Top 15 Shortest Online Nursing Programs (Under 20 Months) - 2023 (2023)

Written by: Editorial Team @ NursingProcess.org

Are you a registered nurse considering taking your career to the next level and becoming a registered nurse? Perhaps you dream of specializing in the care of a specific patient population, but aren't sure if you have the time to achieve that goal. If this sounds like you, I have good news for you! There are several nursing programs that offer registered nurses the opportunity to earn an advanced degree without spending years in a classroom. What if you could find the smallest nursing program online that offers a specialty in the type of care you want to offer? If that sounds interesting, keep reading. In this article, I would like to bring you some of the best shortest online grooming shows for 2023 along with some details about each one.

THE FOLLOWING ARE THE 15 SHORTEST ONLINE CARE PROGRAMS IN THE NATION BY 2023

(These shorter online nursing programs are ideal for BSN graduates who want to become a registered nurse in less than twenty months.)

1.vanderbilt university- Nashville, TN (1 year)

Concentrations Offered:

Critical Nurse in Adult Gerontology,Adult Gerontology Critical Care Nurse - Hospitalist,Adult Gerontology Critical Care Nurse - Intensive Care Medicine Specialist,Primary Care Nurse in Adult Gerontology,family caregiver,newborn nurse,Pediatric Nurse - Intensive Care,Pediatric nurse - primary care,Mental Health and Psychiatry Nurse (Life), zWomen's Health Nurse

About school:

For a registered nurse looking to move up the corporate ladder, the next best step is to join a program that will make you an NP fast. Well, if you are interested in accelerating your career, you must know about the best shortest online nursing programs in the country, and Vanderbilt University NP programs will surely top the list. The university has earned the distinction of offering the oldest FNP program in the country and is also proud to produce advanced practice nurses in many other professional roles. With its 10 fastest nursing programs online, it won't matter which NP role you chooseSet up for success in just 12 months through individual attention and a great mix of learning in and out of the virtual classroom.

Program details:

Whether you seek to minister to adults, seniors, women, children, or mentally ill individuals of all ages, Vanderbilt's NP pathways can bring you closer to your dream role of becoming a registered nurse within the priorities of your chosen population. The degree requires you to complete around 40 credits, which is what most students complete in a year. Each specialty course is built on the foundation of nursing theory, research, and evidence-based practice. While all of these trails are primarily online, some campus visits are required for the intensive courses. For those interested in caring for adults and the geriatric population, the university also offers two optional majors, including hospitalist and critical care nurse.

Admission requirements:

Vanderbilt reviews applications comprehensively. So, to increase your chances for him, make sure your application includes highlights from your academic and professional background. To get started, you must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an RN license loaded in the state where you want to complete your clinical internship. In addition, you must include your academic record and three letters of academic or professional reference. A statistics course is also required before classes begin.

2. Georgetown University - Washington, DC (19 months)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregiver

About school:

If you are looking for one of the best and shortest online nursing programs in the country, thisTraining you to be a fast holistic caregiver, you may want to learn about Georgetown University's FNP program, which will train you in just 19 months.🇧🇷 The program is based on Jesuit values ​​and emphasizes the need to treat the patient as a whole person. Founded in 1903, the school of nursing has a long history of promoting health equity and improving health outcomes at all levels. Here you will be taught by expert faculty who have experience working in community organizations, the military, health systems, and academia.

Program details:

The Georgetown School of Nursing prides itself on not only preparing you quickly for FNP certification, but also on its impressive certification exam pass rates. Delivered via live classes, HD streaming, and interactive web content, this fast-paced online nursing program is 44 credits. In addition, 650 hours of clinical practice and two intensive courses on campus are included in the curriculum. As a Certified Health Promoting and Disease Preventing FNP, you will be trained to consider a patient's physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health to optimize health outcomes.

Admission requirements:

To be an eligible candidate, you must be a US citizen or permanent resident of the US In addition to a valid US RN license, you must have completed your Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The university also requires that you have completed a college-level statistics course with a minimum grade of C. In addition, a professional resume, academic credentials, personal statements, a live-recorded interview, and three letters of recommendation must be submitted with your application.

3.Union University- Jackson, TN (16 meses)

Concentrations Offered:

Family Psychiatric Nurse and Family Nurse

About school:

When you enroll in one of the best and fastest nursing programs online, you spend much less time and money compared to other standard NP programs and still end up professionally prepared.Union University not only prepares you for advanced practice nursing in just 16 months, but Christ-centered, excellence-oriented NP education equips you with patient-centered, future-proof skills.🇧🇷 Two quick online nursing programs let you specialize in family health or caring for mental health patients, depending on your interests.

Program details:

If you are applying to the FNP or PMHNP program, which is offered in an accelerated format, these programs are only available full-time. While both programs only start once a year in the fall, admissions are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can apply throughout the year. If you are interested in working alongside your studies, it is recommended that you only accept a part-time job. To graduate, you must complete 46 credits of core and subject-specific courses and 560 hours of clinical practice. Core courses common to both programs teach advanced nursing statistics, health assessment, pathophysiology, theory and ethics, nursing research and evidence-based practice, pharmacology, and health informatics. While the FNP program emphasizes essential care for individuals and families throughout life, the PMHP program trains you in the management of acute and chronic mental health disorders for patients of all ages.

Admission requirements:

Admission to any of these degrees requires a bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, a current Tennessee RN license or compact state RN license is required. The university also requires that you have completed the required courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pathophysiology, and a bachelor's degree in statistics.

4.National University- San Diego, CA (12-18 months)

Concentrations Offered:

Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse

About school:

Have you ever wondered if there is a shortest route to the NP? If so, you may be wondering if a faster route offers the same quality compared to a 2- or 3-year program. Oh good! at state universityNot only can you start your NP career within 12 to 18 months, but he also undergoes the same rigorous training as his peers enrolled in other, not-so-short programs. Ranked among the fastest online nursing programs in the country, this NP program has nurtured many evidence-based nursing providers who have contributed to the health and wellness of the state. If you are in the military, you may be eligible for reduced tuition since National is a yellow ribbon school.

Program details:

Although this is an accelerated program, the credit requirements are no different than regular NP programs. So if you choose FNP or PMHNP, credit requirements range from 45 to 49. The program begins with six core courses in advanced practical nursing, theory in advanced practice, biomedical statistics, health finance and policy, project management, and practice-based in evidence. . Both tracks end with a clinical phase and an endpoint where you apply newly acquired knowledge to improve health outcomes for your chosen population focus.

Admission requirements:

To be considered for admission to any of the shorter online nursing programs, you must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0 from a regionally accredited university. The application also requires that you be a registered nurse with an onerous license in the state where you wish to complete your clinical internship. You should also include two letters of recommendation, a personal mission statement, and a professional resume.

5. South College - Knoxville, TN (18 meses)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregiver

About school:

As a registered nurse, you may already be aware of the primary care shortage the country is experiencing. After COVID-19, the demand for GPs increased even more, reaching an all-time high. If you want to do your part in patient recovery as a registered nurse, you should enroll in one of the best and shortest online nursing programs in the country, which will prepare you for this role as quickly as possible. South College - Knoxville NP ProgramIt may be the option you are looking for since it allows you to certify yourself as a FNP in a short period of 18 months.🇧🇷 Being a mixed format, the program also fits easily into the lives of busy nurses.

Program details:

If you find yourself a beginner and committed enough to complete a rigorous curriculum within a tight time frame, this fast-paced nursing program will prepare you for a lifelong learner dedicated to optimizing patient outcomes in various populations. Here, through personalized instruction and interactive online platforms, you'll master the skills necessary to thrive in today's complex healthcare environment. The MSN-FNP curriculum offers a good balance between didactic and practical training. Clinical training typically includes hands-on experience and on-campus study sessions. As a graduate, you will demonstrate exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills to promote health in all types of healthcare settings.

Admission requirements:

As an applicant, you must meet certain requirements set by the university. This includes proof of completed undergraduate nursing courses with a grade point average of at least 3.0. Additionally, you must have an RN license loaded in the state where you wish to continue your clinical training. Additional requirements include three letters of recommendation from healthcare professionals, personal statement, identification of clinical sites, and preceptors to meet clinical practice requirements. She must have at least 2,000 hours of professional experience as a registered nurse.

6. Anderson University - Anderson, South Carolina (15 months)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregivermiPsychiatric Nurse in Mental Health

About school:

So you're ready to take your nursing career to the next level, but you're skeptical about balancing an advanced degree with professional commitments; In this case, it is best to focus on one thing at a time. Enroll in one of the fast-paced online nursing programs, like the one offered by Anderson University:At Anderson, you can focus solely on school during the 15-month program to quickly graduate and return to nursing as a board-certified nurse.🇧🇷 Alternatively, if you don't feel like taking a break from work, you can combine studies with a job, as this accelerated program is mainly delivered through online courses. Here, the two shortest online nursing programs let you choose between specializing in Family Health or Psychiatric Mental Health, depending on your interests.

Program details:

This MSN NP leads to certification as a FNP or PMHNP, whichever you choose. The program begins in August of each year and requires the completion of approximately 48 credits. Some of the key topics you will focus on are advanced pathophysiology, advanced physical assessment, pharmacology, and lifelong patient care. Whichever path you choose, the school will prepare you to be a people-centered, Christ-centered nurse committed to providing holistic care.

Admission requirements:

To be considered for admission, you must have a BSN with at least a 3.2 GPA from an accredited university. Additionally, you must have an active RN license and CPR certification. Anderson also requires that you submit two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a resume, and any previous official credentials.

7.University of Santo Tomas- Miami Gardens, FL (18 meses)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregiver

About school:

Saint Thomas University can prepare you for apromising career as a nurse in a short period of 18 months🇧🇷 Here, ranked among the fastest online nursing programs in Florida, you'll gain exceptional skills in lifelong care for individuals and families and quickly move into advanced nursing. This meansYou can start earning sooner and pay off your student loans faster than you otherwise would.To provide a well-rounded education, the faculty integrates theory and practice, ensuring that you graduate with managerial and analytical skills.

Program details:

This short online nursing program leads to a family nursing degree, after which you can practice in a variety of primary care settings. The 47 credits you must complete focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and disease management of individuals and families throughout life. With multiple start dates throughout the year, you can start your online course whenever it suits you. Once accepted into the program, you will first take core courses, after which you will move on to specialty courses. FNP specific courses combine didactic courses with clinical training at different clinical sites. Upon completion of the program, you can pursue a variety of careers including family nurse practitioner, associate professor, occupational health nurse, and nursing supervisor.

Admission requirements:

The admission requirements here are simple and concise. To begin, you must have a BSN-accredited degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, a loaded Florida RN license is required. The university also requires that you submit all previous transcripts.

8.Herzing University Milwaukee- Menomonee Falls, WI (20 meses)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregiver

About school:

A career in family health is very rewarding and at the same time very rewarding in terms of higher wages and job security.If you are interested in moving into advanced primary care but are stuck somewhere with the idea of ​​following a program for two or three years, then applying to one of the shortest online nursing programs known is your best bet. Herzing University Milwaukee FNP ProgramNot only is it offered entirely online, but it only takes 20 months to launch you into a career as a family nursing professional practice.As a NP student at Herzing, you will be exposed to a variety of interdisciplinary learning opportunities at various primary care settings.

Program details:

This accelerated online FNP program begins six times a year and requires you to complete 48 credits and 675 hours of clinical practice. Clinical practice in particular requires you to complete a total of 500 patient contacts. In order to secure clinic and faculty locations for your internship, the faculty will assist you in finding suitable internship positions throughout the country. The FNP curriculum is a population-based curriculum offered in a full-time format. Core courses teach you health policy and management, theoretical foundations, organizational systems and behaviors, and evidence-based methods of research and practice. Specialization courses focus primarily on health promotion and disease prevention for individuals and families throughout the life course.

Admission requirements:

As a prospective student interested in enrolling in this program, you must have an accredited BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an RN license charged in the state in which you reside. You must also submit a letter of motivation, a CV and a letter of recommendation.

9.University of Nevada, Las Vegas- Las Vegas, NV (16 Monate)

Concentrations Offered:

Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse

About school:

Quitting a full-time job and moving full steam ahead toward an educational background works well for some. If you are one of those who are interested in pursuing your calling in advanced practice then thenThe best idea is to complete a fast-track online nursing program that gives you the flexibility to relax from work while completing your degree quickly.🇧🇷 The University of Nevada, Las Vegas offers two of themNP programs that prepare you for national NP certification in just 16 months🇧🇷 This way, whether you choose the FNP or PMHNP track, you can fully focus on mastering the professional skills, so you can start your dream career much sooner.

Program details:

FNP and PMHNP's shorter online nursing programs begin each fall and are delivered primarily online, requiring few on-campus sessions for orientation and clinical practice. Any of the direct patient care pathways prepares you to work in a variety of settings, including clinics, long-term care facilities, and hospitals. No matter what career you choose, you'll start with MSN Core and then progress through MSN Specialization courses. To graduate, he must complete approximately 46 credits, including the final clinical synthesis. Core courses take you through advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, nursing theory and research, informatics and quality improvement, health and public policy, advanced pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning. In addition, you will also learn about the care of patients with acute and chronic diseases within the selected population focus.

Admission requirements:

To enroll in this fast-paced online nursing program, you must be a BSN graduate with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, your RN license must be registered in your state of residence. The university expects you to have basic computer skills to attend online classes. Your application must also include three letters of recommendation, a current resume, a personal goal statement, previous credentials, and a minimum of 2,000 hours of practice as a registered nurse.

10. Brenau University - Gainesville, GA (20 months)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregiver

About school:

Why wait two or three years when you canStart your journey as a nurse in less than 20 months🇧🇷 If you are looking to enroll in one of the best and shortest online nursing programs in Georgia, your search may end with the Brenau University FNP program. With advanced primary care skills, you'll receive a well-rounded education and be ready to start your career sooner than you thought. Additionally, an online course gives you the flexibility to pursue higher education while juggling other life tasks. The university has long been innovating in online education and constantly strives to keep up with the demands of students and employers.

Program details:

This fast-paced online nursing program is an intensive curriculum delivered on a very busy schedule. The 49 credits of the course begin with the core MSN courses and progress to specific FNP courses. You will learn about health assessment and diagnostic reasoning, nursing research, pathophysiology, clinical pharmacology, and the practice of nursing leadership. Specific FNP courses deal with the health of adults, the elderly, women and children. Online classes are complemented by Saturday classes on the Norcross campus, where you practice clinical skills and interact with faculty and colleagues. The program concludes with an internship at a primary care clinical site.

Admission requirements:

To be considered for admission, you must be an active registered nurse with a BSN degree from an accredited university. Also, you must have a GPA of at least 3.0 in your undergraduate degree. In addition, courses in physical examination and research methods must be completed. Along with your application, the university requires that you submit an updated CV, a motivation letter and two professional references.

11. La Salle University - Philadelphia, PA (18-20 months)

Concentrations Offered:

Nursing specialist in adult gerontology,family caregiver, zPsychiatric Nurse in Mental Health

About school:

The fastest online nursing programs can be a boon to those who are looking to move into advanced nursing as quickly as possible. The increasing demand for certified NPs has led many aspirants like you to jump into this field. By La Salle UniversityAffordable NP Programs, not only will you start earning in 18-20 minutes, but you can start paying off your student loan much sooner🇧🇷 The school offers three careers; Primary Care/Adult Gerontology, Family Health and Psychiatric Mental Health, allowing you to choose the path that suits your interests. As a Catholic university, the college incorporates faith-based values ​​into its NP curriculum, empowering it to treat the patient physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Program details:

Whether you want to become a FNP, AGPCNP, or PMHNP, these three shorter online nursing programs build on the core competencies of nursing research, evidence-based practice, and advanced practice nursing in nursing care. Health. With multiple start dates, you can start the program whenever you're ready. The degree requires you to complete approximately 41 credits, after which you will be eligible to take the national certification exam at hatcheries in your chosen population. Whichever path you choose, you will leave college with exceptional cultural, communication, and critical thinking skills.

Admission requirements:

If you are an RN with a BSN and a minimum GPA of 3.2, you can apply to one of three NP programs. The university also requires you to complete one year of direct patient care experience before beginning the clinical experience required for the degree. Your application must also include a letter of intent and any previous official credentials.

12. Samuel Merritt University – Oakland, CA (20 months)

Concentrations Offered:

family caregiver

About school:

Is it important to you to help patients with acute and chronic diseases? Get inspired by our GPs who have been on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19? Well, if your answer is yes and you can't wait to apply to one of the fastest online nursing programs to start your NP career, then you need to know about Samuel Merritt University FNP program. Here,In 20 months, you will gain evidence-based knowledge and interprofessional skills to improve health outcomes for a diverse patient population., with special attention to rural and underserved areas. Through personal attention and extensive clinical experience, Samuel Merritt has produced compassionate NPs dedicated to promoting health at all levels.

Program details:

This short online nursing program is 49 credits and includes interdisciplinary foundation courses, specialty courses, and clinical experiences. While the courses are offered primarily online, you must take two intensive courses on the Sacramento campus. Throughout your training here, you will master the concepts of research methods, theoretical foundations, advanced family-centered nursing practice, public health issues, and advocacy and triage. In addition, you will learn about advanced health assessment, physical assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.

Admission requirements:

This FNP program accepts RNs licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, Ohio, Texas, or Virginia. In addition, a BSN-accredited diploma, two letters of reference, and all previous certificates are required. A desire to work with underserved populations and the ability to converse in a second language will certainly add to your app's strengths.

13. William Paterson University - Wayne, NJ (16-20 Monate)

Concentrations Offered:

Adult Gerontology Nursemifamily caregiver

About school:

If you are interested in caring for the elderly or people of all ages, please contact William Paterson UniversityWith shorter online nursing programs, you can enhance your professional nursing practice in as little as 16-20 months🇧🇷 The university offers affordable education and also gives you the flexibility to pay per course. The intensive course is offered six times a year and is perfect for caregivers who want to conveniently enroll at a convenient time. Here you will be mentored by a talented faculty who bring their years of experience to online teaching.

Program details:

The AGNP track is a 39-credit program spread over 16 months, while the FNP track requires 47 credits. Additionally, each track includes approximately 680 hours of clinical practice. The foundation courses, on which the specialty courses are based, provide you with the theoretical foundations of nursing, the role of the postgraduate nurse, nursing research, population health, advanced pathophysiology, and advanced nursing assessment. Health. In addition, she will learn in special courses how to treat patients with acute and chronic diseases in her chosen area of ​​focus. Both shorter online nursing programs conclude with an internship, during which she will apply professional skills in treating diverse populations in a variety of healthcare settings.

Admission requirements:

As a potential college candidate, you must meet certain criteria to be admitted. To get started, you must have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. In addition, he must have completed courses in statistics, research, and physical evaluation. His RN license must be valid in the state where he plans to complete his clinical practice. He must also submit a resume with two certificates and all previous official certificates.

14Youngstown State University- Youngstown, OH (18-20 meses)

Concentrations Offered:

Adult Gerontological Intensive Care Nursemifamily caregiver

About school:

Completing one of the best shorter online nursing programs will not only help save you time and money, but will also equip you with the marketable skills and knowledge needed in today's complex healthcare environment. Youngstown State Universityoffers two acute care NP programs in adult gerontology and family health that can be completed in 18-20 months🇧🇷 Whether your goal is to move up the career ladder or just change people's lives, a well-designed online course will help you achieve your dream career here. Interactive and engaging content are the hallmarks of Youngstown's online education. So while you're attending classes from the comfort of your home, don't miss out on the in-person learning experience.

Program details:

Regardless of what you choose from these two fast-track online programs, you can start whenever you want, as the FNP and AGACNP programs are offered with multiple start dates. The degree requires 46 credits, with 27 credits in basic courses and the rest in specialization courses. MSN core courses guide you through health topics and trends, theoretical foundations, advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, diagnostics and technologies, and advanced practice role development. You will then take specialized courses focused on health promotion and disease prevention within your chosen population focus. Finally, the program concludes with a supervised clinical internship in settings relevant to your focus.

Admission requirements:

To apply to Youngstown's NP short programs, you must have earned a BSN degree from an accredited university. If her GPA is greater than 3.0, she must have completed 1,000 hours of work experience as a registered nurse; Otherwise, work experience must be at least 2000 hours for students with a GPA of 2.7 to 2.99. In addition, you must present official certificates from all the universities you have previously attended.

15. Mount Carmel College of Nursing - Columbus, OH (18 Monate)

Concentrations Offered:

Critical Nurse in Adult Gerontologymifamily caregiver

About school:

Do you see yourself as a caregiver who plays a significant role in promoting the health of different types of communities? If so, why not?Consider enrolling in one of Ohio's shortest online nursing programs that can shape your career in advanced nursing in as little as 18 months.🇧🇷 Mount Carmel College of Nursing offers two NP programs that can give your nursing career a quick jump start. Here, the university's Catholic atmosphere and diverse student population will help you grow professionally and personally to become a caring, compassionate, and holistic caregiver.

Program details:

If you enjoy caring for the elderly or serving people throughout their lives, you can get AGACNP or FNP certified here, depending on which path you choose. You must complete approximately 48 credits and 650 clinical hours to graduate. The course includes a postgraduate center, direct service center, and specific advanced courses. You will master the concepts of nursing research and evidence-based practice, quality, safety and efficacy, nursing leadership, procedures and diagnoses, as well as advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology and health assessment.

Admission requirements:

To qualify for either of these two fastest online nursing programs, you must have a valid RN license in Ohio. Additionally, a BSN with at least a 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution is required. Additionally, you must have completed statistics and research courses with a grade of C or better.