4 Best Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Are you a busy registered nurse with a love for neonatal nursing? Have you considered advancing your career to a graduate level? Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs are an excellent way to advance to the next level in nursing, doing something you love!
Perhaps you have considered becoming an NNP but wonder what the programs involve or asked, "What are the best online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs?” If this sounds familiar, you have come to the right place. In this article, I will share the 4 best online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs for 2024 and provide information about their curriculum, admission requirements, and cost to help you decide if this is the right career path to accomplish your professional goals.
What Exactly Is The Goal Of An Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program?
The best online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs aim to prepare graduate-level registered nurses capable of providing advanced nursing care to high-risk infants and their families. Students in these specialized programs learn to diagnose and manage health problems of infants from birth to two years of age experiencing acute illness or long-term health issues related to neonatal health. Some conditions include complications of preterm birth, low birth weight, congenital anomalies, or infections. Additionally, students learn methods of educating families and caregivers to provide care to infants and to collaborate with other interdisciplinary team members.
When Do RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Start?
Start dates for RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs vary from one school to another. As you search for the perfect program, be sure to verify application deadlines and start dates for each school that interests you so you can keep on track. The following are the start dates for the four best NNP online RN to MSN programs in the nation.
• The online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at
Duke University begins in the spring of each year.
• The RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program offered at the
Stony Brook School of Nursing starts in the summer semester.
• The
University of Alabama at Birmingham offers summer and fall start dates for its online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program.
• At the
University of South Alabama, prospective students seeking admission to the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program may choose from start dates in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
How Many Credits Are There In RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
The number of credits required in RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs is determined by the school offering the program. Although each program’s curriculum designates a specific number of credits, you may need more or fewer credits. When you submit official transcripts from previous colleges or universities, program faculty will evaluate them to determine how many credits can be applied toward the degree. The following are the credit requirements for the top online NNP programs.
• The online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at
Duke University features a
43-credit hour curriculum. The program includes MSN core, "Four Ps," and neonatal nurse practitioner clinical courses.
• The online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program offered at
Stony Brook University is a
45-credit hour program.
• The
University of Alabama at Birmingham’s RN to MSN online NNP program requires students to complete
45 credit hours. 35 credit hours are earned through didactic coursework, and the remaining ten are earned through clinical practicum.
• At the
University of South Alabama, students enrolled in the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program earn
45 credits.
How Long Are RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs?
Most online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs take two to three years to complete, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time. However, some students may graduate in less or more time. The number of credits and clinical hours you need to satisfy graduation requirements will determine how long it takes you to earn a degree through online neonatal NP programs. The following are examples of the estimated time to complete the top programs in the nation.
• At
Duke University, most students complete the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program in
two and a half years. However, there are options for part-time study, allowing you more time to earn your degree.
• You can complete
Stony Brook University's online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program in as little as two years of full-time study. Part-time students typically complete the program in three years.
• At the
University of Alabama at Birmingham, the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program is designed to be completed full-time in
six successive semesters.
• Students in the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of South Alabama typically graduate in two years if enrolled full-time. If you pursue the degree part-time, you can expect to graduate in three years.
How Much Do RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Cost?
The cost of RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs can range from $26,000 to $85,000 or more. There are several options for applying for scholarships, grants, and other ways to get
nurse practitioner school paid for. So, do not let the cost deter you from pursuing your dream! The following are examples of the cost of the top four NNP online programs in the nation.
• Tuition for the RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program at
Duke University costs $1,984 per credit. The program requires students to complete 43 credits, which means tuition is approximately
$85,312.
• At
Stony Brook University, tuition is based on a rate of $640.83 per credit hour for state residents and $1,132.83 for non-residents. The online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program features a 45-credit hour curriculum. Therefore, the cost of tuition averages $28,837.35 for in-state students and $50,977.35 for out-of-state students.
• The
University of Alabama at Birmingham also calculates tuition based on a per-credit rate of $682. Tuition for the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program is the same for resident and non-resident students. The program requires students to complete 45 credits, making tuition cost an average of
$30,690.
• Students enrolled in the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of South Alabama pay $594 per credit hour, regardless of residency status. The program requires students to complete 45 credits, making tuition come to
$26,730.
What Is The Minimum GPA Required To Get Into Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
Most online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs require applicants to have a minimum college GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale. However, this requirement is not set in stone. Some schools use a holistic approach to evaluating candidates, which means it is possible to receive an admission offer with a lower GPA. Because admission is competitive, it is important to strive for the best GPA possible. The following are examples of the minimum grade point average needed to get into the top online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs in the nation.
• Duke University uses a holistic approach to evaluate candidates for the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program. Although other factors are considered, preference is given to applicants with at least a
3.0 college GPA.
• Stony Brook University requires prospective students seeking admission to the RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program to have a
cumulative college GPA of 3.0.
• The minimum admission GPA for the RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of Alabama at Birmingham is
3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• At the
University of South Alabama, candidates must have a
minimum 2.75 GPA for all undergraduate nursing coursework to be considered for admission to the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program.
What Are The Admission Requirements For Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
Admission to RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs can be quite competitive. As you find programs that interest you, verify the admission criteria for each to ensure you meet the requirements. The following are the admission requirements for the best online RN to MSN NNP programs in the nation.
• Candidates seeking admission to the RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program at
Duke University must meet the following criteria. All applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary schools where college credit was earned, three professional recommendations, three comprehensive essays, and a professional resume or curriculum vitae. Additionally, candidates must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an Associate Degree in Nursing, and a non-nursing bachelor's from an accredited college or university and have a minimum 3.0 college grade point average. A current, unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse must be maintained throughout the program.
• At
Stony Brook University, applicants with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Associate Degree in Nursing are considered for admission to the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program. RNs with an ADN must have a non-nursing bachelor's degree and must submit a Clinical Practice Portfolio to determine baccalaureate-level nursing competencies. Applicants must submit unofficial transcripts from all colleges or universities attended and have a minimum 3.0 cumulative college GPA. Additional criteria include submitting three online letters of professional or academic recommendation and having a current, unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse. Candidates must meet all technical standards for admission and retention. A minimum of one year's experience in a relevant field is preferred.
• Admission to the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of Alabama at Birmingham is contingent upon the following. Candidates must have a BSN earned at a regionally accredited school and nationally accredited nursing program with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 credit hours. Applicants with a GPA less than 3.2 must submit GRE scores. Applicants must submit three letters of professional reference and official transcripts from every college or university ever attended, even if a degree was not earned.
• The
University of South Alabama’s online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program accepts applications from citizens or permanent residents of the United States who hold a current, unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse. Applicants must have a nursing degree from a regionally accredited nursing school and be in go standing with all academic institutions/nursing schools ever attended. Candidates must have a minimum 2.75 college GPA and submit official transcripts for evaluation. Two years of relevant registered nursing experience is required.
What Are The Best Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs In The Nation?
(Based on our
ranking methodology, the following are the 4 Best Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)
Specialties Offered:
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Specialties Offered:
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY
What Kind Of Courses Will You Take In Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs typically feature a rigorous curriculum. Although class names may differ somewhat, the content you study is similar among accredited programs. Here are some examples of the classes you will take if you choose to pursue one of the programs featured in this article.
• The
Duke University RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program includes courses such as Population Health in a Global Society, Professional Transitions: Advance Nursing Practice, Advanced Physiology Across the Lifespan: A Conceptual Approach, Embryology, Pathophysiology & Development of Neonates, Infants, &Toddlers, Physical Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning in Advanced Practice Nursing, and Advanced Practice Nursing in Neonatal Patients.
• If you pursue the online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at
Stony Brook University, you will study Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Neonatal Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment of the Neonate & Infant, Clinical Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan, Primary Care Concepts for High-Risk Infants, and Organizational Leadership & Role Transition.
• Students in the RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of Alabama at Birmingham take classes, including Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning for Advanced Nursing Practice, Evidence-Based Practice Design & Transition, Advanced Neonatal Nursing, Advanced Pathophysiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics, and Interprofessional Leadership & Role Development for Practice Excellence.
• The online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of South Alabama includes classes such as Health Promotion & Disease Prevention in Neonatal/Pediatric Acute Care, Physio-pathological Basis of Advanced Nursing, Evidence-Based Practice & Quality Improvement in Healthcare, Scientific Underpinnings of Advanced Nursing Practice, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses, and Organizational & Systems Leadership.
What Kind Of Practical Training Will You Undergo In Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs?
RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs include a clinical component. The number of clinical hours required for each program is determined by the school in accordance with state and federal guidelines. The following are examples of clinical requirements at the nation's top four online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs.
• The
Duke University online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program includes
616 hours of clinical practicum. Students at Duke work with the clinical coordinator to secure clinical sites and approved preceptors.
• At
Stony Brooke University, you will earn
20 credits for clinical practicum in the RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program. Each clinical practicum credit hour equals
45 clock hours, meaning you will complete at least 900 clinical hours in the program.
• The
University of Alabama at Birmingham online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program includes three clinical courses with corresponding clinical practicum experiences. Clinical experiences are coordinated by program faculty and supervised by a contracted clinical preceptor. Students in this program complete a minimum of
600 direct-care clinical hours.
• The RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program at the
University of Southern Alabama features 600 preceptor-supervised clinical hours. Clinical hours are divided into three clinical practicum experiences with corresponding didactic courses. UAB has
clinical affiliations with many agencies across the U.S. However, if you do not find an agency in your local area, you may request assistance from the
clinical director to secure clinical placement contracts.
5 Most Important Skills And Abilities You Will Gain In An Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program
Students in online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs develop a wide range of skills and abilities. The knowledge and skills you gain in these programs will be integral to your daily
role as a neonatal nurse practitioner. The following are five top skills and abilities neonatal nurse practitioner students develop.
1. The knowledge and skills needed to attend high-risk deliveries and provide care:
Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs will prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to work with the interdisciplinary team in high-risk deliveries. Your skills will help promote patient safety and improve patient outcomes.
2. The ability to perform comprehensive assessments on infants with high-risk factors or birth complications:
One of the primary duties neonatal nurse practitioners perform is assessment. RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner programs will prepare you to assess infants for congenital defects, neuromuscular abnormalities, infection, and other complications.
3. You will learn to order and interpret diagnostic tests for neonatal patients:
As a neonatal nurse practitioner, you will order, perform, and interpret critical diagnostic tests. Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs will teach you to recognize symptoms and order appropriate tests needed to direct appropriate care.
4. You will learn to recognize and reduce the risks associated with premature birth:
RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner programs will teach you to recognize risk factors associated with premature birth and the measures needed to help reduce those risks. With this knowledge, you will provide support for mothers and their babies before they are born by educating mothers on measures to reduce risk factors related to premature birth.
5. You will learn the art of therapeutic communication when dealing with the parents and loved ones of your neonatal patients:
Dealing with the birth of a baby that requires specialized care can be overwhelming. As a neonatal nurse practitioner, you must be able to communicate with the parents and families of neonatal patients in a way that promotes trust. As a student in an online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner program, you will learn methods of therapeutic communication and learn firsthand in clinical practicum how to approach parents and loved ones to promote a strong provider/client relationship, which increases the chance of compliance and improved patient outcomes.
4 Main Advantages Of Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
Online neonatal nurse practitioner programs have advantages and disadvantages. As you search online RN to MSN NNP programs to find the right one, it is necessary to weigh the pros and cons. The following are four main advantages of pursuing your NNP degree through online programs.
1. You will be instrumental in improving the health outcomes of babies:
One of the best things about
RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner programs is that you will be prepared to care for the most vulnerable patients. The knowledge you obtain and skills you develop in these programs can help you make important decisions that lead to improved outcomes.
2. You will have a career with excellent long-term employment outlook:
As long as babies are born, there will be a need for practitioners who specialize in their care. Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs prepare you with the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to fill the need for qualified neonatal practitioners.
3. You can practice with more independence:
Earning a degree through online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs prepares you for a role with more autonomy. Your degree and the level of knowledge and skills that come with it open the door for independent decision-making. Depending on your state’s guidelines, you may be able to open your own practice.
4. The job of a neonatal nurse practitioner can be very rewarding:
Your job as a neonatal nurse practitioner involves being up close and personal with parents and families, helping them learn about caring for the babies, and working with a team of like-minded professionals. The care you provide and the impact you have on the lives of your patients and families is important and very rewarding.
2 Main Disadvantages Of Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
While online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs can be a great option for many nurses, the neonatal nurse practitioner degree is one of the
hardest nurse practitioner specialties to obtain. Therefore, it is necessary to weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully. The following are the two main advantages of seeking a degree through one of these online programs.
1. Neonatal nurse practitioner jobs are demanding:
While there are many benefits to becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner, it is important to realize the demands that come with the job. As an NNP, you will work with high-risk babies and their families. Although expectations may not be realistic, you will be faced with some clients who expect you to work miracles. Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs will teach you how to communicate effectively and set professional boundaries when dealing with clients. However, that does not mean the stress of the demands of the job will go away.
2. You will lose patients:
One of the biggest disadvantages of being a neonatal nurse practitioner is that, despite your best efforts, some of your patients will die. RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner programs prepare you to take the good with the bad. However, the emotional toll that comes with losing patients is something no nurse or nurse practitioner ever truly gets used to.
3 Best Jobs For Graduates Of Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
Graduates of online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs have opportunities to work in many settings. The following are three of the best jobs for graduates.
1. Intensive Care Neonatal Nurse Practitioner:
Neonatal nurse practitioners working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provide care to high-risk infants. Patients include low birth weight babies, infants experiencing complications due to prematurity, infections, heart anomalies, and other high-risk conditions.
2. Labor and Delivery Neonatal Nurse Practitioner:
The role of neonatal nurse practitioners extends beyond the neonatal intensive care unit. NNPs attend deliveries of premature babies, infants with anomalies, and deliveries where there is a potential risk to the newborn.
3. Community or Home Care Neonatal Nurse Practitioner:
Some neonatal nurse practitioners work in settings outside of delivery rooms or hospitals. One of the most common places is community or home care services. In this role, the NNP works with families of severely ill neonates, providing ongoing treatment and educating families on how to care for their children. In some cases, the NNP may act as the infant’s primary care provider.
What Starting Salary Can New Graduates Of This Program Expect?
Starting salaries for graduates of online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs average $76,920 annually. This pay is equal to $36.98 hourly, $1,479 weekly, or $6,410 monthly.
Hourly | $36.98 |
Weekly | $1,479 |
Monthly | $6,410 |
Annual | $76,920 |
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com) |
What Average Salary Can Graduates Of RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs Expect?
The average salary of RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner program graduates is $114,250 per year. The annual salary is equivalent to $54.93 hourly, $2,197 weekly, or $9,520 monthly.
Hourly | $54.93 |
Weekly | $2,197 |
Monthly | $9,520 |
Annual | $114,250 |
(Source: Ziprecruiter.com) |
10-Year Job Outlook For Graduates Of RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Online Programs
According to projections from the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the ten-year job outlook for graduates of RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner online programs is excellent! The Bureau anticipates this field will see a 45.68% increase in jobs between 2021 and 2031.
2021-31 |
+45.68% |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Is The Cost Of An Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program Worth The Return On Investment (ROI)?
As you look at your options for earning a degree, one of the key factors to consider is whether the cost of a program is worth the return on your investment. Online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs can cost $26,000 to more than $85,000. The average annual income for graduates is $114,250. The comparison of the cost of the programs to your earning potential indicates the return on investment is worth the cost of earning the degree.
Bonus! 5 Tips To Successfully Make It Into Top Online RN to MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Programs
If you want to become a neonatal nurse practitioner, you must first find schools and start applying. Admission to top programs can be competitive, but there are a few things you can do to help you become a more viable candidate. The following are five tips to help you make it into top online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs.
1. Focus on your grades because they matter!
Most RN to MSN online neonatal nurse practitioner programs require candidates to have a minimum 3.0 college GPA. If you have graduated from your previous degree program and find your grade point average close to the cut-off point, consider taking a few relevant classes to help improve your GPA. If you are still working on your undergraduate degree, get serious and focus on your grades. Remember, you want to do more than meet the "minimum" GPA requirement. You want to be competitive, and improving your grade point average is an excellent way to do that.
2. Make sure you meet all prerequisite requirements.
In addition to getting good grades, you can increase your chance of getting admitted to online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs by completing as many prerequisites as possible. When you find a school that interests you, verify the prerequisites needed and consider taking as many as you can before applying. A few examples of classes you may need to take are Statistics, Evidence-Based Practice, or Transitions to Advanced Practice Nursing.
3. Take time to create an excellent personal statement/statement of purpose.
Most online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs require candidates to submit a Personal Statement or Statement of Intent. The statement is a written essay describing why you are passionate about the program, how you think the school/program can help you accomplish your goals, and why you feel you are a good candidate for the program. Admissions faculty consider the information in your statement carefully. Therefore, it is vital that you take time to craft the statement professionally and present the information in a way that makes you stand out from other candidates.
4. Prepare for your admissions interview.
There is more to a
nursing school interview than showing up and answering a few questions. The interview is one of the final steps in the application process and could mean the difference in whether you receive an offer of admission. The purpose of the interview is to determine if you are a good fit for the nursing program. Prepare for your admissions interview by reviewing potential questions and practicing ways to answer them. Know the program’s goals and expected student outcomes. Be prepared to explain why you feel this school can help you achieve your goals and why you believe you should be admitted.
5. Get relevant work experience.
One of the admission criteria for online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs is to have work experience. Most programs require you to have at least one year of experience in a relevant setting, such as a Level I or II neonatal intensive care unit. The more experience you have, the more attractive your application becomes to the admission faculty.
My Final Thoughts
If you are considering becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner but do not feel like campus-based learning is an option, it is natural to wonder, "What are the best online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs?”
Duke University, the University of South Alabama, Stony Brook University, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham offer the 4 best online RN to MSN neonatal nurse practitioner programs for 2024 in the nation. If you feel becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner is the path you want to pursue, these schools are excellent places to make that dream become a reality.
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
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).