10 Easiest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs to Get Into – 2025

Written By: Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN

Are you looking for the easiest programs to become a neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP)? Do you have your eyes set on an online program that is both affordable and convenient for busy working professionals? Then look no further! Do you know what are the easiest neonatal nurse practitioner programs to get into? To help make your search easier, I have compiled a list of the 10 easiest accredited neonatal nurse practitioner online programs to get into in. Whether it's attending synchronous lectures or asynchronous discussion-based activities, each program offers something unique and can get you closer to becoming an expert in caring for newborns – all without compromising your current lifestyle. So, click through my guide now and find out which one fits your professional goals!

How We Came Up With a List of the Easiest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs to Get Into?

Well, to begin with, by no means are online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner programs easy to get into or easy to complete. When we say, ‘Easiest To Get Into’, we simply mean these online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner programs are easier to get into compared to other online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner programs. To compile this list of the easiest to get into online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner programs in the nation, we have factored in the overall school acceptance rates as provided by the U.S. Department of Education.

However, since these are the overall school acceptance rates, the exact online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program-specific acceptance rates may not match up. As there are no available online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program-specific acceptance rates, by using the overall school acceptance rates we have tried our best to come up with this list of the easiest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner online programs to get into.

What are the Easiest Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs to Get Into in the Nation For 2025?

(Based on the overall school acceptance rates, the following are the 15 easiest accredited online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner programs to get into in the nation for the year 2025.)

1. Old Dominion University - Norfolk, VA

Programs Offered:

MSN

School Acceptance Rate:

95%

Program Details:

Ready to hit the ground running as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner? Look no further than Old Dominion University's program! It is one of the easiest neonatal nurse practitioner online programs to get into. Upon acceptance, you'll enjoy top-notch training that will equip you with the skills and knowledge that are invaluable in the clinical settings.

Beyond its convenience factor due to its online format, this NNP program also offers an unbeatable educational quality, so your qualifications will truly shine in your future endeavors. If that isn't enough to excite you, this program also offers flexibility regarding program length. You can complete this 52-credit program as a full-time student in five semesters or a part-time student in eight semesters. This ensures that whatever your learning style is, there's an option that fits best for your lifestyle!

How to Get Into Old Dominion University’s NNP Program:

Thinking of becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner at Old Dominion University? First and foremost, gather up your transcripts - the more impressive, the better! Understandably, you'll also need to write an essay that showcases your knowledge and skills related to the program. Don't forget three references either - trust me on this one; having good references would make your application package look good.

As for other requirements? It looks like you just need to provide a resume, a goal statement, and at least a year of experience in the NICU. Oh, and here's the bonus: if you have a GPA of 3.5 or above, then you won't have to take any standardized tests like the GREs or MATs!

2. University of South Alabama - Mobile, AL

Programs Offered:

MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and MSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

73%

Program Details:

For those aspiring to become an expert in neonatal health care, the University of South Alabama has an exciting offer. With its online neonatal nurse practitioner program, individuals can customize their learning journey according to their academic and professional goals. The program offers three pathways — MSN, a BSN-to-DNP program, and an MSN-to-DNP option — so anyone from the freshest of nurses to those who are looking for a career upgrade can find what they need here.

The MSN program is 45 credits and must be completed in five years. The BSN-DNP pathway is a total of 69 credits to be completed over ten semesters. The entire degree must be completed in seven years. The MSN-DNP pathway is 36 credits, and you must complete the coursework in five years.

How to Get Into University of South Alabama’s NNP Program:

For those aspiring to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing-NNP program at the University of South Alabama, the admission requirements are clear: get those admissions ducks in order! In order to be considered, you'll need to have a currently registered nursing license with no restrictions. Those with somewhat lower grades could rest easy - as long as your undergraduate GPA is not less than 2.75 on the 4.00 scale, all will be good! Additionally, it is essential to submit a resume that accurately describes your clinical experience; however, don't forget that prior to enrolling in a nurse practitioner clinical course, students must have completed at least two years of working in a neonatal setting. So, there you go – time to secure your admission now.

Prospects for the BSN-DNP and the MSN-DNP pathways at the University of South Alabama's online neonatal nurse practitioner program will be pleased to know that admission requirements are straightforward and attainable! If you can prove you’re an American citizen or have permanent residency, have a valid registered nurse license and two years experience in nursing in a neonatal setting, as well as a committed academic record with an average of 3.0 or higher across both undergraduate and graduate coursework, you've pretty much got it in the bag. You may even find yourself amongst those certain lucky few who not only check these boxes but exceed them altogether!

3. Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia, PA

Programs Offered:

MSN and BSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

70%

Program Details:

Choosing the Thomas Jefferson University online neonatal nurse practitioner program is the perfect choice for aspiring NNPs looking to make an impact with their superior knowledge and practice. The program offers two pathways – an MSN degree that builds on previous nursing education and a BSN-to-DNP pathway designed specifically for nurses with a baccalaureate degree but no graduate degree. While the two pathways are slightly different in structure and focus, each offers comprehensive curriculum instruction teaching students to become experts in neonatal nursing. Whether you want to enter the profession or increase your knowledge base with continuing education.

The MSN degree is a 36-credit program. This program will take you two to five years to complete. The BSN-DNP pathway is 66 credits in total. This pathway to earning your Doctorate will take you four to six years to complete.

How to Get Into Thomas Jefferson University’s NNP Program:

If you long to become a neonatal nurse practitioner but dread the application process and hoop-jumping associated with admission to many universities - fear not! Thomas Jefferson University's easy online neonatal nurse practitioner program to get into can help fulfill those dreams. You will, however, need to meet some requirements to be accepted into either the MSN program or the BSN-DNP program. All it takes to apply are an application and fee, official transcripts showing a conferred BSN degree, a current unnumbered nursing license, a personal statement, and a résumé. Specifically for the MSN pathway, you must show at least 1 year of level III or higher.

4. The Ohio State University - Columbus, OH

Programs Offered:

MSN and BSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

68%

Program Details:

Attention all nursing professionals dreaming of entering the neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP) field! One of the easiest online NNP programs to get into is now available from Ohio State University. Hopeful NNPs can take advantage of either the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing–Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-to-DNP) pathways to earn their degree and advance their career. OSU's carefully crafted curriculum will give you the knowledge and skill sets to successfully practice nursing in this growing field. This program is designed to give students the opportunity to acquire an advanced nursing education at their own pace - allowing them to leverage their current roles and abilities while training for tomorrow's healthcare system.

Both programs can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis. The MSN program is 54 credits, two years full-time and three years part-time. The BSN-DNP degree is a total of 78 credits. If you choose to complete this program full-time, it will take four years. The part-time option will have you completing your degree in five years.

How to Get Into The Ohio State University’s NNP Program:

At Ohio State University in their MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program, they make sure to keep the admissions process straightforward and unhurried. While that might not be saying much since all one needs to gain admission is a completed Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Nursing, an active RN license, and a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last degree earned that is relevant to the program of study. You will also need to submit all college transcripts, a current resume or curriculum vitae, purpose and goals statement, recorded online video interview, and three letters of recommendation.

To get into Ohio State University's BSN-DNP online program you'll need to send in a resume, your transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and even complete a video interview! You will also need to complete a pre-requisite course in statistics with a B- or better. Other criteria that you must meet is having a current RN license and achieving a 3.0 GPA or higher in your last relevant degree. After that, you'll be ready to embark on your journey as a neonatal nurse practitioner.

5. Baylor University - Waco, TX

Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

68%

Program Details:

For aspiring neonatal nurse practitioners in search of an easier way to the degree, the online program at Baylor University ought to be at the top of your list. With two pathways offered - a BSN-to-DNP and an MSN-to-DNP - Baylor not only offers two of the easiest neonatal nurse practitioner online programs to get into but also provides comprehensive course instruction tailored for both advanced practices clinical leadership and organization/systems leadership. You have the option to pursue these programs part-time or full-time - either way, you're on a fast track to becoming a top-tier neonatal nursing professional. The best part is you don't have to set foot outside the comforts of home.

The BSN-to-DNP program at Baylor University is 75 credits and will take you just over three years to complete. If you choose to pursue the MSN-to-DNP pathway, well, you are looking at 38 to 75 credits over the course of two to three years.

How to Get Into Baylor University’s NNP Program:

Suppose you're ready to bring your baby care skills to the highest level. In that case, Baylor University's BSN-to-DNP online neonatal nurse practitioner program might be just the ticket. With a BS from a regionally accredited school, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, 1 year of full-time Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit experience, and a current unencumbered RN license in hand, you can apply to join up - don't forget to pack along three fantastic letters of recommendation and a well written personal statement!

At Baylor University, earning your MSN-to-DNP online neonatal nurse practitioner program comes with a unique set of stipulations. To be considered, you must have an unencumbered RN license and demonstrate successful proficiency in statistics with a B or better (cue laughter). You will also need three letters of recommendation, a master's degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher, verification of clinical hours from your master's program, and evidence that you've been immersed in nursing for the past two years. Oh, and don't forget about that personal statement… no big deal! All in all, if you intend to become a successful APRN at Baylor University, these are the qualifications you'll need to bring to the table.

6. University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh, PA

Programs Offered:

MSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

64%

Program Details:

For any prospective student looking for one of the easiest online neonatal nurse practitioner programs to get into, look no further than the University of Pittsburgh's MSN-to-DNP program. This 40-credit program allows experienced MSN nurses who have passed their state boards to apply and get enrolled in order to help them take the next step in their careers. But not only is it easy to join, but some outstanding benefits come with this course. From real-time case-based experiences, project development, and implementation opportunities to personal mentoring and support from faculty experts over the course of two years.

How to Get Into University of Pittsburgh’s NNP Program:

To get the ball rolling - and ensure you can be successful in the program – this University has put in place several admission requirements, including having a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university, a current RN license, and either a 3.0 GPA or higher OR GRE scores (except if your GPA is 3.5 or better). Additionally, it's important to note that any applicant will have to have taken and passed a pre-requisite statistics course with at least a B- grade and provide three letters of recommendation and an essay.

7. Creighton University - Omaha, NE

Programs Offered:

BSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

64%

Program Details:

If becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner has been your dream for years, now is the time to make it happen with the easy to get into online neonatal nurse practitioner program offered by Creighton University. Their qualified faculty and expert staff are dedicated to providing you with a quality education that will boost your career. With this 68 to 69-credit program, you will be able to develop advanced skills and gain specialized knowledge in matters concerning neonatal care while also boosting your credibility and credibility of being an experienced nurse practitioner. You can complete this degree in two to three years full-time and four to six years part-time.

How to Get Into Creighton University’s NNP Program:

The admission requirements for this program are quite specific – getting in requires preparation and dedication. Apart from your application and personal statement, you will need to provide three letters of recommendation from a supervisor or employer, a resume or CV with official transcripts from all educational institutions attended, an active RN license with Nebraska eligibility, and evidence of a minimum of 4,000 hours of direct patient care nursing experience in a level III or level IV NICU. Not to mention that your BSN degree must come from an accredited university... with at least a 3.0 GPA! Oh yes, almost forgot: you must also have completed undergraduate courses in Statistics and Physical Assessment with grades of C (2.0) or higher.

8. University Of Missouri-Kansas City - Kansas City, MO

Programs Offered:

MSN and MSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

63%

Program Details:

Looking for an easy online neonatal nurse practitioner program to get into? Look no further than the University Of Missouri-Kansas City! Here you can choose a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or their MSN-to-Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) pathway. The MSN pathway is 45 credits designed to be completed in two to three years. The MSN-to-DNP pathway is also two to three years in length but is 31 credits. Whichever route you decide to take, rest assured that UMKC has all of your needs covered. Your journey to becoming an expert in neonatal nursing is made easy with easy access to lectures and activities available at any time of day and access to research-based resources.

How to Get Into University Of Missouri-Kansas City’s NNP Program:

Completing a BSN from a nationally recognized college or University is the first step to applying for the University Of Missouri-Kansas City's MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program. Once you meet that requirement, proof of an unencumbered Missouri licensure and your GPA (3.2 on a 4.0 scale based on the last 60 hours of your BSN degree) must be verified before interview selection. Oh - and don't forget to brush up on those stats and health assessment classes. The University Of Missouri-Kansas City recommends completing those courses with a grade of 'B' or higher before you move through the MSN portion of the program. You will also need to have had experience providing critical care to newborns or infants within the last five years: no need for any time-traveling adventures in this application process! In order to qualify, two full years of clinical experience, with a majority spent in either a Level III or Level IV NICU, is required.

To join the MSN-to-DNP online neonatal nurse practitioner program at the University Of Missouri-Kansas City, you must have all your ducks in a row! You must have an MSN from a college or University that's nationally recognized by a nursing commission and have maintained a minimum GPA of 3.2 on the 4.0 scale, as well as current unencumbered licensure in your state or the one in which you'll be completing clinical requirements. And don't forget those prerequisites for progression – graduate theory, graduate research, and graduate statistics with at least a B grade, but no worries if you haven't nailed the last one yet - statistics can be taken during your first semester of the DNP courses. Finally, keep those smiles away from Zoom because personal interviews are required too!

9. University of Connecticut - Storrs, CT

Programs Offered:

MSN and BSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

56%

Program Details:

If you're looking to enroll in one of the easiest online neonatal nurse practitioner programs to get into, then look no further than the University of Connecticut! They offer an MSN and a BSN-to-DNP pathway for their online neonatal nurse practitioner program. You can plan on spending your time taking courses on topics like anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nursing research, healthcare policy, and more. Graduates will be prepared for an advanced practice neonatal nurse career, confidently caring for newborn babies throughout the care continuum.

Both of these programs can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. The MSN program is 44 credits and can be completed in five full-time or six to seven part-time semesters. The BSN-to-DNP program is 76 to 82 credits. If you wish to complete this pathway on a full-time basis, you will need ten months to complete it. If you want to pursue this degree part-time, you will need fourteen months to complete it.

How to Get Into University of Connecticut’s NNP Program:

Navigating the many requirements for admission to UConn's MSN and BSN-to-DNP online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program may seem daunting, but fear not! You need only possess a baccalaureate degree or higher in nursing, 2 years of full-time RN experience, great references, and glowing statements about yourself – that shouldn't be too difficult to come by, right? Plus, you have to have an impressive 3.0 undergraduate GPA. It's not impossible – if you've been taking care of tiny little bundles in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for the past couple of years and earned at least a 'B' average (or better) in your previous studies, then the process should be smooth sailing!

10. Stony Brook University - Stony Brook, NY

Programs Offered:

MSN and MSN-to-DNP

School Acceptance Rate:

49%

Program Details:

For those looking to become a neonatal nurse practitioner, Stony Brook University is another one of the easiest neonatal nurse practitioner programs to get into. Their master of science in nursing program is 45 credits to be completed over two to three years and is designed for nurses with baccalaureate degrees who want to specialize in newborn care; meanwhile, their MSN-to-DNP pathway is for nurses who already hold master's degrees and are looking to further their skills in providing care for premature infants. This pathway is 42 credits and will take two to three years to complete.

Both curriculums offer courses focusing on evidence-based practice, health assessment of complex populations, leadership, and more — ensuring that their students are up-to-date with the most current methods of caring for these little ones. With both pathways available, Stony Brook has made it easy for nurses everywhere to gain the extra education they need to become neonatal nurse practitioners.

How to Get Into Stony Brook University’s NNP Program:

It's time to spring into action if you've been thinking of pursuing your MSN Online Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program at Stony Brook University! To get started, you'll need to have some items in order - including a Bachelor of Science with a Nursing major, an impressive GPA of 3.0 or higher, and (of course!) your professional Registered Nurse license. You may also need a portfolio showing recent relevant experience, transcripts from all universities attended, three letters of recommendation, and two additional undergraduate courses in Health Assessment and Statistics.

Applying to the MSN-to-DNP online neonatal nurse practitioner program at Stony Brook University can be an intimidating endeavor. Still, it certainly doesn't need to be! The admission requirements are both practical and achievable. To get your foot in the door you will need Registered professional nurse licensure as well as a baccalaureate degree with a major in Nursing from an accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale. Accompanying that, you must submit a written statement, three letters of recommendation, curriculum vitae, supporting documents, and potentially even an interview. While the list may seem intimidating at first glance - don't fret; completing and providing all these things isn't impossible!

My Final Thoughts

Congratulations on your decision to become a neonatal nurse practitioner! This highly rewarding career choice will allow you to make a difference in the lives of premature and critically ill babies and their families. While the road to becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner can be rigorous, being accepted into a program does not have to be. You no longer need to ask yourself, what are the easiest neonatal nurse practitioner programs to get into? I have compiled a list of the 10 easiest accredited neonatal nurse practitioner online programs to get into in 2025.

These programs are known for their high acceptance rates, high quality of education, and commitment to preparing students for career success. So, if you're looking for an online program that will give you the best chance of success, look no further than these 10 schools. Thanks for reading, and good luck on your journey to becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner!