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by
Erin Lee, BSN, RN (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 Hawaii as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.
Best NP Programs in Hawaii 2025— 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 Hawaii at Manoa
The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a DNP program through the Nancy Atmospera-Walch School of Nursing, designed to meet the demand for a highly competent nursing workforce in Hawaii. This program aims to ensure the delivery of safe, quality nursing care by equipping students with advanced skills in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership.
Program Highlights:
- Specializations: The DNP program offers specializations in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner for RNs with a bachelor's degree or higher. There are also Post-Master's options in PMHNP and Organizational Leadership for APRNs or RNs with a master's degree or higher.
- Cohort Model: Students enter and progress through the program as part of a cohort, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Flexible Delivery: Courses are offered in face-to-face sessions, online, and/or blended delivery formats to accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules.
- DNP Project: A key component of the program is the completion of a Doctor of Nursing Practice project, which is the culminating evidence-based practice requirement demonstrating the integration of the program's core competencies.
- Board Certification: For FNP, AGPCNP, or PMHNP Programs, students are eligible to take the board certification examination in the last semester of the program, preparing them for immediate entry into practice.
- Accreditation and Competencies: The program is accredited through the CCNE and is structured around the AACN Essentials for Doctoral Education for Advanced Nursing Practice, NONPF Nurse Practitioner Core Competencies, and the AACN Common Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Doctoral-Level Competencies, ensuring graduates meet national standards for advanced nursing practice.
2. University of Hawaii at Hilo
The University of Hawaii at Hilo offers a DNP program through its School of Nursing, preparing nurses at an advanced level of nursing science. The program emphasizes the development of students' capacity to impact clinical settings as leaders and educators and to utilize clinical research to improve and transform healthcare.
Program Highlights:
- Curriculum: Based on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) essentials of Doctoral education for Advanced Practice Nurses, the curriculum includes lectures, seminars, laboratory simulations, and site visits to rural communities.
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Students engage in research methods and evidence-based practice, including data analysis, research critique, and the formulation and evaluation of a practice inquiry research project.
- Specialization: The program is offered as an FNP with focuses on Gerontological Nursing, Transcultural Nursing, and Rural Health Care.
- Clinical Hours: The program includes 655 clinical hours, providing students with hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
- Program Length: The DNP program offers two entry points: Post-Baccalaureate (BSN to DNP) and Post-Master's (MSN to DNP), with the BSN to DNP pathway requiring 71-73 credits and the MSN to DNP pathway requiring 38-40 credits.
- Accreditation: The NP programs are all accredited through the CCNE.
3. Hawaii Pacific University
Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) offers an MSN with a specialization in FNP, resulting in nurses capable of diagnosing and treating patients across the lifespan in a variety of settings, including doctors' offices, clinics, and hospitals.
Program Highlights:
- Program Format: The MSN-FNP program at HPU is available both on-campus and online, offering flexibility to accommodate the needs of working professionals. The program includes face-to-face classes, many of which are augmented with online and hybrid formats.
- Curriculum: The 45-credit program covers all ages across the lifespan, making the FNP certification highly marketable. The curriculum includes core MSN courses taken in the first year and FNP track-specific courses taken after completion of the core courses.
- Clinical Practicum: The program requires completion of practicum placements, with the FNP coordinator assisting in securing practicum sites. Students are also encouraged to locate practicum sites, which can be completed in the Summer.
- Learning Outcomes: Graduates are expected to demonstrate advanced clinical practice, evidence-based practice, transformational leadership, professionalism/ethics, quality improvement/safety, health policy and advocacy, interprofessional collaboration, and transcultural care.
- Accreditation: The MSN-FNP program is fully accredited by the CCNE.
What Is an NP Program in Hawaii?
An NP Program in Hawaii is a graduate-level educational pathway designed to prepare registered nurses (RNs) for advanced practice nursing roles. These programs equip nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality healthcare services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various health conditions across different patient populations. NP programs in Hawaii lead to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or a Post-Master's Certificate, depending on the nurse's previous education and career objectives.
NPs in Hawaii can specialize in several areas, such as Family Practice (FNP), Adult-Gerontology (AGNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric-Mental Health (PMHNP), and more. These specializations allow NPs to focus their practice on specific patient populations or healthcare needs.
Hawaii NP Coursework
NP coursework in Hawaii builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in undergraduate nursing education and clinical practice. While the specific courses may vary depending on the program and specialization, common coursework includes:
- Advanced Pathophysiology: In-depth study of disease processes and their effects on the body across the lifespan.
- Advanced Pharmacology: Comprehensive coverage of pharmacological principles, drug therapy across the lifespan, and the legal aspects of prescribing.
- Advanced Health Assessment: Techniques for conducting thorough physical and psychosocial assessments, including diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making.
- Primary Care: Principles and practices of primary healthcare, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, and management of common health problems.
- Specialty-Specific Courses: Depending on the NP's chosen specialization, courses may focus on specific populations (e.g., pediatrics, adults, women's health) or areas of practice (e.g., psychiatric-mental health).
- Health Policy and Ethics: Examination of healthcare policies, ethics, and legal issues affecting advanced nursing practice.
Hawaii NP Clinical Training
Clinical training is a crucial component of NP programs in Hawaii, providing hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing patient care under the supervision of experienced healthcare providers. Requirements vary by program but generally include:
- Diverse Clinical Rotations: Experiences in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, primary care clinics, specialty clinics, and community health centers.
- Specialty Practice: Clinical rotations specific to the NP's area of specialization, allowing for focused practice and skill development in areas such as family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatric-mental health.
- Patient Care Across the Lifespan: Opportunities to care for patients from infancy through older adulthood, depending on the NP's chosen specialization.
- Interprofessional Collaboration: Experiences working as part of a healthcare team, including physicians, pharmacists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals.
Hawaii NP Program Requirements
Once admitted, students in NP programs in Hawaii must fulfill the following requirements to graduate and obtain certification:
- Completion of Graduate-Level Coursework: This includes both core advanced nursing courses and specialized courses related to the NP's area of focus.
- Clinical Hours: A significant number of supervised clinical hours in relevant healthcare settings are required. The exact number can vary by program but typically ranges from 500 to 1,000 hours.
- Capstone or Thesis Project: Some programs may require a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates the integration of coursework and clinical learning in addressing a practical issue in advanced nursing practice.
- Certification Exam: Graduates must pass a national certification exam in their specialty area, such as the FNP exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
- State Licensure: After passing the certification exam, graduates must apply for state licensure as an NP in Hawaii, which includes submitting proof of education, certification, and possibly additional requirements as mandated by the Hawaii Board of Nursing.
Hawaii NP Program Admission Requirements
NP programs in Hawaii involve specific prerequisites and requirements to ensure candidates are ready for the level of academic and professional rigor that comes with the role. Before applying to an NP Program in Hawaii, candidates typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Applicants must hold a BSN degree from an accredited nursing program. Some programs may also accept applicants with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, provided they complete certain prerequisite nursing courses.
- RN License: A current, unrestricted RN license in the state of Hawaii or the ability to obtain licensure in Hawaii is required.
- Clinical Experience: Most NP programs require applicants to have a certain amount of clinical experience, often one to two years, as an RN. Experience in a field related to the NP specialization of interest may be preferred.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum undergraduate GPA, usually around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, is typically required for admission.
- Prerequisite Courses: Completion of specific undergraduate or graduate courses may be required, such as statistics, research methods, and health assessment.
- Letters of Recommendation: Letters from professional references, often including at least one from a current or recent supervisor, are usually required.
- Personal Statement: A written statement of professional goals and reasons for pursuing an NP career may be required.
- Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the application process.
NP Responsibilities & Specialties in Hawaii
Key Responsibilities of Nurse Practitioners:
- Perform comprehensive assessments of patients' physical health.
- Initiate and analyze diagnostic tests, including X-rays and lab tests.
- Identify and manage a broad spectrum of health issues, from acute conditions to chronic diseases.
- Prescribe medications and develop comprehensive treatment plans.
- Educate patients on preventive health practices, effective treatment alternatives, and self-management techniques.
The roles and responsibilities of NPs can vary significantly depending on several factors, most notably the chosen specialty.
NP Specialties in Hawaii
Nurse practitioners in Hawaii can choose from various specialties, each offering unique contributions to healthcare. Some of the most common specializations include:
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs deliver holistic, family-centered healthcare, providing comprehensive care to patients of all ages. They are crucial in promoting disease prevention and health management, far exceeding typical care duties. As advocates for overall health, FNPs engage deeply with patients to encourage a comprehensive approach to wellness.
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs address the healthcare needs of adults as they age, from young adulthood to those over 65. Proficient in managing both acute and chronic conditions, they emphasize preventive care and personalized patient education. AGNPs are vital for promoting healthy aging and addressing the unique health challenges of older adults.
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs are at the forefront of addressing mental health issues, providing extensive care that includes assessment, therapy, and advocacy. They play a key role in destigmatizing mental health and enhancing community mental wellness. PMHNPs ensure comprehensive support for individuals facing mental health challenges, significantly advancing mental health care.
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs specialize in women's health, offering tailored care throughout the various stages of a woman's life. They are essential in reproductive health and address specific gynecological issues. WHNPs support women from their reproductive years through menopause, focusing on education and preventive health to enhance overall well-being.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs specialize in the care of newborns, especially those who are premature or have significant health issues. They are crucial members of neonatal intensive care teams, providing specialized care tailored to each infant's specific needs. NNPs also provide substantial support to families, offering both medical expertise and emotional reassurance.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs focus on the healthcare needs of children from birth through adolescence. They extend beyond treating immediate illnesses to perform developmental screenings and promote healthy lifestyles, such as proper nutrition and disease prevention. PNPs are pivotal in advancing pediatric health and serve as trusted advisors to families, aiding in the growth and development of children.
Each specialization enables Nurse Practitioners to sharpen their skills and knowledge in specific health areas, advocating for preventive care and patient education, and playing a critical role in the holistic well-being of their patients. By choosing a specialization, Nurse Practitioners enhance their ability to provide superior patient care and outcomes.
Cost of NP Programs in Hawaii
The financial aspects of Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs in Hawaii vary depending on factors such as the educational institution, the format of the program, and its specific location. Here is a detailed breakdown of the primary financial considerations:
- Tuition: Typically the largest expense, public universities in Hawaii usually offer lower tuition rates than private institutions. Tuition fees can vary significantly, particularly between in-state and out-of-state students, and are generally charged per credit hour or per semester.
- Fees: These can include application fees, registration fees, technology fees, and lab fees, all of which can significantly add to the total cost of the education.
- Books and Supplies: Essential items such as textbooks, medical equipment, and uniforms are necessary and can represent a substantial expense throughout the program.
- Clinical Expenses: These may include travel costs if clinical placements are not conveniently located near the student's home or campus.
- Certification and Licensing: After graduation, students must budget for costs related to certification exams and state licensure fees.
- Living Costs: Expenses for housing, food, and transportation are considerable, especially for full-time students who may have limited opportunities to earn income.
- Additional Costs: Other potential expenses might include health insurance, maintaining technology, travel for campus visits, and ongoing education to maintain licensure.
To help manage these costs, students are encouraged to explore financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, which can help alleviate the financial burden. It is also wise for prospective students to research and choose the Most Affordable NP Programs of 2025 to make informed decisions. For accurate and up-to-date information on program costs, students should directly contact the educational institutions.
2025 Hawaii NP Salary Expectations
According to the most recent salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average NP salary in Hawaii is $132,610, higher than the national average of $124,680. Per the most recent reports there are approximately 510 NPs employed in Hawaii, lower than the national average.
The top-paying states for NPs are:
- California: $161,540
- Nevada: $148,670
- Washington: $145,400
- New Jersey: $145,030
- Oregon: $144,950
Comparatively, ZipRecruiter reports an average annual salary of $126,600 in Hawaii. The
The top-paying cities in Hawaii for NPs are:
- Maui: $140,495
- Waipahu: $135,666
- Pearl City: $133,972
- Kahului: $132,811
- Mililani Town: $132,047
Earnings can be influenced by educational background, years of professional experience, employer, demand for NP specialty, working hours, and more. To get a clearer picture of potential earnings, it's important to consider your specific situation and the compensation structure of your employer.
Are NP Programs Worth It in Hawaii?
Deciding whether an NP Program in Hawaii is worth it requires considering its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of NP Programs in Hawaii
- High Demand for Healthcare Services: Hawaii, like many places, has a growing demand for healthcare services, especially in rural and underserved areas. NPs play a crucial role in meeting this demand, providing primary and specialized care to diverse populations.
- Competitive Salaries: Due to the high demand and the cost of living in Hawaii, NPs can expect competitive salaries compared to many other regions. This potential for a lucrative career can make the investment in education worthwhile.
- Scope of Practice: Hawaii allows NPs a broad scope of practice, including prescribing medications and operating independently in certain settings. This level of autonomy can lead to a more fulfilling career with diverse opportunities.
- Opportunities for Specialization: NP programs in Hawaii offer various specializations, such as family health, psychiatric-mental health, and pediatrics, allowing nurses to pursue careers tailored to their interests and passions.
- Impact on Community Health: NPs have a significant impact on community health, improving access to care and contributing to better health outcomes. Working in Hawaii, with its unique cultural and geographic diversity, can be particularly rewarding.
Cons of NP Programs in Hawaii
- Cost of Education: The cost of NP programs can be high, and when combined with the general cost of living in Hawaii, pursuing an NP degree can be a significant financial undertaking.
- Limited Number of Programs: There may be fewer NP programs available in Hawaii compared to larger states, potentially limiting your options for specialization or forcing you to seek education elsewhere.
- Isolation from Mainland Resources: Being geographically isolated from the continental U.S. can sometimes limit access to certain educational and professional development resources, including specialized conferences and networking opportunities.
- Rural Practice Challenges: While there is a high demand for healthcare in rural areas, working in these settings can present challenges, such as limited access to healthcare facilities and resources.
- Licensing and Certification Requirements: The process of obtaining licensure and certification can be rigorous and time-consuming. Keeping up with continuing education requirements to maintain certification can also be demanding, especially with Hawaii's distance from mainland continuing education opportunities.
Ultimately, deciding whether an NP Program in Hawaii is worth it depends on your career goals, financial situation, and values placed on its pros and cons. If advanced practice, autonomy, and salary expectations if important to you, then an NP Program in Hawaii is certainly worth it.
Importance of Picking an Accredited NP Program in Hawaii
Attending an accredited NP Program in Hawaii 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.
Organizations 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.
NP Scope of Practice & Licensing in Hawaii
Understanding the national certification prerequisites, crucial for state licensure, along with grasping the state-defined practice parameters, is vital for effective career planning and compliance for NPs.
National certification is a fundamental milestone for NPs across the United States, confirming their expertise and satisfying a critical licensure requirement in all states, including Hawaii. Here are the key certifying bodies for NPs and the certifications they offer:
- The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB): Provides certifications for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs.
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Offers certifications across nine NP specialties.
- The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation: Specializes in Acute Care NP certification.
- The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB): Issues certifications for Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NPs.
- The National Certification Corporation (NCC): Renowned for Neonatal NP (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NP (WHNP-BC) certifications.
This national certification establishes a consistent standard of competence across various specialties, essential for practice in any state.
Hawaii NP Scope of Practice
The State Board of Nursing in Hawaii grants NPs Full Practice Authority, enabling them to manage patient care independently. This authority allows NPs to evaluate patients, diagnose conditions, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and manage treatments, including the prescription of medications.
Understanding Variations in NP Practice Authority
Reflecting on Hawaii's status, it's crucial to comprehend the various levels of practice authority defined by the AANP:
- Full Practice: Like Hawaii, most states grant NPs the autonomy to practice independently.
- Reduced Practice: In fifteen states, NPs operate under collaborative agreements or supervision for specific practice elements.
- Restricted Practice: In eleven states, NPs are subject to more stringent supervisory or collaborative conditions.
Navigating these practice authority levels is essential for NPs who may consider practicing in different states or those contemplating relocation.
NP Licensure Across the States
While national certification is a uniform requirement across the U.S., state-specific licensure comes with distinct stipulations. The APRN Compact aims to streamline this process, facilitating a more straightforward licensure pathway for NPs in participating states. Prospective NPs must ensure that their education meets the nursing board requirements of the states where they intend to practice.
For Nurse Practitioners, a deep understanding of both state-specific regulations and national certification requirements is critical for a thriving career. As the healthcare environment continues to evolve, staying informed and adaptable is key to successfully navigating their professional paths.
NP Programs Near Me
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