20 Best Online MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Are you a registered nurse desiring to work with high-risk newborns or infants? Have you thought about MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs but are unsure if this is the right path to take? Perhaps the idea of going back to school feels like it is not the best option right now. If so, an online program option could work!
If you are interested in becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner and prefer a distance-learning option, you may wonder, “What are the best online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs?” In this article, I will answer that question. You will find a list of the 20 best online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs for 2024 as well as information about the program curriculum, cost, type of clinical training, and what you need to get into a top program. I will also share some tips for improving your chances of getting one of the best programs and answer some frequently asked questions!
What Exactly is the Goal of an Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program?
The primary goal of online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs is to prepare students as master's-level registered nurses specializing in the care of neonatal patients. These programs aim to deliver high-quality theory and clinical experiences focused on newborns and infants up to two years of age. Accredited online MSN-NNP programs seek to develop neonatal nurse practitioners who contribute to the science of nursing as it relates to neonatal healthcare and who are dedicated to improving patient outcomes.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program
Online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs offer a wealth of knowledge and opportunities to develop essential skills and abilities. The following are five of the most important skills you will gain that will help you perform your
duties as a neonatal nurse practitioner.
1. You will learn to calculate appropriate medication doses for neonatal patients:
One of the classes you will take in MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs is Neonatal Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse. In this class, you will learn which drugs are appropriate to treat at-risk neonates and infants and how to calculate appropriate dosages to treat their health issues.
2. You will learn to perform advanced neonatal assessments:
Another essential skill of neonatal nurse practitioners is assessment. You will learn about normal and abnormal development and develop the ability to assess your patients to determine appropriate care plans designed to improve their outcomes.
3. You will learn to function as a vital member of the interprofessional neonatal care team:
One of the primary goals of online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs is to help you prepare to collaborate effectively with the interdisciplinary team. You will learn to communicate with nurses, other NNPs, and neonatologists to establish, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of the care your patients receive.
4. You will develop the ability to use information management skills:
Information management skills include attention to detail, communication, analytical, and leadership skills. You will develop and implement these skills during your program and carry the skills with you into practice after graduation.
5. You will learn to provide culturally competent care:
As a neonatal nurse practitioner, you may not agree with a parent's cultural or religious beliefs or simply may not understand them. Nevertheless, it is vital that you understand and implement
culturally competent care. In an MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online program, you will develop an appreciation for cultural competence and learn ways to implement the practice in your role. This skill is especially important because when people feel like you respect their beliefs and desires, they are more likely to communicate with you, and that is essential when dealing with parents or caregivers while caring for neonatal clients.
5 Main Advantages of Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
One of my best friends is a neonatal nurse practitioner. As I began writing this article, I asked her to weigh in on some of the
pros and cons of this career. The following are a few advantages she shared with me and some others I would like to share with you.
1. “Being a neonatal nurse practitioner is rewarding”:
As an NNP, you have the opportunity to work with patients and their families and to celebrate crucial milestones in their lives. The feeling you get when you see critically ill babies start to improve and finally get to go home with their families is amazing!
2. “You get to advocate for the most vulnerable patient population”:
Nurses of all education and degree levels are taught to advocate for patients. When you become an NNP, you get to advocate for newborns and infants, who are among the most vulnerable of all patients. Your knowledge, skills, and willingness to stand up for what they need can make a significant difference and help improve their outcomes.
A few other advantages of online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs include the following.
3. You can impact the future of neonatal nursing:
Whether you choose to transition from a clinical role to a position in academia or decide to precept nursing students in a hospital or clinic, you can use your knowledge and skills to influence the future of neonatal care. Online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs will prepare you for the leadership roles which make teaching others possible.
4. You can have an independent practice:
Many states allow nurse practitioners full
practice authority, which means you could open your own NNP practice. Even in states where there are some limits on your practice authority, you may be able to open a practice in partnership with a physician or have a collaborating physician contract.
5. You can use your knowledge and experience to develop and lobby for healthcare initiatives impacting neonatal populations:
No one can speak for neonatal patients as well as the qualified healthcare providers who care for them daily. The knowledge, skills, and experience you gain in an MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online program can be instrumental in lobbying for important changes related to healthcare issues affecting neonatal patients.
2 Main Disadvantages of Online MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
There are so many benefits of earning your degree through MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs. At the same time, there are some disadvantages. The following are two of the main disadvantages of earning this degree and becoming an NNP.
1. You cannot save every baby:
No matter how long you have been a nurse, your experience will not remove the sting your heart feels with the loss of a patient. I worked in pediatrics for several years, and I can tell you from personal experience that losing an infant is the most heartbreaking experience for a nurse. As a neonatal nurse practitioner, you will care for high-risk newborns and infants, and, unfortunately, there will be times when some babies will not live. To me, this must be the biggest disadvantage that comes after earning your degree from online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs.
2. Your job can be extremely stressful!:
Nothing says "stress," like caring for critically ill newborns while trying to communicate with doctors, nurses, and concerned (or unconcerned) parents. Because of the stress related to the job, many neonatal nurse practitioners experience burnout. It is important to create some kind of healthy work/life balance and practice self-care. After all, it is impossible to care for others adequately when you are running on fumes.
Who Accredits MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
The best MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
When Do MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Start?
Start dates for online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs are determined by the school offering the program. Some schools offer rolling admission but begin their programs once or twice each year. Other schools have designated application deadlines for start dates once each year or multiple start dates. It is essential that you are mindful of application deadlines to help you get into the program on your desired start date.
How Many Credits are There in MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs typically require students to complete 35 to 45 credits. However, the credits you need may vary slightly, depending on whether you have transferrable credits from your previous nursing degree. When you find a school that interests you, it is a good idea to get copies of your transcripts and discuss your options with an academic advisor before committing. The following are a few examples of the credit requirements at five of our featured schools.
• The
University of Connecticut’s online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online program requires students to complete
44 credit hours.
• At the
University of Missouri-Kansas City, the curriculum includes
45 credit hours.
• To earn your MSN specializing as a neonatal nurse practitioner at
Thomas Jefferson University, you must complete
36 credit hours.
• The online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at
Vanderbilt University features a
41-credit curriculum.
• At the
University of Alabama at Birmingham, you will complete
45 credits.
How Long are MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
Typically, it takes two to three years to complete online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs. However, you may shorten the time it takes to graduate by enrolling in an accelerated program, or you could extend your time by enrolling part-time.
• You can complete the MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online program at
Vanderbilt University in as few as
three semesters.
• The
University of Connecticut offers
part-time and full-time study options. If you enroll full-time, you can complete the program in five semesters. Part-time students take six or seven semesters, depending on course load.
• At
Emory University, you can complete the MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online program in
four semesters, including two summer sessions.
• If you
pursue the degree at
Thomas Jefferson University, you can choose part-time study and graduate in approximately five years. The full-time pathway can be completed in two years.
• The online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner program at
East Carolina University takes an average of seven semesters if you enroll part-time. Full-time students can complete the program in five semesters. Both the
part-time and full-time pathways require consecutive semester enrollment, including summer attendance, to graduate in these timeframes.
How Much Do MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Cost?
MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs cost between $38,000 and $125,000. A few factors that may influence the amount you pay are whether you must pay out-of-state tuition and if you enter the program with a BSN degree or an associate degree in nursing and a non-nursing bachelor's. The list below indicates the cost of five of the nation's best programs. Unless otherwise stated, the costs listed reflect tuition and do not include fees and other related expenses.
• At
Duke University, tuition for all MSN programs, including the neonatal nurse practitioner track, costs $2,075 per credit hour. The program is a 43-credit hour pathway, which means the cost of tuition averages
$89,225.
• The MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online program at
Emory University costs $2,022 per credit hour. Therefore, the 60-credit program costs approximately
$121,320.
• At the
University of Texas Medical Branch, students pay tuition based on whether they reside in the state or out of state. Resident students pay $1,417.67 per credit hour, and non-residents pay $1,834.54. The program requires 46 credits, which means tuition ranges
between $67,212.82 and $84,388.84.
• Tuition at the
University of Missouri-Kansas City costs $850.79 per credit hour, which includes tuition and fees. The program is 45 credits, making the estimated program cost
$38,285.55.
• At
Thomas Jefferson University, tuition for the 36-credit hour program is calculated at $1,224 per credit hour. Therefore, tuition for the program costs approximately
$44,064.
What is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into Online MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
Most MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs, including
Stony Brook University and the
University of Texas Medical Branch, require candidates to have a 3.0 grade point average to be considered for admission. While 3.0 is the average GPA needed for admission, some schools have different admission criteria. For example, at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, prospective students need a
minimum 3.2 GPA for the most recent 60 hours of their BSN degree. At Regis University, you need an
undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher.
What are the Admission Requirements For Online MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
As you research online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs, you may see differences in the admission criteria. Although there are some differences, general or minimum admission requirements are a lot alike, regardless of the school you choose. For example, most programs require candidates to have a BSN or an associate degree and a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. All programs require applicants to have an active, unrestricted RN license and typically one year of clinical nursing experience providing neonatal care.
• At the
University of Alabama at Birmingham, admission for the online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner program is contingent upon meeting the
following criteria. Applicants must have a BSN earned from a regionally accredited school and a CCNE- or CNEA-accredited nursing program. You must possess an unencumbered license to practice as an RN in the state where you plan to complete your clinical practicum. A minimum GPA of 3.0 for your last 60 hours of undergraduate nursing studies is required. If your GPA is less than 3.2, you are also required to submit a GRE or GMAT score. Finally, you must submit official transcripts, three letters of professional reference, and a Statement of Intent.
• Emory University requires
applicants to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and a cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher. You must provide proof of an active, unrestricted RN license, a resume or curriculum vitae, a personal statement, and transcripts from each post-secondary school you have attended.
• Admission requirements for the online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at For
Stony Brook University include the following. Candidates must have a BSN or an associate degree in nursing and a non-nursing bachelor's degree. If you are a registered nurse with an ADN and a non-nursing bachelor's degree, you must provide a clinical practice portfolio to be evaluated for baccalaureate-level nursing competencies. All applicants need a minimum of one year of relevant nursing experience, with preference given to candidates with NICU experience.
You must provide unofficial transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended and three online letters of recommendation. You also need proof of completion of a 3-credit undergraduate Health Assessment course and a 3-credit undergraduate Statistics course, both with a minimum grade of “B.”
• The
University of Missouri-Kansas City requires applicants to have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a nationally accredited nursing program, a valid, unrestricted RN license, and a minimum GPA of at least 3.2 calculated on the last 60 hours of your BSN degree. You must have at least two years of full-time experience as a registered nurse caring for critically ill neonates or infants, with the majority of that experience occurring in Level III or Level IV NICU.
You must provide official college transcripts, an admission essay, two or three letters of recommendation and participate in an
admissions interview. Additionally, all students must complete a graduate-level statistics course and a free-standing undergraduate health assessment course with a minimum grade of “B.”
• To be considered for
admission to the program offered at
Regis University, you must have a BSN earned from an NLN- or CCNE-accredited program. You may begin the application by first completing an online application for admission through
NursingCAS. You must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 with at least a "C" for all nursing courses. You must have an active, unrestricted RN license, current American Heart Association BLS certification, and two years of clinical practice as a registered nurse in a Level III or Level IV NICU.
Additionally, you must provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended, three professional letters of recommendation (one from an NNP/neonatologist, a current supervisor, and a colleague), a current resume, and an admissions essay. An admission interview may be required.
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs offer the same type of curriculum as campus-based programs. The study plans include rich course content designed to prepare you for simulation and clinical experiences. The following are examples of classes you will take at five of the schools featured in this article.
• The
curriculum for the program offered at the
University of Ohio includes classes such as Developmental Physiology and Pathophysiology of the High-Risk Neonate, Advanced Health Assessment of the Neonate, Advanced Newborn/Infant Pharmacology, Care of the High-Risk Neonate, and Innovation Leadership in Advanced Nursing Practice.
• The online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of Alabama at Birmingham features
classes, including Advanced Pathophysiology, Evidence-Based Practice Design &Translation, Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning for Advanced Nursing Practice, Pharmacology &Therapeutics, and Advanced Neonatal Nursing.
• Wright State University offers an
in-depth curriculum, including classes such as Human Genetics & Genomics for Health Professionals, Advance Newborn & Infant Pharmacology, Primary Care from Birth to Age Two, Clinical Competencies & Management for Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice, and Advanced Neonatal Assessment.
• At the
University of Mississippi Medical Center, you will study
courses like Informatics & Healthcare Technology, Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics, Health Policy & Population Health, Advanced Neonatal Nursing, and Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology.
• Courses for the MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online program at
Wayne State University include Neonatal Pharmacology for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Statistics in Nursing, Evidence-Based Nursing Practice: Theoretical & Methodological Issues, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, and Advanced Nursing Assessment.
• Students must take various core, clinical, and research courses when enrolled in
Stony Brook University’s online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner degree program. The following are required courses students need to take to graduate: Organizational Leadership and Role Transformation, Quality Improvement, Safety, and Health Care Technologies, Health Care Policy and Advocacy, Neonatal Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment of the Neonate and Infant, and Advanced Theory & Clinical Practice in Perinatal/Neonatal Health Nursing I: Childbearing Family.
• Students at the
University of Texas Medical Branch’s online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner degree program take 12 courses. Some of the required courses include Public Health Principles in Advanced Practice Nursing, Public Policy, Foundations of Research/Theory, Pharmacological Principles and Clinical Therapeutics, Advanced Neonatal Health Assessment, and Informatics and Quality Improvement.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
One of the great things about online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs is that, although you complete most of your coursework online, you have the opportunity to complete practical training to develop and hone your skills. Each school determines the number of clinical hours needed based on state and federal guidelines. Most programs require students to complete between 500 and 600 clinical practicum hours. When you speak with an admissions or academic advisor, they can give you an idea of the number of clinical hours you need based on your previous nursing degree and verifiable and transferrable clinical hours.
• At
Regis University, students complete their clinical rotations starting their second semester. Students need a lot of flexibility to complete this program. They need at least 630 hours of mentored clinical experience by the time of graduation. Apart from the clinical hours, students must also complete two on-campus intensive simulations and skills experiences.
• At the
University of Texas at Arlington, you will complete at least
600 clinical practice hours. You will experience clinical preceptorships in designated clinical sites under the supervision of qualified preceptors. After completing the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Clinical Practice practicum, you will complete a Neonatal NP Advanced Practicum. Clinicals are arranged collaboratively between you and a clinical advisor.
• Old Dominion University’s online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program includes
600 clinical hours. Clinical practicums are primarily completed in Level III and Level IV NICU settings. The program director will work with you to identify appropriate clinical practice sites and preceptors, preferably in your home community.
• Duke University has more than 2,000 clinical partners nationwide, offering full-spectrum neonatal clinical care opportunities. The university has a clinical placement team dedicated to helping you arrange clinical practice experiences. You will complete at least
616 clinical practicum hours in the program. Your practical training requirements will be met in neonatal intensive care units, newborn nurseries, special care nurseries, delivery rooms, and developmental care facilities.
• The MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online program at
Vanderbilt University includes
620 hours of clinical practicum. Faculty mentors will work with you to secure clinical sites and match you with preceptors. You will have diverse experiences in Level III and IV neonatal ICUs, newborn nurseries, and other neonatal care facilities. You will have opportunities to collaborate with staff NNPs and other neonatal care providers, as well.
What are the Best Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our
ranking methodology, the following are the 20 Best Online MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)
VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY
Where Do Graduates of Online MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs Mostly Work?
Neonatal nurse practitioners work in a variety of settings. Once you complete your degree through any of the available MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs, you can choose the type of environment and work schedule you prefer and find a setting that aligns with your preferences. The following are a few examples of the top places MSN-NNPs work.
1. Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU):
Many graduates of neonatal nurse practitioner online programs work in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). Your role in this setting will include assessing, diagnosing, and monitoring the progress of newborns and infants requiring intensive care services.
2. Labor and Delivery Units or Birthing Centers:
Neonatal Nurse Practitioners often attend deliveries in labor and delivery units of hospitals or work in birthing centers. In this setting, you will attend deliveries of infants with identified or anticipated anomalies, preterm infants, or when there is a potential risk to the infant.
3. Newborn Developmental Clinics:
Another popular place for NNPs to work is newborn developmental clinics. In these clinics, you will provide psychosocial support for infants and parents and collaborate with other healthcare providers. Your role will be to monitor the growth and development, nutritional status, and other issues associated with newborns and at-risk infants.
3 Best Jobs For Graduates of Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
Job opportunities are almost endless when you graduate with an MSN as a neonatal nurse practitioner. Based on the type of setting where you prefer to work, you could fill any number of roles. Below are three of the top jobs for graduates of online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs.
1. Per-Diem Neonatal Nurse Practitioner:
A
nationwide shortage of physicians has created several unique opportunities for nurse practitioners, including those specializing in neonatal care, to earn a great income while doing a job they love. A per-diem NNP works in short-term positions in various healthcare settings providing neonatal care. In this role, you may work in a local healthcare facility or contract to travel to other geographical areas.
2. NICU Supervisor:
An excellent job opportunity for graduates of online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs is to supervise a neonatal intensive care unit. The NICU Supervisor is responsible for ensuring high-quality nursing practices aligned with legal, regulatory, and administrative guidelines. In this job, you will be in charge of maintaining quality standards in the NICU, scheduling employees, monitoring patients, and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team.
3. Nursing Instructor:
With an MSN specializing as a pediatric nurse practitioner, you will be well-qualified to work as a nursing instructor at college and university levels. You may teach undergraduate or graduate nursing programs or specialize in neonatal curriculum. Many nursing instructors opt to take on adjunct roles while continuing to work in a clinical setting, which means you could have the best of both worlds.
What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
New graduates of online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs earn approximately $89,450 a year. This pay is equal to $43.00 per hour, $1,720 per week, or $7,450 per month.
Hourly | $43.00 |
Weekly | $1,720 |
Monthly | $7,450 |
Annual | $89,450 |
(Source: Salary.com) |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN-Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Expect?
The average salary for graduates of MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs is $132,860 per year. That translates to $63.88 per hour, $2,555 weekly, or $11,070 per month.
Hourly | $63.88 |
Weekly | $2,555 |
Monthly | $11,070 |
Annual | $132,860 |
(Source: Salary.com) |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates of MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs
One of the most pressing concerns for individuals considering earning a new degree or transitioning their career role is whether there is good potential for employment. If you are considering pursuing one of the best MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner online programs, you can anticipate an excellent 10-year job outlook. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts there will be a 45.68% increase in jobs for this specialty between 2021 and 2031.
2021-31 |
+45.68% |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Is the Cost of an Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
Another important factor when deciding whether to pursue a degree or program is if your investment will be worth it in the end. One way to determine that is to compare the cost of the degree to your earning potential and other benefits.
For example, online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs can cost between $38,000 and $125,000. The starting salary for program graduates is a little more than $89,000 per year. The average income is $132,860. When you compare the program's cost to your possible income, even the most expensive program options could lead to a positive return on your investment.
Additional factors to consider are the fact that your income is not limited to the national average. Depending on where you work, you could earn a significantly higher income. Additionally, neonatal nurse practitioners who work for large hospitals or organizations often receive generous benefits packages, which could be worth tens of thousands of dollars. All these factors considered, the cost of an online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner is worth the return on investment.
Bonus! 5 Genius Ways to Make Your Application For the Best Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs Stand Out
Admission to online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs can be competitive. Despite the competition, there are some things you can do to help make your application stand out. When I reviewed applications or interviewed prospective students for nursing programs, there were some key things I looked for in candidates. The following are a few tips, based on my experience, which could help improve your chances of admission.
The application process typically involves several steps. One thing that most programs have in common is the requirement to submit an admissions essay. The essay is an excellent opportunity for you to demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and to let your personality shine. Following essay guidelines set forth by the school. Additionally, consider having friends or family read your essay. Make sure your essay is free of any grammar or punctuation errors.
2. Get NICU Experience!
Most MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs require candidates to have at least one year of clinical experience working in a Level III or Level IV NICU. You can make your application stand out by getting experience early and highlighting your experience in your admissions statement and on your application.
3. Take Advantage of Opportunities to Visit the School and Meet Faculty.
It is common for schools to offer workshops or information sessions for prospective students. If you are interested in a school that offers these, take advantage of the opportunity. When you attend an in-person event, you can introduce yourself to faculty and admissions coordinators. As a former nursing instructor, I can assure you that we remember students or prospective students who are willing to take the initiative to introduce themselves and engage us in conversation. This is a great opportunity for you to let your personality shine and make them remember you!
4. Spend Time Shadowing a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.
There are a few benefits of shadowing an NNP. First, it will give you a glimpse into what the job entails. As far as making your application more appealing, shadowing a neonatal nurse practitioner is something you can highlight in your admission essay or on your application. This shows the admissions team you have a genuine interest in the role. Finally, the NNP you shadow could be an excellent resource for a letter of recommendation. A recommendation from a practicing NNP who knows you and has seen your interest firsthand goes a long way in making your application stand out.
5. Apply Early and Follow-Up!
Admission to online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs can be competitive. The last thing you want to do is wait until the last minute to apply and have your application tossed in a pile of late prospects. Instead, gather your application materials and apply early, doing your best to get ahead of the priority deadline. Once you submit your application, you should be able to verify the status of your application on the school's website. If you do not see progress in the status after two weeks, consider calling the admissions office to verify receipt of your application and documents.
My Final Thoughts
I understand the stress that comes when deciding about an academic program or a career path. The whole process comes with tons of questions. If you want a graduate degree in nursing and hope to become a neonatal nurse practitioner, the first question you probably had was, "What are the best online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs?”
In this article, you learned about the 20 best online MSN-neonatal nurse practitioner programs for 2024 and found information about admissions, program plans, and costs. I also shared tips to help improve your chances of getting into a top program and ideas about potential jobs and earning potential. Using this list of the nation's top programs, you can choose a school and program that aligns with your goals and start pursuing your degree!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Best Online MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program In The Nation?
The best online MSN-Neonatal nurse practitioner program in the nation is offered at Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina.
Duke University - Durham, NC |
2. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
On average, the minimum GPA to get into online MSN-Neonatal nurse practitioner programs is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
The typical cost-per-credit for MSN-Neonatal nurse practitioner online programs varies, ranging between $700 to $1,000 per credit.
4. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?
Many students in online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs work part-time while completing the program. It is up to you to manage your time wisely and create a balance between your work and school obligations.
5. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?
Although you can work full-time and complete MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs, it can be challenging. The programs require significant time studying and rigorous clinical practicums. If you feel working full-time is a must, you may consider enrolling in a program that offers part-time study.
6. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?
New graduates of online MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs earn an average of $89,450.
7. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?
Graduates of MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs earn an average of $63.88 per hour.
8. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?
Typically, graduates of MSN-Neonatal nurse practitioner online programs earn an average of $11,070 per month.
9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Make Per Year?
The average annual income for graduates of MSN-Neonatal nurse practitioner online programs is $132,860 per year.
Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).