Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Vermont for 2024

Highlights for NP Students

• Historical distinction: The University of Vermont, founded in 1791, has a long tradition of academic distinction.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: UVM's College of Nursing & Health Sciences emphasizes in-depth knowledge and extensive exposure across fields for a well-rounded education.
• Hands-on Practice: UVM Nursing students participate in clinical simulation labs and network at national conferences
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education-accredited programs meet or exceed quality requirements.
• Unique Clinical Affiliations: Students receive exceptional real-world experiences through the University of Vermont Health Network's Level 1 Trauma Center, children's hospital, and cancer center.

About the University of Vermont's Nursing School

The distinguished public land-grant research University of Vermont in Burlington has a rich history stretching back to 1791. Being the fifth-oldest in New England, it has a distinguished academic history. The College of Nursing & Health Sciences, a healthcare education leader, is part of this legacy. In this college, students are exposed to deep specializations and a wider range of disciplines, preparing them to perceive the world through numerous glasses, essential in today's complicated healthcare context.

For 80 years, UVM's Nursing program has trained healthcare leaders. Clinical simulations and real-world experiences are balanced throughout the interdisciplinary program. Students gain valuable experience through the University of Vermont Health Network, which includes six hospitals, setting them apart in their careers. Moreover, the facilities at UVM, such as the Eleanor M. Luse Center for Communication and Appletree Bay Primary Care, further enhance the learning experience. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, the Department of Nursing offers a holistic and humanistic approach. As a result, UVM Nursing graduates provide superior patient care after this extensive training. Thus, UVM graduates possess competence, compassion, and unmatched patient care.

About the University of Vermont's NP Programs

Direct-Entry Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The University of Vermont's Direct-Entry DNP program prepares non-nursing baccalaureates to become advanced practice registered nurses in an accelerated degree path. This program has two tracks: AGNP and FNP. Students skip the BSN and go straight to the DNP, completing the program in 11 semesters. In terms of board exam performance, UVM students passed the national certification exam 100% from 2000 to 2022, demonstrating the program's quality. It is also worth noting that this program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentrations:

• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)
• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

UVM's DNP program prepares graduated RNs for primary care roles as advanced practice nurses. Students can choose AGNP or FNP comprehensive tracks. The connection with the nurse practitioner-managed Appletree Bay Primary Care Clinic allows students to experience real-world healthcare with UVM's acclaimed clinical staff. The curriculum requires 69.5-76 credits, 800-870 clinical hours, and 240 DNP project practicum hours. The program takes 3 1/2 years for bachelor's degrees and two years for master's degrees. The mix of on-campus, hybrid, and online courses provides flexibility. Students are ready for the national APRN certification exam after graduation.

Highlights for NP Students

• State-of-the-Art Labs: The School of Nursing at Norwich provides new simulation laboratories. With this, students get hands-on experiences that mirror real-life situations.
• Experienced Faculty: Outstanding faculty support means benefiting from educators with vast industry insights and expertise.
• Technological Advancement: Integration of iPad Technology enhances the learning experience, including sharing assignments, viewing anatomy, and more.
• Renowned Clinical Partnerships: Establish affiliations with prestigious academic medical centers such as Dartmouth-Hitchcock and the University of Vermont Medical Center.
• Cutting-Edge Tools: Access to tools like electronic health records and handheld personal digital assistants ensures you're at the forefront of modern nursing practice.
• Accreditation: The master's program in nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, affirming quality and excellence.
• Alumni Benefits: Returning Norwich alumni are eligible for a $2,500 scholarship and other perks.

About Norwich University's Nursing School

Norwich University (NU), the oldest private and senior military institution in the US, has a long history in Northfield, Vermont. Norwich offers reputable bachelor's and master's degrees online and on-campus. Driven by a mission to cultivate globally-minded nurse leaders, NU's School of Nursing is known for its innovative approaches. Outstanding teachers and cutting-edge simulation, learning, and classrooms support student achievement and growth. In addition, Norwich's partnerships with Dartmouth-Hitchcock and the University of Vermont Medical Center demonstrate its dedication to experiential learning.

Students at Norwich enjoy technological enhancements in their nursing education, such as the integration of iPads. These tools not only facilitate paperwork sharing and assignment submissions but also elevate anatomy viewing experiences. Quality assurance is at the forefront, with the master's degree program in nursing gaining accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. For those considering furthering their education at Norwich, the alumni benefits, including a $2,500 scholarship, make it a compelling choice. Additionally, Norwich's welcoming stance on international admissions and the option to transfer credits further establish the university as a holistic and inclusive institution for prospective nurse practitioners.

About Norwich University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentrations:

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

Norwich University's esteemed online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is tailored for those eager to advance their skills in the constantly evolving nursing field. The program offers three distinct concentrations. A significant advantage of Norwich's MSN program is its adaptability to the demands of modern healthcare professionals. The convenient online format is designed to accommodate busy schedules. Moreover, the program's curriculum adheres to the rigorous standards set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF).

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education's accreditation of Norwich further emphasizes the quality of its education. Additionally, students have the unique opportunity to learn from a faculty comprised of active scholars, all of whom hold doctorate degrees.The MSN program begins with six 11-week core courses on advanced nursing topics. Class size is limited to 15 to create a personalized learning atmosphere. Graduates have deep knowledge and are ready to take national certification tests from ANCC and AANP.