Most Affordable Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) Programs in 2025

Are you passionate about women's health and looking to pursue a career as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP)?

WHNPs play a crucial role in providing comprehensive healthcare to women throughout their lifespan, from adolescence to menopause and beyond. They are specialized advanced practice nurses who have obtained specialized education and training to focus on women's health issues, including reproductive health, gynecological care, family planning, and more.

For those seeking a quality education without wiping out your savings, we've compiled some of the best and most affordable WHNP programs available in 2025, along with information on the role, salary expectations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Most Affordable WHNP Programs | Online & On-Campus

The schools listed below have been chosen through a process that aligns with the allnurses' methodology, which involves surveying our readers to determine their top priorities. Additionally, we have factored in important criteria such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratios, tuition costs, program delivery formats, course durations, and admission rates for a wide selection of the nation's leading nursing schools.

1. Kent State University

Kent State University, situated in Kent, Ohio, offers a pioneering Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) program that stands out for its fully online delivery. Designed to empower students with the skills to provide exceptional primary nursing care for women, this program focuses on health promotion and disease prevention. It equips students with advanced knowledge for managing a range of acute and chronic health conditions.

MSN WHNP Program Overview

• Credit Hour Requirement: 30
• Clinical Hours: 300-600 
• Tuition: $11,766 per year (In-State); $21,954 per year (Out-of-State)
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and Kent State University is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

KSU's WHNP Program Highlights 

• 100% Online Curriculum: Providing flexibility and convenience.
• Expert Faculty: Led by certified advanced practice nurses.
• Hands-On Learning: Clinical hours completed locally.
• Small Class Sizes: Personalized attention from experienced educators.
• Comprehensive Tech Support: Round-the-clock assistance for seamless online learning.
• Virtual Proctoring: Online tests and exams for added flexibility.
• Global Recognition: Internationally recognized program.

2. Stony Brook University

Stony Brook University, located in Stony Brook, New York, offers a robust Advanced Certificate WHNP Program dedicated to MSN-prepared nurses aiming to specialize in women's primary healthcare. The curriculum is designed to qualify graduates for both New York State and national certification as Women's Health Nurse Practitioners, with credit requirements adjusted according to the student's previous graduate coursework.

Advanced Certificate WHNP Program Overview

• Credit Hour Requirement: 20-37, dependent upon previous graduate coursework
• Tuition: $640 per credit hour (In-State); $1,189 per credit hour(Out-of-State), price includes additional fees. 
• Accreditation: The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

SBU's WHNP Program Highlights 

• Distance Learning: The program includes remote coursework with mandatory on-site components.
• Curriculum Alignment: Courses reflect current state and national certification standards.
• Scientific Integration: Students apply nursing science to improve care in diverse settings.
• Leadership: The program develops leadership skills for collaborative patient care design.
• Quality and Safety: It emphasizes principles essential for effective healthcare leadership.
• Interprofessional Collaboration: Training includes working with various healthcare professionals.
• Cultural Relevance: Students learn to design interventions considering cultural factors.
• Professional Development: Encouraged continuous learning and professional engagement.

3. University of South Alabama

Based in Mobile, AL, the University of South Alabama's MSN WHNP program is tailored for advanced practice nurses, covering a wide range of services from primary care to gynecology and obstetrics. The curriculum focuses on promoting health and managing diseases, preparing students for fulfilling APRN roles. Graduates of this program are well-positioned for national certification and licensure, in line with regional and national requirements.

MSN WHNP Program Overview 

• Credit Hour Requirement: 45 for BSN-prepared nurses or 57 for ADN-prepared nurses. 
• Tuition: $594 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CCNE 

USA's WHNP Program Highlights

• Clinical Skills Intensive: Students attend a mandatory session focusing on advanced practice assessments and procedures relevant to women's health.
• Advanced Clinical Training: Emphasis on real-world clinical experiences for practical application.
• Contemporary Healthcare Integration: Focuses on current practices and innovations in healthcare.

4. University of Missouri-Kansas City

The WHNP program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City prepares students for advanced practice nursing in managing gynecological, prenatal, and primary care of women. The program emphasizes the use of evidence-based practice guidelines and theory as a basis for diagnosing and treating illness and promoting wellness.

The program includes three separate courses in advanced physical/health assessment, advanced pharmacology, and advanced pathophysiology, as well as content in health promotion and disease prevention, and differential diagnosis and disease management.

MSN WHNP Program Overview 

• Credit Hour Requirement: 46
• Tuition: $898.38 per credit hour or an estimated $41,325 for the program. 
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

UM's WHNP Program Highlights

• Online Flexibility: Ideal for working professionals.
• Expert Faculty: Experienced instructors in women's health.
• Diverse Clinical Experiences: Practical exposure in varied healthcare settings.
• Research Involvement: Opportunities in women's health research.
• Community Health Focus: Emphasizing community engagement and health promotion.
• Advanced Clinical Training: Comprehensive hands-on learning in women's health care.

5. Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University, in Versailles, KY, offers an MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate Women's Health Care Nurse Practitioner (WHCNP) program that provides women with continuing and comprehensive health care throughout their lives. WHCNPs provide well-woman care, reproductive and gynecological care, and prenatal and postpartum care, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, health education, and helping patients make smart lifestyle choices.

Students who complete the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program can continue to the DNP program. Students who complete the Post-Graduate Certificate (PGC) program can continue to the post-master's DNP program.

MSN WHNP Program Overview

• Duration: 8 terms, approximately  
• Credit Hour Requirement: 49
• Clinical Hours: 750 
• Tuition: $32,585 estimated total tuition
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

FNU's WHNP Program Highlights

• Focus on Vulnerable Populations: Improve health outcomes for older adults and minority groups via innovative health systems and informatics.
• Interdisciplinary Integration: Bridge nursing with medicine, psychology, and informatics for comprehensive education and research.
• Advanced Health Technologies: Utilize electronic health records and AI for enhanced healthcare quality and patient safety.
• Consumer-Centered Design: Involve consumers in developing and evaluating health IT to meet their needs.
• Health IT Innovations: Develop and test technology-enabled interventions for chronic disease management.
• Significant Research Funding: Supported by substantial funds, focusing on health services and informatics research.
• Renowned Recognition: Internationally recognized for contributions to nursing and healthcare education.

6. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a WHNP program designed for registered nurses seeking an advanced degree in women's health. The program prepares nurses to become primary care providers for female patients, promoting wellness and disease prevention throughout a woman's life.

MSN WHNP Program Overview

• Credit Hour Requirement: 49
• Clinical Hours: 672
• Tuition: $892 per credit hour
• Accreditation: The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

UC's WHNP Program Highlights 

• Structure: 100% online, no on-campus requirements.
• Certification Pass Rate: UC's WHNP program boasts a certification exam pass rate of 96%, surpassing the national standard.
• National Recognition: National recognition for its academic rigor, commitment to diversity, innovative technology use, and active research involvement.
• Flexible Learning: Tailored for busy nurses, the online MSN program offers flexibility, enabling students to pursue their goals at their own pace.
• Client-Provider Relationship: The courses prioritize the client-provider bond, empowering women to engage in healthcare decisions and advocate for their well-being.
• Understanding Women's Health: The curriculum delves into the unique needs of women, preparing students to address diverse health concerns with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
• Informed Decision-Making: Promoting critical thinking and evidence-based practice, the program empowers nurses to guide women in making informed health choices and lifestyle modifications.

7. Regis College

Regis College's WHNP program, situated in Weston, MA, prioritizes flexibility and convenience for working nurses, offering online coursework and clinical placements tailored to students' residences. The comprehensive curriculum covers advanced pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology, primary care of women, and more, equipping nurses to address a wide range of women's health needs. From sexual health to postnatal care, family planning, and common health issues, our program prepares graduates for diverse clinical scenarios. 

MSN WHNP Program Overview 

• Credit Hour Requirements: 46-61
• Tuition: $995 per credit hour
• Accreditation: The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

RC's WHNP Program Highlights

• Certification Pass Rates: Previous NP graduates received a 100% pass rate on nurse practitioner certification exams.
• Efficient Completion: Complete the program in 28-36 months, accelerating your path to advanced nursing practice.
• Inclusive Admission: Choose from three entry points, accommodating diverse backgrounds and previous education, ensuring accessibility for all applicants.
• Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Engage in coursework tailored to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to promote women's health through advanced nursing practice, ensuring alignment with industry demands.
• Flexibility: Embrace the flexibility of our online format, allowing you to pursue your degree while effectively managing work, personal, and family commitments, providing you with the freedom to balance your life while advancing your career.

Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Job Description

A Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing in comprehensive healthcare for women, focusing on reproductive, gynecological, and overall well-being. WHNPs are trained to provide health promotion, disease prevention, and expert management of women's health concerns throughout all stages of life.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities of WHNP include:

• Health Assessments: Conduct exams, review histories, and evaluate reproductive health.
• Reproductive Services: Provide contraceptive guidance, family planning, and fertility evaluations.
• Gynecological Care: Diagnose and treat menstrual disorders, STIs, and vaginal infections.
• Procedures: Perform Pap smears, biopsies, and IUD insertions/removals.
• Pregnancy Care: Monitor prenatal health and support postpartum recovery.
• Menopause Management: Counsel on symptoms and hormone therapy options.
• Preventive Care: Educate on screenings, breast health, and healthy lifestyles.
• Collaboration: Coordinate with specialists for comprehensive care.
• Patient Advocacy: Support informed decisions on reproductive and mental health.
• Evidenced Based Research: Contribute to evidence-based women's healthcare practices.

For a detailed breakdown of WHNP responsibilities, visit WHNP Job Description.

Please note that the specific duties and scope of practice for WHNPs may be influenced by state nurse practice acts, collaborating physicians' roles, and the healthcare environment in which they operate.

Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Program Overview

A WHNP program is a specialized educational track designed to prepare RNs for advanced practice roles focusing on women's health care. This program typically encompasses comprehensive training in gynecology, obstetrics, and primary care for women across their lifespans.

Students in a WHNP program learn to provide a range of healthcare services, from adolescent health to menopausal care, including family planning, prenatal and postpartum care, and health promotion. The curriculum is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address the unique health needs of women in various settings.

WHNP Coursework

• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
• Advanced Pharmacology
• Women's Health Assessment
• Reproductive Health Management
• Breast Care
• Gynecological Conditions Management
• Family Planning Techniques
• Prenatal and Postnatal Care
• Menopause Management

WHNP Clinical Training

• Supervised Practice in Clinics and Hospitals
• Health Assessments and Care Plans for Women
• Hands-on Experience in Adolescent, Adult, and Geriatric Women's Health
• Training in Prenatal, Postpartum, and Gynecological Care
• Collaboration with Experienced Nurse Practitioners and Healthcare Professionals
• Application of Classroom Knowledge in Real-World Settings

Clinical hour requirements for WHNP programs adhere to rigorous standards. According to the National Task Force Standards for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education (NTFS), nurse practitioner students must complete at least 750 direct care hours, while DNP programs mandate a minimum of 1,000 supervised post-baccalaureate hours. These requirements ensure students are fully prepared to meet both the Essentials competencies and role-specific standards for WHNP practice.

Cost of WHNP Programs 

When assessing the expenses associated with a WHNP program, take into account these key factors:

• Tuition Costs: These vary based on the type of institution and whether you are a resident or non-resident, with non-residents often facing higher fees.
• Pathway to Certification: Opting for WHNP post-graduate certification might appear more cost-effective compared to enrolling in a complete MSN or DNP program. However, this path assumes prior expenditure on an NP Program, potentially elevating the overall financial burden.
• Educational Materials: Budget for books and supplies, as these can add a few hundred to several thousand dollars to your expenses.
• Technology-Related Expenses: Enrolling in online or hybrid programs may incur additional fees for technological support, software, or digital resources.
• Laboratory Costs: Certain courses might include lab fees to cover the use of materials or equipment.
• Additional Fees: This encompasses application and graduation fees, along with other administrative costs.
• Living Expenses: Consider the cost of daily living, including food, housing, and personal items, especially if you plan to reduce working hours or move for the program.
• Certification & APRN License Expenses: Beyond tuition, keep in mind the fees for WHNP-BC (Board Certified) certification and APRN licensure. 

Effective financial planning is crucial for managing educational expenses. When evaluating WHNP programs, it is essential to thoroughly research and understand the complete cost of each program, as fees can vary significantly between nursing schools. To identify potential cost-saving opportunities, consider reviewing the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School.

Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Salary Expectations in 2025

The salary of a WHNP can vary widely depending on factors such as geographical location, years of experience, type of practice setting, and level of education and certification.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean salary for NPs was $128,490 or $61.78 hourly.

The top-paying states were:

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

The national average salary for a WMHNP is $124,362 per year, with reported earnings ranging from $74,000 to $168,000. The majority of WMHNPs fall within the salary range of $110,000 to $139,000, according to data from ZipRecruiter.

Top 5 States for WMHNP Salary: 

• Washington: $140,852
• District of Columbia: $140,532
• New York: $136,056
• Massachusetts: $135,818
• Alaska: $133,931

WHNP Certification & Scope of Practice

The scope of practice and level of autonomy for Women's Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs) varies significantly across the United States, influenced by state-specific regulations. Aspiring WHNPs must navigate these regulatory landscapes to ensure their education and certification align with the professional roles they aim to pursue.

Here's what to consider:

• Licensing Requirements: To practice, WHNPs must secure licensure in the state where you intend to work. Each state has its own licensure process, which may require additional steps if you relocate.
• Practice Authority: The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) classifies states into three categories based on the level of practice authority granted to NPs:
  • Full Practice States: Here, WHNPs can perform comprehensive duties like patient evaluation, diagnosis, and prescription without physician supervision. States like Washington and New York fall under this category.
  • Reduced Practice States: These states mandate a collaborative agreement with a healthcare provider for certain WHNP practices. Pennsylvania and New Jersey are examples of reduced-practice states.
  • Restricted Practice States: In states such as California and Texas, WHNPs have limitations on their practice and require supervision or team management by a healthcare provider.
• National Certification: While state licensure is geographically specific, national certification is mandatory for all NPs, including WHNPs, to validate their specialty expertise. For WHNPs, securing the WHNP-BC certification from the National Certification Corporation (NCC) is a mandatory credentialing step to practice as a specialized nurse practitioner in women's health.

Prospective WHNPs planning to practice in a different state than where you plan to train must ensure your program is approved by the nursing board in the intended state of practice, as eligibility can vary across states.

WHNP Program Accreditation

Choosing an accredited WHNP program is crucial for the following reasons:

• Educational Standards: Accreditation ensures programs meet rigorous educational benchmarks, which translates into high-quality curricula and competent faculty, along with appropriate student support and clinical training.
• Clinical Preparedness: Accredited programs must provide sufficient clinical hours to meet certification and licensure requirements, ensuring readiness for professional practice.
• Eligibility for Credentials: Many advanced nursing certifications and state licensure mandates require graduation from an accredited program, a key step for practice as an APRN.
• Employment Opportunities: Graduates from accredited programs are often preferred by employers, who trust the quality of education and the adherence to national standards these programs follow.
• Credit Recognition: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized for transfer or further education, providing flexibility in academic pursuits.
• Professional Standing: Earning a degree from an accredited program enhances your credibility among peers, employers, and patients, signifying that you have met established standards for advanced nursing education.
• Financial Aid Eligibility: Accreditation is frequently required to access federal financial aid, a critical resource for many students.

To enjoy these advantages, students should ensure their chosen WHNP programs hold accreditation from esteemed organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about WHNPs

Q: What should I look for in a WHNP program?

When selecting a WHNP program, prioritize accreditation (CCNE or ACEN), clinical placement support, faculty expertise, and flexibility in course delivery. Consider tuition costs, program length, and whether it meets your state's licensure requirements.

Q: What is the educational path to becoming a WHNP?

The educational path typically involves completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, obtaining a Registered Nurse (RN) license, gaining clinical experience as an RN, and then pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a specialization in Women's Health. Post-master's certificate programs are also available for advanced nursing students.

Q: How long does it take to complete a WHNP program?

WHNP programs typically take 2-3 years for an MSN and 3-4 years for a DNP, depending on part-time or full-time enrollment.

Q: Are there online WHNP programs?

Yes, many WHNP programs offer online coursework. However, clinical rotations must be completed in person, often arranged near the student's location.

Q: Do WHNP programs require RN experience?

Some programs require RN experience, while others admit students directly from an RN or BSN program, provided they meet admission prerequisites and requirements.

Q: In what settings do WHNPs typically practice?

WHNPs work in diverse settings such as hospitals, OB-GYN clinics, community health centers, private practices, and specialized women's health clinics. They may also contribute in research, education, or public health roles, tailoring their work environment to their professional goals.

Q: What career opportunities are available after graduating from a WHNP program?

Graduates can pursue roles in clinical practice, telehealth, healthcare leadership, academia, or research. Many WHNPs specialize in areas like reproductive health, gynecology, or preventive care, with opportunities to shape policy and improve women's healthcare systems

Q: What is the job outlook for WHNPs?

The job outlook for Women's Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNPs) is highly favorable, driven by an aging population, a growing focus on preventive care, and the need for comprehensive women's healthcare services. Nurse practitioner roles, including WHNPs, are projected to grow by 40% from 2023 to 2033, far outpacing the average for other professions, underscoring the increasing demand for specialized healthcare providers.

Q: What distinguishes a WHNP from a nurse midwife?

WHNPs specialize in offering primary care to women, covering routine gynecological exams, family planning, and menopausal care in various healthcare settings. Nurse midwives, on the other hand, focus on providing care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods, overseeing low-risk pregnancies and deliveries in hospitals, birthing centers, and home birth settings. Some programs provide combined training in both specialties, offering dual CNM and WHNP education and degrees.

Q: What advantages come with pursuing a career as a WHNP?

Choosing a career as a WHNP offers several benefits. Primarily, it allows individuals to specialize in women's health, enabling them to focus on the distinct healthcare requirements of women throughout their lives. This specialization fosters a deep understanding of women's health issues, empowering WHNPs to deliver comprehensive and tailored care to their patients.

Furthermore, WHNPs often enjoy a high degree of autonomy and independence in their practice, enabling them to assume leadership roles and make clinical decisions that directly impact patient care. The demand for WHNPs is also on the rise, providing ample job opportunities and professional stability in the field. Overall, a career as a WHNP can be gratifying and meaningful, offering the chance to positively influence the health and well-being of women in their communities.