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by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Mississippi 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 Mississippi — 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. Delta State University
Delta State University in Cleveland, MS, provides a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program through the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing, catering to registered nurses aspiring to elevate their careers as nurse educators or nurse practitioners, with a focus on Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration for prospective NP students. The MSN curriculum is delivered online, offering flexibility for both full-time (four semesters) and part-time (six semesters) study plans. The availability of specific role focuses within the program is contingent upon adequate enrollment in each specialty area.
FNP Program Overview
- Format: Online courses with full-time and part-time options.
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Tuition: $469.00 per credit hour or $4,217 per 9-13 credit hour semester.
- Duration: Full-time (4 semesters), Part-time (6 semesters).
- Credit Hours: 48
- Clinical Hours: 780
- Accreditation: CCNE
Admission Requirements
Minimum GPA of 3.00, RN license, one year of clinical experience, and completion of specific courses. Admission prerequisites include a graduate-level pathophysiology course, an introductory course in statistics, and successful completion of an interview conducted by the nursing faculty.
- Application Deadline: February 1st.
2. Mississippi University for Women
The Mississippi University for Women, established in 1974, offers an MSN program with a Family Nurse Practitioner track, fully accredited since its inception. The program enriches baccalaureate-prepared nurses' expertise, focusing on primary care, advanced nursing practice, and evidence-based practice. Key areas include health promotion, disease prevention, and management of acute and chronic illnesses.
Graduates emerge ready for advanced, patient-centered nursing roles, grounded in leadership, patient safety, and quality improvement in healthcare delivery. The program emphasizes continuous learning and leadership, preparing nurses for diverse roles in healthcare, integrating interdisciplinary knowledge, leveraging emerging technologies, and influencing health policy.
FNP Program Overview
- Format: In person
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Tuition: $4,046 per 9-13 credit hour semester
- Duration: 12 months
- Credit Hours: 39
- Accreditation: CCNE
Admission Requirements
Applicants need a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, along with three professional recommendations. A complete immunization record, including two MMR vaccine doses, is also required.
3. University of Southern Mississippi
Located in Hattiesburg, MS, the University of Southern Mississippi offers advanced practice nursing programs, including an FNP track, with options for BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate pathways. These programs are designed for nurses seeking advanced preparation for expanded clinical practice and are structured to prepare nurse scholars for leadership roles in clinical, educational, and administrative positions.
The didactic courses are offered online, requiring only one campus visit per semester, and students can complete clinical requirements in their own or nearby communities. Both full-time and part-time study options are available, catering to the diverse needs of students. The programs aim to develop leadership in nursing practice and prepare graduates for roles that demand rigorous and scholarly approaches to the discipline, with a commitment to the advancement of the profession.
FNP Program Overview
- Format: Hybrid
- Degree Earned: DNP
- Tuition: $9,618 (MS residents) or $11,618 (non-residents)
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Duration:
- 3 years (BSN-DNP)
- 5 semesters (MSN-DNP)
- 4 semesters (Post Graduate Certificate)
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Credit Hours:
- 71 (BSN-DNP)
- 44 (MSN-DNP)
- 26 (Post Graduate Certificate)
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Board Examination Pass Rate: 95-100%
Admission Requirements
Applicants must possess a Baccalaureate in Nursing from an accredited institution and submit GRE scores, with a minimum score of 3.0 on the analytical section. Nurse practitioner program applicants should have at least one year of recent clinical experience as an RN. Additionally, a GPA of 3.0 or higher in undergraduate nursing courses, completion of a statistics course, and evidence of a current Mississippi RN license are required.
4. University of Mississippi Medical Center
The University of Mississippi Medical Center, located in Jackson, MS, offers an FNP track designed to prepare nurses for delivering primary healthcare to adults and families, often assuming roles traditionally held by physicians. Emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, the program includes 630 hours of clinical experience under the guidance of advanced practice nurses or physicians, completed within Mississippi. Graduates are eligible for national certification exams and state licensure in Mississippi as nurse practitioners.
Coursework for the FNP program is delivered through a blend of online, on-campus, and hybrid formats, with most courses available online or in hybrid formats. Flexible study plans, tailored to individual goals and geographic locations, are provided upon enrollment, including expedited plans for certified nurse practitioners in other specialties.
MSN FNP Program Overview
- Format: Online, on-campus, and hybrid courses with flexible study plans.
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Tuition: $545 per credit hour (MS residents) or $1,598 per credit hour (non-residents)
- Duration: 2 years
- Credit Hours: 50
- Clinical Hours: 630
- Accreditation: CCNE
RN to MSN and BSN to DNP plans of study are also available for the FNP concentration.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree in nursing, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and one year of RN experience for nurse practitioner tracks. Additional criteria may apply, such as completing preadmission counseling and providing evidence of current RN licensure. Preference is given to applicants with recent relevant experience, and interviews may be required for some programs.
5. Alcorn State University
Alcorn State University, located in Lorman, MS, provides an MSN program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), aiming to equip graduates with the skills to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare to diverse and underserved populations throughout their lifespan.
The curriculum integrates theoretical and empirical knowledge from various disciplines to guide nursing research, education, and advanced practice. Emphasis is placed on developing innovative teaching and clinical approaches through the integration of research, theory, and practice knowledge. The program focuses on global primary healthcare, ethical and legal considerations, and organizational leadership in nursing, with the GRE General Test requirement waived.
MSN FNP Program Overview
- Format: In person
- Degree Earned: MSN
- Tuition: $405 per credit hour
- Duration: Student-driven pace, up to 6 years to complete.
- Credit Hours: 44
- Accreditation: ACEN
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0, three letters of recommendation, a resume, a goal statement, an official transcript, a GPA of 3.0 or above in prerequisites and nursing courses, a grade of "C" or better in an undergraduate introductory-level statistics course, a current unencumbered license to practice nursing, and an immunization record.
Nurse Practitioner Program Overview
An NP Program in Mississippi 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-prepared 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
To graduate from an NP Program in Mississippi, students will generally need to meet the following requirements, though specifics can vary by program:
- Maintain RN License: Nurses in NP programs typically need to maintain their initial RN licensure.
- 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.
Nurse Practitioner Coursework & Curriculum in Mississippi
NP coursework in Mississippi 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 Mississippi
Clinical training in Mississippi 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 Mississippi, 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
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.
Mississippi Nurse Practitioner Admission Requirements
Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Mississippi 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 PMHNP career, 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 PMHNP program you're interested in, as they may have additional criteria or variations in their admission process.
Mississippi NP Program Costs
Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Mississippi 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 Mississippi, 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 Mississippi NP Salary Expectations
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean national salary for NPs is $128,490, or $61.78 per hour. In Mississippi, the annual mean salary for NPs is $117,490, or $56.49 per hour. The state employs approximately 4,000 NPs, placing it within the 25-50th percentile for NP employment compared to other states.
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
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.
Are Mississippi NP Programs Worth It?
Whether an NP Program is worth it in Mississippi 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 Mississippi
- 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 Mississippi
- 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.
NP Scope of Practice & Certification in Mississippi
For Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Mississippi, it's important to understand both national certification requirements and the specific practice environment in the state to ensure a successful career and compliance with the law.
NP Certification
National certification is an essential step for NPs in every state, demonstrating specialty-specific proficiency. This certification establishes an NP's expertise and is often a prerequisite for state licensure. Key organizations offering NP certifications include:
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Offers certifications for FNP, AG-ACNP, ENP, and PMHNP.
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Provides various NP specialty certifications.
- The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Focuses on Acute Care NP certifications.
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Offers certifications for Neonatal NPs (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NPs (WHNP-BC).
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Certifies Pediatric Acute Care and Primary Care NPs.
Achieving such national certification is foundational for NP practice, ensuring consistent standards of proficiency across specialties.
NP State Licensure | Mississippi
In Mississippi, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are subject to a reduced practice framework. This requires them to establish a collaborative agreement with a physician or healthcare provider, which is essential for some aspects of their practice.
NPs must also gain approval from the Mississippi Board of Nursing for their specific practice site and collaborating physician before beginning practice. The approved practice site should be a physical location within Mississippi, subject to regulatory compliance checks by the Board, but it does not include patient homes. This regulatory model ensures appropriate oversight while enabling NPs to provide essential healthcare services.
NP Practice Authority Nationally
Mississippi is one of the states with full practice authority. Here's how it compares with other regulatory models defined by the AANP:
- Full Practice States: The majority of states allow NPs complete independence at the top of their scope in their practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and prescribing without physician oversight.
- Reduced Practice States: In fifteen states, physician collaboration is required for specific NP duties.
- Restricted Practice States: Eleven states impose more stringent supervisory requirements on NPs.
Understanding these differences is essential for NPs considering work in various states.
State-Specific NP Licensure Requirements
While national certification standards are consistent, state-specific licensure requirements vary. The APRN Compact aims to standardize these requirements, making the licensure process more efficient. NPs must ensure their credentials align with their state's board of nursing requirements.
Keeping abreast of state laws and national certification standards is crucial for NPs to maintain effective and legal practice. Active engagement with these standards is key for the continued professional growth of NPs in a changing healthcare landscape.
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 Programs Near Me
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