If you’ve already earned a master’s in nursing, but now you’re considering a pivot (or you just want to expand your scope without starting from scratch), a post master’s certificate in nursing could be your next step.
These programs are designed for nurses who want to pivot, specialize, or deepen their expertise without having to repeat an entire graduate program. Whether you’re looking to become a nurse practitioner in a new population focus (like pediatrics or women’s health), move into leadership, or add a teaching credential, postgraduate nursing certificate programs offer a solid way to do it.
Let’s break down what these certificates are, how they work, and how to choose the right one.
Table of Contents
What is a Post Master’s Certificate in Nursing?
A post master’s certificate in nursing is a graduate-level academic program designed for nurses who already hold a master’s degree (typically an MSN or MS in nursing), and want to add a new area of expertise. These certificates are much more focused than a full degree and usually take less time to complete (usually 12–24 months depending on the specialty).
For example, if you’re already a clinical nurse leader but want to transition into a nurse practitioner role, you could complete an NP post master’s certificate in a specialty like family, acute care, or psych-mental health nursing. Or maybe you’re already an FNP but want to add a post graduate certificate in nursing education so you can teach in academic settings. These programs are built just for that.
TL;DR ➡️ You’ve already done the core MSN coursework. This certificate adds the specialty piece. Think of it as a flexible way to shift or expand your focus, often in less time than a second degree would take.
Is it the same as a second master’s degree?
Not quite. While a post master’s certificate in nursing builds on your prior graduate education, it doesn’t equal to a second master’s degree. Instead, it focuses only on the coursework and clinical hours required for your new specialty or certification.
Think of it like adding a concentrated specialty area to your resume, without redoing everything you’ve already worked so hard for.
Who are these programs for?
These programs are ideal for:
- MSN-prepared nurses who want to become an NP in a specific population (like peds or women’s health)
- Current NPs who want to add another focus (e.g. FNP adding acute care)
- Nurses in education or leadership who want a clinical component (or vice versa)
- Nurses changing specialties later in their careers
Real Nurses who’ve done this
This route isn’t just hypothetical, it’s a real and flexible path that many advanced practice nurses take. In fact, I interviewed Sarah Michelle Boes, FNP, a board prep expert who completed her FNP certificate after her master’s. You can hear all about her experience in our blog post here.
Another example? Let’s talk about John Russell. He originally became an FNP but later accepted a position in cardiothoracic surgery, where he realized he needed more acute care training. So, he went back and completed a post-master’s AGACNP certificate to align his credentials with his role.
It’s important to point out that many employers are moving away from hiring FNPs for hospital-based roles because of scope concerns. But if you start in primary care and later decide you want to move into an inpatient or surgical setting, you can pivot. And certificates like the post-master’s AGACNP gives you the flexibility to grow into those higher-acuity roles without starting from scratch. You can hear more from John and other NPs in this post.
🩺 Common post master’s certificate tracks
While you can find certificates in non-clinical specialties (like education), many nurses pursue these programs to become or specialize further as an NP.
Here are a few popular post master’s certificate programs nurses pursue:
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
- Pediatric Acute or Primary Care NP
- Adult-Gerontology Acute or Primary Care NP
- Psychiatric-Mental Health NP (PMHNP)
- Women’s Health NP (WHNP)
- Nurse Educator or Nursing Leadership
These programs usually include focused coursework plus clinical hours aligned with the certification exam you’ll take after graduation.
Are post master’s nursing certificates available online?
Yes! Many schools offer a post master’s certificate online, which is perfect for working nurses who need flexibility. Online programs typically include asynchronous coursework plus clinical hours completed in your community. Some will offer assistance in securing a preceptor, but some won’t (and this is true of in-person schools too)! More on that in this post.
How long do these programs take?
Most post master’s certificate programs take 12 to 24 months, but some can take as little as 8 months! It really depends on:
- The specialty
- Whether you’re already an NP
- Your prior coursework (some classes may transfer)
For example, if you’re already an FNP and adding a psych NP certificate, your timeline will probably be shorter than someone who’s becoming an NP for the first time.
What do you need to apply?
Typical requirements for a post master’s certificate in nursing include:
- An MSN or higher from an accredited institution
- Active RN (and sometimes APRN) license
- Transcripts and GPA minimum
- Letters of recommendation and resume
- A personal statement
Note: Some programs also require specific undergraduate or graduate courses depending on your intended focus area.
Final thoughts on the post master’s certificate path
The field of nursing is constantly evolving, and so are we. A post master’s certificate is one of the most efficient ways to keep growing without going back to square one. Whether you want to step into the NP role for the first time or expand into a new patient population, there’s likely a certificate program that fits your vision.
And the best part? You’ve already done the hard part. This is just the next layer, one that builds on your experience, adds to your clinical toolkit, and opens up all of these new possibilities for your nursing career.
🧰 More Resources for Aspiring NPs
Looking for your next step? These posts break down your options in real talk, no fluff:
🎓 Still deciding on a program? How to Choose an NP Program walks you through what actually matters and what doesn’t when comparing schools. (We also talk more about post master’s certificate programs!)
⚖️ FNP vs AGACNP? This comparison post helps you decide which track fits your long-term goals and preferred clinical setting with insights from actual nurses.
🩺 Curious about women’s health? Check out this WHNP overview to see if the specialty is right for you.
👶 Thinking about peds? Here’s exactly how to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Step by step, no guesswork.
FAQs about post master’s certificates in Nursing
Can I become an NP through a Post Master’s Certificate?
Yes, and this is one of the most common reasons nurses pursue these programs. Let’s say you have an MSN in nursing education or leadership and now want to become an NP. You could apply to an NP post master’s certificate program, complete the coursework and clinicals, and sit for your certification exam.
This path is shorter and way more targeted than enrolling in a second master’s or a full blown DNP program.
How long does a post master’s certificate in nursing take?
Most post master’s nursing certificates take between 1 to 2 years to complete, depending on the program, your previous coursework, and whether you attend full-time or part-time. NP-focused certificates typically include didactic courses and clinical hours specific to your new specialty.
Do I need a master’s in nursing to apply for a post-master’s certificate?
Yes. These are graduate-level programs designed for nurses who already hold an MSN or higher. If you only have a BSN, you’d need to complete a master’s program first (or consider a BSN-to-DNP program instead). If this is you, you can browse accredited MSN programs near you below ⬇️
Is a post-master’s certificate the same as a DNP?
Not quite. A post master’s certificate adds a specialty or credential on top of your existing graduate degree, while a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) is a terminal degree that focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, and sometimes includes an additional specialty. Some nurses pursue both, especially if they want to change specialties and eventually move into academia or leadership, but you don’t have to.
Are there post master’s certificate programs available online?
Yes! Many universities offer post master’s certificate online options, especially for NP tracks like FNP, AGACNP, and more. Just make sure the program is accredited and meets your state’s clinical requirements.
You can use this free tool from our partner to compare accredited NP post master’s certificate programs 👇
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