Ohio Nurse Practitioner Programs Online: Inside Top Schools
The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:
Jenna Tidd is a Certified Nurse Aide with 12 years of healthcare experience, bringing practical knowledge and insight to her role as a health content writer and editor. Over approximately four years, she has authored more than 100 articles covering topics such as mental health, wellness products, and sleep quality. Jenna has contributed to companies including Thrive Global, mindbodygreen, HealthDay News, Sleep Foundation, and Poosh. She focuses on identifying quality healthcare resources and sharing them with individuals beginning or advancing their medical careers.
Jenna Tidd, CNA
Jenna Tidd is a Certified Nurse Aide with 12 years of healthcare experience, bringing practical knowledge and insight to her role as a health content writer and editor. Over approximately four years, she has authored more than 100 articles covering topics such as mental health, wellness products, and sleep quality. Jenna has contributed to companies including Thrive Global, mindbodygreen, HealthDay News, Sleep Foundation, and Poosh. She focuses on identifying quality healthcare resources and sharing them with individuals beginning or advancing their medical careers.
Why Trust EduMed? We partner with 150+ nursing & allied health professionals to bring you the most in-depth data & insights on higher education & careers in healthcare. Meet our team and review our editorial values.
You might be interested in:
Types of Online NP Programs in Ohio
Online nurse practitioner programs in Ohio offer a convenient and affordable way to fit school into your lifestyle. Which path you choose when becoming a nurse practitioner depends on your education, experiences, financial aid, and professional goals.
In general, there are three main types of online nurse practitioner programs in Ohio:
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Post-graduate certificates
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
Below, we’ve spotlighted three popular Ohio programs with a close eye on curriculum, tuition and fees, and admissions.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs prepare students for advanced nursing roles in practice, research, education, and leadership. Students learn to serve as leaders and change agents in healthcare and healthcare-adjacent facilities.
This degree also prepares graduates to become exemplary leaders in the areas of communication, collaboration, and scholarship. With the help of honed critical thinking skills, students can uncover and assess organizational issues while also providing the simplest, most diplomatic solutions.
Ohio University
- Duration: Five to six semesters
- Mode: Online with practicum
- Cost: Up to $688/credit
Post-Master’s Certificate
Nurse practitioner certificate programs are non-degree programs designed for nurses with master’s degrees seeking NP certifications. Certificate programs allow students to earn their certification and choose specializations that equip them to practice as nurse practitioners.
Students must complete mandatory clinical hours, determined on a case-by-case basis before they are eligible to receive their certification. Students can either complete clinical hours before enrolling or under the supervision of an instructor during the program.
Cleveland State University
- Duration: 15 months (full-time)
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost: $636.70/credit (in-state); $637.70/credit (out-of-state)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
A Doctor of Nursing Practice program provides students with a post-master’s degree, also known as a terminal degree. A DNP prepares students to take roles in healthcare leadership and advanced clinical practice.
This degree is similar to a PhD in nursing, but unlike a nursing PhD, it enables graduates to apply their knowledge to practice in the field rather than to research. Upon completion of a DNP program, students can assume positions in clinical education, high-level leadership, and healthcare policy.
Kent State University
- Duration: Two years
- Mode: Fully online
- Cost: $20,200
FAQs About Online NP Programs in Ohio
How much do online NP programs in Ohio cost?
Cost depends on the program and school you choose, but in general, expect to spend $600-700 per credit at state schools and more at private universities.
While online nurse practitioner programs in Ohio are generally more affordable than on-campus programs, the cost still varies from school to school.
Public universities are usually the most affordable option, but be sure to consider the length of the program as well. Post-graduate certificate programs take fewer hours, so they cost less than a full master’s or doctorate program.
How long does an online NP program in Ohio take?
Students can usually complete a post-master’s certificate in about a year. An MSN is the next shortest program, taking about two to three years to earn your degree. Expect four years of study to complete a DNP program.
That said, these timeframes vary depending on whether you choose a full- or part-time school schedule.
Can you go from RN to NP online in OH?
Yes, several online nurse practitioner programs in Ohio allow you to go from RN to NP at your convenience. There are online ADN programs which will help you get your initial RN licensure, as well as bachelor’s in nursing programs online for your four-year degree. From there, you can become an NP with online MSN or DNP programs.
Are online NP programs in Ohio accredited, and why does accreditation matter?
Yes, many online NP programs in Ohio are accredited. There are two widely recognized accrediting bodies for nurse practitioner programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
When choosing an NP program, you should always consider accreditation. Programs accredited by the ACEN or CCNE meet nationwide standards for nursing education and practice, and choosing an unaccredited school can limit your professional prospects or prevent you from transferring your credits to another program.
Can I specialize in a particular NP track (e.g., FNP, AGNP, PMHNP) through an online program in Ohio?
Yes, and specialization is a wise choice for your education and future career prospects. Specialized programs allow you to gain a focused education in an area of interest.
You’ll want to learn about your specialization options and make sure you are applying for programs that align with your nursing and employment goals. For instance, if you prefer working with older adults, you should seek a specialization like the University of Toledo’s Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program.
Licensing and Certification for Ohio Nurse Practitioners
To become a nurse practitioner in Ohio, the first step is to become a registered nurse and pass the NCLEX-RN. If you’re already an RN, but you didn’t get a BSN, you’ll need to get one before applying for advanced degree programs.
Becoming an NP requires a master’s degree or DNP with a major in a nursing specialty, so you should apply and enroll in one approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Once you’ve completed your online NP program in Ohio and any required clinical hours, you’ll need to take and pass the APRN national certification examination. Depending on your specialty, you will choose from five different certification boards to sit for their certification exam:
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB)
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certification Program
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AANC) Certification Corporation
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB)
- National Certification Corporation (NCC)
Once you’ve passed, have your school send transcripts to the Ohio Board of Nursing. Your national certification should also be emailed directly to the Board. You’ll also need to fill out the application and pay a $150 licensing fee.
Salary & Career Outlook for Nurse Practitioners in Ohio
Nurse Practitioners
| Area ↕︎ | 10th Percentile ↕︎ | Median ↕︎ | 90th Percentile ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $100,780 | $124,870 | $154,680 |
| Akron, OH | $105,810 | $127,090 | $154,620 |
| Canton-Massillon, OH | $94,990 | $118,370 | $153,530 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $89,710 | $128,700 | $162,510 |
| Cleveland, OH | $103,200 | $130,800 | $155,590 |
| Columbus, OH | $99,960 | $124,580 | $150,250 |
| Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek, OH | $95,680 | $118,210 | $153,670 |
| Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH | $98,860 | $125,780 | $151,330 |
| Lima, OH | $101,710 | $120,350 | $146,360 |
| Mansfield, OH | $96,290 | $121,870 | $134,440 |
| Sandusky, OH | $101,470 | $121,230 | $138,260 |
| Springfield, OH | $104,330 | $124,440 | $155,600 |
| Toledo, OH | $77,050 | $121,780 | $153,740 |
| Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH | $97,810 | $117,400 | $150,260 |
| Wheeling, WV-OH | $99,910 | $128,640 | $154,080 |
| Youngstown-Warren, OH | $98,540 | $120,970 | $153,160 |
Source: Nurse Practitioners, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2025
Data does not reflect school-specific information.
Nurse Practitioners
| Area ↕︎ | Curr. Jobs ↕︎ | Proj. Jobs ↕︎ | New Jobs ↕︎ | Growth % ↕︎ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕︎ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 320,400 | 448,800 | 128,400 | 40.1% | 29,500 |
| Ohio | 14,880 | 19,950 | 5,070 | 34.1% | 1,260 |
Source: Projections Central, 2024-2034
Ranking the Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Ohio
Program Details
- Location: Canton, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $725Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Malone University
- Malone’s fully online FNP program offers intensive advanced skills labs and hands-on clinical internships in Ohio.
- Partnerships with diverse clinical sites, guided by faculty and student preferences, enhance real-world placement experiences and networking.
- An evidence-based practice project and three advanced skills lab sessions develop strong clinical competence and career-ready expertise.
Program Details
- Location: Canton, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $725Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Franklin University
Program Details
- Location: Columbus, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $670Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Franklin University
- Save thousands in clinical and program fees with Franklin’s affordable MSN-FNP tuition and cost structure.
- Complete the online MSN-FNP in as few as 27 months with built‑in clinical hours for efficient progression.
- Become eligible to sit for national FNP certification exams (ANCC or AANP) immediately upon graduation.
Program Details
- Location: Columbus, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $670Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Youngstown State University
Program Details
- Location: Youngstown, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $565Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Youngstown State University
- Affordable in-state tuition is listed at $25,727.34, making the program financially attractive.
- The application fee is waived for active or veteran military members.
- Students can complete coursework in as few as 22 months, offering a faster path to the degree.
Program Details
- Location: Youngstown, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $565Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Ohio University-Main Campus
Program Details
- Location: Athens, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $583Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Ohio University-Main Campus
- Faculty are practicing nurses at the master’s or doctoral level, offering expert, real-world instruction.
- Most graduates become certified as family nurse practitioners on their first attempt, reflecting strong exam preparation.
- 100% online coursework with limited on-campus intensives provides flexible learning while still supporting hands-on skill development.
Program Details
- Location: Athens, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $583Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
University of Akron Main Campus
Program Details
- Location: Akron, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $463Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected University of Akron Main Campus
- The MSN Nurse Practitioner program offers multiple specialized advanced practice tracks, including adult gerontology, child and adolescent health, and psychiatric mental health, allowing students to pursue highly focused career paths.
- A formal partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital streamlines pediatric NP clinical placements, centrally matches students to sites, and accelerates progression and entry into the workforce.
- Qualified applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher can gain full admission to MSN advanced practice tracks without a graduate entrance exam, simplifying and speeding up the application process.
Program Details
- Location: Akron, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $463Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Program Details
- Location: Columbus, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $955Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Mount Carmel College of Nursing
- The online Nurse Practitioner programs are offered in a fully online format with scheduled immersions and direct clinical experiences.
- MCCN’s Family Nurse Practitioner track can be completed in 18 months, making it a comparatively fast path to advanced practice.
- The program includes clinical support resources, with a Clinical Coordinator to help students find preceptors and complete required hours.
Program Details
- Location: Columbus, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $955Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Cedarville University
Program Details
- Location: Cedarville, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $605Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Cedarville University
- Cedarville’s MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program offers $3,000–$5,000 need-based graduate nursing scholarships.
- The program is the lowest-cost graduate nurse practitioner program in Ohio, with additional financial aid available.
- Students benefit from outstanding Christian faculty with advanced academic credentials and significant clinical experience.
Program Details
- Location: Cedarville, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $605Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Program Details
- Location: Cincinnati, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $662Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Practicing, clinically up-to-date faculty deliver high-quality education with dedicated support throughout the program.
- Flexible, 100% online asynchronous coursework with no required site visits, designed for working nurses.
- FNP national certification exam pass rates consistently above 95%, demonstrating strong outcomes and preparation.
Program Details
- Location: Cincinnati, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $662Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Otterbein University
Program Details
- Location: Westerville, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $635Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected Otterbein University
- Otterbein’s Nurse Practitioner programs offer online coursework with community-based clinical experiences and flexible part-time options, supporting working nurses.
- Students benefit from small class sizes and expert, caring faculty, providing personalized mentoring and strong professional preparation.
- The programs provide clear pathways to national Nurse Practitioner certification and advanced practice roles through structured clinical training.
Program Details
- Location: Westerville, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PrivateSchool Type
- $635Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Program Details
- Location: Toledo, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $653Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Why We Selected University of Toledo
- Practicing faculty actively working as nurse practitioners bring current, real-world clinical expertise into every course.
- Service-learning opportunities, including travel abroad, let students provide care in diverse communities while expanding cultural competence.
- Graduate assistant positions and other financial support options help reduce tuition costs and make the program more affordable.
Program Details
- Location: Toledo, OH
- HLCAccreditation
- YesCounseling Services
- PublicSchool Type
- $653Avg. Cost/Credit
- YesAlt. Tuition Plan(s)
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online Graduate Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves:
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic and career counseling on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for graduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of graduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-3 and #4-5 were equally weighted.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2025
Keep Learning
Best Online DNP Programs: Exploring Top Schools
Online PMHNP Programs: Top Degrees and Key Details
Online MSN Programs in Ohio: Evaluating Top Schools