Loyola University New Orleans Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

The School of Nursing at Loyola University New Orleans offers several advanced online and hybrid nursing pathways for registered nurses who want to move into nurse practitioner roles or continue into doctoral study. The programs covered here are the BSN-to-DNP family nurse practitioner, MSN – family nurse practitioner, MSN – psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, post-master’s certificate – family nurse practitioner, and post-master’s certificate – psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Additionally, there’s an RN-to-MSN bridge or “BLEND” program in the FNP specialty.

These programs are built for nurses who want to expand their clinical knowledge, grow into advanced practice roles, and study in formats that can work around professional responsibilities. Loyola’s College of Nursing and Health is an academic community committed to service, educational excellence, and scholarship aligned with Ignatian values, with programs designed to fit professional and practical needs. The university is committed to helping students advance their careers while developing themselves in body, spirit, and mind.

The BSN-to-DNP FNP program is designed for registered nurses who want to move directly from the BSN to the highest clinical nursing degree while preparing for FNP certification. The BSN-to-DNP AGACNP program prepares students for advanced practice in acute care settings through a hybrid doctoral pathway that combines online coursework, on-campus intensives, and clinical experiences.

The MSN-FNP program is a 100 percent online program that prepares nurses to provide evidence-based, holistic care to families, individuals, and populations across the health continuum. The MSN-PMHNP program prepares students to care for individuals across the lifespan, with an emphasis on patient-centered care, equitable mental healthcare, and evidence-based interventions.

The FNP post-master’s certificate is for master’s-prepared nurses who want to add family nurse practitioner preparation and primary care training across the lifespan. The AGACNP post-master’s certificate is designed for master’s-prepared nurses seeking specialization in caring for patients with chronic, critical, and complex conditions across the adult lifespan. The PMHNP post-master’s certificate is intended for nurses who already hold a master’s degree in nursing and want to prepare for psychiatric-mental health care practice across the lifespan.

Loyola’s program formats vary by track. Some options are fully online and asynchronous, such as the BSN-to-DNP FNP, MSN-FNP, and the post-master’s FNP certificate, while others use a hybrid format with in-person elements, including the BSN-to-DNP AGACNP, MSN-PMHNP, and post-master’s PMHNP certificate. Some programs may also include annual on-campus intensives or other in-person components, while applications for several of these programs are accepted year-round for fall, spring, and summer entry.

Loyola University New Orleans is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing, doctor of nursing practice program, and post-graduate APRN certificate program at Loyola University New Orleans are all accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Loyola University New Orleans is located in New Orleans, LA.

What to Expect from the Loyola University New Orleans Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Admission Requirements: The BSN-to-DNP programs at Loyola University New Orleans share a common set of requirements. Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts from each degree-granting college or university attended, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited school of nursing. They must also provide copies of a current, unencumbered RN license, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0, complete a minimum of one year of full-time work experience, submit letters of recommendation, and include a personal statement or essay. The AGACNP track adds requirements for recent critical care RN experience, BLS, ACLS, CCRN certification, at least two recommendation letters from critical care leaders, and an interview for selected applicants.

The MSN programs also share common requirements. Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts, a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited school of nursing, and a current, unencumbered RN license. They must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0, complete a three-credit undergraduate statistics course with a grade of B- or better (for the FNP track), complete a minimum of one year of full-time work experience, submit letters of recommendation, and include a personal statement or essay. For the RN-to-MSN bridge or BLEND option, candidates must be working RNs and complete additional qualifying coursework throughout their studies.

Applicants to the post-master’s certificate programs must submit a completed application, official transcripts, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from an accredited school of nursing, a current, unencumbered RN license, and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must also complete a minimum of one year of full-time work experience, submit letters of recommendation, and provide advanced practice licensure and APRN certification if applicable. Specific programs require students to obtain and maintain a Louisiana registered nursing license or a multistate nursing license while enrolled, and some tracks also require a personal statement.

State Restrictions: Loyola University New Orleans’ nursing programs require students to hold current, unencumbered RN licensure, and for some programs, advanced practice licensure and APRN certification if applicable, in the state where clinical practicums will occur. The university also states that specific programs require students to obtain and maintain a Louisiana registered nursing license or a multistate nursing license while enrolled. For the MSN-FNP program, practicum requirements must be completed in a state where the student holds a valid nursing license.

To be sure of eligibility, applicants should check with the College of Nursing and Health’s School of Nursing. In addition, applicants outside Louisiana should check with their state Board of Nursing to be aware of the practicum requirements in their state while attending an out-of-state university.

Study Plan: Loyola University New Orleans offers several advanced nursing pathways with different timelines, formats, and clinical requirements. The BSN-to-DNP FNP program includes 63 credits and can be completed in 36 months. Its curriculum includes 800 practicum hours in family primary care management and 540 practicum hours in the three DNP scholarly project courses, for a total of 1,340 practicum hours. Applications are accepted year-round for fall, spring, and summer enrollment.

The BSN-to-DNP AGACNP program includes 48 credits. Its curriculum includes a minimum of 250 practicum hours in each of three AGAC practicum courses and 180 practicum hours in each of three DNP scholarly project courses, for a minimum total of 1,290 practicum hours. Applications are accepted year-round for fall, spring, and summer enrollment. The program is described as hybrid, with core DNP coursework delivered entirely online and AGACNP specialization beginning in the third semester with on-campus intensives and clinical experiences.

The MSN-FNP program includes 48 credits and 800 hours of supervised practicum experience. It is offered in a 100 percent online, asynchronous format. Applications are accepted year-round for fall, spring, and summer enrollment.

The MSN-PMHNP program can be completed in seven semesters with continuous year-round enrollment. It includes 49 credits and 750 supervised clinical hours in direct patient care. The program uses a hybrid format that combines online asynchronous and synchronous teaching methods with annual on-campus intensives and clinical practicums.

The post-master’s FNP certificate can be completed with as few as 24 to 33 credits depending on the applicant’s previous academic experience. Students must complete a minimum of 800 supervised hours in direct patient care, and a minimum of 24 credits must be completed at Loyola. Applications are accepted year-round for fall and spring enrollment. The program uses an individual gap analysis to create a customized plan of study.

The post-master’s AGACNP certificate includes 18 credits, with a minimum of nine credits completed at Loyola after a gap analysis. The program requires a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours completed with qualified preceptors in the student’s local area. Applications are accepted year-round for fall, spring, and summer enrollment. The coursework is online and asynchronous.

The post-master’s PMHNP certificate can be completed with as few as 28 credits, and the full listed curriculum is 28 to 37 credits depending on previous coursework. Students must complete a minimum of 750 supervised hours in direct patient care, and students must complete a minimum of 28 credits at Loyola. The program uses hybrid delivery and requires students to come to campus once per semester for in-person clinical intensive skills education.

BSN-to-DNP Curriculum: Loyola University New Orleans’ BSN-to-DNP programs share a common set of core courses. These core courses are advanced pathophysiology; advanced health assessment; advanced pharmacotherapeutics; scientific inquiry and translational research; leadership and evolving health systems; health policy, economics, and social justice; population health, epidemiology and statistical methods; quality care and health outcomes; transition to advanced role; research for evidence-based practice; and the three-part DNP scholarly project sequence.

The BSN-to-DNP FNP track adds family primary care management I-IV theory; and family primary care management I-IV practicum. The DNP scholarly project courses in this track include 180 practicum hours each in planning and proposal, implementation, and evaluation and dissemination.

MSN Curriculum: The MSN programs also share a common set of core courses. These core courses are social justice and health; advanced pathophysiology; advanced health assessment; advanced pharmacotherapeutics; informatics, economics, and health policy; leadership and transition to advanced role; population health and epidemiology; and research for evidence-based practice.

The MSN-FNP concentration includes family primary care management I-IV theory; and family primary care management I-IV practicum.

The MSN-PMHNP concentration includes mental health management I-IV practicum; advanced psychiatric assessment; advanced psychiatric assessment practicum; mental health foundations and theory; mental health lifespan: disorders and diagnosis; mental health lifespan: special populations; mental health lifespan: advanced practice; psychopharmacology I: general neurobiology and pharmacology; and psychopharmacology II: clinical practice guidelines and treatment approaches.

Post-Master’s Certificate Curriculum: The post-master’s FNP certificate includes advanced pathophysiology; advanced health assessment; advanced pharmacotherapeutics; family primary care management I-IV theory; and family primary care management I-IV practicum.

The post-master’s PMHNP certificate advanced pathophysiology; advanced health assessment; advanced pharmacotherapeutics; leadership and transition to advanced role; mental health management I-IV practicum; advanced psychiatric assessment; advanced psychiatric assessment practicum; mental health foundations and theory; mental health lifespan-disorders and diagnosis; mental health lifespan-special populations; mental health lifespan advanced practice; psychopharmacology I: general neurobiology and pharmacology; and psychopharmacology II: clinical practice guidelines and treatment approaches.

Online Experience: Loyola University New Orleans utilizes Canvas as its online Learning Management System (LMS). It offers both online and hybrid nursing pathways. The BSN-to-DNP FNP, MSN-FNP, post-master’s FNP certificate, and post-master’s AGACNP certificate are described as online or online asynchronous programs, while the BSN-to-DNP AGACNP, MSN-PMHNP, and post-master’s PMHNP certificate use a hybrid format. These formats are designed to give students flexibility while they complete advanced nursing study and supervised practicum work.

On-Site Requirements: Some Loyola programs include required in-person elements in addition to online coursework. The BSN-to-DNP AGACNP includes on-campus intensives, the MSN-PMHNP includes annual on-campus intensives, and the post-master’s PMHNP certificate requires students to come to campus once per semester for in-person clinical intensive skills education. Clinical practicums are also completed in person in approved practice settings, even for programs with online coursework.

Paying for the Loyola University New Orleans Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Loyola University New Orleans charges a bit more for online graduate nursing courses than it does for undergrad. Total estimated program tuition for each Loyola online NP program is listed in the table below. Interested students should contact the Loyola University New Orleans College of Nursing and Health for cost clarifications and updates.

Graduate nursing students may be eligible for federal Stafford loans and Graduate PLUS Loans according to the FAFSA. Those employed may want to explore tuition reimbursement through their employers. There may also be outside funding opportunities, such as private and community scholarships and grants.

Loyola University New Orleans

The Loyola University MSN, DNP, and NP certificate programs have varying entry points, 3-4 campus visits, and local clinicals, with a curriculum undergirded by Jesuit values of service to humanity, preparing nurses who serve their patients in a holistic, mind-body-spirit manner.

APRN Programs

BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner – BLEND Option (RN to MSN bridge)
Post-Master's Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master's Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Campus Address

6363 St. Charles Ave
New Orleans, Louisiana 70118

Loyola University New Orleans – BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Essentials

Degree Level

DNP – Doctor of Nursing Practice

Specialization

FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Start Dates

Fall

100% Online?

No

Campus Visits Required

4

Credits Needed to Graduate

63

Clinical Hours Needed to Graduate

1,340

Program Accreditation

CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Admissions

Level of Education Required?

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

GRE or GMAT Required?

No GRE Required

GPA Required?

3.0 or higher

State Restrictions? (Will Not Accept From…)

KY, MA, NH, NJ, NY, WA, WY

Program Tuition

Credit Hours

63

Average Cost Per Credit (state resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (state resident)

$55,755.00

Average Cost Per Credit (non-resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (non-resident)

$55,755.00

Loyola University New Orleans – MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Essentials

Degree Level

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

Specialization

FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Start Dates

Fall

100% Online?

No

Campus Visits Required

3

Credits Needed to Graduate

48

Clinical Hours Needed to Graduate

800

Program Accreditation

CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Admissions

Level of Education Required?

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

GRE or GMAT Required?

No GRE Required

GPA Required?

3.0 or higher

State Restrictions? (Will Not Accept From…)

KY, MA, NH, NJ, NY, WA, WY

Program Tuition

Credit Hours

48

Average Cost Per Credit (state resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (state resident)

$42,480.00

Average Cost Per Credit (non-resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (non-resident)

$42,480.00

Loyola University New Orleans – MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner – BLEND Option (RN to MSN bridge)

Program Essentials

Degree Level

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

Specialization

FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Start Dates

Fall

100% Online?

No

Campus Visits Required

3

Credits Needed to Graduate

54

Clinical Hours Needed to Graduate

800

Program Accreditation

CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Admissions

Level of Education Required?

Bachelor's (Non-Nursing) – Non-Nursing Bachelor's Degree

GRE or GMAT Required?

No GRE Required

GPA Required?

3.0 or higher

State Restrictions? (Will Not Accept From…)

KY, MA, NH, NJ, NY, WA, WY

Program Tuition

Credit Hours

54

Average Cost Per Credit (state resident)

$838.67

Estimated Total Tuition (state resident)

$45,288.18

Average Cost Per Credit (non-resident)

$838.67

Estimated Total Tuition (non-resident)

$45,288.18

Loyola University New Orleans – Post-Master's Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Essentials

Degree Level

Post-Master Certificate – Post-Graduate (Post-MSN) Nursing Certificate

Specialization

FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Start Dates

Fall, Spring, Summer

100% Online?

Yes

Campus Visits Required

0

Credits Needed to Graduate

33

Clinical Hours Needed to Graduate

800

Program Accreditation

CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Admissions

Level of Education Required?

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

GRE or GMAT Required?

No GRE Required

GPA Required?

3.0 or higher

State Restrictions? (Will Not Accept From…)

None

Program Tuition

Credit Hours

33

Average Cost Per Credit (state resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (state resident)

$29,205.00

Average Cost Per Credit (non-resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (non-resident)

$29,205.00

Loyola University New Orleans – Post-Master's Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Program Essentials

Degree Level

Post-Master Certificate – Post-Graduate (Post-MSN) Nursing Certificate

Specialization

PMHNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Program Start Dates

Fall, Spring, Summer

100% Online?

No

Campus Visits Required

3

Credits Needed to Graduate

49

Clinical Hours Needed to Graduate

860

Program Accreditation

CCNE – Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Program Admissions

Level of Education Required?

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

GRE or GMAT Required?

No GRE Required

GPA Required?

3.0 or higher

State Restrictions? (Will Not Accept From…)

None

Program Tuition

Credit Hours

49

Average Cost Per Credit (state resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (state resident)

$43,365.00

Average Cost Per Credit (non-resident)

$885.00

Estimated Total Tuition (non-resident)

$43,365.00

Tuition is calculated based on credits, at the published tuition rate. Rates may change, so please check here for the latest tuition information. For programs with variable tuition rates, we use the rates for part-time students. “Resident” and “non-resident” refer to the student’s school-recognized state residency status. Tuition number represents the cost of tuition for the entire program, not per semester or year. Estimated total tuition does not include additional fees.

Sara Navratil

Sara Navratil

Writer

Sara Navratil is a freelance writer and a Certified Canfield Success Principles Trainer. She’s the owner of Sara Liza Life, a company dedicated to helping people rewrite their lives. She enjoys researching and writing about healthcare-related topics, including information on online NP programs. When not working she likes to read, bake, and spend time with her family.

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