9 Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kentucky 2024

Key Student Takeaways

• Diverse Student Body: With students from every state and 46 countries, the diversity ensures a rich learning environment.
• Legacy of Excellence: EKU has been recognized as one of “America’s Top Colleges” and ranks high among Best Regional Universities in the South.
• Affordable Education: Known as a “Best Bang for the Buck” college, EKU also offers a range of scholarships catering to financial needs.
• Military Support: With a No. 1 ranking in Kentucky for being Military Friendly, EKU offers dedicated support, including discounted tuition for military students.
• Nursing Excellence: EKU's online MSN program is among the top 20 in the nation. This ranking demonstrates the quality of their nursing education.
• Accreditation: EKU's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

About Eastern Kentucky University's Nursing School

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), is a renowned public institution located in Richmond, Kentucky. It boasts a legacy that spans over a century since its inception in 1906. EKU is a regional leader in academics with campuses in Corbin, Hazard, Lancaster, and Manchester. EKU's School of Nursing's 50-year history shows its dedication to healthcare, especially for remote Appalachian areas. EKU nursing students are intellectually educated and shaped to play crucial roles in futuristic healthcare environment.

A significant feather in EKU Nursing School's cap is the ranking of its online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program - being placed 20th in the nation by Fortune. This and Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accreditation testifies to EKU's nursing education quality. At EKU, student support is vital. From online tutoring and career services, to offering scholarships that ease financial burdens, EKU ensures its students feel valued and supported. Particularly notable is EKU’s dedication to military students, mirroring its ranking as the No. 1 Military Friendly institution in Kentucky. Additionally, EKU provides for seamless transfer of credits from other universities.

About Eastern Kentucky University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner
• Rural Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

EKU offers a top-rated online Master of Science in Nursing program in Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner and Rural Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is in the top 10 for veterans and recognized by U.S. News & World Report for its excellent online graduate nursing education. A significant draw for students is the program's 100% online format, which blends flexible study with EKU's academic quality. Graduates become skilled primary care providers and healthcare leaders. Those in the Family Nurse Practitioner track study evidence-based health care across all life phases. This thorough 47-credit curriculum has a 100% first-attempt pass rate on national certification tests. Meanwhile, the 49-credit Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track prepares students to meet society's growing mental health demands. This course has an impressive 98.6% national test first-attempt pass rate. In 2019, PMHNP received the UPCEA South Region Program of Excellence Credit Award.

Post-Master Certificate

Concentration:

• Post-MSN Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner
• Post-MSN Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

EKU provides the Post-Master Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializations for Master's-degreed nurses. This completely online curriculum gives working professionals flexibility and accessibility. Depending on the chosen concentration, students can expect to complete between 22 to 34 credit hours. EKU is an affordable choice for people seeking higher education at $689 per credit hour. The program's requirements allow only the most dedicated and experienced RNs. The rigorous selection procedure, which considers all areas of a candidate's academic and professional history, ensures a cohort of highly motivated and accomplished individuals ready to further their specialization.

Key Student Takeaways

• Academic Excellence: WKU earned over 35 top recognitions for academic programs in the 2017-18 year.
• Veteran-Friendly: U.S. News highlighted WKU among the best colleges for veterans.
• Online Education Leader: Ranked as the #1 Value College in Kentucky for online education.
• Prestigious Scholarships: WKU students routinely receive national recognitions like the Harry S. Truman Scholar, Fulbright U.S. Student Program, and many more.
• Top Accreditation: Both the university and its nursing programs are accredited by esteemed organizations.
• Real-World Experience: Students gain hands-on experience in classrooms, labs, and community-based settings.
• High Success Rate: Nursing students at WKU boast a 90–100% pass rate on licensure exams.
• Employment Success: Alumni report a 100% employment rate within one year post-graduation.

About Western Kentucky University's Nursing School

Founded in 1906, Western Kentucky University (WKU) is a public institution located in Bowling Green. Aside from its Bowling Green campus, it also has campuses in Glasgow, Elizabethtown-Fort Knox, and Owensboro. WKU has grown to provide a variety of degree programs and received several academic awards. Established in 1962 and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, WKU's Nursing School stands out. Students at the School of Nursing and Allied Health benefit from modern facilities, including the Medical Center/WKU Health Sciences Complex. The school's Baccalaureate to Doctor of Nursing Practice programs are known for their comprehensive education and community-based clinical partnerships. Nursing programs routinely have excellent nurse practitioner exam pass rates. This success continues after graduation, with 100% employment within a year.

About Western Kentucky University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Western Kentucky University's SONAH School of Nursing & Allied Health has a strong MSN program. This program builds on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to prepare nurses for advanced careers in healthcare. The 41-hour Family Nurse Practitioner track prepares students for national licensure by providing comprehensive care across all age groups. The 43-hour Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration trains students to handle psychiatric disorders and mental health issues throughout a patient's life. Both majors require rigorous preparation to prepare graduates for certifications.

Post-Master Certificate

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

For nursing professionals who have already secured a master's or higher degree in nursing, WKU offers a Post-Master Certificate program. This program prepares them to sit in for national certification exams. The 17-hour Family Nurse Practitioner track is designed to enhance diagnostics, prescription, and treatment proficiencies. The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track is an 18-hour program focused on honing the ability to manage psychiatric and mental health conditions. The curriculum emphasizes practicality to prepare graduates for national certification exams.

BSN to DNP

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

Western Kentucky University's BSN-to-DNP program is an advanced nursing education program. This curriculum incorporates evidence-based practice, health policy, and organizational transformation to train healthcare leaders. Focusing on lifelong care, the Family Nurse Practitioner emphasis prepares graduates for national certification. The curriculum, offering both part-time and full-time enrollment options, consists of a 76-credit hour structure. This is delivered by seasoned faculty to ensure the highest academic and practical standards. Notably, a Post-MSN to DNP pathway is available as well.

Key Student Takeaways

• Renowned Reputation: Morehead State University consistently ranks among the nation's top for academic quality and professional preparedness, demonstrating their commitment to student success.
• Customized Learning: A low 15:1 student-faculty ratio and a 16-student average class size assure individualized attention.
• Nursing Excellence: The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits the nursing master's program.
• Practical Experience: Nursing students learn hands-on in modern simulation labs and clinical practicums.
• Scholarships: Over $14 million in scholarships and awards are provided annually based on various factors.
• Active Student Community: Nursing students receive mentorship, community participation, and skill development via the local Student Nurses Association branch.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: The Center of Health, Education & Research provides nursing students with the latest in learning technology.

About Morehead State University's Nursing School

The 1887-founded Morehead State University offers high-quality education in Kentucky and the neighboring areas. It now ranks among the South's top regional public institutions, with a notable emphasis on student success, scholarship, and service. Morehead State's Department of Nursing offers programs tailored for both new students and experienced registered nurses. The school's master's degree program are CCNE-accredited. Moreover, this high standard of education is further enhanced by the hands-on training students receive, starting in advanced simulation labs and extending to clinical practicum placements in healthcare facilities throughout Kentucky.
In terms of student support, community service, and skill development are available through the local Student Nurses Association branch. This group mentors nursing students, promotes excellent patient care, and advances nursing education. There are also numerous scholarships at Morehead State University. To meet diverse student needs, the university provides about $14 million in scholarships annually. In addition, Morehead State's investment in cutting-edge facilities like the Center of Health, Education, & Research provide avenue for students to develop their practical skills.

About Morehead State University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

Morehead State's online Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) is designed for working nurses. Students learn advanced theory and practical skills in two years and 49 credit hours. This program prepares graduates for the certification exams from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.  Morehead State's program is flexible and supportive of working professionals. Online education lets nurses study without sacrificing their careers. However, getting into this program requires a selective admissions process separate from Morehead State University entrance. Meanwhile,  for nurses who have already earned a master's degree but wish to sit for the FNP certification exam, a post-MSN program is available.

Key Student Takeaways

• Reputable Recognition: For the 11th consecutive year, NKU has been distinguished as one of America’s Top Colleges by Forbes.
• Global Learning Experiences: Whether on campus or abroad, NKU offers transformative study experiences adaptable to any time zone.
• Safety First: Highland Heights, home to NKU, ranks as one of the safest cities in Kentucky, making it an ideal location for academic pursuits.
• Accredited Nursing Programs: The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has accredited the baccalaureate, master's, postgraduate APRN certificate, and DNP at NKU.
• Real-World Exposure: NKU prioritizes hands-on learning, ensuring students gain crucial clinical field experience right from their first semester.
• Advanced Simulation Education: The Center for Simulation Education offers realistic healthcare settings, allowing students to practice and prepare for real-life situations.
• Community Outreach Centers: Initiatives like NACU, NIRC, and TDC emphasize NKU’s commitment to community engagement and health accessibility.

About Northern Kentucky University's Nursing School

Northern Kentucky University (NKU) is a prestigious public university in Highland Heights with a rich history since 1968.  NKU's College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) excels academically. CHHS, founded in 2019, fosters academic excellence, involvement, and interprofessional education in an innovative environment. The Nursing School is known for its accredited Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs. These Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-supported programs prepare students to lead healthcare organizations.
NKU nursing students go beyond classroom concepts. Their diverse clinical experiences in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky make them critical thinkers and caring practitioners. The university's early clinical field experience requirement shows its emphasis on hands-on learning. Moreover, the NKU Center for Simulation Education gives students state-of-the-art facilities to practice real-life healthcare settings.
The Nursing Advocacy Center for the Underserved (NACU), Northern Kentucky Nursing and Interprofessional Research Collaborative (NIRC), and Training and Development Center (TDC) demonstrate NKU's community participation beyond the classroom. These centers aim to boost healthcare access, drive community-centric interventions, and provide essential services to the underserved. Hence, NKU's Nursing School offers a holistic, accredited, and community-focused education, making it suitable for aspiring nurse practitioners.

About Northern Kentucky University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Northern Kentucky University's online MSN program trains students to become advanced practice RNs. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track prepares students for a broad scope of primary healthcare services, including referrals and patient education. With 47 credit hours, the course covers advanced healthcare standards, theory, and primary care for all ages. Meanwhile, with over 46 credit hours, the Adult-Gero Acute Care students will learn to handle high-acuity patients from adolescence to old age. Lastly, the 46-credit-hour Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program covers mental health diagnosis to treatment. The MSN program stands out with its reasonable tuition fees and commitment to quality. Graduates are well-equipped for their respective certification examinations.

Post-Master’s Certificate

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Practitioner To Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Northern Kentucky University offers online Post-Master's Certificate programs to improve nursing practice. The 35-credit FNP Certificate program enhances nursing practice by emphasizing primary care patient engagement. Psych-mental health students can study comprehensive psychiatric assessment and intervention in a 34-credit-hour program that emphasizes patient care. The 34-credit Adult-Gero Acute Care NP certificate program focuses on cardiac, pulmonary, and transplant issues in acute care settings. Existing nurse practitioners can specialize in mental health with the 19-credit-hour Nurse Practitioner to Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. These competitively priced certificate programs aim to improve nursing practitioners' abilities for more specialized healthcare professions.

Key Student Takeaways

• Prestigious Recognition: Murray State is nationally-ranked and has been recognized as one of the best universities in the region for 33 consecutive years.
• Comprehensive Accreditation: Murray State's nursing programs are not only approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing but are also accredited by nationally-recognized bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Experienced Faculty: The School of Nursing and Health Professions (SONHP) boasts professional faculty with years of hands-on nursing and healthcare experience.
• Regional, State, & National Connection: MSU's association with the AHEC system means students benefit from connections at regional, state, and national levels, especially vital for those looking to serve in medically underserved areas.

About Murray State University's Nursing School

Named after its location, Murray State University is a public institution founded in 1922.  The university ranks nationally for its value in education and athletics. Murray State's commitment to providing access to high-quality education is evident with its generous $115 million in scholarships and financial aid distributed annually. Murray's School of Nursing and Health Professions (SONHP) is known for its academics. The school is home to a team of experienced faculty who bring real-world expertise into the classroom. 

For those aiming to pursue a Nurse Practitioner (NP) career, the programs have the stamp of approval from the Kentucky Board of Nursing and are nationally accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education  Together with the university's reputation, these awards highlight the NP programs' strength and excellence. The Purchase Area Health Education Center (AHEC) partnerships give students access to a large network. The potential for expansion and networking is vast, from regional service in 12 counties of western Kentucky to state collaboration with top universities and national AHEC programs across 48 states.

About Murray State University's NP Programs

BSN to DNP

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

The comprehensive Murray State University Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) curriculum prepares students for advanced practice nursing careers. The full-time, three-year BSN to DNP program in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) combines online and on-campus coursework. The first year is 100% online, followed by two years of hybrid delivery. Clinical experiences can be completed at the student's home location, provided a preceptor contract is secured. Students get a well-rounded education with 945 precepted clinical hours, 76 classroom credit hours, and 1080 program hours. Murray State's mixed-distance learning style lets students study at home, reducing campus time. The program's competitive tuition rates, which apply to anyone in Kentucky regardless of location, boost its attractiveness. Dedicated instructors and staff with years of experience and current practical experience teach the curriculum. Graduates of the program have a proven track record of success, with 100% passing their certification exams on the first attempt and securing jobs post-graduation.

Key Student Takeaways

• Tailored Growth: Bellarmine offers a student-centered network that inspires personal, academic, and transformative growth to prepare students for life and career success.
• Exceptional Teaching: Passionate faculty, with 88% holding the highest degree in their field, ensure a top-notch learning experience.
• Small Class Sizes: With a student-faculty ratio of 12 to 1 and an average class size of 20, students receive individualized attention, a rarity at larger universities.
• Nursing Excellence: Bellarmine nursing students benefit from faculty expertise, advanced simulation centers, and clinical experience with over 100 partners. Graduates are highly sought after and consistently outperform on national exams.
• Financial Opportunities: Through partnerships like the Norton Healthcare Scholars Program, students can receive significant tuition assistance and various funding opportunities for their nursing journey.

About Bellarmine University's Nursing School

Bellarmine University is a private Catholic institution in Louisville, Kentucky. Through its College of Health Professions, Louisville's Bellarmine University offers a distinctive, student-centered nursing curriculum. The said school is accredited by the CCNE and Kentucky Board of Nursing. Nursing students at Bellarmine have access to a newly expanded state-of-the-art simulation laboratory, providing an invaluable practical learning environment.  The school prides itself on its varied student base, small class sizes, and low student-faculty ratio, which encourages individualised learning. Additionally, the university has partnered with Norton Healthcare to offer significant tuition assistance to students pursuing healthcare degrees.

About Bellarmine University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

Bellarmine University offers an online MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner. This program is carefully designed to fill healthcare delivery gaps by teaching nurses advanced nursing and leadership abilities. A highlight of Bellarmine's MSN program is its customization. A faculty adviser helps students customize the curriculum to their needs and goals. To ensure students are technologically equipped, a mandatory technology orientation is conducted either online or in person. Furthermore, most courses offer optional class meetings accessible via recorded videos.

Bellarmine's MSN-FNP program is comprehensive and community-focused. With community-based nurse practitioners as educators, the online program requires only two on-campus visits.  While the practicum hours are designed to be local and convenient, the program requires 43 credit hours. Students can complete these in two years of part-time study, including two summer sessions. This leads to an accumulated 720 clinical hours spread over three semesters.  MSN-FNP tuition is competitive at $795, plus the FNP specialty fee. FNP degree-seeking students may qualify for federal student aid. In terms of pass rates, in 2022, the program achieved 100% first-time FNP accreditation.

Key Student Takeaways

• Christ-Centered Education: Immerse yourself in an academic setting that weaves Christ's teachings into the curriculum.
• Accreditation Excellence: The nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Kentucky Board of Nursing.
• High Recognition: Join a nursing school ranked as the #1 Best Online RN to BSN program in Kentucky and one of the top 10 Online MSN programs nationally.
• Experienced Faculty: Learn from dedicated professionals who balance teaching with continued employment in direct patient care.
• Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Benefit from personalized attention both in the classroom and clinical settings.
• Extensive Clinical Experience: Acquire hands-on skills in diverse, high-quality healthcare facilities, enhanced by current technology and simulated environments.
• Path to Leadership: Build the foundation to pursue advanced nursing degrees and take on leadership roles in the healthcare sector.

About Kentucky Christian University's Nursing School

Kentucky Christian University (KCU) in Grayson, Kentucky, has been shaping students' hearts and minds through a Christ-centered academic community for over a century. This acclaimed college is known for its religion and strong academic programs, as well as its Yancey School of Nursing. The 2001-founded YSN is known for producing clinically and professionally successful graduates. Its faculty is dedicated to teaching students modern healthcare skills and keeping up with changing healthcare dynamics. The school offers online baccalaureate and graduate programs approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing and accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

In terms of awards, the Online MSN program has received national acclaim, being ranked among the top 10 in 2021. KCU's dedication to Christian education extends beyond the classroom, as evident in the multitude of memberships held by the university. Affiliations with organizations such as the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities, the Council on Higher Education Accreditation, and the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities reinforce KCU's commitment to academic excellence through a Christian lens. For nursing students keen on integrating faith and professional knowledge, KCU offers an unparalleled academic experience. The university ensures that graduates are well-prepared to serve the healthcare sector with compassion and competence.

About Kentucky Christian University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

KCU offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a Family Nurse Practitioner focus.  IThis program prepares graduates for the AANP and/or ANCC Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exams. The program requires 48 credit hours with a tuition fee of $525 per credit hour. Students must complete 528 hours of clinical rotations in their local communities. The curriculum culminates in two intensive practicum courses spread over the summer and fall semesters. These courses immerse students in real-world scenarios across primary care, women’s health, pediatrics, and other specialty care sectors.

Key Student Takeaways

• Historical Prestige: As one of the first city-owned public colleges in the U.S., founded in 1798, UofL has a rich history of academic excellence.
• Optimal Location: With its main nursing school located in the Health Sciences Center amidst Louisville's medical complex, students benefit from proximity to key health institutions.
• Research Excellence: As a Carnegie Foundation-recognized Research 1 and Community Engaged university, UofL places emphasis on innovation and student research opportunities.
• Accredited NP Programs: The School of Nursing offers NP programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Located on the UofL Health Sciences Center, students collaborate with other health professionals and participate in multi-site research.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The School of Nursing champions equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring a vibrant learning environment.
• Financial Support: A range of scholarships and financial aid options, including Graduate Student Assistantships, are available to support students financially.

About the University of Louisville-Louisville's Nursing School

The University of Louisville (UofL), founded in 1798, is a Louisville academic and research powerhouse. As one of the nation's first city-owned public universities, UofL has combined the science of nursing with the art of caring. The University of Louisville's Health Sciences Center, home to the School of Nursing, is conveniently located in Louisville's medical sector. This prime location affords students unique opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary research and benefit from state-of-the-art simulation technology.

UofL's School of Nursing is renowned for its accredited Nurse Practitioner programs, which received reaccreditation in 2021 . The school's emphasis on research is backed by its association with a Research 1 university, as recognized by the Carnegie Foundation. Moreover, in partnership with Owensboro Health, the Owensboro location aids students in gaining a holistic education, serving a vast 18-county region. The School of Nursing fosters equity, diversity, and inclusion in a nurturing atmosphere. Financial support is a cornerstone of UofL's approach, with scholarships made accessible to students based on various criteria and assistantships provided to deserving graduate students.

About the University of Louisville-Louisville's Nursing Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The program provides pathways to board certification in various specialties. With a holistic admission approach, the program assesses candidates based on professional goals, academic abilities, and engagement in leadership and community activities. Renowned faculty oversee the hybrid curriculum's on-campus and online training. Additionally, the program offers three start options: fall, spring, and summer. Furthermore, every student benefits from a clinical preceptor, completing a minimum of 672 patient care clinical hours, including simulation experiences.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner 
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner 
• Family Nurse Practitioner 
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The University of Louisville's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is an advanced course designed to enhance population outcomes, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, develop leadership capabilities, and drive impactful health policies. There are two main pathways into the DNP program: BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP, tailored to cater to individual educational backgrounds and aspirations. The curriculum is hybrid, requiring 4-6 on-campus class attendances per semester, while the majority of the coursework remains online. Notably, BSN to DNP students undergo a minimum of 1000 clinical hours, with certain specialties demanding even more. A distinctive feature of the program is the DNP project, a culmination of students' experiences reviewed by a specialized committee, ending in a public presentation.

Post Graduate APRN Certificate

Concentrations:

• Adult Gerontology Acute Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner 
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner 
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner 
• Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Post Graduate APRN Certificate programs lead to advanced practice specialization and national certification for registered nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing or terminal degree. Students attend on-campus classes 4–6 times per semester, while the rest is delivered online. Admission to this program is thorough, using a holistic review process assessing applicants' career goals, academic strengths, leadership qualities, and community involvement.

Key Student Takeaways

• Catholic Affiliation: Spalding University is affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, bringing a unique and rich Catholic heritage to its academic offerings.
• Historical Legacy: Founded in 1814, the university boasts a long-standing tradition of quality education.
• Diverse Learning Modes: With options for full-time, part-time, and a mix of distance education, students have flexibility in their learning.
• Top-Ranked: Consistently ranked among the top five colleges in Kentucky, with a noted non-traditional block schedule.
• Affordable Education: Spalding University offers the benefits of private education at public college costs, including over $4 million in financial aid annually.
• Renowned Nursing Programs: The School of Nursing is backed by a historic reputation, with its BSN and MSN programs being the oldest in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and Louisville respectively.

About Spalding University's Nursing Programs

Spalding University, situated in the heart of downtown Louisville, Kentucky, is a private Catholic institution affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Established in 1814, this university has thrived for over two centuries, upholding a reputation for quality education. It's no surprise that the university consistently ranks among the top five colleges in Kentucky. A significant contributor to Spalding's esteemed reputation is its School of Nursing. Founded in 1933, its MSN program holds the distinction of being the oldest in Louisville. Furthermore, both the bachelor’s and master’s nursing programs have earned accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), underscoring their commitment to top-tier education.

With daytime, online, and accelerated options available, students can choose the pace and mode of their education. Beyond mere statistics, Spalding has made a tangible impact in the healthcare sector. The school has equipped over 2,000 graduates who serve in diverse healthcare settings. Many alumni stand out as influential figures in healthcare ethics, public policy, and leadership roles both in the U.S. and internationally.

About Spalding University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Flexibility, accessibility, and great support distinguish Spalding University's MSN program. The curriculum trains nurses for advanced roles in various settings. The FNP program boasts an impressive track record, with a board examination pass rate consistently over 96%. Spalding organizes clinical venues for students, delivering a personalized and supportive training experience. The training arrangement is flexible for professionals. Students have the option to study full-time and graduate in two years or part-time, finishing in two and a half years. The 44-credit-hour PMHNP track helps nurses become psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. Small classes, personalized academic and career guidance, and a varied faculty of clinicians and scholars are hallmarks of both tracks. Graduates can also easily transfer into Spalding's online DNP program.