PennWest University’s Master of Science in Nursing program earned the No. 6 spot on NursePractitionerOnline.com’s 2027 list of Pennsylvania’s best online nurse practitioner programs. 

“Our students bring valuable experience as registered nurses and a commitment to doing more for their patients,” said Dr. Nicole Evanick, executive director of PennWest’s School of Nursing. “This recognition reflects the work of our faculty to help them build the knowledge, clinical skills and confidence to take that next step as family nurse practitioners.” 

The ranking considers factors including tuition, graduate earnings, graduation rates, program availability, online and hybrid learning options, and preparation for national certification. The website draws on federal education data, program information and independent editorial research. 

Offered through PennWest Global Online, the program’s 49-credit Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced practice through online coursework and clinical experiences. Students study advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology and clinical diagnostics, along with primary care for children and adults. 

“The transition from registered nurse to family nurse practitioner brings greater responsibility for assessing patients, making clinical decisions and managing care,” said Dr. Melanie Best, chair of PennWest’s Department of Nursing and Health Professions. “Our goal is to help students build on their nursing experience and prepare for those responsibilities through rigorous coursework and meaningful clinical experiences.” 

Designed for nurses who hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, the program combines study in evidence-based practice with opportunities to develop clinical skills in approved health care settings. Graduates are eligible to take national family nurse practitioner certification examinations. 

For more information, visit PennWest’s Family Nurse Practitioner concentration webpage.