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by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Kansas 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 Kansas — 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. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas School of Nursing in Kansas City offers a comprehensive BSN-to-DNP program designed for registered nurses who have completed a BSN degree and are looking to advance their careers to the highest level of nursing practice. The program offers specialty tracks that prepare students to become clinical scholars and transformational leaders in various areas of nursing practice, and their nurse practitioner program specialties are FNP and PMHNP.
NP Program Overview:
- Duration: 4-5 years
- Tuition: $442 per credit hour (KS residents & online students) or $1,039 (non-residents)
- Credit Hours: 75 (FNP); 79 (PMHNP)
- Accreditation: CCNE
NP Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Integrates science-based theories with clinical expertise and organizational management.
- Research Utilization: Applies research skills in health care delivery systems.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Synthesizes and applies knowledge to promote advanced nursing practice.
- Professional Development: Emphasizes communication, collaboration, and professional values.
- Clinical Experience: Encompasses a minimum of 1000 hours of direct patient care, ensuring thorough specialty training.
2. Fort Hays State University
Fort Hays State University's Department of Nursing offers a comprehensive BSN-to-DNP pathway, meticulously crafted for professionals with a BSN degree, seeking advanced practice and leadership roles in nursing. This program stands out for its focus on real-world clinical skills and its innovative delivery model, catering to the evolving needs of nursing professionals.
FNP Program Overview:
- Duration: Twelve semesters over 4 years
- Tuition: $428 per credit hour or an estimated $3,852 per full-time semester
- Credit Hours: 75
- Accreditation: CCNE
Program Highlights:
- Hybrid Format: The majority of the program is available online, with a few semesters requiring minimal campus visits.
- Clinical Requirements: All preceptored clinicals must be performed in Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma, ensuring students gain practical experience in a variety of settings. Minimum of 1,000 clinical practicum hours.
- Cohort System: Students progress through the program in cohorts, starting in the Summer, fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Clinical Experience: Involves at least 1000 hours in direct patient care, providing in-depth learning in selected specialties.
3. Wichita State University
Located in Wichita, KS, Wichita State University offers a DNP Postbaccalaureate degree program through its College of Health Professions, School of Nursing. This program is designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles in Family NP, Acute Care Adult Gerontology NP, and Psychiatric Mental Health NP.
NP Program Overview:
- Duration: 4.5 years
- Tuition: $11,160 (KS residents)-$22,250 (non-residents) per 12 credit hour semester
- Credit Hours: 75 FNP, ACAGNP, and PMHNP specialty concentrations
- Accreditation: CCNE
Program Highlights:
- Applied Learning: Emphasizes hands-on experience through clinical placements and a focus on improving patient outcomes and promoting innovation in healthcare.
- Leadership and Quality Improvement: Wichita State University's DNP program emphasizes leadership and quality improvement, preparing nurses for advanced roles and healthcare innovation.
- Addressing Healthcare Complexity: Tailored to the evolving healthcare landscape, the program equips nurses with the knowledge to tackle contemporary healthcare challenges effectively.
- Clinical Experience: Requires over 1000 hours of hands-on patient interaction, enhancing proficiency in specialty areas.
4. Washburn University
Washburn University in Topeka, KS, offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for leadership roles in healthcare. The program is delivered in an online format, making it accessible for working professionals. It focuses on transforming healthcare for patients, families, organizations, and healthcare delivery systems, addressing the complex and rapidly changing healthcare environment. NP specialties offered include FNP and PMHNP.
NP Program Overview:
- Duration: Typically completed in 4 years, spanning eight to nine semesters.
- Tuition: $727 per credit hour
- Credit Hours: 74-76
- Accreditation: CCNE
The program overview is geared towards BSN to DNP students, although MSN pathways are also available. While tuition rates remain consistent, the duration and credit hour requirements will vary depending on previous experience and academic background.
Program Highlights:
- Online Format: Offers flexibility for students to access learning activities according to their schedules, with live virtual classes for active learning.
- Clinical Experiences: Requires a minimum of 1045-1170 hours of direct patient care, providing comprehensive training in chosen specialties.
- Annual On-Campus Sessions: Students are required to attend in-person orientation and training sessions on campus once a year, enhancing the learning experience and providing opportunities for hands-on training and networking.
Nurse Practitioner Program Overview
An NP Program in Kansas 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 Kansas, 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 Kansas
NP coursework in Kansas 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 Kansas
Clinical training in Kansas 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 Kansas, 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.
Kansas Nurse Practitioner Admission Requirements
Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Kansas 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 an NP, 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 nurse practitioner program you're interested in, as they may have additional criteria or variations in their admission process.
Kansas NP Program Costs
Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Kansas 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 Kansas, 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 Kansas NP Salary Expectations
Based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national median salary for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) stands at $128,490 annually, equivalent to $61.78 per hour. In Kansas, the annual mean NP salary is reported at $119,270, translating to an hourly rate of $57.34. Kansas employs approximately 3,000 nurse practitioners, positioning the state within the 25th-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 Kansas?
Whether an NP Program is worth it in Kansas 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 Kansas
- 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 Kansas
- 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).
Kansas NP Licensure & Certification
As you pursue your career as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Kansas, understanding both national certification requirements and Kansas-specific practice regulations is fundamental. This knowledge is not only crucial for licensure but also sets the stage for your future in healthcare.
Your Roadmap to National NP Certification
National certification is your first significant step, representing your expertise in your specialty and a key requirement for licensure. In Kansas, like elsewhere in the U.S., you'll encounter these primary certifying NP bodies:
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Provides ten different NP certifications.
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Offers FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNP certifications.
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Known for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP certifications.
- The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Focuses on adult Acute Care NP certification.
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Specializes in Neonatal NP (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NP (WHNP-BC) certifications.
NP Scope of Practice in Kansas
In the landscape of Nurse Practitioner (NP) practice, Kansas stands out for granting Full Practice status. This status allows NPs the independence to provide comprehensive patient care. NPs in Kansas are authorized to perform patient evaluations, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and manage treatments, including prescribing medications.
Mapping the Landscape of NP Practice Across the States
Kansas' Full Practice status serves as a model in the varying levels of NP practice authority nationwide, as categorized by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP):
- Full Practice: NPs in most states enjoy full practice authority.
- Reduced Practice: In fifteen states NPs must engage in collaborative agreements or supervision for certain practice elements.
- Restricted Practice: Eleven states require NPs to operate under more stringent supervisory requirements.
Understanding this spectrum is essential for NPs planning to practice in different states or considering relocation.
NP Licensure Across the States
While national certification is uniformly required for all NPs, state licensure varies. The APRN Compact aims to simplify these differences, offering a streamlined licensure process in participating states. NPs must ensure their education and certification align with the state nursing board requirements in the states where they intend to practice.
For Nurse Practitioners in Kansas and beyond, grasping the intricacies of both state-specific regulations and national certification is crucial for a successful and adaptable career in a dynamically evolving healthcare landscape. Staying informed and vigilant about these diverse standards is key to navigating the professional journey of an NP.
NP Programs Near Me
Discover NP programs in a state near you:
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