Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Memphis, Tennessee | 2024

Memphis 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 Memphis

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 Tennessee Health Science Center 

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program through its College of Nursing, designed to prepare Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) for roles as Nurse Practitioners. The program is aimed at baccalaureate or higher degree holders in nursing and certified master's-prepared NPs seeking to complete their DNP degree.

Program Highlights:

• DNP NP Concentrations: The program offers a wide range of concentrations including Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, FNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and dual concentrations in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care/Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health/Family Nurse Practitioner, and Pediatric Acute Care/Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.
• Program Delivery: The DNP core courses are offered via distance education, with nurse anesthesiology specialty courses primarily offered in the traditional classroom setting. Limited on-campus activities are required for all concentrations.
• Clinical Experiences: An integral component of every concentration, clinical placements are facilitated by faculty with the support of the DNP Clinical Coordinator in collaboration with the student and preceptor. Distant student clinical placements typically require minimal travel from the student's residence.
• Tuition Rates: Annual tuition for 2024 is $10,962 for TN residents and $11,880 for non-residents. 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Admission Requirements:

• Baccalaureate or higher degree in nursing
• Certified master's-prepared Nurse Practitioners may also complete the DNP degree
• Both full-time and part-time study options are available depending on the concentration
• Unencumbered Tennessee RN license or authority to practice as an RN via the multi-state privilege at the time of application
• Application Deadline: April 1st for a fall program start. 

Graduates of the DNP Program will demonstrate proficient clinical reasoning in advanced nursing practice, lead within healthcare systems to deliver safe, quality care for diverse populations, disseminate findings from evidence-based practice and research, and advocate for social justice and equity through strategic initiatives to influence public policy.

2. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) through its Loewenberg College of Nursing. This program is delivered entirely online, with on-campus intensives, and is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses to deliver primary health care to individuals and families across all ages and throughout the lifespan.

Program Highlights:

• Program Length: The MSN FNP program consists of 46 credit hours.
• Clinical Hours: Students will complete clinical hours as part of their training.
• Instruction Method: Fully online with on-campus intensives.
• Admission Criteria: Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, a minimum GPA of 2.8, and an active RN license. The GRE is not required for admission.
• Tuition Rates: $623 per credit hour (TN residents), $846 per credit hour (non-residents)
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
• 2.8 GPA (minimum) 
• Active unencumbered RN license 
• Application Deadlines: July 1 for Fall entry and December 1 for Spring entry.

The program aims to fill the gap left by the diminishing availability of primary care physicians by equipping nurses with the knowledge and clinical skills necessary for health promotion, disease prevention, assessment, and management of common acute and chronic illnesses.

3. Baptist Health Sciences University

Baptist Health Sciences University offers a DNP degree, recognized as the terminal degree for advanced nursing practice. This program is designed for nurses aiming to pursue a career as an Adult Nurse Practitioner, with two population-focused program concentrations available: Acute Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and Primary Care Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. 

Program Highlights:

• Pathways: BSN to DNP and Post-Master's to DNP.
• Credit & Clinical Requirements: BSN to DNP students will need to complete 66 credit hours and 1,366 clinical hours to complete the programs. MSN to DNP student's curriculum will be dependent upon previous MSN coursework completed. 
• Program Duration: Full-time completion in three years, part-time completion in four years.
• Tuition Rates: $673 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) 

Admission Requirements:

• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 preferred 
• Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing or Master of Science in Nursing (pathway dependent)
• Active unencumbered Tennessee RN or APRN license (pathway dependent)
• Application Deadline:
  • BSN to DNP cohort starts each January with an admissions deadline of August 1st.
  • MSN to DNP cohort starts each September with an admissions deadline of May 1st.

Why Choose Baptist University for DNP?

• Faith-Based Atmosphere: The program is conducted in a faith-based environment, emphasizing moral and ethical values in nursing practice.
• Small Class Sizes: Ensures personalized attention and mentorship from faculty.
• Partnership with Baptist Memorial Health Care System: Offers unique clinical and career opportunities within a leading healthcare system.
• Flexible Study Options: Both full-time and part-time study options are available to accommodate the needs of working professionals.
• High Success Rates: The program boasts an 89% certification pass rate and a 100% job placement rate for its graduates.

Graduates can pursue career opportunities in various settings, including inpatient hospitals (hospitalist roles), intensive care (intensivist roles), emergency departments, adult primary care, women's health, long-term care, palliative care, and numerous specialties.

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 Memphis

NP coursework in Memphis 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 Memphis

NP clinical training in Memphis 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 Memphis

Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Memphis 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 & Financial Aid

The financial commitment to Nurse Practitioner (NP) education is multifaceted, with costs fluctuating based on factors like the chosen specialization, the length of the program, the degree pursued, among others. Below are several aspects to consider:

• Nursing School Tuition: Tuition is the cornerstone of educational expenses in NP programs, varying widely between public and private institutions and contingent upon whether the student qualifies for in-state tuition. The fee structure may be based on per-credit-hour pricing or a flat rate per term.
• Institutional Charges: Students may face an array of supplementary costs issued by the school, which could encompass application and enrollment fees, as well as charges for utilizing campus facilities, such as computer labs and simulation labs. These additional costs can notably raise the total financial outlay of NP education.
• Study Materials and Supplies: The price tag for course textbooks and necessary medical supplies, including medical instruments like stethoscopes or attire such as lab coats, can add up to a significant amount.
• Clinical Training Expenses: Certain NP programs require students to shoulder expenses tied to their clinical placements, which might encompass travel costs, especially if the clinical sites are not in close proximity to the student's home or the university.
• APRN Certification and Licensure Expenses: NP graduates must pass a certification exam, which carries its own fee. Additionally, there are costs associated with obtaining the requisite license to practice.
• Living Expenses: For full-time students, living expenses such as housing, food, and commuting can be substantial, especially as intensive study may limit the ability to earn income.

Financial Aid Insights:

• Financial Support Avenues: To mitigate the costs of NP programs, students frequently seek financial aid. This can come in the form of federal and state grants, loans, work-study arrangements, and scholarships targeted toward NP students. It's critical to explore all financial aid avenues and apply early to improve the likelihood of obtaining funding.
• Scholarships and Grants: Scholarships and grants represent important financial resources for NP students. A multitude of entities, including healthcare organizations, professional bodies, and community groups, provide scholarships for NP students. Proactive research and application for these financial aids can help reduce educational expenses.
• Loan Details: For those considering loans, understanding the borrowing terms is paramount. Federal loans generally offer more favorable interest rates and repayment terms in comparison to private loans. Students should borrow judiciously and fully comprehend repayment plans before committing to loans.

By meticulously evaluating these financial factors and preparing in advance, students can navigate the economic aspects of their NP education and adequately plan for the associated costs.

NP Salary Expectations in Memphis

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median national salary for NPs is $124,680, or $59.94 per hour. 

 In Tennessee, NPs earn an average annual income of $99,330 or $47.75 per hour. The state boasts approximately 13,060 nurse practitioners, surpassing the national average.

The top-paying states for NPs are:

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

Industries with the highest levels of employment for NPs include:

• Offices of Physicians: 122,830 employed
• General Medical and 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

Future Employment Outlook for NPs

The employment landscape for Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners (APRNs) is set for significant growth, as per data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As of 2022, these professions collectively encompass 323,900 roles. Looking ahead to 2032, a robust 38% increase in job opportunities is projected, resulting in an additional 123,600 openings for APRNs.

This surge in demand for healthcare roles is largely attributed to several key factors, with an expanding and aging population at the forefront. The inception of the Nurse Practitioner role in the 1960s was primarily created to meet the access to care gap in the pediatric population. Since then, the scope of this role has broadened significantly, now encompassing varied patient demographics, notably in mental health and geriatric care. As the population continues to grow and age and the need for diverse healthcare services rises, and the scope and importance of Nurse Practitioners are expected to grow correspondingly.

Are NP Programs in Memphis Worth It?

Whether an NP Program is worth it in Memphis 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 Memphis

• 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 Memphis

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.

Tennessee NP Scope of Practice

If you're considering becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Tennessee, it's crucial to understand the state's specific practice regulations. Unlike states where NPs enjoy full autonomy, Tennessee imposes limitations on NP practices, requiring NPs to work under oversight, delegation, or within a team led by another healthcare professional.

This restricted status in Tennessee can present challenges for NPs seeking opportunities in states like New York, Maryland, or Washington, which offer full practice rights to NPs. However, choosing a program in a restricted practice state like Tennessee does not necessarily limit your qualifications for practicing in a full-practice state. Be sure to research your chosen NP Program in Tennessee to ensure it aligns with your long-term career goals and potential geographical mobility.

It's essential for aspiring NPs like you to carefully consider the implications of state-specific regulations on your career trajectory, especially if you plan to practice in different states. Currently, only eleven states, including Tennessee, enforce restricted NP practice, while most others offer more liberal practice conditions.

States identified with restricted NP practice are: TX, CA, OK, MO, MI, TN, VA, NC, SC, GA, and FL. This list underscores the importance of considering both current and future practice locations when selecting an NP Program.

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 some states, 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:

• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can nursing students with an associate degree enroll directly in NP programs in Memphis?

Nursing students with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) typically need to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) before enrolling in NP programs. However, some institutions offer RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN bridge programs specifically designed to facilitate this transition for ADN-prepared nurses.

Q: What are the pass rates for NP Program graduates taking certification exams in Memphis?

Pass rates can vary by program and year. Prospective students should inquire directly with their chosen institution for the most recent pass rates of graduates on national certification exams. High pass rates often indicate a strong program that effectively prepares its students for advanced practice nursing roles.

Q: Are there any NP programs in Memphis that offer online programs for out-of-state students?

Several NP programs in Memphis offer online coursework that can accommodate out-of-state students. However, clinical practicum requirements typically need to be completed in-person, and arrangements may vary based on the student's location and the program's partnerships with healthcare facilities.

Q: How does the Tennessee Board of Nursing impact NP programs and licensure for graduates?

The Tennessee Board of Nursing sets the standards for nursing practice and education within the state, including NP programs. Graduates must meet the Board's requirements to be licensed as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Tennessee. This includes completing an accredited NP Program and passing a national certification exam in their specialty area.

Q: What are the typical admission requirements for NP programs in Memphis, and do they offer part-time and full-time enrollment options?

Admission requirements for NP programs in Memphis generally include holding a BSN degree, an unencumbered RN license, a minimum GPA (often around 3.0), and specific undergraduate coursework. Many programs also require letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. Most NP programs offer both full-time and part-time enrollment options to accommodate students' varying needs, including working professionals seeking to advance their education while continuing employment.