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by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
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 Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oregon — Online & On-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. 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
- Tuition Rates: $686 per credit hour (OR residents) or $891 per credit (non-residents)
- Accreditation: CCNE
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NP Concentrations:
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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
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Family NP
- 114 credit hours
- 100% first time pass rate on FNP certification
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Pediatric NP
- 111 credit hours
- 100% PNP certification pass rate for 2023
- Prepares students for both acute and primary care pediatric NP
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Psychiatric Mental Health NP
- 111 credit hours
- 100% OMHNP certification pass rates for the last 6 years
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Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP (AGACNP)
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
- Tuition Rates: $1,500 per credit hour
- Accreditation: CCNE
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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.
Oregon Nurse Practitioner Program Overview
An NP Program in Oregon 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 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, improving access to healthcare, and 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.
Nurse Practitioner Educational Pathways
The admission requirements, clinical hour requirements, and curriculum in NP programs vary based on your educational route. Here are the most common pathways to becoming a nurse practitioner:
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A 2-3 year program combining coursework and clinical experiences, preparing graduates for NP certification.
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A 3-4 year program focused on advanced clinical practice, including extensive practicum and a scholarly project.
- 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.
- RN to NP Programs: A bridge program for ADN or diploma-preparKed RNs to earn both a BSN and MSN, allowing them to become nurse practitioners without a separate BSN program.
Nursing education and experience are required for these main pathways; prospective students without nursing experience should consider Direct Entry NP (DENP) Programs.
Nurse Practitioner Program Graduation Requirements
Once admitted, students in NP programs in Oregon must fulfill the following requirements to graduate and be eligible for graduation and NP certification:
- Maintain RN License: Nurses in NP programs typically need to maintain their initial RN licensure.
- Completion of Graduate-Level Coursework: Students must complete all required coursework, which covers advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and specialized clinical knowledge for their chosen NP track.
- Clinical Hours: NP students are required to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours in their area of specialization. The exact number of hours can vary, but it typically ranges from 500 to 1,000 hours, depending on the program and specialization.
- Capstone or Thesis Project: Some programs may require students to complete a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their ability to apply advanced nursing knowledge and skills to a practical problem in healthcare.
- Graduation from an Accredited Program: The program must be accredited by a recognized accrediting body, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This accreditation ensures the quality and integrity of the NP Program.
- Certification Exam: Upon completing the NP Program, graduates must pass a national certification exam in their specialty area, such as the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Nurse Practitioner Coursework & Curriculum 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.
While these are the common foundational courses for NP programs, much of the curriculum will be determined based on your NP specialty concentration.
Nurse Practitioner Clinical Training in Oregon
Clinical training in Oregon NP programs offers hands-on experience across various healthcare settings and specialties. The AACN Essentials require 500 practice hours for all advanced nursing programs, with NP programs needing at least 750 direct patient care hours per National Task Force Standards for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education. DNP programs often exceed 1,000 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 specialty focus, students receive training in areas like gerontology, pediatrics, neonatology, family medicine, or psychiatric health, with an emphasis on either primary or acute care.
Nurse Practitioner Specialty Concentrations
Across the nation, including in Oregon, numerous NP specialties allow nurses to focus on areas of personal interest. Common NP specializations 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.
Additional specialties include aesthetic, emergency, and oncology nurse practitioner roles, with subspecialties like acute and primary care tailored to practice settings. Your clinical training and coursework will largely align with your chosen specialty.
Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oregon
There are many online nurse practitioner programs that offer flexible coursework with required in-person components, such as clinical hours, for hands-on experience.
While most coursework is completed online, clinical hours and capstone projects often require on-site participation to meet certification standards. When choosing a program, consider if it's fully online or hybrid, and review in-person requirements to find the best fit for your schedule and career goals.
Oregon Nurse Practitioner Admission Requirements
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: Depending on the program, a specified amount of clinical experience as an RN is often required, typically ranging from one to two years in the specialty concentration of your NP Program.
- Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum GPA, often around 3.0, in undergraduate coursework.
- Prerequisite Course Requirements: This may include courses in Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Psychology, and Statistics.
In addition to educational requirements for entry into psychiatric NP programs, candidates are typically required to provide the following:
- Letters of Recommendation: Academic or professional recommendations attesting to your qualifications for advanced practice.
- Personal Statement: A brief essay outlining your reasons for a career as a Nurse Practitioner, goals, and commitment to mental health nursing.
- Interview: Some programs may require an interview to assess interpersonal skills.
- Background Check & Drug Screening: Ensures compliance with nursing's legal and ethical standards.
- Health Requirements: Up to date physical health exam and valid health insurance are typically needed.
- Immunizations: Updated records ensure patient and peer safety during clinicals.
- TOEFL/IELTS (International Students): Proof of English proficiency may be required for non-native speakers.
It's essential to check the specific requirements of the NP Program you're interested in, as they may have additional criteria or variations in their admission process.
Oregon NP Program Costs
Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Oregon is a substantial investment involving various costs. The key financial aspects include:
- Tuition Fees: A significant portion of the educational expense, tuition rates differ based on whether the institution is public or private and whether the student qualifies for in-state rates, which are typically lower. Tuition may be charged per credit hour or by semester.
- Educational Materials: Budgeting for textbooks, medical supplies such as stethoscopes, and professional attire like lab coats is essential.
- Clinical Rotation Expenses: Travel costs for clinical rotations, particularly if they are located far from the student's residence or university, add to the overall expense.
- Post-Graduation Costs: Following graduation, NP graduates must account for fees associated with certification and licensing, vital for beginning their professional journey.
- Additional Fees: Students might also incur extra costs for access to university facilities, lab usage, and various administrative fees.
- Impact on Living Expenses and Income: Engaging in full-time study can significantly affect living costs and the potential for earning income, requiring strategic financial planning.
As a prospective NP student in Oregon, consider applying for scholarships, grants, and federal loans with flexible repayment options. A solid financial plan keeps you focused on becoming a skilled healthcare professional. To reduce overall costs of going back to school, explore the most affordable NP programs of the year.
2025 Oregon NP Salary Expectations
Based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean salary for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) stands at $128,490 annually, equivalent to $61.78 per hour. In Oregon, the annual mean NP salary is reported above the national average at $144,950, translating to an hourly rate of $69.69. Oregon employs approximately 2,410 nurse practitioners, positioning the state within the25th-50th percentile for NP employment.
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
When considering salary projections, it's important to account for various factors. These include your educational background, years of experience, the healthcare institution where you work, your employer, the demand for your nursing specialization, and your work schedule, including shifts and hours.
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.
NP Career Outlook 2025
The career prospects for Nurse Practitioners (NPs), integral members of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are highly favorable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 40% growth in the overall APRN field by 2032, introducing over 140,000 new roles. This significant growth is propelled by factors such as an aging population and an increasing expansion of healthcare roles. Within the APRN group, NPs stand out due to the heightened demand in various healthcare sectors, particularly exacerbated by overall shortages in healthcare provision.
Furthermore, the American Medical Association's alert on the national physician shortage highlights the indispensable role of NPs in filling critical gaps in healthcare, especially in primary care. This trend underscores the growing importance and demand for NPs, making them vital to the evolving landscape of healthcare in the United States.
Is It Worth Becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Oregon?
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
- Cost and Time Investment: NP programs can be expensive and time-consuming, often requiring several years of study beyond the registered nursing level.
- Stress and Responsibility: The role of an NP comes with increased responsibilities and decision-making, which can be stressful and demanding.
- State-by-State Regulation Variability: The scope of practice for NPs varies by state, which can limit practice authority in some regions.
- Competitive Admission Process: Gaining admission into NP programs can be competitive, requiring excellent academic records and professional experience.
- 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).
Oregon NP Scope of Practice & Licensing
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
Regulated by the state Board of Nursing, 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.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me
Discover NP programs in a state near you: