Fastest Online MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner?

A fast online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program is designed for registered nurses who want to deepen their expertise in women’s health and qualify for advanced practice roles in less time than traditional programs. These programs typically take 18 to 24 months to complete and focus on areas such as reproductive health, prenatal and postpartum care, gynecologic oncology, and primary care for women across the lifespan. 

Coursework is delivered online with required clinical hours arranged in local healthcare settings. Expect to engage in both synchronous and asynchronous learning, complete rigorous clinical practicums, and prepare for national certification exams such as those offered by the National Certification Corporation.

Where can I work with an MSN women's health nurse practitioner?

Many women’s health nurse practitioners find roles in OB/GYN clinics, family planning centers, reproductive endocrinology practices, and community health organizations. Hospitals and private practices also employ women’s health nurse practitioners for both inpatient and outpatient services, particularly in areas with growing populations and increased demand for preventive and reproductive care.

Outside of traditional clinical settings, women’s health nurse practitioners may also work in public health departments, women’s wellness centers, and telehealth services, especially in rural or underserved communities. Some may serve in academic or policy roles, influencing women’s health education or healthcare access initiatives.

How much can I make with an MSN women's health nurse practitioner?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse practitioners earned a median salary of $129,210 as of May 2024. Those in outpatient care centers tend to earn higher wages, while women’s health nurse practitioners in rural clinics may earn slightly less but can receive loan forgiveness or incentive packages tied to healthcare shortages.

In addition to a competitive base salary, many employers offer benefits like continuing education support, flexible scheduling, and healthcare coverage. Women’s health nurse practitioners who gain years of experience or specialize further in areas like reproductive endocrinology or maternal-fetal medicine may earn well above the median salary.

For those who pursue fast-track online MSN programs, the ability to enter the workforce sooner can also mean gaining financial returns more quickly.

List of the Fastest Online MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2025

1. Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University offers one of the oldest and most respected online nurse practitioner programs in the United States. Launched in 2000, the MSN in women’s health nurse practitioner program targets working registered nurses looking for a flexible and community-focused curriculum.

The program combines online coursework with local clinical preceptorships and is known for its mission to serve rural and underserved communities. Courses are delivered asynchronously, with virtual interaction and strong support from faculty mentors. Students also participate in a brief on-campus immersion experience to prepare for clinical training.

• Program Length: 20 to 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $646
• Required Credits to Graduate: 61
• Accreditation: ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing)

2. Regis College

Regis College offers a fast-paced, fully online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program ideal for RNs with a BSN. The program, which began offering online tracks in the mid-2010s, focuses on evidence-based practice and includes courses in women’s health promotion, reproductive care, and advanced pathophysiology. Regis emphasizes small class sizes and 24/7 tech and academic support. Clinical placement assistance is provided to help students find suitable local preceptors.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $1,341
• Required Credits to Graduate: 46
• Accreditation: CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education)

3. Georgetown University

Georgetown’s online MSN in women’s health nurse practitioner is designed for BSN-prepared nurses seeking a high-caliber, Jesuit-aligned graduate education. The program was launched online in 2011 and emphasizes holistic care, cultural competence, and leadership in women’s health. The curriculum combines weekly live classes with self-paced learning and requires students to attend two on-campus intensives. Georgetown also provides robust clinical placement support.

• Program Length: 23 to 27 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $2,358
• Required Credits to Graduate: 44
• Accreditation: CCNE

4. Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University offers a fully online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program that combines clinical excellence with flexibility. Their online program has been available since 2015 and is known for its case-based learning model. It targets working professionals who want to advance their expertise without stepping away from their careers. Students complete both synchronous and asynchronous components and can access Jefferson’s strong clinical network.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $1,200
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati’s online MSN program in women’s health nurse practitioner is designed for nurses who want an affordable and fast option from a public research university. The program has been offered online since 2007 and includes coursework in advanced reproductive health, chronic disease management, and women’s wellness. The school offers rolling admissions and personalized academic advising.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $746 (in-state), $761 (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 49
• Accreditation: CCNE

6. Drexel University

Drexel’s College of Nursing and Health Professions has offered an online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program since the early 2010s. The curriculum is built for experienced RNs and emphasizes clinical decision-making, health promotion, and care for diverse populations. Drexel’s online platform provides interactive simulations, video lectures, and student support. Clinical placements are arranged in students' home states.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $1,069
• Required Credits to Graduate: 57
• Accreditation: CCNE

7. University of South Alabama

The University of South Alabama provides a flexible online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program that offers multiple entry points for BSN and non-BSN holders. Their online nursing programs have been available for over a decade and are designed for working professionals. The program includes clinical rotations that can be completed locally, as well as optional on-campus intensives.

• Program Length: 12 to 24 months (depending on entry path)
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $594
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45 to 51
• Accreditation: CCNE

8. Kent State University

Kent State offers an online MSN with a women’s health nurse practitioner concentration through its College of Nursing, which has been delivering distance education since 2005. The program is designed for registered nurses seeking specialization in female health and wellness. Faculty support and clinical placement guidance are notable features. The program is especially appealing for in-state students seeking an affordable, accelerated track.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $536 (in-state), $546 (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 42
• Accreditation: CCNE

9. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program offers a flexible hybrid format, combining asynchronous learning with occasional synchronous sessions. Launched online in 2009, the program emphasizes clinical training and leadership in women’s healthcare. Students can choose in-state or out-of-state clinical placements based on location and availability.

• Program Length: 20 to 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $599 (in-state), $623 (out-of-state)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 51
• Accreditation: CCNE

10. University of Alabama at Birmingham

The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a nationally recognized MSN in women’s health nurse practitioner through a fully online format. Their program is practice-focused and offers robust clinical preparation with minimal campus visits. The curriculum covers prenatal, intrapartum, postpartum, and long-term care for women. UAB’s program is one of the more affordable options and is supported by a large academic health center.

• Program Length: 24 months
• Tracks/concentrations: Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
• Cost per Credit: $682
• Required Credits to Graduate: 45
• Accreditation: CCNE

How long does it take to complete a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

Fast online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner programs are designed for working professionals who want to complete their graduate education in less time than traditional routes. On average, these programs can be completed in 18 to 24 months if pursued full-time. Some schools offer flexible pacing, allowing students to move at an accelerated rate depending on prior coursework and professional experience.

For registered nurses who are still early in their academic journey, some universities offer bridge programs that make it easier to progress quickly through the nursing education pathway. For example, many online nursing programs CNA to RN offer accelerated coursework that allows certified nursing assistants to advance toward their RN license, eventually qualifying them for MSN-level study. This streamlined path makes becoming a women’s health nurse practitioner more accessible for those just beginning their careers in healthcare.

How does a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner compare to an on-campus program?

Online and on-campus MSN women’s health nurse practitioner programs share the same end goal—training qualified advanced practice nurses to care for female patients across the lifespan. However, there are key differences in format and flexibility.

Learning Format

• Online programs deliver coursework through a mix of asynchronous and synchronous learning. Students typically complete clinical hours in their local communities and may have limited on-campus visits.
• On-campus programs require in-person attendance for all classes, labs, and often clinical placements organized by the university.

Flexibility and Accessibility

• Online degrees offer greater flexibility, making them ideal for working nurses or parents balancing other responsibilities.
• In-person programs offer more face-to-face interaction but often require relocation or commuting.

The flexibility of online programs has led many institutions to offer accelerated timelines without compromising quality. For those exploring other nursing specializations or certification tracks, consider the shortest online PMHNP certificate programs as another fast-track option in mental health nursing.

What is the average cost of a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

Tuition for fast online MSN programs in women’s health varies widely by institution type and residency status. According to Data USA, the median in-state tuition at public institutions is around $11,190, while the median tuition for private, out-of-state schools reaches approximately $59,920. These figures give prospective students a realistic range of what to expect when budgeting for their education.

While private universities often carry higher tuition rates, they may also offer stronger alumni networks, faculty support, or clinical placement services. On the other hand, public universities tend to be more affordable, particularly for in-state students.

If cost is a major factor, students can explore additional program types that offer excellent value—like the cheap post master's certificate pediatric NP online programs known for affordability and quality.

Keep in mind that many online programs charge per credit hour, and total program costs will depend on the number of credits required for graduation.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

Financial aid can make a significant difference when pursuing a fast online MSN in women’s health. Most accredited programs qualify for federal and state aid, and additional support is often available through the university or private organizations. Options include:

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): Allows access to federal grants, work-study programs, and student loans.
• Nursing scholarships: Offered by nursing associations, hospitals, and community organizations.
• Employer tuition reimbursement: Available to nurses working in hospitals or healthcare systems that support continuing education.
• Loan forgiveness programs: Nurses working in underserved areas or specific healthcare settings may qualify for public service loan forgiveness.
• Graduate assistantships or stipends: Some universities offer paid roles or teaching opportunities for graduate students enrolled full-time.

Students are encouraged to contact each school’s financial aid office early in the admissions process to explore all available options.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

Admission requirements vary slightly by program, but most fast online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner programs share similar prerequisites:

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN): The most common entry point. In fact, 51% of obstetrics-gynecology nurse practitioners hold a bachelor’s degree, while 27% have a master’s, and 14% hold an associate degree, according to Zippia.
• Active RN license: Applicants must have an unencumbered registered nursing license in the state where they plan to complete clinicals.
• Minimum GPA: Typically a 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Professional experience: Some programs require at least one year of nursing experience, particularly in women’s health or a related field.
• Letters of recommendation and personal statement: Often required to demonstrate readiness and passion for advanced practice nursing.

For those comparing career paths before applying, you might want to understand the difference between FNP and AGNP to ensure that the women’s health focus aligns best with your professional goals.

What courses are typically in a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

Fast online MSN programs in women’s health nurse practitioner typically include a blend of core nursing courses, specialized women’s health content, and clinical practicums. These courses are designed to prepare nurses to care for women across the lifespan, from adolescence to older adulthood.  Some programs also integrate skills from fastest online MSN in care coordination programs to help graduates manage complex patient cases and coordinate multidisciplinary care effectively.

Core MSN Courses

• Advanced Pathophysiology
• Advanced Health Assessment
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses

Women’s Health Specialization

• Reproductive and Prenatal Care
• Gynecologic Health Management
• Menopause and Aging Care
• Advanced Maternal-Fetal Health

Clinical Practice

• Supervised clinical rotations in OB/GYN, community health, and outpatient clinics

These programs also lay the groundwork for understanding broader nursing roles and credentials. If you're curious about how this degree fits into the larger picture of nursing careers, you can explore the what is an APRN vs NP comparison to gain more clarity on your professional pathway.

What types of specializations are available in a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

While the core curriculum of a women’s health nurse practitioner program focuses on providing care across the female lifespan, many programs allow students to develop specialized expertise that aligns with their career goals or the needs of specific patient populations.

For example, some nurses choose to complement their women’s health training with a fast track MSN adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner online program, expanding their ability to care for adult and senior populations in primary care settings. These specializations can enhance employability and open doors in niche areas of practice.

Common Specialization Areas

• Reproductive and Fertility Health: Focused on preconception counseling, fertility treatment coordination, and early pregnancy management.
• Menopause and Aging Care: Emphasizes chronic disease management and hormonal health for aging female populations.
• High-Risk Obstetrics: Trains nurses to work closely with OB/GYNs on cases involving pregnancy complications.
• Adolescent and Young Adult Health: Covers preventive care, sexual health education, and menstrual disorder management.

These focus areas are especially relevant in high-demand employment sectors. According to BLS (chart below), nurse practitioners are most commonly employed in:

• Offices of Physicians
• General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
• Outpatient Care Centers
• Offices of Other Health Practitioners
• Home Health Care Services

Graduates interested in long-term leadership or academic roles may also continue their studies with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). If you're wondering about future options, take a look at what can you do with a DNP in nursing to explore potential career paths.

How do you choose the best among the fastest online MSN women's health nurse practitioner programs?

Choosing the right online MSN program requires a combination of self-assessment, research, and comparison. Not all programs are equally fast or flexible, and some may better suit your professional and personal goals.

Key Factors to Consider

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN to maintain eligibility for licensure and certification.
• Program Length: Look for programs with accelerated tracks (18 to 24 months), especially if you're balancing other responsibilities.
• Clinical Placement Support: Some programs help match students with local preceptors, while others leave it to the student.
• Tuition and Financial Aid: Consider both cost per credit and the total required credits. Also, review available scholarships or employer reimbursement options.
• Learning Format: Check if the program is asynchronous (more flexible) or synchronous (structured, with live sessions).

Ultimately, the best program will align with your timeline, budget, and long-term career goals.

What career paths are available for graduates of fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner programs?

Graduates of fast online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner programs are qualified for a variety of advanced practice roles in clinical and non-clinical environments. Most commonly, they provide gynecologic, prenatal, and reproductive care across outpatient clinics, OB/GYN practices, and women’s health centers. Others may transition into education, health policy, or consulting, or even branch into niche fields like accelerated MSN in forensic nursing online to combine nursing expertise with legal and investigative skills.

According to BLS data, nurse practitioners earn the highest median annual wages in the following industries:

• Residential Intellectual and Developmental Disability, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse Facilities: $160,330
• Scientific Research and Development Services: $143,430
• Grantmaking and Giving Services: $141,400
• Psychiatric and Substance Abuse Hospitals: $140,400
• Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services: $135,750

These salary ranges reflect the growing demand for nurse practitioners in roles that go beyond direct patient care, including research, program development, and leadership in women's health initiatives.

What is the job market like for graduates of a fast online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

The job outlook for nurse practitioners, including those with a focus on women’s health, remains exceptionally strong. According to BLS, employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 46% from 2023 to 2033, a rate much faster than the national average for all occupations. By 2033, the number of nurse practitioners is expected to reach 427,900.

This growth is fueled by increasing demand for preventive and specialized care, particularly in women's health. As healthcare systems expand their advanced practice provider teams, women’s health nurse practitioners will be well-positioned to take on essential roles in both urban and rural care settings.  The flexibility of an online MSN program—especially options like the shortest MSN health informatics online track—ensures that more professionals can enter the workforce quickly and meet the evolving healthcare needs of female populations.

Is the program accredited to ensure quality education?

Accreditation is a key indicator of a program’s commitment to maintaining high academic and clinical standards. Ensure that the MSN women’s health nurse practitioner program you choose is accredited by recognized bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation not only validates the curriculum and clinical training but also influences eligibility for licensure, certification exams, and future employment opportunities. Verify that the program meets state and national requirements for clinical practicums and that it provides clear outcomes regarding exam preparedness. Additionally, consider how accredited programs might offer structured pathways to related credentials, similar to those provided by inexpensive RN to BSN online programs.

What are the options for further advancement after completing an online MSN women's health nurse practitioner program?

Graduates seeking to build on their MSN expertise can explore advanced academic pathways and specialized certifications to enhance leadership and clinical roles. Transitioning to a doctoral level—such as pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Ph.D. in Nursing—can open opportunities in research, healthcare policy, education, and executive management. Prospective candidates may consider programs that offer an accelerated route to doctoral study, including the fastest DNP online program, to gain comprehensive insights and applied practice innovations. Engaging in post-graduate specialty certifications and professional networks further solidifies the pathway to higher levels of practice and responsibility.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About the Fastest Online MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Programs

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Online MSN Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Programs

Do online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner programs require campus visits?

While most coursework is delivered fully online, many programs include brief immersion experiences—for example, one to two weekend simulations or intensives at the main campus. These are designed to prepare students for clinical rotations and foster peer interaction, though they typically amount to only a few days of travel. Schools like Georgetown and Duke include these highly practical short in-person opportunities within their online formats.

What technology and support do online MSN programs provide?

Students enrolled in accelerated online programs often have access to robust learning management systems, virtual simulations, and 24/7 technical support. Many programs also offer personalized mentorship, cohort-based learning, and academic advising to keep students on track—even when balancing full-time work and family commitments.

How is clinical placement handled in online programs?

A major benefit of accelerated online MSN programs is that clinical hours are arranged locally, in students’ communities. Schools frequently provide clinical placement support, helping match registered nurses with local OB/GYN preceptors and sites. This model allows students to maintain their existing lives while gaining essential on-site experience without relocating.

Are accelerated online MSN women’s health nurse practitioner programs more challenging than traditional ones?

Fast-track online programs require a strong commitment and disciplined time management. Although courses may be shorter (often even to 10 weeks), they cover comparable content and clinical hours to traditional programs. Many students report that the accelerated pace keeps them focused, preventing the drag that sometimes comes with longer curriculums—though it can feel intense. Clinical requirements are often the same, involving real-world placements which must be completed alongside coursework. For those prepared for a rigorous, fast-paced environment, accelerated online formats offer an efficient pathway without sacrificing depth or quality.