Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in North Carolina

Discover the best nurse practitioner (NP) programs and specialties in North Carolina, along with information on salary expectations and answers to frequently asked questions. Programs

Nurse Practitioners

Table of Contents:
Best NP Programs in North Carolina
Nurse Practitioner Overview
Costs
Salary Expectations
NP Programs Near Me
NC NP Scope of Practice
NP Accreditation
FAQ

best nurse practitioner NP programs north carolina

by

Erin Lee, BSN, RN (Editorial Team / Admin)

Published Mar 22

Article fact-checked by our Editorial Team.

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the role of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) has become increasingly pivotal. These programs, offered by esteemed schools of nursing in North Carolina, are designed to mold the next generation of advanced practice nurses by blending theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Discover the best NP programs below, along with insights into each specialty, salary expectations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in North Carolina

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. Duke University

Duke University, a prestigious institution located in Durham, NC, is renowned for its academic excellence and offers a comprehensive range of NP programs through its MSN degree. These programs are meticulously designed to equip nurses with specialized skills and knowledge, enabling them to deliver exceptional patient care across various age groups and medical conditions.

Concentrations:

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
Family Nurse Practitioner
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Acute Care
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Women's Health Nurse Practitioner

Duke University's NP programs are CCNE-accredited.

Tuition rates for Duke's graduate nursing programs are approximately $48,000 per term.

2. University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers NP concentrations through its MSN and BSN to DNP degrees. These programs are tailored to provide nurses with the expertise required to cater to diverse healthcare needs across different patient demographics.

MSN:

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
Family NP
Pediatric NP
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP

DNP Concentrations:

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care - Oncology Focus
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care
Pediatric - Primary Care
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP

UNC's NP programs are CCNE-accredited.

Tuition rates at UNC are $586 per credit hour for NC residents and $1,602 per credit hour for non-residents.

3. University of North Carolina - Wilmington

The University of North Carolina - Wilmington offers a Family NP Program through its DNP degree, designed for nursing professionals seeking advanced-practices skills to enhance primary healthcare to patients across the lifespan.

The program is pivotal in shaping clinical leaders who revolutionize individual and community care, as well as the broader healthcare system. By merging nursing science with biophysical, psychosocial, analytical, and organizational disciplines, our graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of health and healthcare delivery.

The UNC's master's and doctorate degrees are accredited by the CCNE, and graduates of the program are eligible to take the ANCC or AANP certification exam for FNPs.

Graduate tution rates at UNC Wilimington are $436 per credit hour, including fees, for NC residents and $1,279 for non-residents.

4. East Carolina University - Greenville

East Carolina University offers NP concentrations through its MSN and DNP tracks. These programs are meticulously crafted to empower nurses with specialized expertise, ensuring they are well-prepared to address varied healthcare challenges across different patient groups.

MSN:

Neonatal NP
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP

DNP:

Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP
Family NP

ECU degree programs satisfy the professional licensure and/or certification requirements in North Carolina and prepare students to sit for these exams. However, requirements in other states may be different. The MSN and DNP programs at ECU are accredited through the CCNE. Graduate tuition rates are approximately $5,213 annually for NC residents and $18,361 for non-residents, this is not including additional fees.

5. University of North Carolina - Greensboro

The University of North Carolina - Greensboro offers an NP Program through their MSN degree with a concentration in Family NP.

For BSN degree holders, the FNP concentration is a streamlined journey, achievable in just five semesters. The hybrid delivery model blends the convenience of online learning with the richness of in-person sessions, with a 44-credit hour curriculum, balancing classroom insights with hands-on clinical experiences.

The online modules offer both asynchronous (flexible timing) and synchronous (fixed schedule) sessions, catering to diverse learning preferences.

The University of North Carolina - Greensboro MSN NP Program is CCNE-accredited. Estimated annual tuition at UNC Greensboro is $8,614 for NC residents and $23,329 for non-residents.

6. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers two NP concentrations through its MSN degree:

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Family NP

These programs are designed with precision, aiming to equip nurses with the specialized skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their respective fields of practice. Outcomes include:

Design & Coordination: Seamlessly integrate advanced insights from Nursing and allied fields to elevate the standards of advanced nursing practice.
Illness & Disease Management: Showcase proficiency in delivering evidence-based healthcare tailored for diverse patient groups.
Leadership: Engage in influential leadership roles, driving positive changes in health policies and refining the healthcare delivery framework.
Research Application: Champion the growth of nursing by actively participating in, interpreting, and seamlessly translating research findings into actionable practices.
Ethics & Professional Growth: Uphold the highest standards of professional integrity and ethical conduct, continuously seeking avenues for personal and professional development.

UNC Charlotte is accredited by the CCNE.

Graduate students estimated tuition rates are $66.67 per credit hour.

7. Western Carolina University - Cullowhee

Western Carolina University offers an FNP concentration through its DNP program with a remarkable 100% pass rate. The average full-time completion duration is 36 months, with prerequisites including a BSN.

The program focuses on developing students' competencies in family health promotion and the clinical management of common health conditions across the lifespan.

Western Carolina University is accredited by the CCNE. Estimated graduate tuition rates are $7,730 per full-time semester for NC residents or $13,089 for non-residents.

8. Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University offers Family NP programs through its MSN, DNP, and graduate certificate tracks.

Graduates from the FNP program are adeptly trained to deliver holistic primary care to patients from all walks of life. They excel in diverse healthcare environments, with a special emphasis on catering to the needs of underserved communities, economically disadvantaged individuals, and patients from varied ethnic backgrounds.

WSSU is accredited by the CCNE. Cost per credit hour is $281 for NC residents and $793 for non-residents.

NP Overview: Prerequisites & Requirements

NPs represent the pinnacle of advanced nursing practice, boasting specialized clinical skills that qualify them for roles in acute care, long-term care, and primary care environments. Every NP begins their journey as RNs before advancing through either an MSN or DNP.

Upon completing their NP Program, graduates face a stringent national certification exam to secure their licensure. Their clinical outcomes undergo regular evaluations, and they participate in periodic peer reviews to ensure the highest standards of patient care. These healthcare professionals consistently rely on evidence-based practices to deliver comprehensive patient care.

Similar to RNs, NPs are required to obtain state-specific licensure. Their expertise is sought after in various settings, including emergency rooms, urgent care facilities, clinics, hospitals, and private medical practices. Core responsibilities of NPs encompass:

Conducting detailed physical health evaluations
Ordering, executing, and interpreting diagnostic tests such as X-rays and lab tests
Diagnosing and managing both acute and chronic health issues
Prescribing medications and therapeutic treatments
Guiding patients on disease prevention, treatment modalities, and self-care techniques.

NP Specialties

The most common NP programs in North Carolina include:

Family NP (FNP): FNPs provide comprehensive healthcare services to individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. They focus on promoting overall health, preventing diseases, and managing chronic conditions, often serving as primary care providers for families.
Women's Health NP: WHNPs specialize in addressing the unique health needs of women, from adolescence through post-menopause. They offer services related to reproductive health, gynecology, prenatal and postnatal care, and other gender-specific health issues.
Adult-Gerontology NP: AGNPs cater to the healthcare needs of adults, from young adults to the elderly. They manage acute and chronic illnesses, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and patient education tailored to the aging population.
Neonatal NP: NNPs provide specialized care for newborns, especially those who are premature or critically ill. They work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of neonates.
Pediatric NP: PNPs focus on the healthcare of children, from infancy through adolescence. They diagnose and treat common childhood illnesses, conduct routine check-ups, and offer guidance on nutrition, growth, and development.
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP: PMHNPs are experts in mental health care, diagnosing and treating various psychiatric disorders. They offer counseling, prescribe medications, and provide holistic care to patients with mental health challenges.

North Carolina NP Program Costs

Enrolling in a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program in North Carolina is a significant financial commitment that involves several cost considerations. Here are the primary factors:

Tuition Fees: Tuition is a substantial portion of educational expenses. Rates vary based on the institution's public or private status and whether the student qualifies for in-state rates, which are typically lower. Tuition may be charged by credit or by semester.
Educational Supplies: The cost of textbooks, medical instruments such as stethoscopes, and attire like lab coats must be factored into the budget.
Clinical Rotation Costs: Travel expenses for clinical placements can add a financial burden, especially if the locations are distant from the student's residence or campus.
Post-Graduation Fees: After completing their studies, graduates face certification and licensing fees, which are necessary for commencing their professional practice.
Additional Fees: Students often incur supplemental costs associated with campus resources, lab access, and various administrative fees.
Living and Income Impact: Full-time study can significantly influence living costs and the ability to earn income, requiring diligent financial planning.

To mitigate financial challenges, Nurse Practitioner students in North Carolina are encouraged to seek financial aid, scholarships, and grants proactively and to manage loans judiciously, favoring federal loans for their more favorable terms and repayment options. By understanding and addressing these financial aspects, NP students can create a viable plan to cover their education costs and focus on their journey to becoming skilled healthcare practitioners.

NP Salary Expectations in North Carolina

The most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) offers valuable insights into the average NP salaries in North Carolina. Nevertheless, when contemplating salary projections, it's important to consider the variable.

These variables include your educational background, years of professional experience, the healthcare institution where you work, your employer, the level of demand for your particular nursing specialization, and your work schedule, including shifts and hours. To acquire a comprehensive grasp of your potential income, it is recommended to explore the specific details that relate to your unique situation and your employer's compensation policies.

According to the BLS, the average NP salary in North Carolina is $114,450, or $55.03 per hour, which is slightly lower than the national average of $124,680. However, job prospects in NC are plentiful as they are one of the states with the highest demand for NP positions, providing 7,190-19,130 NP positions.

NP Programs Near Me

Discover NP programs in a state near you:

NP Scope of Practice & Certification in North Carolina

For Nurse Practitioners (NPs), it is crucial to be well-versed in the national certification mandates required for state licensure, and to be aware of the specific practice settings outlined by state laws, which are instrumental in career planning and maintaining lawful practice.

NP Certification

Securing national certification is an essential step for NPs across the country, reflecting specialty-specific proficiency. It not only proves an NP's expertise but is also a standard licensure prerequisite, including in North Carolina. Key organizations providing NP certifications are:

The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB), offering certifications for FNP, AGPCNP, ENP, and PMHNPs.
The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), responsible for various NP specializations.
The American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Corporation, catering to Acute Care NPs.
The National Certification Corporation (NCC) providing certifications for Neonatal NPs (NNP-BC) and Women's Health NPs (WHNP-BC).
The Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) for certifications in Pediatric Acute and Primary Care NP fields.

This national certification is the cornerstone of NP practice across states, ensuring consistent competence across diverse specialties.

NP State Licensure | North Carolina

In North Carolina, the scope of practice for Nurse Practitioners is defined by a restricted practice environment, requiring the oversight of a medical doctor. State regulations impose limitations on NPs in executing certain aspects of their practice autonomously. This necessitates continuous supervision or collaboration with other healthcare providers for effective patient care delivery, reflecting a more regulated approach to NP practice within the state.

Comparative NP Practice Authority

North Carolina exemplifies states with restricted practice authority, along with eleven others. To demonstrate the difference in NP scope of practice here is the breakdown between the various states as defined by the AANP:

Full Practice States: States such as New York and Washington provide Nurse Practitioners with full independence in their practice, allowing them to assess, diagnose, and treat patients, including prescribing a full range of medications.
Reduced Practice States: In states such as Ohio, NPs experience reduced autonomy, with laws mandating collaboration with healthcare providers for tasks including prescribing. This necessitates a sustained collaborative agreement, shaping a healthcare model that emphasizes interprofessional partnership.
Restricted Practice states: Including North Carolina, enforce stringent supervisory regulations on NPs.

Navigating these state-by-state differences is vital for NPs, especially those contemplating interstate practice or relocation.

State-Specific NP Licensure Requirements

While national certification is a constant for NPs, state licensure stipulations vary widely. The APRN Compact seeks to standardize and simplify these differences, offering a unified licensure process for participating states. NPs must ensure their qualifications meet the specific licensure criteria of the nursing board in the state where they intend to practice.

Remaining current with state-specific laws and national certification requirements is crucial for NPs to foster a resilient and compliant career path. As healthcare norms evolve, NPs should stay proactive and knowledgeable about these diverse professional standards.

Importance of Attending an Accredited NP Program in North Carolina

Enrolling in an accredited NP Program in North Carolina is pivotal for multiple crucial factors:

Educational Excellence: Accreditation confirms that a program upholds superior educational quality, offering a curriculum that is both comprehensive and up-to-date, which is crucial for competent clinical practice.
Certification Prerequisites: To be eligible for national certification examinations, which are integral for obtaining an NP license, one must typically graduate from an accredited program.
Licensure Requirements: The North Carolina Board of Nursing requires completion of an accredited NP Program for state licensure, which is indispensable for lawful practice within the state.
Professional Standing: Graduates from accredited programs are often sought after by employers, who associate accreditation with robust training and professional capability.
Advancement in Education: For those considering further education or specialization, credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted in advanced degree programs, supporting ongoing professional growth.

In North Carolina, the accrediting organizations such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are responsible for ensuring that nursing programs meet stringent standards of quality education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is accreditation for NP programs important?

Yes, accreditation for NP (Nurse Practitioner) programs is critically important for several reasons:

Quality Assurance: Accreditation ensures that the NP Program meets specific standards of quality and excellence set by accrediting bodies. It's a testament to the program's commitment to providing a high-caliber education that prepares students adequately for their roles as NPs.
Eligibility for Certification: Graduating from an accredited NP Program is often a prerequisite for taking national certification exams. Without this certification, NPs may not be allowed to practice in many states.
Financial Aid: Students attending accredited institutions are more likely to be eligible for federal financial aid. Accreditation is a requirement for schools to offer federal loans and grants to their students.
Transferability of Credits: If students wish to transfer to another institution or pursue further education, credits from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized and accepted by other institutions.
Employment Opportunities: Many employers prefer or require NPs to have graduated from an accredited program. It assures employers that the NP has received a quality education and is well-prepared for the role.
Professional Reputation: Accreditation enhances the reputation of the NP Program and the institution as a whole. It signifies that the program is committed to maintaining standards that are in line with the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

Q: Is an MSN, DNP, or post-master's certificate best?

Whether an MSN, DNP, or post-master's certificate is best depends on an individual's career goals, current educational background, and personal preferences. Here's a breakdown to help determine which might be the best fit: