Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Tennessee | 2025

Explore top NP programs in Tennessee, offering detailed information on NP program curricula, admission criteria, salary expectations, and tips for selecting the perfect program for your needs.

Tennessee Best Nurse Practitioner Programs
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Uncover the leading NP programs in Tennessee, where we highlight each program's distinct strengths, detail the process of becoming an NP, discuss potential salaries, provide expert insights for choosing the best program, and answer common questions about the profession. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, this guide provides essential information to help you make informed decisions.

Best NP Programs in Tennessee - Online & Campus

The selection of the following nursing schools relies on a comprehensive methodology that includes direct input from our readers, extensive data analysis, and continuous updates to ensure accuracy and relevance. Our team of Data Analysts dedicates over 100 hours weekly to refine our database, incorporating critical criteria like reader surveys, graduation rates, cost of attendance, mode of delivery, admission rates, and more elements valued by our community.

*Tuitions are subject to change based on a student's number of transfer credits, yearly increases, and more. Our rankings are based on the latest college data from the U.S. Department of Education complemented by additional insights from our analysts.

  1. #1 Vanderbilt University

    Nashville, Tennessee

    School Ranking: A
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Vanderbilt University is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including MSN, Entry Level Masters, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CNM, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACME and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 7,144 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 6,559 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 7% Acceptance Rate
    • 93% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 19 Average Age
    • 48% Men
    • 52% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 6% Hispanic
    • 13% Black
    • 3% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $88,441 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  2. #2 University of Memphis

    Memphis, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    University of Memphis is a public and non-profit National University. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 3720 Alumni Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38152-3370, US
    • 1-901-678-2003
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 14,181 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 5,209 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 95% Acceptance Rate
    • 54% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 55% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 41% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $76,002 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  3. #3 King University

    Bristol, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    King University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Master's Colleges & Universities: Larger Programs
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 1,065 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 237 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 29 Average Age
    • 37% Men
    • 63% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 93% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $66,656 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  4. #4 The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

    Knoxville, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, BSN to PhD, MSN to PhD, CRNA, NP, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 26,905 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 6,766 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • 70% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 46% Men
    • 54% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 85% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 11% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $59,435 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  5. #5 Lincoln Memorial University

    Harrogate, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Lincoln Memorial University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including ADN/ASN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, CRNA, and NP degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway, Harrogate, Tennessee 37752, US
    • 1-423-869-6280
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 1,461 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 3,858 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • 62% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 24 Average Age
    • 29% Men
    • 71% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 94% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $58,738 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  6. #6 Union University

    Jackson, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    1 reviews

    School Overview

    Union University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 1050 Union University Drive, Jackson, Tennessee 38305, US
    • 1-731-661-6545
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 1,731 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 831 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 53% Acceptance Rate
    • 62% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 37% Men
    • 63% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 79% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 17% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $57,417 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  7. #7 East Tennessee State University

    Johnson City, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    East Tennessee State University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including LPN to BSN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, RN to MSN, DNP, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, PhD, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 9,772 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 2,929 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 85% Acceptance Rate
    • 54% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 22 Average Age
    • 39% Men
    • 61% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 93% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 4% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $52,943 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  8. #8 Belmont University

    Nashville, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Belmont University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including Accelerated BSN, BSN, DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, NP, Other, Post Grad Certificate, Post Grad Certificate, and RN to BSN degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 7,349 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,526 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 96% Acceptance Rate
    • 72% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 34% Men
    • 66% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 86% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 2% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $54,218 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  9. #9 The University of Tennessee, Chattanooga

    Chattanooga, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B+
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    The University of Tennessee, Chattanooga is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including CNA, ADN/ASN, BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, MSN to DNP, CRNA, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 9,820 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,399 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 78% Acceptance Rate
    • 52% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 42% Men
    • 58% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 78% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 19% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $54,814 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  10. #10 Carson-Newman University

    Jefferson City, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Carson-Newman University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Entry Level BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, NP, Post Grad Certificate, and Other degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 1646 S Russell Ave, Jefferson City, Tennessee 37760, US
    • 1-865-471-2000
    • Doctoral/Professional Universities
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 1,426 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,067 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 80% Acceptance Rate
    • 55% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 20 Average Age
    • 44% Men
    • 56% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 87% White
    • 4% Hispanic
    • 9% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $53,848 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  11. #11 The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

    Memphis, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, Accelerated BSN, DNP, PhD, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • Special Focus Four-Year: Research Institution
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 295 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 2,844 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 0% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 26 Average Age
    • 7% Men
    • 93% Women
    • 1% Veterans
    • 92% White
    • 3% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $52,041 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

  12. #12 Tennessee Technological University

    Cookeville, Tennessee

    School Ranking: B
    0 reviews

    School Overview

    Tennessee Technological University is a public and non-profit State Institution. The insitution offers a variety of hybrid, on-campus, and online programs—including BSN, DNP, MSN, and Post Grad Certificate degrees. Programs are accredited by the ACEN and CCNE and the institution is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

    • 1 William L Jones Dr, Cookeville, Tennessee 38505, US
    • 1-931-372-3101
    • Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Activity
    • 4 year or higher institution
    • 8,341 Undergraduate Students Enrolled*
      *Includes certificate and degree-seeking students
    • 1,365 Graduate Students Enrolled
    • 0% Graduation Rate

    Student Demographics

    • 21 Average Age
    • 54% Men
    • 46% Women
    • 0% Veterans
    • 92% White
    • 2% Hispanic
    • 5% Black
    • 1% Asian

    NP Programs

    • $48,317 In-State Graduate Tuition*

    *Tuition is an average of the programs listed below. Tuitions are estimates.

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What Is a Nurse Practitioner Program?

An NP Program in Tennessee is a graduate-level pathway designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice roles as nurse practitioners. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training, equipping nurses to deliver enhanced healthcare services, including patient diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management.

Graduates of nurse practitioner programs emerge as skilled advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), ready to work in various settings such as hospitals, primary care clinics, emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, and private practices. NPs play a crucial role in bridging the care gap and improving access to healthcare, addressing the shortage of MDs. For nurses seeking career advancement, higher earning potential, and increased responsibilities in patient care, NP programs offer a path to the pinnacle of nursing practice.

Primary NP Responsibilities

While roles and responsibilities vary with different NP specialties and state regulations, primary NP responsibilities include:

  • Performing comprehensive physical health evaluations
  • Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, lab work)
  • Diagnosing and managing acute and chronic conditions
  • Prescribing medications and treatments
  • Educating patients on prevention, treatment options, and self-care strategies

NP Specialty Concentrations

Tennessee offers numerous NP specializations, with the most common being:

  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive health care for individuals of all ages, focusing on wellness, illness prevention, and managing long-term health issues. They often serve as primary healthcare providers for families.
  • Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in women's health from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer care in reproductive health, gynecology, prenatal, and postpartum support.
  • Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs cater to adults from young adulthood to old age, addressing acute and chronic health conditions with a focus on personalized health education and promotion.
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with significant health issues. They primarily work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) alongside a multidisciplinary medical team.
  • Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the health and development of children from infancy to adolescence. They manage common childhood illnesses, conduct routine wellness checks, and provide guidance on nutrition and growth.
  • Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in mental health care, performing assessments, offering therapeutic interventions, and providing comprehensive care for various mental health conditions.

Other less common NP specializations include areas like oncology, neurology, cardiology, or nephrology. Additionally, some programs offer the option to choose between a primary or acute care path in concentrations like pediatric or gerontology. 

NP Coursework in Tennessee

While specifics can vary by program and specialty, common NP courses include:

  • Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding the changes in normal body functions that result from diseases.
  • Advanced Pharmacology: Detailed study of how drugs interact with the human body and impact diseases.
  • Advanced Health Assessment: Training in comprehensive physical and psychological assessment of patients across different age groups.
  • Primary Care Practices: Focusing on the primary healthcare needs of various populations.
  • Specialty Courses: Depending on the NP's chosen specialty, courses may include pediatrics, gerontology, family care, psychiatric-mental health, or women's health.
  • Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Understanding the legal, ethical, and policy aspects of healthcare.
  • Research Methods: Training in research methodologies relevant to clinical practice.
  • Clinical Decision Making: Enhancing skills in making effective and informed clinical decisions.

NP Clinical Training in Tennessee

Clinical training is a crucial part of NP programs, providing hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. In Tennessee clinical training requirements can differ based on the program and specialty.

Per the AACN Essentials all advanced-level nursing programs require 500 practice hours that cover both direct and indirect experiences. Specifically for NP programs, the National Task Force Standards for Quality NP Education (NTFS) mandate a minimum of 750 direct patient care hours.. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs typically require 1,000 or more clinical hours.

Students usually rotate through diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and community health centers to gain comprehensive experience. Training is supervised by experienced nurse practitioners and physicians, ensuring guided and practical learning. Depending on the program's focus, students receive training in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, or psychiatric health, with an emphasis on either primary or acute care.

NP Educational Pathways

The admission requirements, clinical hour requirements, and curriculum in NP programs vary based on the educational route you take. Here are the three most common pathways:

  1. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A 2-3 year program combining coursework and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for NP certification.
  2. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A 3-4 year program focused on advanced clinical practice, including extensive practicum and a scholarly project.
  3. Post-Master's Certificate: A one-year program for RNs with an MSN or DNP, offering specialization in an NP role and preparation for NP certification.

For these three main pathways, nursing education and experience are required; prospective students without nursing experience should consider Direct Entry NP (DENP) Programs

NP Program Graduation Requirements

To graduate from an NP Program in Tennessee students will generally need to meet the following requirements, though specifics can vary by program:

  • Complete Coursework: Finish courses in advanced pharmacology, advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and specialty-focused subjects.
  • Minimum GPA: Maintain a minimum GPA in courses or overall curriculum, as specified by the program.
  • Clinical Hours: Complete a minimum of 750 supervised clinical hours in relevant settings.
  • Capstone Project or Thesis: Some programs require a capstone project or thesis to demonstrate the practical application of skills and knowledge.

Tennessee NP Program Admission Requirements

Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Tennesseemust meet several admission requirements to ensure they're able to meet the demands of the education and role:

  • Educational Background: A BSN or MSN from an accredited institution is required.
  • Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure: Candidates must hold an active and unrestricted TN RN license.
  • Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all higher education institutions attended.
  • Academic Performance: A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4-point scale is usually required.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Completion of certain undergraduate courses, such as statistics, with a minimum grade requirement (often a grade of C or higher).
  • Clinical Experience: Prior clinical experience as a registered nurse is often required, although the specifics can vary by program.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
  • Personal Statement: A statement of career goals and motivations for pursuing an NP degree is typically required.
  • Resume or CV: Submission of a current resume or CV detailing educational and professional experiences is usually necessary.
  • Interview: An in-person or virtual interview to assess the candidate's suitability and dedication to the NP specialization.

Additional requirements to begin clinicals in most nursing programs typically include a background check, physical health screening, immunizations, and a drug test.

Costs of NP Programs in Tennessee

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

  • Tuition Fees: Tuition costs vary based on whether the institution is public or private, the program's duration, your NP specialization, and state residency status.
  • 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.
  • Certification and Licensing Fees: Essential for starting practice, these post-graduation costs include fees for certification exams and state licensing.
  • Supplementary School Charges: Students may encounter extra expenses for campus facilities, including labs, and administrative fees, impacting their overall budget.
  • Living and Opportunity Costs: The full-time commitment to study might affect living expenses and limit income-generating opportunities, necessitating careful budgeting.

Exploring and applying for grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships are essential steps in alleviating the financial burden of NP programs. Furthermore, prospective NP students can explore the Most Affordable NP Programs in 2025 to reduce overall tuition costs. 

Tennesse NP Salary Expectations 2025

Overall, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the projected employment of NPs is expected to grow 340% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations.

Per the most recent BLS data, the mean NP salary in Tennessee is $103,720 or $49.86 per hour, which is lower than the national average of $128,490, or $61.78 per hour—a difference of approximately 19%. However, job prospects in Tennessee are good, with the state having at least 14,040 NP positions in 2023, placing the state jin the top 25th percentile for nursing positions nationwide.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

  • California: $161,540
  • Nevada: $148,670
  • Washington: $145,400
  • New Jersey: $145,030
  • Oregon: $144,950

The average salaries for NP specialties are:

  • PMHNP: $139,486
  • FNP: $130,295
  • PNP: $135,161
  • NNP: $139,590
  • WHNP: $114,532
  • AGNP: $242,952

NP specialty salary data by ZipRecruiter.

Industries with the highest levels of employment and the pay for NPs include:

  • Offices of Physicians (137,030 NPs) $122,780
  • General Medical & Surgical Hospitals (61,740 NPs) $135,610
  • Outpatient Care Centers (25,440 NPs) $139,860
  • Offices of Other Health Practitioners (11,400) $121,250
  • Home Health Care Services (7,410 NPs) $146,850

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.

To understand your potential income fully, explore the specifics of your situation and your employer's compensation policies. You can compare several specializations by state with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Tennessee NP Scope of Practice Considerations

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:

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 in most states, like 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 eleven other states 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.

Tips to Choose the Best NP Program for You

Selecting the right NP Program depends on various personal preferences. Some students emphasize tuition costs, while others prioritize APRN certification pass rates, academic reputation, or other considerations. A survey by allnurses revealed the top reasons nursing students chose their programs:

  1. Cost
  2. High Pass Rates
  3. Location
  4. Academic Reputation
  5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
  6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
  7. Flexibility of Schedule
  8. Curriculum
  9. Campus and Surroundings
  10. Nursing Clinicals Location
  11. Availability of Online Courses

For prospective NP students, additional considerations include:

  • Specialization: Ensure the program offers the right focus for your chosen NP specialty.
  • Accreditation: Confirm CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
  • Certification and Licensure: Meets APRN certification and state licensure requirements.
  • Certification Pass Rates: Check program success rates.
  • Clinical Training: Offers diverse, high-quality placements and clinical placement support. 
  • Faculty Expertise: Qualified and experienced faculty.
  • Support Services: Mentoring, career services, and academic support.
  • Technology and Resources: Access to advanced technology and resources.
  • Alumni Network: Strong network for job placement and growth.
  • Interprofessional Education: Collaborative learning with other healthcare professionals.
  • State Regulations: Ensure your program is approved by the state Board of Nursing in the state you want to work. 

Selecting the right NP Program depends on your personal preferences and career goals. By evaluating these elements, you can find a program that best fits your needs.

Why NP Program Accreditation Matters

  1. Guaranteed to meet nursing education standards
  2. Ensures compliance with state regulations
  3. Guarantees minimum clinical hour requirement
  4. Supports APRN licensure eligibility
  5. Prepares for certification exams
  6. Facilitates credit transfers
  7. Enhances professional credibility
  8. Improves employment prospects
  9. Enables access to financial aid
  10. Promotes long-term career success

In light of these factors, aspiring NPs are recommended to choose programs accredited by reputable organization like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), or the NLN Commission for Nursing Education Accrediation (NLN CNEA).

Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

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.

Edited by Erin Lee

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Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

Erin Lee has 12 years experience as a BSN, RN and specializes in Critical Care, Procedural, Care Coordination, LNC.

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