum includes classes such as Diagnostic Reasoning: Complexities Associated with the Care of the Older Adult, Principles of Epidemiology, and Analytical Foundations of Practice Inquiry.

The program also includes a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours. You will experience opportunities to provide care to patients from birth through geriatrics across the health spectrum. Program faculty and clinical coordinators arrange clinical assignments and designate appropriate sites and preceptors to ensure you get the most relevant experiences to help prepare you for practice.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: It takes approximately four years to complete the program at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. The first year is the graduate-entry year, which is followed by the three-year FNP Doctor of Nursing Practice curriculum.



Admission Requirements: To be accepted to the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, you must possess a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing from an accredited college or university. Candidates with a minimum undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0 are preferred. You must complete all prerequisite courses, provide two letters of recommendation (one must be an academic reference, such as a former faculty member), and submit a personal statement and resume or curriculum vitae.


Why Choose University of Massachusetts Medical School Accelerated FNP

• The University of Massachusetts Medical School has a proven track record of educating well-prepared nurses through its Graduate Entry accelerated FNP program for non-nurses. The school reports that every member of the 2023 graduating class passed the NCLEX-RN exam on their first attempt!
• The University of Massachusetts Medical School is known as one of the top-ranked medical school campuses in the nation. At this school, you will learn in state-of-the-art learning and simulation centers within the university’s academic health science center.


15. Seattle University - Seattle, WA


Specialty Offered: Family & Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 4 years


Program Details: Seattle University is home to another of our featured accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses. The program is a full-time course of study featuring a hybrid format that combines online learning with campus-based simulations and in-person clinicals.

The program offered at Seattle University is unique because it prepares you for certification as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The first five quarters of the program focus on pre-licensure coursework as you prepare to take the RN licensure exam. The next three years are dedicated to earning a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

The prelicensure plan of study is a 67-credit pathway that includes 600 clinical hours. After completing the prelicensure year and becoming licensed as an RN, you will complete 75 credits in the DNP with FNP/A-G concentration and complete a minimum of 500 additional clinical hours.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: It takes four years to complete the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at Seattle University.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at Seattle University, you must complete a graduate application form and submit a letter of intent explaining your motivation for applying to the program, why transitioning your career to nursing is important, and the reason feel Seattle University is the right choice for you. You must provide official transcripts from all post-secondary educational institutions you have attended. Although candidates with a GPA less than 3.0 may be considered, those with a 3.0 or higher are offered preferential consideration. Additionally, you must provide a professional resume outlining your academic and professional experience and two letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Seattle University Accelerated FNP

• Seattle University offers students in the accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses unique opportunities to learn and participate in clinical training at internationally renowned healthcare centers, clinics, and research centers.
• At Seattle University, you will learn essential skills in the university's 20,000-square-foot clinical laboratory. The high-fidelity lab is equipped with patient simulators and other state-of-the-art equipment and designed to help you learn in a controlled environment as you prepare for clinical practicums and later independent practice.


16. Samuel Merritt University - Oakland, CA


Specialty Offered: Family Nurse Practitioner


Program Length: 39 Months


Program Details: Samuel Merritt University’s accelerated family nurse practitioner program for non-nurses is designed to prepare you for advanced nursing and leadership roles. The program, which begins in the spring of each academic year, follows a hybrid learning format, combining classroom and distance learning with face-to-face patient care and lab simulations.

At Samuel Merritt University, you will complete 109 units of credit in the Entry-Level MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program. The first four semesters of full-time coursework will prepare you to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nursing to earn your RN license. After passing the NCLEX-RN, you will complete six additional semesters in the FNP track.

You will complete a minimum of 630 clinical hours at area hospitals, outpatient facilities, public health facilities, long-term and assisted living facilities, and physicians’ offices. In the final semester of the program, you will complete a 210-hour family practice clinical internship.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: It takes three years plus one semester (39 months) to complete the accelerated FNP program for non-nurses at Samuel Merritt University.


Admission Requirements: Admission to the program offered at Samuel Merritt University is a competitive process. Candidates must have a non-nursing bachelor's degree and complete all prerequisites before beginning the program. Candidates with a 3.0 GPA for the last 60 semester or 90 quarter units of coursework and for each of the four science prerequisite courses are preferred. You must provide official college and university transcripts and two letters of reference and respond to short answer essay questions. Additionally, you will be asked to participate in an in-person or telephone interview.


Why Choose Samuel Merritt University Accelerated FNP

• At Samuel Merritt University, you will enjoy low faculty-to-student ratios in both the classroom and in clinical settings, making it possible for you to have an educational experience that is personalized to meet your learning needs.
• Graduates of the Samuel Merritt Universi accelerated FNP program for non-nursing have excellent NCLEX-RN pass rates and outstanding employment rates following the program’s completion.


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What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of These Programs Expect to Earn?


New graduates of FNP accelerated programs for non-nurses earn an average of $41.99 per hour, $1,680 per week, or $7,280 per month. This pay is equivalent to $87,340 annually.

Hourly$41.99
Weekly$1,680
Monthly$7,280
Annual$87,340
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



What is the Average Salary for Experienced Graduates of These Programs?


Experienced graduates of accelerated FNP programs for non-nurses earn generous salaries. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average income of these graduates is $124,680 per year. Broken down into smaller increments, that annual salary equals $10,390 per month, $2,398 per week, or $59.94 per hour.

Hourly$59.94
Weekly$2,398
Monthly$10,390
Annual$124,680
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Average Salary by State for Experienced Graduates of These Programs


Earning potential for accelerated FNP graduates varies from state to state or from one region to another based on several factors. The most common factors determining wages are the demand for services and the cost of living in the area. Most companies consider the cost of living in an area and often adjust salaries based on the region’s cost of living index. Additionally, labor costs and market rates in a particular area may impact your earning potential.

For example, in states like Tennessee and West Virginia, where the cost of living is lower than many other states, experienced graduates of accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses earn an average of $99,330 and $106,790, respectively. Conversely, program graduates in New Jersey and California earn $143,250 and $158,130 per year.

StateAverage
Annual Salary
Alabama$106,610
Alaska$116,390
Arizona$121,410
Arkansas$107,110
California$158,130
Colorado$116,440
Connecticut$131,490
Delaware$120,570
District of Columbia$131,270
Florida$110,310
Georgia$115,440
Hawaii$128,310
Idaho$117,720
Illinois$122,310
Indiana$121,730
Iowa$128,180
Kansas$111,670
Kentucky$109,290
Louisiana$118,210
Maine$118,300
Maryland$119,650
Massachusetts$138,700
Michigan$113,780
Minnesota$128,160
Mississippi$117,260
Missouri$113,180
Montana$119,960
Nebraska$118,970
Nevada$136,230
New Hampshire$125,780
New Jersey$143,250
New Mexico$129,560
New York$141,470
North Carolina$114,450
North Dakota$113,940
Ohio$117,440
Oklahoma$121,740
Oregon$136,250
Pennsylvania$120,550
Rhode Island$125,250
South Carolina$109,130
South Dakota$115,610
Tennessee$99,330
Texas$124,660
Utah$115,610
Vermont$116,610
Virginia$116,980
Washington$135,590
West Virginia$106,790
Wisconsin$121,210
Wyoming$115,230
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



10-Year Job Outlook for Graduates of These Programs


The 10-year job outlook for graduates of accelerated FNP programs for non-nurses is quite good. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, program graduates can expect to see an increase in jobs of approximately 45.68% between 2021 and 2031, which is much higher than all other jobs.

2021-31
+45.68%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



My Final Thoughts


If you have already earned a bachelor’s degree and now want to earn a nursing degree to complement your previous education or transition your career, you probably want to find the fastest way to do so. That may leave you asking, “What are the best accelerated family nurse practitioner programs for non-nurses?”

The 16 best accelerated (campus-based and online) FNP programs for non-nurses featured in this article offer excellent options for earning an advanced nursing degree and pursuing a career as a family nurse practitioner. An excellent job outlook and excellent earning potential are just a few of the many reasons why choosing to earn your degree through one of these specialized programs is a great option!


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and allied health instructor with over 20 years of clinical experience. Her work history includes clinical experience in pediatrics, mental health, addiction and behavioral disorders, geriatrics, wound management, and communicable disease. Darby has worked in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health and hospice agencies. Darby also has experience as a nursing and allied health educator at both community college and university levels. Her love for nursing and nursing education led to her becoming a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach.