4 Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Kansas | 2024

Take your nursing career to the next level with the best Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs in Kansas. Programs

Kansas best nurse practitioner programs
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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 NP Programs in Kansas

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.
 

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 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.

NP Clinical Training in Kansas

NP clinical training in Kansas 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 Kansas

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: 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 in Kansas

Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Kansas entails various expenses, which vary by program and degree type. Here's a simplified overview of these financial factors:

  • Tuition Fees: This primary expense varies by institution type and residency status. Residents and public school students typically pay lower fees. NP programs may charge tuition per credit hour or by term.
  • Educational Materials: Costs for textbooks and medical equipment like stethoscopes and lab coats add to the total expense.
  • Clinical Placement Costs: Additional expenses may arise from travel to clinical rotation sites, especially if they are far from the student's home or campus.
  • Certification and Licensing: After graduation, NPs face costs for certification exams and licensing fees, which are essential to start practicing.
  • Additional School Fees: These include expenses for lab usage, application fees, and other school services.
  • Living Costs: Full-time studies can significantly impact living expenses and the ability to work, necessitating thorough financial planning.

Financial Aid for NP Students in Kansas

To manage these costs, students should explore various financial aid options such as grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships. Early application increases the chances of obtaining substantial funding. Scholarships and grants, often offered by healthcare organizations and educational institutions, can significantly reduce education-related expenses. Additionally, federal loans are typically a better option than private loans due to their favorable terms. It's essential to understand loan agreements and plan for repayment. By carefully considering these aspects, NP students in Kansas can effectively navigate and manage the financial aspects of their education.

NP Salary Expectations in Kansas

Based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national median salary for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) stands at $124,680 annually, equivalent to $59.94 per hour. In Kansas, the annual mean NP salary is reported at $111,670, translating to an hourly rate of $53.69. Kansas employs approximately 3,070 nurse practitioners, positioning the state within the 25th-50th percentile for NP employment.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

  • California: $158,130
  • New Jersey: $143,250
  • Massachusetts: $138,700
  • Oregon: $136,250
  • Nevada: $136,230

The BLS doesn't specify NP specialties, but according to ZipRecruiter, 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

Industries with the highest levels of employment for NPs include:

  • Offices of Physicians: 122,830 employed
  • General Medical & 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 Kansas Worth It?

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

  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.

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:

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.

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

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What role does informatics play in the NP curriculum in Kansas?

Informatics is increasingly integral to NP programs in Kansas, equipping students with the skills to use digital tools and data management systems effectively. This training helps future NPs analyze patient data, improve healthcare delivery, and implement evidence-based practices within various healthcare settings.

Q: Can I pursue a certificate program if I'm already an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Kansas?

APRNs in Kansas have the opportunity to enroll in certificate programs to specialize further or update their skills in specific areas of interest. These programs are designed to provide focused, advanced training beyond the initial APRN preparation, allowing nurses to meet evolving healthcare needs and patient populations across the lifespan.

Q: How does the Department of Nursing ensure the quality of NP programs in Kansas?

The Department of Nursing in Kansas universities collaborates closely with accrediting bodies to maintain high educational standards. Through rigorous curriculum development, faculty qualifications, and clinical training opportunities, these departments ensure that NP programs provide comprehensive, evidence-based education for nursing students.

Q: What are the enrollment options for NP programs in Kansas? Can I study part-time?

NP programs in Kansas offer flexible enrollment options, including full-time and part-time study paths. Part-time programs are particularly beneficial for working nurses who need to balance their professional responsibilities with their educational pursuits. This flexibility allows students to progress through the program at a pace that suits their personal and professional commitments.

Q: How many clinical hours are required for NP programs in Kansas, and can they be completed on-campus?

NP programs in Kansas typically require between 500 to 1,000 clinical hours, depending on the specific program and specialty. While most clinical hours are completed off-campus in healthcare settings under the supervision of qualified preceptors, some programs may offer on-campus simulation labs to supplement clinical learning. These simulations provide controlled environments where students can practice and refine their skills before applying them in real-world settings.

Erin Lee

About Erin Lee, BSN, RN

Editorial Team / Admin

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

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