11 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Tennessee | 2024

Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career or generally curious about the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best NP programs in Tennessee as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.

What Is an NP Program?

NP programs in Tennessee are specialized graduate-level educational pathways for registered nurses (RNs) seeking advanced clinical skills and knowledge to provide higher levels of patient care. These programs, typically offered as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), are tailored to meet Tennessee's healthcare needs and regulatory requirements, preparing nurses for advanced practice roles in various specialties within the state.

NP Specializations

There are many NP specializations available in Tennessee, with some of the most common being:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): Provides comprehensive care from pediatrics to geriatrics, focusing on disease prevention and chronic condition management in various healthcare settings.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): Specializes in mental health care, offering services like therapy and medication management in psychiatric settings.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): Focuses on adult and elderly care, addressing both acute and chronic illnesses in diverse healthcare environments.
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): Delivers specialized care in women's health, covering gynecological and reproductive health in various clinical settings.

Other specializations include areas like oncology, neonatal, emergency, and acute care.

NP Coursework

Coursework in NP programs in Tennessee typically includes:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: In-depth understanding of disease processes and their impact on the human body, tailored to Tennessee's healthcare landscape.
• Pharmacology: Comprehensive knowledge of pharmacological agents and their therapeutic uses, including medications commonly prescribed in Tennessee.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills in comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessment of patients across the lifespan, with a focus on Tennessee's diverse patient populations.
• Primary Care Management: Emphasis on managing common health problems encountered in primary care settings, aligning with Tennessee's healthcare demands.
• Health Policy and Ethics: Study of healthcare policies, ethical principles, and their specific application in the Tennessee healthcare system.
• Research Methods: Training in research methodologies relevant to evidence-based practice, which is crucial for healthcare decisions in Tennessee.
• Specialty-Specific Courses: Depending on the chosen specialization, coursework may focus on specific population health needs, such as pediatrics, gerontology, or mental health, addressing the unique healthcare challenges within Tennessee.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training in Tennessee NP programs typically involves:

• Supervised Clinical Hours: Completion of a significant number of direct patient care hours under the supervision of experienced NPs or physicians in healthcare facilities within Tennessee.
• Diverse Clinical Settings: Rotations in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and specialty practices, to ensure exposure to different patient populations and healthcare contexts in Tennessee.
• Specialty Practice: Tailored clinical experiences aligned with the student's area of specialization, allowing them to gain expertise in their chosen field within Tennessee's healthcare ecosystem.
• Capstone Projects: Some NP programs may include a capstone project that integrates clinical learning with research or quality improvement initiatives relevant to Tennessee's healthcare challenges.

Best NP Programs in Tennessee - Online & Campus

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Vanderbilt University

Out of Nashville, TN, Vanderbilt University's MSN program stands out for its diversity in educational offerings and modern facilities. With multiple entry options, the program caters to both nurses and non-nurses, ensuring accessibility for a broad spectrum of students.

Its advanced practice specialties are varied and designed to align with different professional interests. The program is characterized by its flexible learning formats, including distributed course delivery and distance learning options, making it adaptable for many of its advanced practice specialties. Additionally, Vanderbilt boasts state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the quality of nursing education provided.

Vanderbilts MSN NP Program offers an extensive range of specialties, including:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP); 38-41 credit hours
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care or Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP, AG-PCNP); 40 credit hours
• Emergency Nurse Practitioner; 51 credit hours
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP); 41 credit hours
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner; 40 credit hours
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary and Acute Care; 40 credit hours

MSN NP Program Overview 

• 2024 Graduate Tuition Rate: $1,939 per credit hour
• Accreditation:  Commission on Collegiate Nursing (CCNE) 
• Pathway Options: 
  • Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
  • Master in Nursing (MN - for non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in another field)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Post-Masters Certificate 

^{The credit hours listed above are for the BSN to MSN pathway.} 

The program boasts a 92% graduation rate and a 2020 employment rate of just over 96%. In 2021, 4.4 out of 5 students surveyed felt prepared for NP practice. The MSN program can be completed in 12 months, rapidly propelling students towards their career aspirations.

2. South College

South College in Knoxville, TN, provides a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), tailored for the modern nursing professional. The program is structured to be both flexible and affordable, accommodating the schedules and financial considerations of working nurses. It's comprehensive curriculum covers essential topics like advanced pathophysiology, healthcare informatics, and advanced pharmacology. Additionally, the program delves into advanced health assessment and research methods. Specialized concentration courses focus on primary care across various life stages, from infants and children to adolescents and adults, ensuring a well-rounded education in family nursing practice.

MSN FNP Program Overview 

• Format: Hybrid, combining online coursework with hands-on clinical practice experiences.
• Tuition Rates: $2,100-$5,550 per quarter based on credit hours. 
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Pathway Options:
  • BSN-MSN Track: 18 months full-time.
  • RN-MSN Track: 30 months full-time, depending on academic background.
  • RN-BSN-MSN Track: 36 months full-time, depending on academic background. 

3. University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga School of Nursing offers a comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with two specialized Nurse Practitioner concentrations: Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Both concentrations require 8 semesters, or approximately 2.5 years, of full-time study. Accredited by the CCNE, these programs are designed to be rigorous and full-time, requiring a significant commitment from students.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Adult-Gerontology (ACNP-AG):

• Credit Hours: 80
• Clinical Hours: 1,050
• Format: A mix of online, hybrid, and face-to-face delivery.
• Focus: Prepares students for the ANCC certification as an ACNP-AG, with emphasis on care for young adults to older adults in acute care settings.

Family Nurse Practitioner Lifespan (FNP):

• Credit Hours: 83
• Clinical Hours: 1,050
• Format: Similar mixed delivery format.
• Focus: Prepares students for the ANCC or AANP certification as an FNP, with an emphasis on delivering primary care for families.

Students in these programs traditionally perform exceptionally well in certification examinations, with FNP graduates boasting a 100% first-time pass rate over the last decade and AGNP graduates achieving a 90% first-time pass rate. The overall first-time pass rate for all NP students at UTC exceeds 96%. This high level of academic achievement reflects the quality and effectiveness of the DNP Nurse Practitioner programs at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

4. University of Tennessee-Knoxville

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers a graduate certificate program for advanced practice nurses aiming to specialize as FNPs. This program is designed for nurses who already hold a master's degree in nursing and seek additional training in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty.

Post-Graduate Certificate FNP Program Overview 

• Format: 100% online, accommodating students who reside in various locations.
• Duration: Certificate coursework must be completed within 2 years of admission.
• Tuition Rate: $700 per credit hour for TN residents and $775 per credit hour for non-residents.
• Credit Hours:19
• Accreditation: CCNE

5. East Tennessee State University

At East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program offers two 100% online Nurse Practitioner concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed to be both flexible and accessible, especially suitable for working professionals in the nursing field. In 2018, the program demonstrated impressive success rates, with a 100% pass rate for PMHNP students and a 98% certification pass rate for FNP students.

ETSU MSN NP Program Overview

• Format: Asynchronous online classes, allowing flexibility for working professionals.
• Duration: Full-time enrollment can complete the program in as little as five semesters, while part-time options are also available.
• NP Specialties: FNP (51 credit hours) and PMHNP (48 credit hours) 
• Accreditation: CCNE 
• Tuition rates:
  • $613 per credit hour for TN residents or $1,454 for non-residents
  • $765 eRate for out-of-state online students. 

The curriculum is comprehensive, focusing on essential areas of advanced nursing practice. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration provides extensive knowledge in primary healthcare across the lifespan, from infancy to adulthood. It prepares students to address both acute conditions like bronchitis and chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension, along with preventive health services and disease management. For the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) concentration, the coursework delves into mental health care, equipping students with the skills to manage and treat various psychiatric conditions.

Both concentrations involve a blend of theoretical and clinical learning, with courses offered in a flexible, online format to cater to the diverse needs of students. This program design reflects ETSU's commitment to providing quality education that is both convenient and relevant to current healthcare demands.

6. University of Tennessee Health Science Center

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis prepares future NPs in six different NP specialties, not including their three dual NP concentration pathways. The DNP NP Program is available to students with a baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing, and certified master's-prepared Nurse Practitioners can also complete the DNP degree. Clinical Experiences are integral to every concentration, with placements made by faculty in collaboration with the student and preceptor. Both full-time and part-time study may be available, depending on the concentration.

NP Program Specialty Options: AG-ACNP, FNP, PMHNP, PC-PNP, AC-PNP, NNP. 

Dual NP Specialty Options: PMHNP/FNP, AGACNP/FNP, PC & AC PNP.

UTHSC NP Program Overview

• Format: Online with in-person clinicals 
• Credit Hours: 59-61 (BSN-DNP) or 32-34 (MSN-DNP)
• Tuition: $659 per credit (TN residents) or $710 per credit (non-residents)
• Accreditation: CCNE 

7. University of Memphis

The Loewenberg College of Nursing at the University of Memphis presents a Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program, delivered entirely online. This program is meticulously crafted to train advanced practice nurses in providing comprehensive primary healthcare services to patients of all ages and life stages. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the curriculum encompasses key aspects such as health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of acute and chronic illnesses. The program also focuses on developing skills for thorough assessment and treatment strategies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the diverse healthcare needs of their communities.

UM's MSN FNP Program Overview

• Format: Fully online with on-campus intensives.
• Credit Hours: 48
• Accreditation: CCNE
• Tuition: $623 per credit hour (TN residents) or $846 per credit hour (non-residents) 

8. Union University

Union University in Jackson, TN, provides a graduate-level nursing education curriculum through which professional nurses can prepare as Nurse Practitioners. The program offers two specific tracks: the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

Both these tracks emphasize clinical experiences, which are integral to each concentration. Faculty collaboratively work with students and preceptors to arrange these clinical placements. The program offers both full-time and part-time study options, depending on the concentration chosen. Union University's MSN program is structured to support the professional and academic growth of nursing practitioners, offering them a pathway to advance in their careers while balancing other life commitments.

Union's FNP & PMHNP Program Overview

• Format: Hybrid format, online and on-campus requirements 
• Duration: 16-months, full-time study plan options only. 
• Tuition Rate: 
• Credit Hours: 46
• Accreditation: CCNE

9. Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University's School of Nursing offers an MSN program with a concentration in FNP. The program prepares graduates to care for individuals and families across the lifespan, focusing on preventative healthcare as well as the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic illness.

Key Highlights:

• Curriculum: Emphasizes family-centered care, understanding the relevance of the family's identified community in the delivery of care.
• Certification: Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification as FNPs.
• Accreditation: CCNE 
• Program Outcomes: The program focuses on synthesizing knowledge from nursing and related disciplines, applying organizational and leadership theories, engaging in self-reflection for lifelong learning, utilizing safety and quality principles in care delivery, and collaborating effectively across professions and communities.

10. Belmont University

Belmont University's Inman College of Nursing offers a FNP Certificate Program. This program is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses in the role of FNPs who can provide clinically proficient, patient-centered care.

Key Highlights:

• Instruction Mode: In-person instruction with small class sizes on the Nashville campus.
• Flexibility: The program is structured to accommodate working students.
• Accreditation: CCNE 
• Clinical Placement: Students are guaranteed clinical placement sites in Nashville and across Middle Tennessee. Students can also arrange their own clinical experiences.

11. Southern Adventist University

Southern Adventist University's MSN program offers four NP concentrations including ACNP, AGNP, FNP, and PMHNP. The programs are designed to provide opportunities for advanced practice and upward mobility within healthcare. The MSN NP programs at SAU are accredited through the ACEN. 

Costs of NP Programs in Tennessee

The expenses linked to NP programs in Tennessee can vary, influenced by several factors:

• Tuition Fees: Tuition costs serve as the primary expense and can fluctuate based on whether the institution is public or private, the program's duration, and the chosen specialization.
• Books and Supplies: Students need to budget for textbooks and educational materials required for coursework.
• Lab Fees: Additional charges may apply for laboratory work or specialized equipment usage during the program.
• Technology Fees: In cases of online programs or courses utilizing digital platforms, technology fees may be incurred.
• Clinical Rotation Costs: Expenses related to clinical rotations include travel, accommodation (if necessary), and uniforms for hands-on training.

Prospective NP students in Tennessee are encouraged to explore financial aid, grants, and loan options to effectively manage the overall costs associated with their NP education.

NP Salary Expectations in Tennessee

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average median salary for an NP in Tennessee is $99,330 or $47.75 per hour, which is 21.58% lower than the national median of $126,680.

The highest-paying states for NPs are:

• California: $158,130
• New Jersey: $143,250
• Massachusetts: $138,700
• Oregon: $136,250
• Nevada: $136,230

It's important to note that NP salary expectations can vary based on many factors including level of education (MSN vs DNP), years of experience, employer, and more. Prospective students need to consider the context when developing their expectations.

NP Salary by State

Compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

NP Scope of Practice & Certification in Tennessee

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Tennessee must be well-informed about national certification requirements that are pivotal for state licensure, as well as the specific practice environments dictated by state law. This knowledge is essential for their career planning and to ensure they practice within legal boundaries.

NP Certification

Achieving national certification is a critical requirement for NPs throughout the United States, indicative of their expertise in their chosen specialty. This certification not only validates their proficiency but is also a key criterion for licensure, including in Tennessee. The major certifying bodies for NPs include:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB), offering certifications for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs.
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which provides certification for a variety of NP specializations.
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation, for Acute Care NP certification.
• The National Certification Corporation (NCC) for Neonatal NP (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NP (WHNP-BC) certification.
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP certification.

National certification forms the foundation of NP practice in all states, ensuring uniform standards of competence across various NP specialties.

NP State Licensure | Tennessee

In Tennessee, like North Carolina, NPs are subject to a restricted scope of practice that necessitates the oversight of a medical doctor. State laws here also limit the ability of NPs to perform certain practices independently, requiring ongoing supervision or collaboration with other healthcare professionals for effective patient care.

National NP Practice Authority

Tennessee, similar to North Carolina, is characterized by its restricted practice authority, paralleling eleven other states. The AANP provides a breakdown of NP scope of practice across various states:

• Full Practice States: Allow NPs, like in Oregon and Maine, to practice independently, including patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prescribing medications.
• Reduced Practice States: States such as Pennsylvania offer NPs reduced autonomy, necessitating collaborative agreements or supervision for specific practices.
• Restricted Practice States: Tennessee, alongside states like California, imposes strict supervisory constraints on NPs.

Understanding these differences in NP practice authority is crucial, particularly for NPs considering practice in different states or those planning to relocate.

While national certification is a consistent requirement for all NPs, specific state licensure conditions can vary. The APRN Compact aims to streamline these variances with a unified licensure process for NPs in participating states. It's important for NPs to align their education with the licensure requirements of the nursing board in the state in which they intend to practice. 

Staying informed about state-specific regulations and national certification necessities is vital for NPs to navigate a successful and adaptable career in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP Program in Tennessee 

Selecting an accredited NP Program in Tennessee holds significant importance for several key reasons:

• Quality Assurance in Education: Accreditation serves as a guarantee that a program adheres to high educational standards, providing a thorough and contemporary curriculum essential for skilled practice in nursing.
• Eligibility for Certification Exams: Graduation from an accredited program is generally a prerequisite for sitting national certification exams, a critical step for obtaining licensure as an NP.
• Licensure Necessities: The Tennessee Board of Nursing mandates that NP licensure applicants must have completed an accredited program, a fundamental requirement for legal practice in the state.
• Professional Recognition: Employers often prefer candidates from accredited programs, recognizing that such credentials reflect a high caliber of training and competence.
• Future Academic Opportunities: Credits earned from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized for further education or specializations, facilitating continuous professional development.

In Tennessee, organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) play a crucial role in validating the quality and rigor of nursing programs.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a practicum, and how does it factor into NP graduate studies in Tennessee?

A practicum is a hands-on clinical experience that allows NP students to apply their knowledge in real healthcare settings. It is a vital component of graduate studies in nursing and is required for NP programs in Tennessee. During a practicum, students work under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals, gaining practical skills and exposure to diverse patient populations.

Q: Can I pursue a nurse practitioner concentration in health promotion in Tennessee?

Many NP programs in Tennessee offer a variety of concentrations, including health promotion. This concentration focuses on promoting wellness and preventing illness within communities and patient populations. It's a valuable specialization for those interested in public health and health education.

Q: Are there part-time enrollment options available for NP programs in Tennessee?

Some NP programs in Tennessee offer part-time enrollment to accommodate students who may have work or family commitments. Part-time options allow for a more flexible schedule while pursuing advanced nursing education.

Q: What are the admission requirements for NP programs in Tennessee?

Admission requirements may vary by institution, but common prerequisites include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, an active registered nurse (RN) license, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a competitive GPA. Be sure to check the specific requirements of the NP Program you are interested in.

Q: Can you provide information on post-master's NP programs and their availability in Tennessee?

Post-master's NP programs are designed for nurses who already hold a master's degree in nursing and wish to obtain NP certification in a specific specialization. These programs are available in Tennessee and offer a streamlined path for advanced practice nurses (APRNs) looking to expand their scope of practice. Admission requirements may include prior APRN certification and clinical experience.