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by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)
Iowa 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 Iowa — 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 Iowa - Iowa City
The University of Iowa presents a diverse array of nurse practitioner programs, including six BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) NP specializations and nine dual NP concentration tracks. Additionally, for those already holding a non-APRN MSN, the university offers six tailored MSN to DNP pathways and a selection of post-graduate certificates.
Graduates from these programs emerge with the ability to apply core scientific principles to nursing, lead in organizational and healthcare systems, implement evidence-based practices, and utilize technology to transform patient care. They also gain the skills necessary for health policy advocacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, population health management, and specialized clinical practice.
BSN to DNP NP Program Overview:
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NP Specialties & Program Requirements
- AGAC NP; 75 credit hours; 1,090 clinical hours
- AGPC NP; 79 credit hours; 1,000 clinical hours
- FNP; 83 credit hours, 1,000 clinical hours
- PNP Acute Care; 78 credit hours; 1,090
- PNP Primary Care; 77 credit hours, 1,000 clinical hours
- PMHNP; 76 credit hours; 1,000 clinical hours
- Duration: All the single NP specialties can be completed in 3-4 years depending on part or full-time study plans.
- Tuition Rates: $518 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The MSN to DNP program specialties offered are the same however they will require different credit and clinical hours based on your previous degree.
Program Highlights:
- Mode of Delivery: Hybrid format combining online and on-campus classes.
- Class Size: Limited to 24 students, ensuring personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.
- Job Placement Rate: 100%, reflecting the high demand for program graduates.
- Length: Offers both a 3-Year and a 4-Year Plan of Study to accommodate different student needs.
- Application Deadline: February 1st.
2. Morningside University - Sioux City
Morningside University's acclaimed Master of Science in Nursing program offers three distinct Nurse Practitioner concentrations. Students enrolled in these programs benefit from curriculum that integrates evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the latest in healthcare technology. Graduates are prepared to lead and innovate in a variety of healthcare settings.
BSN to MSN NP Program Overview:
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NP Specialties and Program Requirements:
- FNP; 47 credit hours; 600 clinical hours
- AGPCNP; 46 credit hours; 600 clinical hours
- ACACNP; 46 credit hours; 750 clinical hours
- Duration: The MSN NP pathways can be completed in as little as 4 semesters.
- Mode: Primarily online with in-person clinicals
- Tuition: $635 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Program Highlights:
- Career Integration: Designed to complement ongoing careers, allowing students to maintain their professional roles while enrolled.
- Flexible Online Learning: Courses are delivered online by professional faculty, offering practical education with adaptability to student schedules.
- Affordable Tuition: Morningside boasts one of the lowest graduate tuition rates in the nation, enhancing accessibility.
3. Clarke University - Dubuque
Clarke University's DNP program offers a unique and personalized approach to advancing nursing practice, focusing on improving patient outcomes through evidence-based practice. The program is designed to enhance the skills and abilities of nurses to care for the whole person, preparing them for a variety of roles in the healthcare industry. DNP students at Clarke University have the option to choose from Family NP or Psychiatric NP concentrations.
BSN to DNP NP Program Overview:
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NP Specialties and Program Requirements:
- FNP; 83 credit hours
- PMHNP; 81 credit hours
- Clinical Hours: 1,000 with a focus on the concentration you choose.
- Duration: 3 years at a full-time pace or 5 years at a part-time pace.
- Tuition: $875 per credit hour
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Key Features of the Program:
- Cohort Size: Limited to 20 students, ensuring personalized attention and support from faculty known for their professional experience and dedication to teaching.
- Clinical Placement Options: Options available near Dubuque, Iowa, or across the country.
- Certification Pass Rate: DNP students have an average 100% pass rate on national certification boards.
- Job Placement Rate: Licensed DNP graduates enjoy a 100% job placement rate in clinics and health centers nationwide.
4. Briar Cliff University - Sioux City
Briar Cliff University's NP Program is designed for nurses aiming to advance their careers by specializing as FNPs, Primary Care AGNPs, or PMHNPs. These programs are part of Briar Cliff University's long tradition of nursing excellence, evolving from its founding in 1930 to offer highly sought online and graduate nursing degrees.
BSN to MSN NP Program Overview:
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NP Specialties and Credit Requirements:
- FNP; 54 credit hours
- PMHNP; 52 credit hours
- AGPCNP; 51 credit hours
- Clinical Hours: 750 with a focus on the concentration you choose.
- Duration: 3 years at a part-time pace
- Tuition: $585 per credit hour, with an estimated annual tuition of $10,530
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Program Highlights:
- GRE and Thesis Requirements: The GRE is not required for admission, and no thesis is required to obtain the master's degree.
- Online Courses: The Master of Science in Nursing is a three-year part-time program with coursework primarily online, except for the Summer health assessment course and clinicals. FNP & AGNP students must attend 6 mandatory on-site days at the BCU campus.
- Clinical Experience: Emphasizes experience in rural, underserved, or multicultural settings to provide primary care to those most in need.
- Faculty Support: Despite being an online program, BCU ensures a personal touch with caring, veteran faculty mentors available for support throughout the program.
5. Allen College - Waterloo
Allen College offers a seamless transition from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to a DNP, as well as an MSN program. These programs emphasize the development of skilled, compassionate nurses who are prepared to meet the challenges of the healthcare industry. With a focus on both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality care and take on leadership roles within the healthcare sector. Post-graduate certificates are also available, with specializations in:
BSN to NP Program Overview:
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NP Specialties
- Acute Care PNP
- Acute Care AGNP
- FNP
- PMHNP
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Credit Hours:
- MSN NP requires 45 credit hours for all NP specialties
- DNP NP requires 68 credit hours for all NP specialties
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Duration:
- MSN NP will take just under 3 years at a full-time pace of 4 years at a part-time pace
- DNP NP will take 3 years at a full-time pace or 4-5 years at a part-time pace
- Tuition: $28,440 estimated annual tuition
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
APRN MSN-prepared nurses have the opportunity to pursue various specialties through post-graduate certificate programs. Additionally, the college offers pathways to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for both ADN-prepared and MSN-prepared nurses, ensuring options for every nurse, regardless of where they are in their professional journey.
Iowa Nurse Practitioner Program Overview
An NP Program in Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa
NP coursework in Iowa 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 Iowa
Clinical training in Iowa 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 Iowa, 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 Iowa
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.
Iowa Nurse Practitioner Admission Requirements
Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Iowa 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 nurse practitioner program you're interested in, as they may have additional criteria or variations in their admission process.
Iowa NP Program Costs
Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Iowa 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 Iowa, 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 Iowa 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 Iowa, the annual mean NP salary is reported above the national average at $130,820, translating to an hourly rate of $62.89. Iowa employs approximately 2,620 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 Iowa?
Whether an NP Program is worth it in Iowa 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 Iowa
- 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 Iowa
- 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).
Iowa NP Scope of Practice Regulations
As a prospective Nurse Practitioner (NP), it's important to understand the practice regulations in Iowa. NPs in Iowa have Full Practice authority, allowing them to independently conduct patient assessments, diagnose conditions, order and interpret tests, and manage patient care, including prescribing medications and controlled substances. This autonomy is supported by national healthcare and nursing organizations.
Education for NPs in such states is typically comprehensive, preparing nurses for diverse practice environments across states with varying levels of practice authority. However, NPs must ensure that their training meets the practice regulations of the state where they plan to work.
Understanding state-specific NP practice laws is crucial for those pursuing an NP career, especially considering the differences in practice autonomy between states. For example, while Iowa and Minnesota offer full practice rights, other states may require NPs to maintain collaborative or supervisory agreements with physicians.
Currently, several states, including Iowa, grant NPs full practice rights, in contrast to states that require physician oversight. Prospective NPs should align their education with their career goals and the practice authority of the state where they plan to work.
NP Programs Near Me
Discover NP programs in a state near you: