Home » Blog » The 25 Most Affordable Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs
The 25 Most Affordable Online Family Nurse Practitioner Programs
By NursePractitionerSchools.com Staff
Thanks to an aging American population, the demand for qualified healthcare providers -- including nurse practitioners (NPs) -- is growing each year. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, there are over 270,000 licensed NPs in the U.S., and an estimated 28,700 new NPs completed their academic programs in the 2017-2018 school year. Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 26% job growth rate for NPs between 2018 to 2028. This figure far outpaces the 7% projected average growth rate across all occupations during that time.
Along with the promise of a growing industry, many registered nurses (RNs) pursue family nurse practitioner (FNP) careers for the salary potential. The AANP found that the mean, full-time base wage for NPs was well over the national average, at $105,903. In comparison, the mean annual wage for all workers nationwide is $50,620.
A growing population demands more FNPs to fulfill the increasing need for healthcare services. RNs and other individuals interested in an advanced practice nursing career should consider taking the steps needed to work in this field. While traditional school is an option, many aspiring FNPs are pursuing online graduate degrees in nursing to achieve their career goals.
Many people associate a graduate degree with high tuition and fees. In reality, there are a handful of online NP programs that offer high-quality education at an affordable cost. Here are the 25 most affordable online FNP programs that deliver a solid education without breaking the bank.
Methodology
Before examining the list, it’s important to understand the methodology behind this study information. NursePractitionerSchools.com gathered information from over 600 online NP programs nationwide at the MSN, post-master’s certificate, and DNP levels. To qualify as online, the school had to require nine campus visits or less for the duration of the program. These programs are ranked by total out-of-state tuition, although additional fees may apply. Please note that NP program tuition typically changes annually. These figures were gathered between 2015 and 2017 and the most recent tuition estimates are available on program websites. Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to program coordinators directly. Each online FNP program discussed includes its overall cost, its cost-per-credit, and a brief description of expected coursework.
Finally, due to differing regulations regarding distance-based education, it’s imperative to verify a school’s “state authorization” status prior to submitting an application. In other words, online FNP programs may not be able to enroll students from certain states. For example, Texas A&M, Corpus Christi provides a list of all states from which it is authorized to enroll distance-based students. Again, if the information isn’t readily available on program websites, please reach out to administrators directly to ensure eligibility.
Scholarships for Nurse Practitioners
Qualifying students can make their online FNP programs even more affordable by applying for scholarships, including the five awards listed below. Prospective FNP students with questions about funding their education should consult this FAQ page.
The University of Southern California's (USC) history dates back to the 1870s. This Los Angeles private school awarded 16,412 degrees in June 2019 and educated 48,500 learners in the 2019-2020 school year. Only 11.4% of applicants in Fall 2019 gained admission. USC boasts over 375,000 alumni and conducted nearly $900 million worth of research in 2017-2018. USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The department of nursing's master of science in nursing focuses on family nurse practitioner concepts. Students must complete 49-51 credits, including online courses addressing behavior, pharmacology, and health assessment. Classes meet online every week and contain no more than 12 learners.
The program also calls for 784 clinical hours of fieldwork divided among four placements, along with on-campus intensives. Degree-seekers can graduate in under two years.
The California Board of Registered Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredit this program.
The Order of Saint Augustine founded Villanova University in 1842. In the Fall of 2019, 10,848 students from over 40 countries attended this private school. The institution embraces Catholic ideologies and includes six colleges and schools, ranking 46th among national universities and 54th among best value schools.
The M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing offers a master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree. This MSN-FNP requires courses in areas like ethics, research, pathophysiology, and physical assessment, and also clinical classes that include at least 730 hours of fieldwork.
Each applicant must hold an RN license and possess a minimum of one year's worth of experience. The department also requires a prerequisite statistics class and at least a 3.0 GPA. Transfer students may apply six previously earned credits toward the MSN-FNP. Villanova also offers an online doctor of nursing practice.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits Villanova.
Chartered in 1821, George Washington University (GW) boasts over 26,000 learners from more than 100 countries. The institution includes 10 colleges and schools and ranks on several U.S. News & World Report lists: 42nd for best colleges for veterans, 70th for national universities, and 86th for best value schools.
The university's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree calls for at least 48 credits in courses related to population health, biostatistics, physiology, and leadership. MSN-FNP students must also earn 700 clinical hours during three courses, along with visiting campus to complete certain exams and the Campus Learning and Skills Intensive.
Admission requires a valid nursing license and is not open to candidates in North Dakota, Louisiana, or Alabama. Program graduates can pursue the school's hybrid doctor of nursing practice.
GW holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Simmons University, a private school in Boston founded in 1899, now educates more than 6,000 students with an 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Students who pursue the school's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree earn 48 credits in cohort-based courses. The program incorporates synchronous and asynchronous elements by requiring real-time meetings with professors and allowing learners to review course documents at any time. Degree-seekers must also complete at least 672 clinical hours. Graduation from this online FNP program also requires participation in an on-campus weekend experience.
The department only admits candidates with RN licenses. Each applicant must complete prerequisite statistics and health assessment coursework, along with submitting bachelor's transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and three recommendation letters.
This MSN-FNP holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and Simmons University holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry began in 1891, later changing its name to Drexel University in 1970. Located in Philadelphia, this private institution's enrollment surpasses 24,000, including 4,669 online learners. Drexel offers more than 200 degrees through 15 schools and colleges and holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The Department of Advanced Practice Nursing offers a master of science in nursing that emphasizes family nurse practitioner concepts. This program calls for 56 credits, including clinical courses related to families, infants, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. The department delivers courses in four quarters throughout the year. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this program.
Each candidate must possess an RN license and at least one year of relevant experience. Graduates may take family nurse practitioner certification exams through the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board.
Located in Denver, Colorado, Regis University started in 1877 as a Jesuit institution. Today, more than 10,000 students attend this private school, and nearly 80,000 boast alumni status. Current students learn through a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and can choose from 184 degree options.
Candidates interested in online nurse practitioner programs should consider the school's 48-credit master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner degree. For this master's, learners complete classes in areas like healthcare policy, primary care procedures, and women's health. Students also earn 630 clinical hours, which must include experience with children, families, women, and other adults. The program also includes a comprehensive exam. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this program.
Each candidate must hold an RN license and possess a minimum of two years of related fieldwork. An applicant should also maintain prerequisite coursework in statistics, a GPA of at least 2.75, and certification in basic life support through the American Heart Association.
Regis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Samford University, a private school established in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1841, now educates 5,692 students and has graduated 52,838 learners. Samford boasts Carnegie Classification and accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The Ida Moffett School of Nursing delivers the master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) program, which calls for 42 credits. The curriculum explores research, pharmacotherapeutics, assessment, and statistics, along with incorporating four clinical courses. These clinical experiences must address care for general adults, children, and women to total at least 660 hours. Students must also complete three on-campus components.
This MSN-FNP prepares for related certification exams through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board or the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Nearly all MSN-FNP graduates pass these exams.
Registered nurses may apply but need a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite coursework in health assessment and nursing research.
Gonzaga University, a private school in Spokane, Washington, first opened its doors in 1887. In the 2018-2019 school year, 7,566 students attended. The university is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church and embraces Jesuit traditions. Notable graduates include singer Bing Crosby, past Speaker of the House of Representatives Thomas Foley, and the late Judge Frank Burgess. The university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Learners who enroll in the institution's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner program must complete 47 credits. Online courses last eight weeks and explore concepts such as information technology, health assessment, and pharmacology. Degree-seekers must also satisfy practicum requirements, which include hours in adult, geriatric, adolescent, and infant care. Clinical components must total at least 660 hours. The program also mandates on-campus attendance for six immersions. Candidates can complete all of these requirements in nine terms.
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits Gonzaga University's online nurse practitioner programs.
Georgetown University was established in 1789 and welcomed its first students in 1792. Located in Washington, D.C., this private, nonprofit school reflects Jesuit and Catholic ideologies. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education accredits the university.
Students interested in nurse practitioner online programs can consider Georgetown's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree but must complete 650 hours of fieldwork and 44 credits. Online courses include synchronous components. MSN-FNP students must also complete two on-campus experiences. Each applicant must hold an RN license. The MSN-FNP includes accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Full-time students can graduate in 19 months, while part-time learners may need 27 months. Graduates can sit for national certification exams through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
The Sisters of Mercy of Merion launched Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU) in 1948. The school continues to embrace Catholic traditions. More than 2,000 undergraduate students attended GMercyU in Fall 2018, and over 22,000 individuals have graduated from this private Pennsylvania institution. University learners can benefit from a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and choose from over 40 programs. The university holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Candidates can pursue the school's hybrid master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree. The MSN-FNP requires 48 credits and explores topics like pharmacology, research, and health policy. Learners must also earn 720 clinical hours and graduate in two years with full-time study. Part-time learners may need as many as five years to complete the program. The MSN-FNP holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Graduates can apply for admission into GMercyU's online doctor of nursing practice. The school also offers an online certificate in healthcare administration for further professional credentials.
Maryville University started in 1872. This Missouri school educates more than 10,200 students from over 50 countries. Learners at this private institution can choose from over 90 programs and learn through a 14-to-1 student-faculty ratio. The university holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Learners can pursue the institution's master of science in nursing and concentrate on family nurse practitioner concepts. This master's requires 47 credits that include three practicums in adult-gerontology and family practice. In total, students must earn at least 745 hours of clinical experience. Degree-seekers also complete asynchronous courses in disease prevention, pathophysiology, and health assessment. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this master's program.
This program targets licensed, experienced registered nurses with bachelor of science in nursing degrees and GPAs of at least 3.0. Applications call for an essay, resume or CV, and three recommendation letters.
After earning this degree, candidates can apply to Maryville's online doctor of nursing practice for family nurse practitioners program.
Established in 1933, Wilkes University educates around 2,000 undergraduate students every year, and approximately 90% of faculty hold a terminal degree. This private university holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
To earn the institution's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree, learners must complete courses in diagnostic reasoning, primary care, and nursing research. Candidates must also obtain 584 clinical hours and visit campus at least once. Graduates qualify to take family nurse practitioner national certification exams. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Each applicant must hold a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and an RN license with at least 12 months of relevant experience. Graduates can pursue an online doctor of nursing practice.
Online students gain access to library materials, such as online journals and books. The library also participates in the Interlibrary Loan program.
The Catholic University of America opened in 1889. More than 5,700 students attend this private school in Washington, D.C., and over 90,000 learners have graduated from the institution. The university ranks among the 100 best colleges for veterans and best value schools in the country and holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The Conway School of Nursing offers a master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner program that reflects the standards of organizations like the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties. Learners must earn over 700 clinical hours and complete courses on topics that include women's health and adolescent primary care. Graduates may take a family nurse practitioner certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Currently, the program does not admit learners from Alabama, New York, Wyoming, Utah, Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana, Oregon, North Dakota, or Washington.
Duquesne University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was established in 1878. In Fall 2019, 9,260 learners attended this Catholic school. Students can choose from 216 programs from Duquesne's nine schools. U.S. News & World Report ranks Duquesne among the top 150 national universities, best colleges for veterans, and best value schools. This military-friendly institution is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Individuals who want to enter online nurse practitioner programs can consider the university's master of science - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree. This MSN-FNP calls for 42 credits in courses and experiences that prepare for treating patients of all ages. Students must also visit campus twice to graduate. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this program. Admission requires 12 months of RN experience and a valid license.
Graduates can take national certification exams through the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board or pursue the university's online doctor of nursing practice.
Bradley University opened its doors in 1897 and currently boasts eight schools and colleges, more than 5,400 learners, and over 185 programs. Located in Peoria, Illinois, this private school has graduated over 70,000 students, including former Congressman Robert H. Michel, Pulitzer Prize winner Rene C. Byer, and Judge Joe Billy McDade. The Higher Learning Commission accredits Bradley.
The school's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree calls for over 60 credits and is for applicants with RN licenses. Required courses may address topics like health informatics, evidence-based practice, and pathophysiology and include a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Each candidate must also complete practicums and a capstone experience. The MSN-FNP requires no on-campus attendance and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Students may graduate in three years. Graduates qualify to take national certification exams from the American Organization of Nurse Executives or American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Loyola University New Orleans opened as Loyola College in 1904. This private, Catholic school's enrollment surpasses 4,400. The university offers students a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and over 140 programs. The institution is affiliated with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The College of Nursing and Health delivers a master of science in nursing with a career track for family nurse practitioners. This 48-credit program trains learners to provide holistic care by exploring topics like health management and pathophysiology. Degree-seekers must also complete classes and practicums in health assessment and primary care for pediatric, general adult, and women's health. Practicum hours must total at least 720 hours. Learners must also visit campus once a year. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this program.
Students can also pursue an online doctor of nursing practice through the university.
The Sisters of Mercy founded Saint Joseph's College of Maine in 1912. Currently, the school educates around 3,500 students and continues to embrace Catholic traditions. Located in the city of Standish, this private institution holds Carnegie Classification and accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The university's master of science in nursing offers a family nurse practitioner track that requires 48 credits. These credits include courses in family theory and nursing roles, along with practicums addressing children, adults, and the elderly. The program also calls for a capstone project. Full-time learners can graduate in two years.
The department accepts students from most states and does not require any on-campus components for this degree. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this online nurse practitioner program.
The university's online students can access virtual resources from the Wellehan Library and view online webinars on building resumes and looking for jobs through Career Development.
The University of Cincinnati (UC) opened its doors in 1870, but its roots date back to 1819 with the charter of the Medical College of Ohio and the Cincinnati College. As of 2019-2020, UC enrollment has surpassed 46,000 students. U.S. News & World Report ranks UC among the top 150 national universities and public schools, as well as the best value schools and best colleges for veterans. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Enrollees can earn a master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree at UC by completing 50 credits that address biostatistics, policy, pharmacology, and assessment. The curriculum also includes practicums and a capstone. Each student must earn 672 clinical hours to graduate. The program prepares learners for related national certification exams.
Degree-seekers can earn this MSN-FNP, which holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, in two years.
Founded in 1957, Stony Brook University includes a dozen schools and colleges. In Fall of 2019, this New York public school educated nearly 27,000 learners. Admission is competitive, with Stony Brook accepting less than half of its applicants in Fall 2019. The university is a member of the Association of American Universities and holds accreditation through the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The school's 45-credit master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner program requires classes in statistics, theory, advocacy, and technology. Learners must also complete four clinical courses. This curriculum prepares enrollees to offer safe and ethical care to patients of various ages. Graduates qualify to take national certification exams from the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board.
An applicant who does not possess a nursing bachelor's degree must complete a clinical portfolio. General admission requirements also include an RN license, three recommendations, and prerequisite coursework in health assessment and statistics.
Located in Weston, Massachusetts, Regis College opened its doors in 1927. This private institution's enrollment exceeds 3,000, with students choosing programs from the college's four schools. Ninety-seven percent of Regis alumni enter the workforce or advanced academic programs within half a year of earning degrees. The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Individuals can earn the school's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree, which requires 46 or 61 credits, depending on the applicant's current degree and credentials. This curriculum covers concepts like disease prevention, pharmacology, and leadership and mandates at least three clinical courses that total 664 hours. The MSN-FNP requires no on-campus elements.
The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredits this master's program and the National League for Nursing approves this opportunity as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education. Learners can graduate in three years and pursue certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) opened its doors in 1823. In the Fall of 2018, 7,064 students attended this private school. The institution boasts an 80% student retention rate and a 72% six-year graduation rate. MCPHS offers over 100 programs through 11 schools and holds accreditation through the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The university's online master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner program requires courses in health assessment, evidence-based practice, and pathophysiology. Candidates must also complete clinical courses in pediatric, geriatric, general adult, and women's care and fulfill three on-campus residencies in Worcester.
Each applicant must hold a nursing license, a nursing bachelor's, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. A candidate must also submit a recommendation letter and a resume. Individuals in most states are eligible for admission.
Learners can graduate in two years and apply to the university's online doctor of nursing practice program.
The Religious Sisters of Mercy founded Misericordia University in 1924. Currently, this private school in Dallas, Pennsylvania, maintains an affiliation with the Roman Catholic Church and educates more than 2,500 students. Misericordia ranks among U.S. News & World Report's top national universities and holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The institution's master of science in nursing - family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) degree calls for 50 credits and prepares learners to assess, diagnose, and treat patients by using diagnostic reasoning and precautionary measures. The MSN-FNP requires 630 clinical hours that concern patients of different ages. Candidates often graduate in three years and may apply six MSN-FNP credits toward a doctoral degree. The program holds accreditation from the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education.
Each applicant should hold a bachelor's degree and an RN license and provide two recommendations, a resume, and a goals statement.
Cox College started in 1907 as the Burge Deaconess Training School for Nurses. Located in Springfield, Missouri, this private school includes around 900 learners. By Spring 2018, the institution had conferred nearly 6,000 degrees and diplomas. Cox College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Students can specialize in family nurse practitioner concepts through the school's master of science in nursing. This 42-credit program trains learners to deliver ethical and effective care for all age groups as advanced practice nurses.
The online courses use the Canvas platform and also require 660 clinical hours related to newborns, adolescents, women, and other adults. Enrollees can complete the program in two years, which prepares them for family nurse practitioner national certification exams.
Cox College's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, and the Missouri State Board of Nursing.
SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) in Utica, New York, includes five colleges. The more than 2,000 undergraduate students at the university enjoy a 13-to-1 student-faculty ratio. SUNY Poly - Albany/Utica ranks as the 12th best regional university in the North, the sixth-best college for veterans, the second-best value school, and the second-best public school. The university holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Individuals who pursue SUNY Poly's master of science - family nurse practitioner degree develop skills and knowledge related to primary care. The program calls for 45 credits addressing family theory, health policy, and pharmacology. Candidates also earn 800 clinical hours and complete a culminating seminar and comprehensive exam. Students must hold at least a 3.0 GPA at the end of the program. Virtual courses for this hybrid program may be offered synchronously or asynchronously through Blackboard.
The program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Located in Rochester, New York, the University of Rochester opened its doors in 1850. In Fall 2018, this private university educated 7,041 undergraduate and graduate students from over 120 countries. The school participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program and ranks as the 29th best university nationally, 10th best college for veterans, and 22nd best value school in the country. This institution holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The school of nursing delivers a master of science with a concentration in family nurse practitioner concepts. Students learn to assess and treat patients of all ages for short-term and long-term illnesses in primary care settings. To graduate, degree-seekers must earn 55 credits and complete 672 clinical hours. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits this master's degree.
Each applicant must hold an RN license and a nursing bachelor's degree, along with experience in clinical settings for at least 12 months. Candidates should also obtain CPR certification and complete a prerequisite statistics course.
