The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

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Updated January 25, 2024

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Family nurse practitioners are in high demand. Learn about the best online FNP programs for your budget and career goals.
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Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Credit: FatCamera / E+ / Getty Images

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) support patients of all ages and physicians. If you want to become an FNP, there are flexible program options to meet your needs.

Discover the most affordable online FNP programs, including tips on searching, applying, and paying for your degree.

Featured Online MSN Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Online FNP Program Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Texas A & M International University
Laredo, TX
$3,350 $10,694 54%
#2 University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
$60,446 $60,446 13%
#3 The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL
$7,088 $22,166 53%
#4 Cedarville University
Cedarville, OH
$9,864 $9,864 62%
#5 University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY
$4,282 $4,282 85%
#6 Rockhurst University
Kansas City, MO
$16,524 $16,524 67%
#7 George Washington University
Washington, DC
$32,850 $32,850 50%
#8 Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
$10,724 $19,266 78%
#9 Saint John Fisher College
Rochester, NY
$18,054 $18,054 71%
#10 Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO
$14,346 $14,346 92%

Learn More About the Most Affordable Online FNP Programs & Schools in 2024

#1 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

Texas A & M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Texas A&M International University's online FNP program requires 48 credits and prepares practitioners to promote healthy local, national, and international communities through research, policy, and practice.

Students complete courses like research methods and statistical analysis, healthcare policy and social justice, pathophysiology, and healthcare assessment. Practicum courses include pediatric and family primary care with integrated family clinical practice supervised experience.

The university offers several forms of funding and aid, including fellowships, assistantships, and scholarships. 

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Laredo, Texas
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
  • Tuition: $3,686 per semester for Texas residents; $9,572 per semester for out-of-state students
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license valid in Texas; minimum 2.7 GPA; upper-level 3.0 GPA; undergraduate statistics; one year of RN inpatient experience
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 83% first-time pass rate 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,694
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,455
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Southern California's online FNP program emphasizes integrated, lifetime care for infants, children, adolescents, and adults. The program offers full-time and part-time enrollment options. Distance learners attend live online classes, have access to coursework 24/7, and complete clinical practicums in their local areas. 

Courses include community-based research; pathophysiology and pharmacology; and quantitative and qualitative data analysis and research methods. An incoming student may need to complete a bridge class to prepare for pathophysiology and pharmacology coursework. 

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Los Angeles, California
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $2,244 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; completion of statistics; one year of clinical experience
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 21 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $163,225 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
49,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The full-time, online FNP program at the University of West Florida includes courses in advanced health assessment; evaluating, diagnosing, managing acute and chronic health conditions; and organizational theory and leadership.

The program's four practicums focus on caring for adults, children, families, and women.
Program graduates have a three-year average pass rate of 93% on the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners FNP certification exam.

Each admitted student can transfer up to nine credits, and military benefits may qualify candidates for free tuition.

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Pensacola, Florida
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $500 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; undergraduate statistics
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 81% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
13,288
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

Cedarville University

  • Cedarville, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cedarville University's online FNP emphasizes Christian compassion and offers biblically integrated coursework. Graduates complete 56-59 credits and 800 hours of direct care clinical experience.  

Students can study full time or part time. The program requires four campus visits for clinical orientation and clinical specialty courses. An MSN clinical placement coordinator assists distance learners with finding clinical preceptors in their local areas.

Cedarville offers a limited number of $3,000 scholarships to qualified new graduate nursing students.

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Cedarville, Ohio
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $680 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA preferred; affirmation of faith in Jesus Christ; coursework in nursing research and statistics
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 92% first-time pass rate 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,174
Out-of-state
$33,174
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,864
Out-of-state
$9,864
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
4,643
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of the Cumberlands' online FNP curriculum develops nurse leaders skilled in data management, healthcare technology, and informatics. The program's 48 credits include 720 clinical hours and coursework that covers advanced pharmacology, epidemiology, issues in advanced practice, FNP advanced practice, and theoretical basis for advanced nursing practice.

In addition to low tuition rates, the university offers free textbooks. Online students can access career services, IT help, library resources, and tutoring from the learning commons.  

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Williamsburg, Kentucky
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $539 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; minimum 2.5 GPA; current RN license; clinical experience
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
19,272
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

Rockhurst University

  • Kansas City, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Rockhurst University offers an online FNP program guided by Jesuit principles. The program benefits working nurses by including online course delivery, one on-campus immersion, full clinical placement services, and preceptor matching support.

The curriculum covers 750 clinical hours and coursework emphasizing advanced practice nursing foundations; evidence-informed quality improvement; and leadership, systems, and policy. Classes include advanced health assessment and physical diagnosis; informatics for advanced nursing practice; and mental health for family nurse practitioners.

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Kansas City, Missouri
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $735 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; residency in select states
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (year): 97% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,500
Out-of-state
$39,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,524
Out-of-state
$16,524
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,626
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

George Washington University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online FNP program at George Washington University offers full-time or part-time study and spring or fall entry. The program requires 48 credits, 600-700 clinical hours, and two on-campus components. Students must gain departmental approval for their clinical preceptors and sites. 

Core coursework includes biostatistics for healthcare research, concepts in population health, and nursing leadership. The FNP concentration covers lifespan primary care, diagnosis, management, and professional issues, along with genetics for healthcare providers and advanced pharmacology.

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Washington, D.C.
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $1,450 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2023): 94% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $101,254 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,894
Out-of-state
$57,894
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$32,850
Out-of-state
$32,850
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
26,457
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

Northern Arizona University

  • Flagstaff, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Northern Arizona University's FNP program requires 48-51 credits, including field practicums and a thesis or individual research project. The blended curriculum emphasizes primary care in rural settings and prepares graduates for Arizona state endorsement and national certification.

Core courses include advanced principles of evidence-based practice, advanced roles transition, applied pathophysiology, and rural theory and health policy. The FNP concentration focuses on client and family care management and knowledge; healthcare delivery systems; and professional relationships. 

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Flagstaff, Arizona
  • Type: Public
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $610 per credit
  • Admission Requirements: Associate degree in nursing with a bachelor's degree in another field or bachelor's degree in nursing; current Arizona RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2023): 97% first-time pass rate 
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $92,632 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,381
Out-of-state
$16,600
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,724
Out-of-state
$19,266
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
28,711
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

Saint John Fisher College

  • Rochester, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online FNP program at Saint John Fisher College focuses on primary care family nurse practice and offers two tracks: a 24-month accelerated pathway and a 28-month part-time option. The 46-credit curriculum includes one pre-clinical immersion on the Rochester campus and 600 clinical placement hours students can complete in their local communities.

Core MSN coursework emphasizes skill building. The FNP specialization covers diagnostic reasoning; evidence-based practice; patient advocacy and education; and treating diverse populations. 

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: Rochester, New York
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $1,094 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; 3.0 GPA; current RN license; one year of current employment in a clinical setting; two recommendation letters from supervising advanced practice registered nurses 
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: Yes
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2022): 85% first-time pass rate 
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $95,739 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,352
Out-of-state
$35,352
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,054
Out-of-state
$18,054
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
3,539
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 The Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2024

Maryville University of Saint Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Maryville University's online FNP program offers a 24/7 online learning model and focuses on compassionate and holistic patient care. The MSN core curriculum includes advanced health assessment, health care policy, and theoretical foundations of nursing practice. FNP concentration courses and field practicums cover adult-gerontology and pediatric/family practice. 

Enrollees can study full-time or part-time and complete their supervised FNP-focused practicums locally. Applicants do not need to have taken statistics or submit GRE or GMAT scores. 

  • Program: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Campus: St. Louis, Missouri
  • Type: Private
  • Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Tuition: $838 per credit 
  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree in nursing; current RN license; minimum 3.0 GPA; one year of professional nursing experience
  • Minimum Time Commitment: 20 months
  • On-Campus Requirements: No
  • School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2003): 92% first-time pass rate
  • Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $93,724 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,766
Out-of-state
$24,766
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,346
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
10,596
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
84% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How We Rank Our Schools

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the most affordable online family nurse practitioner programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including: academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online FNP Program

It's crucial to consider key factors when choosing an online FNP program. These elements can affect your eligibility and satisfaction with the program. The following data points contributed to the overall rankings and should be evaluated based on your unique needs.

Admission Requirements

Most programs have similar requirements, such as graduation from an accredited nursing program. Check the program's admission requirements to ensure you are qualified to apply.


Specializations

Achieving an FNP certification requires graduating from a program with an FNP specialization. Although nearly 70% of all nurse practitioners are FNPs, not all graduate nursing programs offer an FNP specialization.


Program Curriculum

The program's curriculum should prepare you for your national certification examination and cultivate advanced clinical skills. FNPs must be proficient educators, advocates, counselors, and clinicians. An FNP curriculum should cover evaluating research, promoting critical thinking skills, and helping students assume leadership positions.


Clinical Experience

Information about how clinicals are structured may influence your program choice. Does the school help with placement? Are you limited to certain practices for clinical experiences? How is the time spent in clinical rotations broken up? Each of these factors may impact your decision.


Accreditation

Accreditation is a voluntary process demonstrating a school's dedication to quality academics, industry best practices, and continuous improvement. You must graduate from an accredited program to qualify for the FNP certification examination.


Program Length

The number of credits you need depends on the program. An MSN FNP program typically requires 37-50 credits and 500-672 clinical hours.


School Graduation Rate

When selecting a school, look for the FNP program's graduation rate. A high graduation rate can indicate a high level of student satisfaction and support.


Online Learning Format and Requirements

Attending an online program allows you to continue working while earning your degree, but you must complete clinical hours in person at approved sites. Online programs offer significant flexibility but require a high degree of dedication and self-discipline.

Why Is FNP Program Accreditation Important?

Accreditation is vital for the online FNP program you consider. Every program in our ranking is accredited.

Accreditation is a third-party peer review to ensure the program meets educational standards and prepares students for the field. Reasons to attend an accredited program include:

  • Accreditation ensures quality education that meets industry standards
  • Both the ANCC and AANPCB require graduation from an accredited program to sit for the FNP licensure exam
  • Credits from an unaccredited program do not transfer
  • Without accreditation, you may not qualify for federal aid
  • Without accreditation, your license may not transfer through reciprocity
  • Accredited programs receive more educational funding

How Online FNP Programs Work

Online vs, in-person requirements vary depending on the FNP program. Some schools allow students to complete all coursework online, while others require in-person labs or seminars.

All programs require at least 500 hours of clinical experience. Some online FNP programs help students find clinical placements, while others do not. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both in-person or online options.

Applying to an Online Family Nurse Practitioner Program

There are several steps to the application process, including ensuring you meet admission and GPA requirements and gathering the necessary documentation.

Admission Requirements

  • Graduation from an accredited BSN program
  • Verified, valid, unrestricted RN license
  • Two years of full-time experience in the past five years
  • Schools consider volunteer work, time shadowing an NP, and certifications favorably

Admission Materials

  • Completed application
  • College transcripts
  • Personal statement, goal statement, or letter of intent
  • Resume
  • Interview
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Direct entry or accelerated programs require a passing NCLEX score to finish the program

Before starting clinicals students must provide:

  • Health status
  • State and federal background check
  • Malpractice insurance

Prerequisite classes may include:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Biomedical statistics
  • Microbiology
  • Chemistry
  • Nutrition

GPA Requirement

GPA requirement varies and may range from 2.7 to 3.2

Paying for FNP Programs

Several factors determine how much you will pay for your online FNP program. These include the length of the program, cost per credit, whether you are paying in-state or out-of-state tuition and fees, and whether you can work while taking classes.

Many nursing students entering graduate school may still be making loan payments for undergraduate degrees if their loans are not yet eligible for federal loan forgiveness. You can also defer loans until you complete your FNP program. Some financial aid options include scholarships, grants, and student loans.

Additionally, some hospital benefits include tuition reimbursement. It is important to understand the reimbursement terms before accepting the aid. You may need to work at the hospital for several years after graduation.

What Can You Do as an FNP?

FNPs enjoy a broad scope of practice, but many specialize by earning certifications in areas like pain, obesity management, or diabetes. These certifications are not required, but they may increase an FNP's employment opportunities and salary potential while meeting the needs of patients.

According to Payscale, the average annual salary for an FNP in the U.S. is $103,030 as of December 2023. Years of experience, location, additional certifications, and practice setting can affect salary.

FNPs can work in:

  • Hospitals
  • Urgent care centers
  • Doctor's offices or private clinics
  • Skilled nursing facilities
  • Hospice centers
  • Correctional facilities
  • College campuses
  • Health departments
  • Occupational sites
  • Private practice in states with full practice authority

Frequently Asked Questions About Online FNP Programs

Can you become a family nurse practitioner online?

Yes, many online FNP programs exist. However, some programs may require students to attend in-person labs or seminars throughout the program. All FNP candidates must complete at least 500 hours of in-person clinical experience.

What is the fastest way to become a family nurse practitioner?

FNPs need an RN license, certification from one of two national organizations, and at least an MSN. One of the fastest ways to earn FNP credentials is by enrolling in a two-year MSN program with a BSN and RN license. Generally, becoming an FNP can take 2-7 years, depending on your current education level, whether you have an RN license, and whether you enroll in a program part or full-time.

Some options include RN-to-MSN programs, which can take 3-4 years. A student could also become an FNP within 6-7 years by completing a two-year ADN, getting two years of experience, and then enrolling in an RN-to-MSN program.

Does it matter where you go to FNP school?

Yes, it does. All FNP students must choose an accredited school to ensure they are eligible for licensure and employment. Graduates from prestigious schools may have an easier time getting their first job. However, employers tend to value experience and credentials more than your alma mater.

Ensure the FNP program fits your career goals. For example, if you aspire to work in research, teach at the university level, or become a school nurse, you'll want to seek out an online FNP program with strengths in those areas.

Are family nurse practitioners in high demand?

Yes, FNPS are in high demand due to a nationwide nursing shortage. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, there's an expected shortfall of up to 48,000 family medicine physicians by 2034. This provider shortage opens greater opportunities and demand for FNPs to work in family medicine.

Page last reviewed on January 23, 2024. Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.

NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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