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by
allnurses (Editorial Team / Admin)
Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career or generally curious about the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best NP Programs in Idaho as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.
Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Idaho — 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. Idaho State University
The DNP program at Idaho State University prepares clinical leaders for comprehensive clinical nursing practice that influences healthcare outcomes for individuals or populations. This program is grounded in evidence-based application within a changing healthcare system. It offers degree options in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), catering to students who aim to advance their nursing practice to the highest level.
Program Highlights:
- Degree Options: Offers FNP and PMHNP tracks.
- Clinical Placements: Assistance with clinical placements for required clinical hours.
- Campus Requirements: Students must attend clinical intensives at ISU Pocatello and Meridian campuses 2-4 days each semester for the FNP track. PMHNP students have specific requirements for new student orientation and Health Assessment intensives.
- Admission: Open to students from specific states, including Idaho, with requirements to conduct clinical hours in Idaho or another approved state.
- Curriculum: Both FNP and PMHNP programs are available as BSN-DNP degree programs, with full-time and part-time curriculum options. Post-Master's DNP Degree options are available for certified FNPs and PMHNPs.
- Scholarships: Over $100,000 in scholarships awarded annually by the School of Nursing. Additional scholarship opportunities are available through Idaho State University and external organizations.
2. Boise State University
Boise State University's Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) MSN program prepares nurses to diagnose and care for adults from adolescence through advanced age. This program stands out for its blend of online and on-site learning, ensuring flexibility for working professionals while providing essential hands-on clinical experience.
Program Highlights:
- Affordability: The tuition rate is $890 per credit hour for all students, with no distinction between in-state and out-of-state tuition, subject to additional fees for books, software, travel, etc.
- High Pass Rate: The program boasts a credentialing exam pass rate that far exceeds the national average, with over 99% of students passing their nurse practitioner board exam.
- Flexible Learning Format: Courses are primarily online, combined with four clinical rotations and three on-campus Summer intensives, allowing for significant interaction with peers and faculty.
- Dedicated Clinical Placement Team: A team dedicated to helping students identify preceptors and complete clinicals in their community, enhancing the learning experience and convenience.
- Residency Requirement: While based in Idaho, the AGNP program is available to registered nurses in various states across the US, making it accessible to a wider audience.
3. Northwest Nazarene University
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) offers an MSN degree with a specialization as an FNP, designed to transform nursing careers by opening up a world of opportunities and advancement. The FNP program at NNU equips nurses with the advanced practice skills needed to serve in various specialized areas, significantly impacting patient outcomes and the well-being of communities.
Program Highlights:
- Diverse Career Options: Graduates can pursue specializations beyond the FNP role, including adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, pediatric nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse educator, among others.
- Comprehensive Healthcare Services: The program prepares nurses to assess patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, create patient care plans, and provide comprehensive healthcare services.
- Faith-centered Education: NNU provides a high-quality education rooted in faith, preparing students clinically while instilling values of compassion and comprehensive patient care.
Idaho Nurse Practitioner Program Overview
An NP Program in Idaho 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 Idaho 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 Idaho
NP coursework in Idaho 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 Idaho
Clinical training in Idaho 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 Idaho, 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 Idaho
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.
Idaho Nurse Practitioner Admission Requirements
Students who wish to enroll in an NP Program in Idaho 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.
Idaho NP Program Costs
Pursuing a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in Idaho 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 Idaho, 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 Idaho 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 Idaho, the annual mean NP salary is reported at $124,550, translating to an hourly rate of $58.97. Idaho employs approximately 1,130 nurse practitioners, positioning the state within the 25th 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 an NP in Idaho?
Deciding whether an NP Program in Idaho is worth it requires considering its various advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of NP Programs in Idaho
- Growing Demand for Healthcare Services: With an aging population and the ongoing expansion of healthcare services, the demand for Nurse Practitioners is expected to grow, not just in Idaho but nationwide. This growth translates into job security and numerous employment opportunities.
- Competitive Salaries: Nurse Practitioners generally earn higher salaries compared to Registered Nurses (RNs), reflecting their advanced level of education and scope of practice. In Idaho, the potential for a lucrative career is a significant advantage.
- Expanded Scope of Practice: Idaho allows Nurse Practitioners a relatively broad scope of practice, including the ability to diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and perform certain procedures. This autonomy can lead to a more satisfying and diverse career.
- Opportunity to Specialize: NP programs offer various specializations, such as family practice, psychiatry, or pediatrics, allowing nurses to pursue careers in areas that match their interests and passions.
- Positive Impact on Community Health: NPs play a crucial role in improving healthcare access, especially in rural and underserved areas. By becoming an NP, you can make a significant impact on the health and well-being of communities in Idaho.
Cons of NP Programs in Idaho
- Cost of Education: Pursuing an NP degree can be expensive, with costs including tuition, books, and fees. The financial investment is a significant consideration for many prospective students.
- Time Commitment: NP programs are rigorous and time-consuming, often requiring several years of study beyond the RN level. This commitment can be challenging, especially for those balancing work and family responsibilities.
- State-specific Licensing Requirements: While Idaho offers a broad scope of practice, licensing and practice regulations can vary significantly from state to state. This variability can pose challenges if you plan to move or practice in a different state.
- Pressure and Responsibility: NPs bear a high level of responsibility in diagnosing and managing patient care, which can be both stressful and demanding. The role requires strong decision-making skills and the ability to work under pressure.
- Competition for Programs: With the growing interest in NP careers, admission to NP programs can be competitive. Prospective students may face challenges in securing a spot in their desired program or specialization.
Ultimately, whether an NP Program in Idaho is worth it depends on your career goals, financial situation, and value placed on its pros on cons. If advanced practice nursing and higher salary expectations are important to you, then an NP Program in Idaho is certainly worth it.
Idaho Nurse Practitioner Program Accreditation
Attending an accredited NP Program in Idaho is important for several reasons:
- Quality Assurance: Accreditation guarantees that the program adheres to stringent standards in education, curriculum, faculty expertise, and student support services. This rigorous process ensures that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern healthcare practice.
- Eligibility for Certification and Licensure: Completing an accredited program is typically required to sit for national certification exams and to obtain state licensure as an NP. Lacking accreditation, graduates might encounter significant obstacles in starting their practice.
- Employment Opportunities: Employers often show a strong preference for, or exclusively hire, graduates from accredited programs. This preference is due to the assurance that candidates have received a quality education that prepares them for the demands of advanced practice roles.
- Professional Development: Accredited programs offer students the latest advancements in nursing education, research, and clinical practice, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.
- Educational and Career Progression: Degrees and credits earned from accredited programs are recognized and respected by other educational institutions and professional organizations, which is crucial for nurses looking to further their education or specialize in a particular area.
In Idaho, accrediting bodies like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are instrumental in upholding the high standards of NP programs. Their oversight ensures that nursing education meets the evolving needs of the healthcare system, thereby safeguarding the quality of care provided to patients.
Idaho NP Licensure & Certification
As you pursue your career as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Idaho, understanding both national certification requirements and Idaho-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 Idaho, 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 Idaho
The Idaho Board of Nursing (BON) grants NPs Full Practice status, allowing them full independence in patient care. Idaho NPs can evaluate patients, diagnose, order and interpret tests, and prescribe treatments and medications.
Mapping the Landscape of NP Practice Across the States
Idaho' 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 Idaho 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: