11 Most Affordable Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs | 2024

As the world of healthcare continues to advance, so does the need for nurse practitioners. If you're seeking an affordable entry into this dynamic career, check out the most affordable programs as we explore their nuances, salary expectations after graduation, and everything else you need to know.

What Is an NP Program

An NP Program is a specialized educational track designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers by gaining skills in providing primary or specialized healthcare. These graduate-level programs, typically resulting in a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), focus on preparing nurses to offer comprehensive patient care, make diagnostic decisions, and prescribe treatments. NP programs are distinct in their approach to blending nursing theory with advanced clinical practice, emphasizing a patient-centered model of care that often includes health promotion, disease prevention, and health education.

NP Coursework

NP coursework is structured to provide a deep understanding of advanced nursing practices and patient care management. Key components of the coursework include:

• Advanced Pharmacology: Detailed study of pharmacological treatments and their application in patient care.
• Health Assessment: Training in comprehensive physical and diagnostic assessments of patients across various age groups.
• Pathophysiology: In-depth exploration of disease processes and their impact on the human body.
• Specialty-Focused Courses: Depending on the chosen specialty (e.g., Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner), courses will focus on specific population health needs.
• Healthcare Policy and Ethics: Study of the legal, ethical, and policy issues affecting healthcare delivery and practice.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Emphasis on utilizing research and evidence in clinical decision-making.

NP Clinical Training

Clinical training in NP programs is crucial for developing hands-on, practical skills in patient care. Key aspects include:

• Supervised Clinical Hours: A significant number of clinical hours under the supervision of experienced practitioners in various healthcare settings.
• Diverse Patient Exposure: Opportunities to work with diverse patient populations, addressing a wide range of health conditions.
• Skill Application: Application of learned skills in real-world settings, including diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient education.
• Specialization Practice: Clinical training tailored to the nurse's area of specialization, providing focused experience in specific areas of patient care.
• Capstone Projects or Practicums: In many programs, students complete a capstone project or practicum, demonstrating their ability to apply their learning in a professional setting.

Most Affordable NP Programs

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. Southeastern Louisiana

Tuition: $858.10 per 3 credit hours

Southeastern Louisiana University's MSN program offers concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is delivered through a consortium of four universities, providing a comprehensive curriculum with flexible online learning. It emphasizes theory-based courses, expert faculty engagement in clinical practice, research, and mentorship. Note that all clinical hours must be completed in Louisiana.

2. The University of Alabama

Tuition: $440 per credit hour

The University of Alabama offers a primarily online MSN - Nurse Practitioner program. The program prepares nurse practitioners to manage and diagnose common acute and chronic illnesses, with a focus on health promotion and disease prevention. It offers a convenient blended format combining online courses with face-to-face clinical experiences. The program is available to residents of specific states and is recognized for its leadership in online education. Students can choose from concentrations in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, with options for full-time or part-time study.

3. Briar Cliff University

Tuition: $460-$754 per credit hour

Briar Cliff University's MSN program offers tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. The program is primarily online, with some on-campus requirements, and focuses on serving various patient populations. It includes a 750-hour clinical component with experience in a rural, underserved, or multicultural setting. The program is designed for part-time study over three years and does not require a GRE or thesis for admission.

4. Delta State University

Tuition: $469.00 per credit hour

Delta State University offers an online MSN program with a focus on either the Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Educator role. The program goals include preparing graduates for advanced professional nursing roles with specific functional and clinical abilities and preparing them academically for education beyond the master's level.

The program structure combines online courses with strategically scheduled campus seminars and offers clinical learning opportunities near the student's home community. Admission is competitive, and the program offers both full-time and part-time study options. The curriculum is designed to integrate nursing and related sciences with emerging evidence to influence healthcare practice.

5. Stony Brook University

Tuition: $471 per credit hour

Stony Brook University's Family Nurse Practitioner Program is offered through distance education with on-site requirements. The program prepares nurses as expert providers of primary health care to individuals across the lifespan in various healthcare settings. It focuses on managing common acute and chronic health problems through health promotion, maintenance, supervision, and restoration. Graduates are eligible for certification and registration as a nurse practitioner by the New York State Education Department and for National Certification as a Family NP.

6. The University of Mississippi

Tuition: $484.88 per credit hour

The University of Mississippi offers a Family Nurse Practitioner track that prepares nurses to deliver primary health care to adults and families. The program includes 630 hours of guided clinical experience in Mississippi and focuses on health promotion and disease prevention. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANPCP national certification exams and state advanced practice licensure. The coursework is offered through a mix of online, on-campus, and hybrid methods, providing flexibility for students.

7. The University of West Florida

Tuition: $500 per credit hour

The University of West Florida offers an online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program through the Earl and Nancy Hutto Master of Science in Nursing. This full-time program prepares students for national certification exams and advanced practice roles in a variety of healthcare settings. The curriculum includes 600 direct patient care hours and covers topics like advanced health assessment, disease management, and evidence-based nursing practice. The program boasts a 93% pass rate on the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners FNP Certification Exam.

8. The University of Texas at Arlington

Tuition: $654 per credit hour

The University of Texas at Arlington offers a diverse range of Nurse Practitioner programs, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

These programs prepare students for advanced practice roles in various healthcare settings, emphasizing health promotion, disease management, and patient-centered care. The university provides both full-time and part-time study options, as well as online and classroom-based programs.

9. Cedarville University

Tuition: $680 per credit hour

Cedarville University offers a Christian MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program that prepares students to provide primary care across the human lifespan with a ministry-focused approach. The program is affordable, accredited, and online, including assessment, diagnosis, management, and treatment of common acute and chronic health problems. It emphasizes health promotion, client and family education, and evidence-based practice. The program includes 800 hours of direct care clinical experience and requires four on-campus experiences. Cedarville's MSN FNP program is recognized for its high academic credentials and clinical experience provided by its faculty.

10. Bradley University

Tuition: $1,039 per semester hour

Bradley University offers an online MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner degree. The program is designed to prepare nurses for high-quality, affordable care in family medicine, addressing the growing demand for primary care services. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers advanced nursing theory, patient-centered care, and evidence-based practice. The program is flexible, allowing students to complete clinicals locally and prepare for ANCC or AANP certification exams. Bradley University provides two pathways for the MSN-FNP degree: RN to MSN-FNP for RNs with an ADN, nursing diploma, or non-nursing bachelor's degree, and BSN to MSN-FNP for nurses who already have a BSN.

11. Mercer University

Tuition: $1,159 per semester hour

Mercer University's Georgia Baptist College of Nursing offers an MSN degree with several tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, and a forthcoming Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track starting Fall 2024.

The program prepares graduate students for advanced practice nursing and leadership roles, emphasizing research utilization, health care policy evaluation, ethical decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration. The MSN program at Mercer offers both full-time and part-time educational opportunities, as well as post-master's certificates.

NP Prerequisites & Requirements

Entering an NP Program involves meeting specific prerequisites and requirements. These are essential to ensure that candidates are prepared for the advanced level of study and practice that NP programs demand.

NP Prerequisites

The prerequisites for NP programs typically include:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most NP programs require applicants to have completed a BSN from an accredited nursing school. However, direct entry NP programs are available, as well are ADN to NP programs.
• RN Licensure: Applicants must hold a current and unencumbered RN license.
• Clinical Experience: A specified amount of clinical experience as an RN, often one to two years, is usually required, preferably in a field related to the NP specialty.
• Academic Performance: A minimum GPA, often around 3.0 or higher, in undergraduate coursework.
• Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require specific undergraduate courses, such as anatomy, physiology, and statistics.

NP Requirements

Once admitted, NP students must meet these requirements to complete the program:

• Advanced Coursework Completion: Typically includes advanced pharmacology, pathophysiology, and health assessment.
• Clinical Hours: Fulfill a set number of supervised clinical hours in appropriate healthcare settings.
• Capstone or Thesis Project: Some programs require a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates the integration of knowledge and skills.
• Certification Exam Preparation: Programs are designed to prepare students for national certification exams in their chosen specialty.
• Professional Skills Development: Develop advanced practice skills, including diagnostic reasoning, patient management, and ethical decision-making.

NP Career Overview

NPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who provide a range of healthcare services in various specializations. They work independently or in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat various health conditions. Their responsibilities include conducting physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, and developing treatment plans.

NPs focus on patient-centered care, emphasizing disease prevention, health education, and counseling. They can work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, clinics, and nursing homes.

PMHNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

• Specialization: Focuses on mental health care.
• Responsibilities: Diagnose and treat mental health disorders, provide psychotherapy, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans.
• Settings: Mental health clinics, psychiatric hospitals, private practices.

FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)

• Specialization: Provides comprehensive care to patients of all ages.
• Responsibilities: Perform routine checkups, diagnose and treat common illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and provide health education.
• Settings: Family practice clinics, hospitals, community health centers.

WHNP (Women's Health Nurse Practitioner)

• Specialization: Specializes in women's health.
• Responsibilities: Provide gynecological and obstetrical care, conduct screenings, manage reproductive health issues, and offer prenatal and postpartum care.
• Settings: Women's health clinics, obstetrics and gynecology offices, hospitals.

AGNP (Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)

• Specialization: Focuses on adult and elderly care.
• Responsibilities: Manage acute and chronic conditions common in adults and the elderly, perform routine checkups, and provide age-specific health education.
• Settings: Adult health clinics, long-term care facilities, hospitals.

PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)

• Specialization: Dedicated to child and adolescent health.
• Responsibilities: Provide preventive care, diagnose and treat common pediatric illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and offer guidance on growth and development.
• Settings: Pediatric clinics, hospitals, schools.

Other NP specializations include emergency NP, aesthetic NP, oncology NP, and more.

Costs of NP Programs

When considering the costs of NP programs, various factors contribute to the overall financial commitment. Here's a breakdown:

• Tuition: The most significant expense. Tuition varies widely depending on the institution (public vs. private) and residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state).
• Books and Supplies: Includes textbooks, medical supplies, and other educational materials. Costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Technology Fees: For online or hybrid programs, there may be additional fees for technology, software, or online resources.
• Lab Fees: Some courses may have associated lab fees for materials or equipment use.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Includes application fees, graduation fees, and other administrative expenses.
• Living Expenses: Day-to-day living costs such as food, utilities, and personal expenses.
• Transportation: Costs for commuting to campus or clinical sites.
• Health Insurance: Some programs require students to have health insurance, which can add to the cost if not already covered.
• Opportunity Cost: Potential loss of income if the program requires reducing work hours or taking a leave from employment.

It's important to consider all these factors to get a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of an NP Program. It's advised that students research financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs to help offset the costs of their education.

NP Salary Expectations

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

These figures will vary, however, based on many factors including geography, specialization, years of experience, and more. For example, the 10th percentile of NPs earns $87,340 annually while the 90th percentile earns $165,240.

Compare NP Salary by State

Compare several specializations with our comprehensive nursing salary guide.

Are the Most Affordable NP Programs Worth It?

The most affordable NP programs can offer significant financial advantages and accessibility, but it's important to carefully consider potential limitations in resources, networking, and comprehensive training. The key is to ensure that the program chosen, regardless of cost, meets the necessary accreditation standards and provides the education and skills required to succeed as an NP.

Pros of the Most Affordable NP Programs

1. Reduced Financial Burden: The most obvious advantage is the lower cost, which means less student debt and financial stress during and after the program.
2. Increased Accessibility: More affordable programs can make advanced nursing education accessible to a broader range of students, including those who might not have the means for more expensive options.
3. Return on Investment: With lower initial costs, the return on investment can be favorable, as NPs generally have good earning potential regardless of where they studied.
4. Focus on Essentials: Affordable programs often focus on the essential skills and knowledge needed, without the added cost of non-essential features.
5. Wider Range of Choices: There may be a wider range of affordable programs available, including online options, which can offer greater flexibility and accessibility.

Cons of the Most Affordable NP Programs

1. Resource Limitations: Less expensive programs might have fewer resources, such as state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, or a wide range of specialty electives.
2. Networking Opportunities: More prestigious and costly programs often provide better networking opportunities, including connections with top professionals in the field.
3. Perception of Quality: There can be a perception (whether accurate or not) that more expensive programs offer a higher quality of education, which might influence future employers.
4. Accreditation and Recognition: It's crucial to ensure that affordable programs are properly accredited. Some less expensive options might lack proper accreditation, impacting certification and job prospects.
5. Comprehensive Training: More affordable programs might not offer the same level of comprehensive training or exposure to a diverse range of clinical settings compared to their more expensive counterparts.

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP Program

Attending an accredited NP Program is essential for several key reasons:

• Quality Education: Accredited programs adhere to high standards for curriculum and faculty qualifications, ensuring a comprehensive and current education.
• Professional Recognition: Graduates from accredited programs are often more respected in the healthcare industry, enhancing professional credibility.
• Certification and Licensure: Most certification bodies and state nursing boards require completion of an accredited program for eligibility.
• Career Opportunities: Employers typically prefer graduates from accredited programs, leading to better job prospects and career advancement.
• Networking and Resources: Accredited programs offer quality clinical training opportunities and networking through established connections.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Students in accredited programs usually have access to federal financial aid and scholarships.

Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the key differences between online and in-person NP programs?

Online NP programs offer flexibility and convenience, ideal for working nurses or those with family commitments. In-person programs provide more direct interaction and hands-on experiences. Both formats typically require clinical hours in healthcare settings.

Q: Can I work full-time while enrolled in an NP Program?

Many NP programs are designed to accommodate working nurses. Part-time and online options can offer the flexibility needed to balance work and study. However, the intensity of full-time programs might require reducing work hours.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete an NP Program?

The duration of NP programs varies. Full-time students can typically complete a Master's level NP Program in about two to three years, while Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs may take three to four years. Part-time students might take longer, depending on their course load.

Q: Are there any additional certifications required after completing an NP Program?

After completing an NP Program, graduates must pass a national certification exam in their specialty area, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) exams. Some specialties may require additional certifications.

Q: What are the ongoing requirements for maintaining NP licensure and certification?

NPs must regularly renew their RN license and NP certification, which typically involves completing continuing education units (CEUs), engaging in clinical practice hours, and sometimes passing a recertification exam. The specific requirements vary by state and certifying body.