Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Oregon | 2024

Oregon offers several highly-regarded Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, preparing students for the highest level of advanced practice registered nursing (APRN). Learn more about them below, including costs, salary expectations, and more.

Best NP Programs in Oregon

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. Oregon Health & Sciences University

The  DNP NP program at OHSU School of Nursing in Portland, OR, is an advanced practice leadership program that cultivates expertise in evidence-based healthcare improvement across specializations like FNP, AGACNP, AC & PC PNP, and PMHNP. Emphasizing innovation, inquiry, and a scholarly approach, the curriculum integrates essential doctoral education components, including systems leadership and clinical scholarship.

Situated across five campuses with 263 clinical sites, OHSU offers a dynamic and immersive learning environment. The program culminates in a capstone DNP project, reflecting a commitment to advancing nursing practice through evidence-driven leadership and systems transformation.

OHSU DNP NP Program Overview

• Mode: Hybrid, primarily in person with online options for non-clinical courses
• Duration: Approximately 3 years for all programs 
• Clinical Hours: 1,000 minimum 
• 2024 Tuition Rates: $686 per credit hour (OR residents) or $891 per credit (non-residents)
• Accreditation: CCNE
• NP Concentrations: 
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP)
    • 100 credit hours 
    • 100% board pass rate 
    • 100% job offers at the end of the program 
    • 100% first-time pass rate on NP boards 
  • Family NP 
    • 114 credit hours 
    • 100% first time pass rate on FNP certification 
  • Pediatric NP 
    • 111 credit hours 
    • 100% PNP certification pass rate for 2023
    • Prepares students for both acute and primary care pediatric NP 
  • Psychiatric Mental Health NP 
    • 111 credit hours
    •  100% OMHNP certification pass rates for the last 6 years

OHSU DNP NP Program Highlights

The Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is meticulously designed to cultivate the next generation of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) who are equipped for the complexities of modern healthcare. The program stands out for its rigorous clinical training, where clinical rotations and preceptorships are systematically orchestrated by the institution. This ensures that students gain practical, hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings.

OHSU's DNP program is structured to provide flexibility through a hybrid format, combining online didactic instruction with essential in-person clinical experiences. This approach facilitates a balanced educational experience that accommodates students' diverse learning preferences and schedules.

A distinctive feature of the OHSU DNP program is the intimate student-to-faculty ratios that enable personalized guidance and support throughout the educational journey. This is particularly beneficial in specialized tracks like the Family Nurse Practitioner program, which offers a distance learning option tailored to reach and serve rural and medically underserved populations across Oregon—reflecting OHSU's commitment to addressing healthcare disparities.

Furthermore, the DNP curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to extend beyond clinical acumen. It integrates a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and leadership preparation, providing students with the skills necessary for both direct patient care and influential leadership roles in the health sector. Graduates from OHSU's DNP program emerge as well-rounded professionals ready to lead, innovate, and provide exceptional care within an evolving healthcare environment.

2. University of Portland

he Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of Portland is designed to advance registered nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) into the forefront of primary care. Graduates are equipped as skilled family nurse practitioners or adult gerontology primary care nurse practitioners, ready to practice independently in various healthcare settings.

The NP programs emphasize a population health perspective and evidence-based practice and prepare NPs to lead healthcare system improvements. With a commitment to social justice, the curriculum focuses on culturally competent care, addressing health disparities, and serving diverse and underserved communities.

UP's DNP NP Program Overview 

• Mode: Hybrid, online learning with on-campus immersions once per month on weekends
• Duration: 3-years full-time study pace or 4-years at a part-time pace 
• Credit Hours: 76 credit hours 
• Clinical Hours: 1,020 
• 2024 Tuition Rates: $1,500 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE 
• NP Specialties: 
  • AGPCNP 
  • FNP 

UPs NP DNP Program Highlights:

At the heart of the University of Portland's DNP program is the intimate classroom setting, a deliberate choice that cultivates personalized interactions between students and expert faculty members. Both FNP and AGPCNP students benefit from this tailored approach, with the additional prospect of specializing in Palliative Care to broaden their clinical skills and patient care proficiency. AGPCNP students also have the option of specializing in Hospice Care. 

University of Portland DNP graduates emerge well-equipped to apply evidence-based practices in their patient care, setting a high bar for quality in healthcare services. They are also primed for leadership, ready to make a significant impact in diverse healthcare environments.

Integral to the DNP program's mission is a dedication to social justice—students are encouraged to confront health disparities and embrace cultural humility in their practice. This ethos prepares them to deliver compassionate care and advocate for equity within diverse and underserved communities, contributing to a more inclusive and fair healthcare system.

_{Admission Note -- The DNP-FNP program is currently pausing new student admissions for 1 year.}

What Is an NP Program?

An NP Program is an advanced educational course designed for registered nurses (RNs) who wish to expand their scope of practice. These programs typically lead to an MSN or a DNP degree but are also offered as graduate certificates.

Graduates of NP programs are qualified to offer a range of healthcare services, including diagnosing and treating medical conditions, prescribing medications, and managing patient care. They often work independently or in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals.

NP Coursework in Oregon

NP coursework in Oregon typically includes:

• 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 Oregon

NP clinical training in Oregon commonly includes:

• Primary Care Rotations: The development of experience in family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, women's health, and more.
• Specialty Rotations: Depending on the focus of the NP, rotations might include oncology, emergency, cardiology, or other specialties.
• Long-Term Care Settings: Develops experience in managing chronic conditions in settings like nursing homes.
• Simulation Labs: Using high-tech simulation tools to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment.

While the above coursework and clinical training are common, students should research each program of interest as it may vary per educational institution.

NP Specializations

While many NP specializations are available, some of the most common include:

• Family Nurse Practitioner: FNPs provide healthcare services across all ages, genders, and diseases, focusing on health prevention and promotion in family practice settings.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: PMHNPs provide mental health services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of psychiatric disorders.
• Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner: AGNPs focus on the healthcare of adults, including the elderly, to manage and prevent diseases and address the unique challenges of aging.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: PNPs specialize in providing comprehensive medical treatment for infants, children, and adolescents, including preventative care and disease management.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner: NNPs provide care for newborns, particularly those who are premature or have health issues in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
• Women's Health Nurse Practitioner: WHNPs focus on providing specialized care in women's health, including reproductive, gynecological, prenatal, postnatal, and other female-specific health issues.

Other specialties include aesthetic nurse practitioner, emergency nurse practitioner, and oncology nurse practitioner, while subspecialties such as acute care or primary care can be applied depending on the practice setting.

NP Prerequisites & Requirements in Oregon

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

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most NP programs require applicants to have completed a BSN from an accredited nursing program.
• RN Licensure: Applicants must hold a current and unencumbered RN license.
• Clinical Experience: A specified amount of clinical experience as an RN is often required, typically ranging from one to two years, depending on the program.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum GPA, often around 3.0, in undergraduate coursework.
• Completion of Specific Undergraduate Courses: This may include courses in anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and statistics.
• Letters of Recommendation: Often required from academic and professional references.
• Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the application and licensure process.

NP Program Costs

Investing in a Nurse Practitioner (NP) education involves various costs that differ based on the program and degree. Consider these streamlined financial factors:

• Tuition Fees: A core expense in NP education, tuition varies based on institution type and residency status. Residents generally pay less, and public schools typically have lower costs. NP programs may use per-credit or term-based billing.
• Educational Materials: Textbooks and medical equipment, such as stethoscopes and lab coats, are necessary purchases that contribute to overall expenses.
• Clinical Placement Costs: Clinical rotations may entail additional expenditures for travel if locations are distant from the student's residence or campus.
• Certification and Licensing: Post-graduation, certification exams and licensing fees are mandatory costs for NPs to begin practicing.
• Additional School Fees: Students often incur extra costs for school services, including lab usage and application fees, which can significantly affect the budget.
• Living Costs: Full-time study impacts living expenses and earning potential, requiring careful financial planning.

Strategies for Managing NP Program Finances:

• Financial Aid Options: Students should explore grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships to offset NP Program costs. Applying early maximizes funding opportunities.
• Scholarships and Grants: Actively searching and applying for scholarships offered by various organizations can substantially decrease education-related expenses.
• Loan Considerations: Federal loans are often preferable to private ones due to better terms. Understanding and planning for repayment is crucial when taking out loans.

By attentively considering these financial elements, NP students can effectively plan for and manage the cost of their education journey.

NP Salary Expectations in Oregon

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median national salary for NPs is $124,680, or $59.94 per hour. 

Oregon ranks as the fourth-highest paying state for Nurse Practitioners. When contemplating a move for a higher salary, it's crucial to consider the cost of living in the area, along with job availability in the specific NP specialty in which you plan to practice.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

1. California: $158,130
2. New Jersey: $143,250
3. Massachusetts: $138,700
4. Oregon: $136,250
5. Nevada: $136,230

Industries with the highest levels of employment for NPs include:

• Offices of Physicians: 122,830 employed
• General Medical and Surgical Hospitals: 58,080 employed
• Outpatient Care Centers: 23,760 employed
• Offices of Other Health Practitioners: 10,950 employed
• Home Health Care Services: 7,460 employed

Overall, the BLS reports that the projected employment of NPs is expected to grow 38 percent from 2022 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations.

Are NP Programs in Oregon Worth It?

Whether an NP Program is worth it in Oregon depends on individual career goals, interests, and the desire for advanced practice. While becoming an NP comes with many advantages, it's also important to consider their disadvantages.

Pros of NP Programs in Oregon

• Higher Earning Potential: NPs generally earn a higher salary compared to registered nurses, reflecting their advanced skills and responsibilities.
• Increased Autonomy: NPs often have more independence in their practice, including diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and developing treatment plans.
• Specialization Opportunities: NP programs offer various specializations, such as family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatry, allowing for focused career paths in areas of interest.
• High Demand: There is a growing demand for healthcare services and a shortage of primary care providers, which increases job security and opportunities for NPs.
• Positive Impact on Patient Care: NPs play a crucial role in improving access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas, and often provide a holistic approach to patient care.

Cons of NP Programs in Oregon

1. Cost and Time Investment: NP programs can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring several years of study beyond the registered nursing level.
2. Stress and Responsibility: The role of an NP comes with increased responsibilities and decision-making, which can be stressful and demanding.
3. State-by-State Regulation Variability: The scope of practice for NPs varies by state, which can limit practice authority in some regions.
4. Competitive Admission Process: Gaining admission into NP programs can be competitive, requiring excellent academic records and professional experience.
5. Continuing Education Requirements: NPs must engage in ongoing education and recertification to maintain their licensure and stay current with medical advancements.

NPs enjoy a high degree of autonomy, increased responsibility, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient care. They often have higher earning potential compared to RNs and can specialize in areas of healthcare that interest them most. However, these programs require a substantial investment of time, effort, and finances, and the increased responsibilities come with their own set of challenges.

Importance of Picking an Accredited NP Program

Choosing an accredited NP Program is crucial for several reasons:

• Quality of Education: Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific educational standards set by a recognized accrediting body. This guarantees a level of quality in the curriculum, faculty qualifications, student resources, and clinical training opportunities.
• Eligibility for Certification Exams: Graduation from an accredited NP Program is often a prerequisite for taking national certification exams. Without attending an accredited program, graduates may not be eligible to sit for these exams, which can significantly limit their career opportunities.
• State Licensure Requirements: Most states require completion of an accredited NP Program for licensure. Attending a non-accredited program can prevent graduates from practicing in their chosen field, as they may not meet the state board of nursing's requirements for licensure.
• Professional Credibility and Employment Opportunities: Employers often prefer or exclusively hire graduates from accredited programs. Accreditation signifies that the individual has received a high standard of education and is well-prepared for the demands of the profession. This can lead to better job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
• Transfer of Credits: If a student decides to further their education, credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted by other accredited institutions.
• Access to Federal Financial Aid: Only students in accredited programs are typically eligible for federal financial aid, including grants and loans. This is a crucial consideration for many students who rely on these funds to finance their education.

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

NP Certification

Understanding the national certification requirements, which are prerequisites for state licensure, alongside the state-defined practice environments, is essential for NPs' career planning and legal compliance.

National certification is a universal stepping stone for NPs across the United States. Obtaining certification is not only a testament to an NP's expertise but also a licensure requirement in every state, including Oregon. Here are the primary NP certification bodies for NPs and the certifications they offer:

• The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs. 
• The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for nine different NP specialties. 
• The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation for Acute Care NP certification. 
• The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP certification. 

This national certification is the cornerstone for practice in any state, establishing a standardized measure of competence across various specialties.

Oregon NP Scope of Practice  

Oregon stands out with its Full Practice status, allowing NPs the authority to conduct comprehensive patient care independently. This includes patient evaluation, diagnosis, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and managing treatments, including prescriptions.

Mapping the Landscape of NP Practice Across the States

After Oregon's example, it's important to map out the varying levels of practice authority nationwide as defined by the AANP:

• Full Practice: In the majority of states, like Oregon, NPs enjoy full practice authority.
• Reduced Practice: In fifteen states, like  Ohio, NPs engage in collaborative agreements or supervision for at least one practice element.
• Restricted Practice: In Eleven states like California, NPs operate under more stringent supervisory requirements.

Understanding the spectrum of NP autonomy from state to state is crucial for those looking to practice in different regions or for those who may relocate.

NP Licensure Across the States

Licensure is mandatory for all NPs, and while national certification is a universal need, state licensure has unique requirements. The APRN Compact aims to alleviate these differences, promising a streamlined licensure process for NPs in participating states. Prospective NPs must ensure their education meets the state board of nursing requirements where they intend to work.

For Nurse Practitioners, comprehending the nuances of state-specific regulations and national certification requirements is vital for a flourishing career. With the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, NPs are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed about these varying standards to navigate their professional paths successfully.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How many credit hours are typically required to complete an NP Program?

The number of credit hours required for an NP Program varies depending on the specific program and specialization. Generally, MSN programs require around 35-50 credit hours, while DNP programs may require 65-95 credit hours. It's important to check the specific requirements of the program you're interested in.

Q: Is there a difference in tuition for in-state and out-of-state students in NP programs?

Many institutions charge different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. In-state students often benefit from lower tuition fees. However, some programs, especially online ones, may offer a flat tuition rate regardless of residency.

Q: Are there online NP programs available, and how do they compare to on-campus programs?

Many accredited online NP programs offer flexibility for working nurses. These programs typically provide the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus programs but allow students to complete coursework remotely. Clinical hours are usually completed in person at an approved local site.

Q: What is the role of a preceptor in NP clinical training, and how are clinical placements arranged?

A preceptor is an experienced practitioner who mentors and supervises NP students during their clinical rotations. They provide practical learning experiences and guidance. Clinical placements are often arranged by the NP Program, but students may also have the opportunity to suggest or select their clinical sites, subject to approval.

Q: Can NP students attend the program on a part-time basis, and how does this affect the program duration?

Many NP programs offer part-time study options to accommodate working professionals. Part-time students take fewer courses each semester, which extends the duration of the program. While a full-time NP Program might take 2-3 years to complete, a part-time program could take 3-5 years, depending on the number of credits taken per semester.

Edited Apr 4 by Erin Lee