Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas

Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas
Olivia Chen, NP

Olivia Chen, NP

June 26, 2025

Nurse practitioner programs in Kansas prepare registered nurses for advanced, autonomous practice in settings ranging from major health systems in Kansas City and Wichita to rural clinics in the plains. CCNE‑accredited MSN and DNP tracks are offered at institutions such as the University of Kansas Medical Center, Wichita State University, Newman University, and Pittsburg State University. These programs focus on specialties like family practice and psychiatric‑mental health, blending rigorous coursework with clinical practicums. Graduates are eligible for national certification and full APRN licensure with prescriptive authority under Kansas regulations.

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2026 Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas

At TopNursing.org, we've carefully analyzed and ranked the best Nurse Practitioner programs across Kansas to help aspiring healthcare professionals make informed educational decisions. Our comprehensive evaluation considers critical factors like program accreditation, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, student success rates, and graduate employment outcomes. Kansas offers several outstanding nursing education pathways that prepare advanced practice nurses to meet the growing healthcare demands of urban and rural communities. Whether you're seeking a family nurse practitioner program or a specialized track, our rankings provide transparent insights into the state's top-performing academic institutions. These programs not only deliver exceptional theoretical knowledge but also emphasize hands-on clinical experiences that transform students into highly skilled healthcare providers. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate at the University of Kansas is a hybrid program for experienced registered nurses, blending online coursework with clinical experiences to provide primary care across all life stages. It requires an existing graduate nursing degree, RN licensure, and a minimum 3.0 GPA, with a two-year completion timeline. No entrance exam is specified for this certificate-level program, which focuses on comprehensive clinical training and national accreditation.

  • Online and campus hybrid
  • 16 total credit hours
  • Advanced practice RN required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Clinical practicum experiences
  • Two-year completion timeline
  • Nationally accredited program
  • State licensure requirement
  • Graduate-level coursework
  • Comprehensive clinical training

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate at the University of Kansas is an online 24-credit-hour program for APRNs, focusing on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with interpersonal, psychotherapeutic, and psychopharmacologic interventions. Admission requires an APRN graduate degree, RN licensure, a 3.0 GPA, and a background check, with courses starting in Spring 2025. No entrance exam is mentioned for this graduate-level certificate.

  • 24 credit hours.
  • Online course delivery.
  • Spring 2025 start.
  • APRN graduate degree required.
  • Current RN licensure needed.
  • 3.0 GPA minimum.
  • Background check required.
  • Focus on mental health care.
  • Interpersonal skills development.
  • Psychotherapeutic interventions.

Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate at the University of Kansas is a 19-credit hybrid program for APRNs, specializing in acute care settings with online didactic courses and clinical experiences at KU Health System. It requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and completion of an accredited advanced practice nursing program. No entrance exam is specified for this certificate-level program.

  • 19 credit hours total
  • Online didactic courses
  • Face-to-face clinical experiences
  • KU Health System placements
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
  • Acute care specialization
  • Two-year completion timeline

Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate at the University of Kansas is a hybrid program for registered nurses with graduate education, focusing on adult and geriatric healthcare in settings like primary care clinics and long-term care. It includes 16 graduate credit hours, a 3.0 GPA requirement, and clinical intensives. No entrance exam is mentioned for this certificate-level program.

  • Hybrid online/campus format
  • 16 total graduate credit hours
  • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • Nationally accredited nursing program
  • Comprehensive clinical practicums
  • Focuses on adult/geriatric care

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at the University of Kansas is a campus-based program preparing nurses for advanced practice with over 1,000 supervised clinical hours. Admission requires a BSN, minimum 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and national certification, with credit hours ranging from 73-79. No entrance exam is specified for this doctoral-level program.

  • 1,000 supervised practice hours
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Multiple specialty options
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Leadership and scholarship focus
  • Clinical and leadership tracks
  • Advanced nursing practice preparation
  • Comprehensive doctoral curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at the University of Kansas is a campus-based program for nurses with a BSN or MSN, emphasizing evidence-based care, leadership, and over 1,000 clinical hours. It prepares graduates for high-level practice in diverse settings. No entrance exam is mentioned for this doctoral-level program.

  • Campus-based program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
  • Requires BSN or MSN
  • Over 1,000 clinical hours
  • Advanced practice and leadership
  • Evidence-based care emphasis
  • Patient-centered curriculum
  • Prepares for high-level practice
  • Innovation in health care
  • Collaboration skills development
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

Washburn University

Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Washburn University's fully online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate program allows advanced nurses to specialize in mental health care. It can be completed in four semesters with a 94% certification exam pass rate, featuring virtual simulations and flexible clinical placements. No entrance exam is required, and graduates are eligible for ANCC certification, entering a field with strong job growth and a median salary near $140,000.

  • Fully online program
  • 4 semester completion time
  • 94% certification exam pass rate
  • Clinical ratio 10:1
  • Virtual simulation training
  • Flexible clinical placements
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Preceptor-guided experiences
  • Current field-working instructors

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Washburn University focuses on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing nurses for leadership roles. It requires 74-76 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours, delivered online with flexibility for working professionals. An entrance exam is not mentioned as required. Graduates can expect an average salary of $120,610, with the program emphasizing healthcare innovation and practical experience.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • 1,000 direct patient care hours
  • Nationally accredited program
  • 74-76 total credit hours
  • Summer start program
  • Faculty with active clinical practices
  • Bright career outlook
  • Average salary $120,610

Doctorate - BSN to DNP

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Visit Website

Washburn University's online BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is designed for working nurses, requiring 74-76 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours. It includes live virtual classes and minimal on-campus visits, focusing on leadership and quality improvement. No entrance exam is specified as required. Graduates enter primary care with an average FNP salary of $120,610, supported by financial aid options.

  • Online format with flexibility.
  • 74 to 76 credit hours.
  • 1000 clinical hours required.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Live virtual classes included.
  • Minimal on-campus requirements.
  • BSN admission requirement.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Bright career outlook.
  • Average FNP salary $120,610.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program that prepares nurses for advanced primary care roles. It emphasizes evidence-based practices, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration, boasting a 100% national certification exam pass rate. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.0-3.25 and professional licensure; no entrance exam is specified, indicating it may not be required for this doctoral-level program.

  • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
  • Fully Online DNP Program
  • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
  • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
  • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skills Development
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Doctorate - BSN to DNP

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University's BSN to DNP program, specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner, is a hybrid format blending online learning with clinical experiences. It focuses on primary care across the lifespan, leadership, and evidence-based practice, with a 100% certification exam pass rate from 2020-2023. Admission requires a BSN, RN license in KS, NE, or OK, and a minimum 3.0 GPA; no entrance exam is mentioned, suggesting it is not required for this doctoral-level pathway.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Requires BSN and RN license
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • 100% pass rate on certification
  • Leadership and evidence-based focus
  • Interprofessional collaboration
  • Primary care across lifespan
  • Admission from KS, NE, OK
  • Accredited by CCNE
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

University of Saint Mary

Leavenworth, KS - Private 4-year - stmary.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Saint Mary offers a Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program, designed to train advanced practice nurses in providing comprehensive mental health care across all age groups. This hybrid program requires 53 credits over two years, combining online asynchronous classes with two on-campus intensives and over 700 clinical hours. Admission necessitates a BSN from an accredited program, a current RN license, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and at least one year of nursing experience. The program is CCNE accredited and does not require an entrance exam, with competitive tuition at $775 per credit hour.

  • 53 total credit hours
  • Online asynchronous classes
  • Two on-campus intensives
  • 700+ clinical hours
  • Competitive $775/credit tuition
  • Requires BSN, RN license
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • One year nursing experience
  • Remote admissions interview
  • CCNE accredited program
#5

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu

Doctorate - BSN to DNP

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Pittsburg State University offers a BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed as a hybrid model blending online and on-campus learning for flexibility. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles, focusing on clinical expertise, leadership, and education, with graduates often earning over $100,000. Admission requires a BSN degree, and applications are accepted from August 1 to October 10 for a Summer Session start. As a doctoral-level program, it may require an entrance exam, though specifics are not provided in the data.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner.
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
  • Salaries exceed $100,000.
  • Starts Summer Session.
  • Applications August 1-October 10.
  • Flexible for working professionals.
  • Focus on leadership and education.
  • Terminal degree in nursing.
  • Combines online and campus learning.
*U.S. Department of Education institutional data (IPEDS 2023).

Program Curriculum & Length

Length

Curriculum

Advanced Health Assessment
Advanced Pathophysiology
Advanced Pharmacology
FNP Roles & Issues
Clinical Readiness & Practicum Courses

Clinical Rotations

Are Online Nurse Practitioner Programs Available in Kansas

To accommodate working nurses and those in remote areas, many Kansas NP programs deliver didactic content online through asynchronous lectures and live webinars, supplemented by periodic on‑campus intensives for simulation labs and skills workshops. Clinical rotations are arranged locally at approved healthcare sites, allowing students to fulfill practicum requirements close to home. A few programs even offer fully online didactic phases with minimal in‑person visits. This blended structure helps learners balance professional duties with academic progress.

2026 Fastest NP Program Options in Kansas

Kansas offers several accelerated nursing programs designed for students seeking to advance their healthcare careers quickly. With options across major urban areas like Wichita and Kansas City, aspiring nurses can find the shortest paths to professional credentials. These programs recognize the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals and provide streamlined educational tracks that minimize time investment while maintaining high academic standards. Prospective students can explore various degree levels, from graduate certificates to doctoral programs, allowing flexibility in career development. The tables below highlight key institutions offering these rapid nursing education pathways, showcasing graduation and retention rates that demonstrate program effectiveness and student success potential.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
University of Kansas
  • Campus-based program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
  • Requires BSN or MSN
  • Over 1,000 clinical hours
  • Advanced practice and leadership
  • Evidence-based care emphasis
  • Patient-centered curriculum
  • Prepares for high-level practice
  • Graduation Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Washburn University
  • Online format with flexibility.
  • 74 to 76 credit hours.
  • 1000 clinical hours required.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Live virtual classes included.
  • Minimal on-campus requirements.
  • BSN admission requirement.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Retention Rate: 69%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
University of Saint Mary
  • 53 total credit hours
  • Online asynchronous classes
  • Two on-campus intensives
  • 700+ clinical hours
  • Competitive $775/credit tuition
  • Requires BSN, RN license
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • One year nursing experience
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1
*Source: IPEDS 2023 survey results, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

Admission Requirements

BSN Degree, Competitive GPA
From regionally accredited institution, typically around 3.0
Active RN License
Unencumbered and current
Application Materials
Official transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation
Insurance and Health Requirements
Professional liability insurance, current immunizations
Background Check, Drug Screening
Criminal history and substance testing
Clinical Experience, Additional Requirements
At least 1 year RN experience, may require interview or standardized test scores

Certification and Licensing

Certifying BoardKansas State Board of Nursing – Advanced Practice Section
CertificationRequires an approved national APRN credential (e.g., AANPCB or ANCC) with primary‐source verification sent to the Board
License Renewal PeriodBiennial renewal on the last day of the nurse’s birth month, alternating odd/even years based on birth year
Continuing Education30 contact hours every two years, APRNs with DEA registration complete a one-time 8-hour opioid/substance-use-disorder course
License Application Fee$50 initial APRN licensure fee
Clinical HoursOfficial graduate transcript documenting completion of the NP program’s clinical practicum hours
Application Processing TimeAllow 7–10 business days before checking status, all qualifications must be met within 180 days or the application is closed
License by EndorsementOut-of-state APRNs must obtain Kansas RN endorsement and APRN licensure, submitting primary-source verification of national certification, prescriptive authority is include

Salary and Job Outlook

Nurse practitioners in Kansas earn an average annual salary of about $112,000, with metropolitan areas like Kansas City and Wichita offering slightly higher wages and rural regions starting closer to $105,000. Employers often enhance compensation with sign‑on bonuses, loan repayment assistance, and benefits packages that include health insurance and retirement plans. Specialty certifications, advanced degrees, and leadership roles can further increase earning potential. Seasonal or rural incentives, such as housing stipends, are sometimes available in underserved areas.

Salary & Career OutlookKansasUSA
Avg Nurse Practitioner Salary$127,900$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$61.50$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$? (~$145K)$80,510
Median Salary$127,900$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$100K$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032)~45%~3%
Annual Job Openings~N/A~54,000

2026 Affordable NP Program Options in Kansas

Kansas offers aspiring nurse practitioners several affordable programs designed to support healthcare professionals in advancing their education. With diverse options across major regions like Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka, students can find cost-effective graduate and doctoral nursing pathways that balance quality education with financial accessibility. These programs recognize the critical need for skilled nursing professionals and aim to reduce financial barriers through competitive tuition ranges and flexible learning formats. Whether seeking a master's degree or graduate certificate, nurses can explore programs that provide comprehensive training while maintaining reasonable pricing structures. The following table highlights key institutions offering nurse practitioner educational opportunities throughout the state.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Washburn University
  • Online format with flexibility.
  • 74 to 76 credit hours.
  • 1000 clinical hours required.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Live virtual classes included.
  • Minimal on-campus requirements.
  • BSN admission requirement.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • $8,300 - $12,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $16,100 - $24,100 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Saint Mary
  • 53 total credit hours
  • Online asynchronous classes
  • Two on-campus intensives
  • 700+ clinical hours
  • Competitive $775/credit tuition
  • Requires BSN, RN license
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • One year nursing experience
  • $9,100 - $13,600 (Graduate)
Fort Hays State University
  • Hybrid program format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Requires BSN and RN license
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • 100% pass rate on certification
  • Leadership and evidence-based focus
  • Interprofessional collaboration
  • Primary care across lifespan
  • $3,800 - $5,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $9,600 - $14,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Official data: NCES IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Advancement Pathways

Many NP graduates pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice to deepen clinical expertise and qualify for leadership, faculty, or executive roles within healthcare organizations. Post‑master’s certificate programs allow practitioners to add new specialties, such as acute care or women’s health, without completing another full degree. Those interested in research or academia may enroll in PhD programs, while others transition into roles in administration, informatics, policy development, or telehealth leadership. Kansas’s growing focus on rural health and population health management also opens doors to innovative practice models.

List of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas

Jump to City:

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • Requires BSN and RN license
    • Minimum GPA of 3.0
    • 100% pass rate on certification
    • Leadership and evidence-based focus
    • Interprofessional collaboration
    • Primary care across lifespan
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
    • Fully Online DNP Program
    • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
    • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
    • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
    • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
    • Leadership Skills Development
    • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Lawrence, KS

University of Kansas

  • Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 19 credit hours total
    • Online didactic courses
    • Face-to-face clinical experiences
    • KU Health System placements
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
    • Acute care specialization
    • Two-year completion timeline
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/campus format
    • 16 total graduate credit hours
    • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Multiple clinical practice settings
    • Nationally accredited nursing program
    • Comprehensive clinical practicums
    • Focuses on adult/geriatric care
  • Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online and campus hybrid
    • 16 total credit hours
    • Advanced practice RN required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • Clinical practicum experiences
    • Two-year completion timeline
    • Nationally accredited program
    • State licensure requirement
  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 24 credit hours.
    • Online course delivery.
    • Spring 2025 start.
    • APRN graduate degree required.
    • Current RN licensure needed.
    • 3.0 GPA minimum.
    • Background check required.
    • Focus on mental health care.
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
    • Requires BSN or MSN
    • Over 1,000 clinical hours
    • Advanced practice and leadership
    • Evidence-based care emphasis
    • Patient-centered curriculum
    • Prepares for high-level practice

Leavenworth, KS

University of Saint Mary

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 53 total credit hours
    • Online asynchronous classes
    • Two on-campus intensives
    • 700+ clinical hours
    • Competitive $775/credit tuition
    • Requires BSN, RN license
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • One year nursing experience

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University

  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format.
    • Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner.
    • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
    • Salaries exceed $100,000.
    • Starts Summer Session.
    • Applications August 1-October 10.
    • Flexible for working professionals.
    • Focus on leadership and education.

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • 4 semester completion time
    • 94% certification exam pass rate
    • Clinical ratio 10:1
    • Virtual simulation training
    • Flexible clinical placements
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Preceptor-guided experiences
  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Website

    • Online format with flexibility.
    • 74 to 76 credit hours.
    • 1000 clinical hours required.
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • Live virtual classes included.
    • Minimal on-campus requirements.
    • BSN admission requirement.
    • Financial aid options available.
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online flexible learning format
    • 1,000 direct patient care hours
    • Nationally accredited program
    • 74-76 total credit hours
    • Summer start program
    • Faculty with active clinical practices
    • Bright career outlook
    • Average salary $120,610

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Two program entry points
    • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
    • Specializations in multiple areas
    • Advanced curriculum focus
    • Flexible full/part-time learning
    • Healthcare systems knowledge
    • Evidence-based practice training
    • Multiple healthcare settings preparation
*Source: IPEDS 2023 survey results, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.