Most Americans have heard the alarming news of a nursing shortage, but few realize there is a critical physician shortage as well. The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a shortfall of between 42,6000-121,000 physicians by 2030. Currently practicing physicians will be retiring, or worst of all, leaving medicine because of burnout. This is where the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) comes into the picture. Specially trained APRNs holding a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Practice concentration are needed to help physicians manage exceptional patient caseloads.
30 Best Value Family Nurse Practitioner Online Programs
Online or hybrid/blended MSN-FNP programs are plentiful and Best Medical Degrees has put together a listing of 30 of those programs to help start your search. It's imperative that programs hold national accreditation from either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education (ACEN) and that the program will allow you to sit for the certification exam in your state.
The national gatekeeper of professional and occupational statistics, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), suggests the job opportunity growth for MSN-FNP will grow an average of 31% between 2016-2026. This is an exceptional rapid rate of growth in any field and annual salaries average for FNPs according to the BLS is $103,880. PayScale, an online company which surveys employers nationwide, suggests an annual base salary of $76,000, a median salary of $92,000, and a high end salary of $113,000. Family Nurse Practitioners are in demand in outpatient care centers, physician offices, hospitals, long-term care facilities and private health practices.
Methodology
This ranking is based by looking at: 1) program length in credit hours or years, 2) recognition from U.S. News and World Report rankings, 3) tuition costs (not including school fees), 4) program accreditation from CCNE or ACEN, and 4) degrees which may be obtained online, either 100% or through blended/hybrid programs requiring a minimum of in-class attendance. Best Medical Degrees provides the most current website information available which is subject to change without notice by the schools.
1. Columbus State University
Columbus State University's College of Education and Health Professions provides an online Family Nurse Practitioner MSN degree which may be completed in two years of full-time study and permits clinical experiences to be conducted in your home area. This program is offered through a cooperative with Columbus State University (CSU) and Georgia Southwestern University. CSU is recognized as one of the top regional universities by U.S. News and World Report and was additionally recognized for the College of Education and Health Professions for its online academic programming. Admission to this program requests students be accepted into the Graduate School at CSU, a BSN degree, hold a current unencumbered nursing license (where clinicals will be conducted), and letters of reference, etc.
Program Length: 44 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $206 (GA Resident); $801 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Research for Evidence Based Practice, Advanced Pathophysiology, Scientific Underpinnings of the APN Role, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses, Health Assessment for Advanced Practice Nurses, Health Promotion in the following areas: Women and Children, Elderly, Adults, Women and Children Clinical, Elderly Clinical, Adults Clinical, Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Columbus State University
2. Angelo State University
Part of the Texas Tech University System, Angelo State University (ASU) has an online/hybrid MSN with a FNP concentration which available online. U.S. News and World Report ranks ASU's program in the top 100 in Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. Applicants should have a BSN from an ACEN or CCNE accredited program with a minimum 3.0 GPA, completion of an undergraduate statistics program, current unencumbered, Texas nursing license (all clinical practica must be completed in Texas but may be done in the student's home community), etc.
Program Length: 49 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $226 (TX Resident); $648 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Evidenced-Based Practice & Theory for Advanced Nursing, Informatics & Health Care Technology for Advanced Nursing, Health Policy & Ethics, Pharmacotherapeutics, Research Foundations for Advanced Nursing, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment, Skills for Advanced Practice Nurse, Mental Health Concepts for Advanced Practice Nurses, Family Primary Care, Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN
Program Website: Angelo State University
3. Middle Tennessee State University
If you're a Tennessee resident, this may be a good program fit for you. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) has an online MSN-FNP degree which may be completed in approximately two years. Admission requires Tennessee residency, an unrestricted and current Tennessee nursing license, a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, and completion of an undergraduate statistics course. Additional admission requirements are dictated by the university. Completion of a practicum experience is required for graduation.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $280
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Health Assessment Clinical, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, FNP I Women's Health, Women's Health Clinical, FNP II Adult Health, FNP II Adult Health Clinical, FNP III Pediatrics, Pediatrics Clinical, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN, CCNE
Program Website: Middle Tennessee State University
4. University of Central Missouri
This University of Central Missouri MSN-FNP degree is a hybrid program. Requiring both online didactic study, this program has practica experiences which must be conducted in Missouri or the Greater Kansas City area. Students are expected to hold a BSN with a 3.25 GPA from an accredited nursing program, licensure as a registered nurse, a minimum of one-year clinical nursing experience, admission to Central Missouri Graduate School, and a criminal background check if requested.
Program Length: 40 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $349
Curriculum Snapshot: Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner: Primary Care of the Childbearing Family, Family Nurse Practitioner: Primary Care of Adults and the Elderly, Family Nurse Practitioner: Primary Care Practicum, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Appraisal, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website:University of Central Missouri
5. Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
Texas A&M Corpus Christi's College of Nursing and Health Science is rated by U.S. News and World Report's Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs and Best Nursing Schools: Master's. The program only admits students into the FNP program in the Fall semesters and is completely online. Applicants need a valid Texas nursing license, official prior educational transcripts, three professional letters of recommendations, and upon admission, students must specific immunization requirements. Every effort is made to allow clinical experiences in the student's home community and the student is responsible for identifying clinical locations and preceptors.
Program Length: 49 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $372 (TX Resident); $814 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Science in Nursing, Nursing Research, Diverse Care Environments, Finance for the NP, Wellness and Health Promotion, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Pathophysiology, Health Assessment and Differential Diagnosis, Acute Chronic, Integrated Clinical, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
6. Georgia College & State University
With a history dating to 1889, Georgia College has an online FNP program which as been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 40 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. This blended MSN-FNP program, because of its tuition rate and length, is a highly competitive program and applicants are required to meet specific criteria. Admission requires applicants hold a BSN, official transcripts from prior schools, GRE or MATS scores, a BSN from an ACEN or CCNE program, one-year clinical experience is preferred, a valid nursing license, etc. This program does require minimal travel to the Milledgeville, GA campus.
Program Length: 40 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $373
Curriculum Snapshot: Perspectives of Advanced Nursing Practice, Healthcare Research & Statistical Analysis, Ensuring Healthcare Safety & Quality, Nursing Theory: Principles & Application, Primary Care of Adults, Primary Care of Women, Primary Care of Children & Adolescents, Primary Care Clinicals, Advanced Nursing Assessment, Applied Pharmacology, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN
Program Website: Georgia College College of Health Science
7. University of South Alabama
Located in Mobile, AL, the University of South Alabama (USA) offers an online MSN with an FNP concentration, which offered primarily online but does require two on-campus participation in Clinical Orientation. Under the College of Nursing, admission to this program requires students be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident, possess an unrestricted, current nursing license, two years nursing experience, a BSN from an accredited program, and additional educational information. The USA also supports students who have a baccalaureate degree in a subject other than nursing (this program will require special curricula completion). This program is currently not available for students from South Dakota and New York.
Program Length: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $378 (AL Resident); $756 (Non Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Nursing Assessment, Physio-pathological Basis of Advanced Nursing, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses, Evidence-Based Practice and Quality Improvement in Health Care, Healthcare Policy and Finance, Organizational & Systems Leadership, Introduction to Family NP, Health Promotion/Disease Prevention & Issues for Family NP, Family NP Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: University of South Alabama
8. Delta State University
This Mississippi university offers an online/hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner program through the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing. U.S. News and World Report rate Delta State University as one of the top 100 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs in its 2019 rankings. Students may attend full or part-time and does require a minimum attendance at the Cleveland, Mississippi campus. Additional requirements include a BSN from an accredited nursing program, one-year continuous clinical nursing experience, a current and unencumbered nursing license, etc. All clinical experiences for this program must be completed in Mississippi or Arkansas.
Program Length: 49 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $393
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Health Assessment Practicum, Advanced Healthcare Policy and Politics, Advanced Pharmacology, Family Nurse Practice, Family Nurse Practice I Practicum, Role Synthesis (Nurse Practitioners), Informatics in Clinical Practice, Research Project, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Delta State University
9. Ball State University
The School of Nursing at Ball State University is recognized as a Center of Excellence by the National League of Nursing and is ranks in the top 20 in U.S. News and World Report's Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. The university also ranks #503 in Forbes' America's Top Colleges. Ball State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement and you should check this program is available for your state. Admission requirements include admission to Ball State University Graduate School, BSN from an ACEN or CCNE accredited program, hold an unencumbered nursing license, completion of an undergraduate research class with a "C" or better, and the GRE is not required for this graduate program.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $410 (IN Residents); $616 (Non-Residents)
Curriculum Snapshot: Data Analysis in Nursing Research, Nursing Theory, Nursing Information Technology; Advanced Practice Nursing and Role Theory; Advanced Health Assessment; Primary Care of the Adult; Primary Care of Children; and a practicum for Family Nurse Practitioning.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Ball State University School of Nursing
10. Indiana State University
Indiana State University (ISU) offers an online MSN-FNP degree which has no on-campus attendance requirements. Students may complete the clinical experience with an approved preceptor and facility near their home community. The MSN-FNP may be completed in 2 1/2 years attending part-time. Applicants must hold a BSN with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, a current and unrestricted nursing license for the state in which they live, three professional recommendations, and nursing experience is preferred. U.S. News and World Report rate ISU in the top 100 of Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.
Program Length: 47-50 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $412 (IN Resident); $527 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Assessment & Health Promotion for Advanced Practice Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Role, Theoretical Foundations of Family Health Care Nursing: Management of Common Chronic and Acute Health Problems, Diagnostic Lab for Family Nurse Practitioners, Family Nurse Practitioner Preceptorship, Evidence-Based Practice, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN
Program Website: Indiana State University
11. Purdue University Global
Purdue Global (PUG) is part of the nationally recognized Purdue University System. Purdue Global offers an online MSN, with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration designed with the working nurse in mind. The program requires approximately 15 hours a week and clinicals can be arranged in your home community with approval from your advisor. Admission to this program requires students to meet general admission requirements with graduate students expected to submit official transcripts of baccalaureate degrees. Nursing students will need to provide additional information which is discussed in detail with an Admissions Advisor.
Program Length: 60-90 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $420
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Across the Life Span, Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning, Advanced Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics, Introduction to Primary Care for the Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care Across the Life Span, Clinical – Life Span Health Focus, Primary Care of Women's Health, Clinical – Women's Health Focus, Primary Care of Children and Adolescents Health, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Purdue University Global
12. Stony Brook University School of Nursing
Stony Brook University School of Nursing is another program which typically makes the online nursing program rankings. This is an online MSN-FNP program is recognized by U.S. News and World Report in the top 20 of its Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs as well as one its Best Nursing Schools: Masters. The MSN-FNP degree is offered online but minimum on-site attendance is required. Along with a graduate program application, students are required to submit evidence of a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, preferred one-year of clinical experience, current nursing license, an undergraduate statistics course, etc. Because of clinical experience requirements, students also need to provide proof of malpractice insurance. Clinical experiences may be conducted in approved clinical sites in students home communities.
Program Length: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $462 (NY Resident); $944 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot:Family: Theory and Interventions, Organizational Leadership and Role Transformation, Quality Improvement, Safety, and Health Care Technologies, Health Care Policy and Advocacy, Clinical Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment, Clinical Pathobiology, Advanced Theory & Clinical Practice in Family Health Nursing, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Stony Brook University School of Nursing
13. Kent State University
Kent State University (KSU), in Kent, Ohio, has a hybrid MSN degree with an FNP concentration. U.S. News and World Report have rated KSU in its Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs as well as Best Nursing School: Masters. Admission to this program requires students to have a BSN or MSN from an accredited nursing program with a minimum 3.0 GPA, a current and unrestricted nursing license, completion of an undergraduate statistics course, and three letters of recommendation, etc. Clinical practicum experiences are required for this degree.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $490 (OH Resident); $916 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Theoretical Basis for Nursing Practice, Pathophysiology for the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Advanced Health Assessment, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing, Primary Care Pediatrics, Primary Care Pediatrics Practicum, Family and Adult Nurse Practitioner Role, Family and Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Role, Primary Care II: Chronically Ill Adults,Health Policy and Advanced Nursing Practice, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Kent State University
14. Clarion University
Clarion University, located in Clarion, Pennsylvania, offers an online MSN-FNP program for students with a BSN degree. Applicants must have a valid nursing license from the state in which clinical experiences will be conducted, recent clinical experience as a registered nurse, completion of a college statistics course, and submission of a professional resume. Additional Clarion University Graduate School admission information will be required, such as official school transcripts.
Program Length: 45 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $516
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Concepts in Pathophysiology, Pharmacologic Applications,
Evolution of Nursing Theory, Advanced Concepts in Nursing Research, Health Promotion: Family & community, Perspectives, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Health Assessment Practicum, Clinical Decision Making, Family Nurse Practitioner Role Development, Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN
Program Website: Clarion University
15. Old Dominion University
The U.S.News and World Report ranks Old Dominion University (ODU) as one of its top 100 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. This online/hybrid MSN-FNP degree requires students to visit the Virginia Beach campus once a semester for hands-on experiences. Admission to this program requires students to have a BSN (with at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA), a current registered nursing license, and at least one-year clinical nursing experience. Applicants with less than a 3.5 GPA in undergraduate work will be required to provide test scores from either the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) that have been obtained in the last three years of application.
Program Length: 49 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $523 (VA Residents); $568 (Non-Residents)
Curriculum Snapshot: Ethical Concepts of Advanced Nursing Practice; Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice; Physical Assessment for Advanced Practice Nursing, Introduction to Healthcare; Evidenced Based Research & Theories for Nursing Practice; Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing Disparities; Primary Care Approaches for Children; Family & Community Primary Care Assessment; and Aging in the 21st Century.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Old Dominion University
16. Morehead State University
Located in Morehead, Kentucky, Morehead State University (MSU) has on online MSN-FNP degree for students with baccalaureate nursing degrees (the school also offers a post-MSN FNP program for those currently holding a MSN). Students applying for this program are requires to apply to MSU, must have a BSN (with a minimum of 3.0 GPA), an unencumbered nursing license, a minimum of a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate studies, completion of an undergraduate or graduate statistics course, criminal background check, three professional references, and meet the nursing department's immunization requirements.
Program Length: 49 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $570
Curriculum Snapshot: Health Assessment for Advanced Practice, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice, Pediatrics for Advanced Practice, Advanced Evidence-Based Practice, Childbearing and Women's Health for Advanced Practice, Complex Alterations in Primary Care, Childbearing and Women's Health for Advanced Practice, Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE (Note: Application for accreditation has been made)
Program Website: Morehead State University
17. Frontier Nursing University
Frontier Nursing University (FNU) has come a long way in its 75-year history of providing healthcare to rural parts of Kentucky and surrounding Appalachian area. FNU has an online MSN with a Family Nurse Practitioner track. Clinical experiences may be done in your home area. Admission to this program includes verification of a BSN, Associate or Diploma (the latter degrees may require additional coursework), have a minimum 3.0 GPA from previous schools, be a currently working registered nurse with at least one-year clinical experience, etc. U.S. News and World Report rate FNU in the top 50 of Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.
Program Length: 61 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $580
Curriculum Snapshot: Principles of Health Promotion, The Role of the Nurse Practitioner, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Evidence-Based Practice, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Physical Assessment, Clinical Reasoning and Documentation, Advanced Pharmacology Across the Lifespan, Principles of Independent Practice, Primary Care, Primary Care Pediatrics, Clinical Skills for FNP, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN
Program Website: Frontier Nursing University
18. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati (UC) MSN-FNP degree is a program for nurses who have at least one-year nursing experience (preferred). U.S. News and World Report has ranked UC as offering a Best Online Graduate Nursing Program and Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs for Veterans. There are state restrictions for this program and students from Arizona, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, and Tennessee are not currently eligible. Graduate applicants must provide a copy of current nursing license, three references, official transcripts, and other documents described on the UC website.
Program Length: 50 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $640 (OH Resident); $655 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Biostatistics for Evidence-Based Practice, Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology, Theoretical Basis for Clinical Reasoning, Research & Best Evidence for Clinical Reasoning, Advanced Health Assessment, Differential Diagnosis for the Advanced Practice Nurse, Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice, Care of Well Women & Children, FNP Practicum, Clinical Management, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: University of Cincinnati
19. University of Texas Arlington
University of Texas Arlington (UTA) offers an online FNP degree program which may be completed in as few as 31-36 months with clinical experiences conducted in the student's home community. U.S. News and World Report rates University of Texas Arlington (UTA) as one of the top 75 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs as well as one of the Best Nursing Schools: Master's, and The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) named UTA as #1 Public College of Nursing. Admission requires two years work experience as a registered nurse, a current and unencumbered nursing license, and a CCNE or ACEN accredited BSN (GPA scores not required for 3.0 GPA).
Program Length: 46 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $654
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Pathophysiology, Adult-Gerontology Assessment Lab, Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning, Pediatric Assessment Lab, Clinical Procedures for Advanced Practice Nurses, Advanced Pharmacology, Role of the Nurse in Advanced Practice, Principles of Research in Nursing, Evidence-Based Practice, Clinical, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: University of Texas Arlington
20. Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) frequently appears on online program rankings for its program quality and accessibility. EKU has a MSN with a concentration in Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner degree. Offered 100% online, this MSN-FP program has been rated as one of the nation's Best Online Graduate Nursing programs by U.S. News and World Report. Applicants must hold a BSN from an accredited college or university, an unrestricted nursing license, at least one year nursing experience, etc. EKU is a member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) and is authorized in most states.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $662
Curriculum Snapshot: Theoretical Foundation for EBP, Advanced Nursing Practice Issues, Synthesizing Evidence for ANP, Evidence-based Project for ANP, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology, Principles of Epidemiology, Rural Health FNP, Advanced Practice, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Eastern Kentucky University
21. Saint Joseph's College
Located in Maine, Saint Joseph's College offers an online FNP program for students who hold a BSN from an accredited nursing program with a cumulative 3.0 GPA, submission of official academic transcripts, three professional references, and have completed undergraduate courses in statistics or health assessment, and an unrestricted nursing license. This program may be completed in as few as two years and Saint Joseph's College participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement and lists states in which this program qualifies on its MS in Nursing homepage. The college has an accelerated RN to MSN Fast Track option for applicants who complete 300-and above nursing courses. GRE scores are not required for admission to this program.
Program Length: 48 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $624
Curriculum Snapshot: Organizational and Systems Leadership, Population Health & Interprofessional Collaboration, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pathophysiology, The Advanced Practice Nurse as Provider, Family Theory: Young and Middle Age Adult, Primary Care Practicum: Young and Middle Age Adult, Primary Care Practicum: Older Adult, Capstone Project, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Saint Joseph's College
22. University of North Carolina-Wilmington
The University of North Carolina-Wilmington (UNCW) has a hybrid MSN-FNP degree program. Admission to this program requires the student hold a BSN from a nationally accredited program, an undergraduate GAP of 3.0 or better, a minimum of one-year clinical experience, undergraduate coursework in statistics, health assessment, nursing research, leadership, and community health. Additionally, applicants must hold a current North Carolina nursing license (or in the student's home state), GRE or MAT test scores, and official school transcripts. UNCW is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.
Program Length: 46-47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $677 (NC Resident); $2132 (Non-Resident)
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics,Pathophysiology for Advanced Practice Nurses, Advanced Practice Roles, Issues, and Trends, Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning, Families in Rural and Urban Communities, Advanced Primary Care of Families: Infants, Children, and Adolescents, Advanced Primary Care of Families: Adults, Advanced Clinical Practicum, Master's Project, Thesis, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN and CCNE
Program Website: University of North Carolina-Wilmington
23. Walsh University
The Digital Campus of Ohio's Walsh University, has an online MSN-FNP program which has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of its Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. This FNP degree may be obtained in 2.5 years and allows students to continue working. Admission for this program includes an unencumbered nursing license and one year clinical experience (preferred), a BSN from an accredited nursing program, two letters of professional recommendation, official transcripts, etc. Walsh University's MSN-FNP program is not available for students from all states and information of which states qualify is located on the school's website.
Program Length:63 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $685
Curriculum Snapshot:Theoretical Development of Nursing Science, Research Methods and Evidenced Based Practice, Professional Role Development & Ethical Issues, Health Care Policy, Organization, and Financing,Epidemiological Methods for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Advanced Pathophysiology,
Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment, Health Informatics, Clinical Assessment & Management, Clinical Pharmacology, Clinicals, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Walsh University
24. Maryville University
Maryville University offers four Family Nurse Practitioner programs online including FNP certificate. The MSN-FNP degree program is designed for working nurses and may be completed in 28-32 months. Unlike other programs, the University of Maryville does not require GRE or MAT scores nor statistics courses. All courses are online and clinicals are completed in the student's home community. You may contact a Maryville University Admission advisor for more information on admission.
Program Length 50 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $797 Per Credit Hour
Curriculum Snapshot: Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice, Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing, Health Care Policy, Professional Role Development, Health Promotion/Disease Prevention, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment, Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Maryville University
25. Graceland University
Graceland University, a private, liberal arts college, offers an online MSN-FNP degree through its School of Nursing. This program admits students with an Associate Degree in Nursing or an accredited nursing diploma into its bridge program, or BSN prepared students. Admission requires a current nursing license, a GPA of 3.0 or better, criminal background check, and three professional references. At this time, Graceland University does not admit students from Kentucky, Maryland, New York, North Carolina or Tennessee.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $830
Curriculum Snapshot: Primary Care of Families: Adults, Family Nurse Practitioner Practicum: Pediatrics; Introduction to MSN and Post-graduate Certificate Programs; Advanced Practice Nursing in Primary Care; Pharmacotherapeutics; Theory in Nursing; Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice; Advanced Practice Competencies Lab; Primary Care of Families: Pediatrics; and Family Nurse Practitioner Practicum: Adults.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Graceland University
26. Samford University
Samford University's Ida Moffett School of Nursing offers an online FNP program that boasts a near perfect 100% in the national nurse practitioner certification exam. U.S. News and World Report rank this in the top 100 of its Best Nursing Schools: Master's programs. Admission is limited to January or August each year, is offered online, but does require three, on-campus visits to the Birmingham, Alabama campus. Applicants must hold a BSN from CCNE, CNEA, or ACEN nursing program, unencumbered registered nursing license, undergraduate courses in research and health assessment, and a video submission.
Program Length: 42 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $850
Curriculum Snapshot: Advanced Physiology & Pathophysiology, Advanced Physical Assessment, –
Statistics for Advanced Practice Nursing, Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Nursing Practice, Common Diagnostics and Procedures, Family Practice: Care of Women, Family Practice: Care of Children, Family Practice: Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Samford University Ida Moffett School of Nursing
27. Clarkson College
U.S. News and World Report rank Clarkson College online FNP program in the top 100 of its Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs. While primarily offered online, this program does have three, two-day on-campus requirements. Clinical experiences may be conducted where you work with prior approval. Admission to this program requires applicants to hold a BSN from a CCNE or ACEN accredited program, a current, unencumbered, and valid nursing license, and professional letters of reference, etc. Not all states qualify for this program and you should check to see if your state qualifies under the SARA agreement.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $927
Curriculum Snapshot: Role Transition, Nursing Law and Ethics, Research Design and Methods, Applied Statistics, Evidence-Based Practice Research, Advanced Physical Assessment, Primary Health Care, Advanced Nutrition, Pharmacology for Practitioners, Advanced Pathophysiology, Primary Care of Children and Adolescents, Primary Care of Women, Behavioral Health Care for Practitioners, etc.
Program Accreditation: ACEN
Program Website: Clarkson College
28. The Catholic School of America
Located in Washington, D.C. The Catholic University of America (CUA) has been offering nursing programs since 1932. CUA offers an online MSN-FNP degree which includes local clinical experiences that may be tailored to suit students life-work balance. Graduate admission to this program requires demonstration of a BSN (with a 3.0 GPA) from an accredited university or college, completion of a graduate level statistics course (with a grade of 3.0 or higher), a current and active nursing license, clinical nursing experience, Health-Related Behavioral Standards, etc. This program is rated in the top 10 of U.S. News and World Report's Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs as well as in the top 50 of the publications Best Nursing Schools: Masters programs.
Program Length: 50 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $940
Curriculum Snapshot: Pharmacology for Advanced Nursing Practice, Advanced Health Assessment Theoretical Foundations of Advanced Practice Nursing, Health Care Policy, Organization and Financing, The Well Child, Women's Health (formerly Perinatal Health), Primary Care of the Young Child,â Primary Care of Adolescent Seminar, Primary Care of Adults, Nurse Practitioner Practicum, Healthcare Biostatistics, Capstone Research Project, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: The Catholic School of America
29. Gonzaga University
Focusing on a holistic approach to healthcare, Gonzaga University offers an online MSN-FNP degree which may be completed in nine semesters. The program requires students to participate in six on-campus immersions through the course of the program. This program prefers students to hold a BSN, but it isn't required. Students with a baccalaureate degree in something other than nursing will be required to take core courses prior to taking graduate nursing courses. U.S. News and World Report rate this as one of the top 100 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs as well as one of the publications Best Nursing Schools: Masters.
Program Length: 47 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $1,020
Curriculum Snapshot: Information Technology & Data Management, Theoretical Foundations for Healthcare Improvement, Evidence-Based Practice for Quality and Safety, Contemporary Healthcare Environment, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Health Assessment: Advanced Nursing Practice, Primary Care: Adult/Geriatric, Primary Care: Gender-Based, Practicum, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Gonzaga University
30. Drexel University
Located in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel University has been providing distance education for over 100 years. U.S. News and World Report name Drexel University's nursing program within its top 50 Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs and Best Nursing Schools: Master's. Through its College of Nursing and Health Professions, Drexel has an online MSN with a concentration in Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner degree. Applicants must provide proof of an unrestricted, current nursing license, an accredited BSN degree with a GPA of 3.0, official transcripts, nursing experience (preferred but not required), professional recommendations, as well as additional admission requirements of the university. This program does require two on-campus intensives.
Program Length: 56 Credit Hours
Estimated Tuition Cost Per Credit Hour: $968
Curriculum Snapshot: Research Methods and Biostatistics, Professional Issues for Nurse Practitioners, Confronting Issues in Contemporary Health Care Environments, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Ethical Decision Making in Health Care, Evaluation and Translation of Health Research, Quality and Safety in Healthcare, Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning, Pharmacology for Family Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Courses, etc.
Program Accreditation: CCNE
Program Website: Drexel University College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions