Idaho Online NP Programs

Dr. Nicole Loos-Bartlett serves as the BS-DNP and adult gerontology nurse practitioner program director and clinical assistant professor at Boise State University’s School of Nursing. With over a decade of experience in neonatal and pediatric intensive care, she earned her MSN from California State University, Fresno, and her DNP from Brandman University, with a focus on reducing preventable illnesses in public schools.

Board-certified in both pediatric and adult-gerontology acute care, Dr. Loos-Bartlett practices privately and serves as the medical director of the Crisis Center of Southern Idaho, addressing opioid detox and mental health care. She actively contributes to curriculum development, emphasizing healthcare finance and rural health access, and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, Nurse Practitioners of Idaho, and the American Nurses Association. 

NPSchools.com: What do you wish the public understood about online nurse practitioner programs?

Dr. Loos-Bartlett: Online nurse practitioner programs are rigorous and legit. A lot of people think “online” means easier or lower quality. Not true. Accredited online nurse practitioner (NP) programs—especially those affiliated with reputable universities—maintain the same academic standards as on-campus ones. Students still have to complete clinical hours, pass national board exams, and meet state licensing requirements.

Clinical placement can be a real challenge. Especially in rural parts of Idaho, finding preceptors for clinical hours can be tough. Students often have to network, cold call, or even travel long distances to complete their clinical rotations. Programs may offer support, but the burden can still fall on the student.

Flexibility isn’t the same as easy. Online programs offer flexibility in terms of location and sometimes timing, but that doesn’t mean the coursework is light. Balancing studies with work, family, and clinicals requires serious time management and self-discipline.

Lastly, online programs play a huge role in solving Idaho’s healthcare gaps. They are vital for growing the state’s healthcare workforce, especially in rural and underserved areas where primary care providers are in short supply. Many of these students live in these communities and stay to serve them after graduation.

NPSchools.com: What advice would you give aspiring online nurse practitioner program students? 

Dr. Loos-Bartlett: Here is my advice for aspiring students:

1. Vet the program carefully
   Make sure the program is accredited (ACEN or CCNE for nursing programs). Also, check if it’s authorized to operate in Idaho and if it helps with clinical placements locally.
2. Start building your network early
   Begin reaching out to potential preceptors as soon as possible. Talk to local providers, clinics, and hospitals. Clinical placement is often the most stressful part—don’t wait until the last minute.
3. stay organized and set a routine
   Treat your coursework like a job. Set up a schedule that includes study blocks, clinical prep, and downtime. Online learning demands self-motivation and time management.
4. Know your why
   Whether it’s to serve rural communities, advance your career, or specialize in a certain field, keep your motivation in focus. NP school is tough, and having a strong “why” can carry you through the rough patches.
5. Get support from day one
   Talk to current students, join online communities, and find a mentor. Isolation can be a challenge in online programs, so building a support system really helps.