Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Maine

Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Maine
Olivia Chen, NP

Olivia Chen, NP

June 26, 2025

Maine’s nurse practitioner programs are offered by institutions such as the University of New England (Biddeford & Portland), Husson University (Bangor), University of Southern Maine, and University of Maine at Fort Kent. These CCNE‑accredited MSN and DNP tracks in specialties like family practice, psychiatric‑mental health, and adult‑gerontology blend rigorous coursework with clinical practicums, leading to national certification and Maine APRN licensure.

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2026 Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Maine

If you're looking to advance your nursing career in Maine, choosing the right Nurse Practitioner (NP) program is crucial. TopNursing.org has carefully analyzed and ranked the best NP programs across the state, considering factors like academic reputation, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and student success rates. Our comprehensive research helps prospective students identify top-tier educational paths in nursing. Whether you're interested in family practice, pediatrics, or specialized areas of healthcare, Maine offers several outstanding programs that can propel your professional journey. These rankings provide valuable insights into the educational landscape, helping you make an informed decision about your future in nursing. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Husson University

Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - husson.edu

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Husson University's online Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program offers a transformative educational pathway for healthcare professionals seeking advanced nursing expertise. The comprehensive 48-credit curriculum emphasizes comprehensive patient care across lifespans, strategically blending rigorous academic training with extensive 540 clinical hours. With an exceptional 95% national certification exam passage rate, students develop sophisticated clinical skills through flexible online learning. The program's strategic design enables working nurses to advance their careers while maintaining personal commitments, positioning graduates for dynamic primary care opportunities.

  • Online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
  • 48 total credit hours
  • 540 total clinical hours
  • 30 months completion time
  • $682 per credit hour
  • 95% national exam passage rate
  • Multiple start dates annually
  • Free 24/7 tutoring available
  • One-on-one career advising
  • CCNE accredited program

Master's - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Husson University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program delivers a comprehensive 48-credit Master of Science in Nursing designed for ambitious nursing professionals. Fully online and strategically structured, the curriculum develops specialized skills for managing complex healthcare needs across young adult, older adult, and elderly patient populations. Graduates receive extensive preparation for national certification exams, positioning themselves in a high-demand healthcare specialty. The program's flexible format accommodates working professionals seeking advanced clinical expertise and transformative career opportunities.

  • 48-credit Master's degree
  • 100% online program
  • CCNE accredited
  • Prepares for certification exams
  • Advanced nursing care focus

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Husson University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration represents a sophisticated educational pathway for aspiring advanced practice nurses. The 48-credit program integrates comprehensive coursework in advanced pharmacotherapeutics, health assessment, and pathophysiology, emphasizing family-centered care across all developmental stages. With 540 clinical hours and a remarkable 95% national certification exam passage rate, students develop intricate clinical skills. The program's flexible online format, competitive pricing, and robust academic support make it an exceptional choice for nurses seeking professional advancement.

  • 48 total credit hours
  • 540 clinical hours
  • 30 months to completion
  • $682 per credit hour
  • 95% certification exam pass rate
  • Online program
  • Flexible start dates
  • Free 24/7 tutoring
  • One-on-one career services
  • CCNE accredited

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Husson University's Post-Master's APRN Certificates provide experienced nurses a strategic pathway to specialized advanced practice. Offering three distinct tracks—Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health—these 100% online programs enable nurses to expand clinical capabilities efficiently. With credit requirements ranging from 18-51 credits, the program accommodates diverse educational backgrounds. Graduates receive comprehensive theoretical and practical training, preparing them to excel in specialized certification exams and deliver sophisticated, patient-centered care across complex healthcare environments.

  • 100% Online Nursing Certificates
  • Three Specialized APRN Tracks
  • 95% National Exam Passage Rate
  • 18-51 Credits Required
  • Accredited by CCNE
  • Expert Practicing Faculty
  • Lifespan Patient Care Focus
  • Advanced Clinical Credentials

Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Husson University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate represents a targeted professional development opportunity for advanced practice nurses. This intensive 21-credit, 12-month program focuses on comprehensive women's healthcare across lifespans—from adolescence through menopause. Integrating online, classroom, and experiential learning, the curriculum equips nurses with specialized skills in gynecological services, well-woman care, health education, and prenatal management. Designed for existing family and adult nurse practitioners, the program enhances clinical expertise and expands career opportunities in women's health specialties.

  • Certificate for master's-level nurses
  • 21 credit hours total
  • 688 internship hours
  • Online and classroom learning
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Women's health focus
  • 12-month program duration
  • Covers adolescence to menopause

Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Husson University's Post-Master's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate empowers experienced nurses to specialize in complex patient care. This fully online program provides comprehensive training in acute care settings, preparing professionals to deliver advanced nursing interventions for adult and geriatric populations. Offering flexible credit options between 18-48 credits, the program enables nurses to efficiently expand their professional capabilities. Graduates receive robust preparation for national certification exams, positioning themselves at the forefront of specialized acute care nursing practice.

  • 100% online program
  • 18-48 credit options
  • National certification exam preparation
  • Expert practicing faculty
  • Advanced acute care nursing focus
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME - Private 4-year - sjcme.edu

Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

Saint Joseph's College of Maine's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides a robust educational pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Specializing in comprehensive mental health services across patient lifespans, the CCNE-accredited curriculum emphasizes evidence-based psychiatric disorder diagnosis, treatment, and management. Students benefit from a flexible online format that accommodates working professionals, blending theoretical insights with practical clinical training. The program prepares graduates for national certification exams and advanced practice roles, offering a strategic approach to mental health nursing education. Designed to meet rigorous academic standards, the program equips nurses with sophisticated skills to address complex psychiatric healthcare needs.

  • Online format
  • CCNE accredited
  • Focus on mental health
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Comprehensive curriculum
#3

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu

Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing

Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Southern Maine's Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing provides a cutting-edge Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (A-GACNP) specialization for master's-prepared nurses. This innovative blended program strategically combines rigorous online coursework with hands-on clinical training, enabling experienced professionals to advance their acute care expertise. Requiring 18-40 credit hours and potentially completed within three semesters, the program emphasizes comprehensive skill development. Students benefit from diverse clinical experience venues and gain national certification eligibility, positioning graduates for expanded career opportunities in complex acute care environments. The military-friendly institution ensures flexible learning pathways for dedicated healthcare professionals seeking specialized advanced practice credentials.

  • Blended learning format
  • 18-40 credit hours
  • 3 semester completion option
  • National certification eligibility
  • Multiple clinical experience venues
#4

University of Maine

Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu

Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)

Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Maine's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program delivers comprehensive training in primary healthcare, strategically preparing nurses for advanced practice roles. Emphasizing rural and underserved community health, the curriculum integrates evidence-based practice with extensive clinical experiences. Students enjoy flexible learning through online and on-campus instruction, tailored to accommodate both full-time and part-time learners. The program's rigorous framework covers advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for national certification exams. Admission requires a BSN, active Maine RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA, and two years of professional nursing experience, positioning students for successful healthcare leadership.

  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Prepares for FNP national certification.
  • Mix of online and classroom instruction.
  • Tailored full-time or part-time study.
  • Focus on rural and underserved communities.
  • Requires BSN for admission.
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
  • Clinical experiences arranged locally.
  • Eligible for licensure in Maine.
  • Strong track record on certification exams.

Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Advanced Study

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

The University of Maine's Advanced Study Certificate offers a robust Family Nurse Practitioner track designed for experienced nurses seeking specialized professional development. Leveraging a hybrid learning model, the program integrates comprehensive online coursework with dynamic classroom instruction. Students benefit from CCNE accreditation, expert faculty mentorship, and extensive clinical experiences. The curriculum emphasizes advanced practice nursing with dedicated preparation for national certification. Unique admission requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA, two years of nursing experience, and specific prerequisite courses. Flexible full-time and part-time options accommodate working healthcare professionals seeking career advancement in primary care settings.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Full-time or Part-time Options
  • Online and Classroom Instruction
  • Two Concentration Tracks: FNP and Nursing Education
  • National Certification Preparation
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
  • Two Years RN Experience Needed
  • Clinical Experiences Integrated
  • Advanced Practice Nursing Focus
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Beal University

Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - beal.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Beal University's online Master of Science in Nursing for Family Nurse Practitioners offers a transformative educational pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The program strategically blends comprehensive healthcare theory with practical skill development, enabling students to deliver exceptional patient care across all age groups. Graduates emerge fully prepared for professional certification exams and leadership roles in family healthcare settings. With a flexible online format, the curriculum accommodates working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Admission requires a BSN and active RN licensure, ensuring students have a solid foundation in nursing practice. Financial aid opportunities and competitive tuition make this program an attractive option for ambitious nursing professionals.

  • Online program format
  • Focus on family healthcare
  • Prepares for certification exams
  • Requires BSN and RN license
  • Competitive cost with aid
*Data retrieved from: National Center for Education Statistics, 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 Maine

Many Maine programs use a hybrid format, delivering didactic modules online alongside periodic on‑campus intensives for simulation labs and skills workshops. Clinical rotations are arranged locally under qualified preceptors, and some schools offer fully online didactic phases with minimal in‑person requirements.

2026 Fastest NP Program Options in Maine

Nurses looking to advance their careers in Maine have increasingly sought out faster nursing programs that minimize time investment while maintaining high educational standards. With healthcare demands growing across Portland, Bangor, and other key regions, professionals need efficient pathways to specialized nursing credentials. The quickest graduate-level options provide opportunities for working healthcare professionals to enhance their skills without lengthy traditional training periods. These accelerated programs strategically balance comprehensive curriculum with streamlined coursework, allowing students to transition rapidly into advanced practice roles. By focusing on core competencies and leveraging modern educational technologies, these programs help meet the critical nursing workforce needs across Maine's diverse healthcare landscape.
School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Husson University
  • 48 total credit hours
  • 540 clinical hours
  • 30 months to completion
  • $682 per credit hour
  • 95% certification exam pass rate
  • Online program
  • Flexible start dates
  • Free 24/7 tutoring
  • Graduation Rate: 57%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
University of Maine
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Prepares for FNP national certification.
  • Mix of online and classroom instruction.
  • Tailored full-time or part-time study.
  • Focus on rural and underserved communities.
  • Requires BSN for admission.
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
  • Clinical experiences arranged locally.
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
University of Southern Maine
  • Blended learning format
  • 18-40 credit hours
  • 3 semester completion option
  • National certification eligibility
  • Multiple clinical experience venues
  • Graduation Rate: 46%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
*Dataset citation: NCES. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Admission Requirements

BSN Degree, Competitive GPA
From regionally accredited institution, typically around 3.0
Active RN License
Current and unrestricted (unencumbered)
Application Materials
Official transcripts, personal statement of career goals, letters of recommendation
Insurance and Health Requirements
Proof of current immunizations, professional liability insurance
Background Check
Criminal history screening and drug testing
Clinical Experience
1–2 years of RN clinical experience generally required before clinical placement

Certification and Licensing

Certifying BoardMaine State Board of Nursing – Advanced Practice RN Section
CertificationNational APRN credential (e.g., AANP, ANCC) with primary-source verification
License Renewal PeriodEvery two years by the Commissioner’s expiration date, with a 90-day grace period and late fee
Continuing Education50 CEUs each renewal cycle in nursing, medicine or allied health
License Application Fee$100 initial APRN licensure fee
Clinical HoursOfficial graduate transcripts verifying required practicum hours
Processing TimeApplications processed in order received, license issued via email upon approval
EndorsementOut-of-state APRNs must hold an active RN license (Nursys for compact states) and verify national APRN certification

Salary and Job Outlook

Nurse practitioners in Maine earn an average annual salary of about $120,000, with entry‑level positions starting near $100,000 and seasoned practitioners in high‑demand specialties or leadership roles earning up to $175,000. Compensation often includes health benefits, sign‑on bonuses, loan repayment assistance, and rural‑area incentives.

Salary & Career OutlookMaineUSA
Avg Nurse Practitioner Salary$127,750$62,340
Avg Hourly Wage$61.40$29.97
90th Percentile Salary>$? (~$145K)$80,510
Median Salary$127,750$62,340
10th Percentile Salary<$105K$47,960
Projected Job Growth (2022–2032)~45%~3%
Annual Job Openings~N/A~54,000

2026 Affordable NP Program Options in Maine

Maine offers several promising pathways for nurses seeking advanced education through affordable nursing programs across various regions like Portland, Bangor, and Augusta. Prospective students can find cost-effective options that support their professional development without creating significant financial strain. These graduate and doctoral programs provide opportunities for nurses to specialize and advance their careers while managing educational expenses. By exploring different tuition ranges and program highlights, healthcare professionals can select an educational route that meets both their academic goals and budget constraints. The following table presents a comprehensive overview of nursing education opportunities in Maine, showcasing the diverse and accessible options available for ambitious healthcare practitioners.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Husson University
  • 48 total credit hours
  • 540 clinical hours
  • 30 months to completion
  • $682 per credit hour
  • 95% certification exam pass rate
  • Online program
  • Flexible start dates
  • Free 24/7 tutoring
  • $15,600 - $23,400 (Graduate)
Beal University
  • Online program format
  • Focus on family healthcare
  • Prepares for certification exams
  • Requires BSN and RN license
  • Competitive cost with aid
-
University of Southern Maine
  • Blended learning format
  • 18-40 credit hours
  • 3 semester completion option
  • National certification eligibility
  • Multiple clinical experience venues
  • $7,700 - $11,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,700 - $31,100 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2023. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Advancement Pathways

After initial certification, many NPs pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice to qualify for leadership, academic, or executive roles, while post‑master’s certificates enable adding new specialties without a full degree. Those interested in research may enroll in PhD programs, and others transition into administration, informatics, policy development, or telehealth leadership.

List of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Maine

Maine offers several robust Nurse Practitioner programs designed to prepare healthcare professionals for advanced practice roles. Aspiring NPs can choose from multiple educational paths across the state, ranging from traditional university-based programs to specialized tracks in family, psychiatric, and acute care nursing. These programs provide comprehensive training that equips students with the clinical skills and knowledge needed to deliver high-quality patient care in diverse healthcare settings.
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Bangor, ME

Beal University

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Focus on family healthcare
    • Prepares for certification exams
    • Requires BSN and RN license
    • Competitive cost with aid

Husson University

  • Master's - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 48-credit Master's degree
    • 100% online program
    • CCNE accredited
    • Prepares for certification exams
    • Advanced nursing care focus
  • Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
    • 48 total credit hours
    • 540 total clinical hours
    • 30 months completion time
    • $682 per credit hour
    • 95% national exam passage rate
    • Multiple start dates annually
    • Free 24/7 tutoring available
  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 48 total credit hours
    • 540 clinical hours
    • 30 months to completion
    • $682 per credit hour
    • 95% certification exam pass rate
    • Online program
    • Flexible start dates
    • Free 24/7 tutoring
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • 18-48 credit options
    • National certification exam preparation
    • Expert practicing faculty
    • Advanced acute care nursing focus
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Nursing Certificates
    • Three Specialized APRN Tracks
    • 95% National Exam Passage Rate
    • 18-51 Credits Required
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Expert Practicing Faculty
    • Lifespan Patient Care Focus
    • Advanced Clinical Credentials
  • Graduate Certificate - Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Certificate for master's-level nurses
    • 21 credit hours total
    • 688 internship hours
    • Online and classroom learning
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Women's health focus
    • 12-month program duration
    • Covers adolescence to menopause

Biddeford, ME

University of New England

  • Master's - Master's program for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15 students enrolled annually
    • Virtual reality simulation training
    • Interprofessional education approach
    • Focus on social determinants
    • Statewide healthcare partnerships

Orono, ME

University of Maine

  • Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Prepares for FNP national certification.
    • Mix of online and classroom instruction.
    • Tailored full-time or part-time study.
    • Focus on rural and underserved communities.
    • Requires BSN for admission.
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
    • Clinical experiences arranged locally.
  • Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Advanced Study

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

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Full-time or Part-time Options
    • Online and Classroom Instruction
    • Two Concentration Tracks: FNP and Nursing Education
    • National Certification Preparation
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
    • Two Years RN Experience Needed
    • Clinical Experiences Integrated

Portland, ME

University of Southern Maine

  • Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Blended learning format
    • 18-40 credit hours
    • 3 semester completion option
    • National certification eligibility
    • Multiple clinical experience venues

Standish, ME

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

  • Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MS

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online format
    • CCNE accredited
    • Focus on mental health
    • Flexible for professionals
    • Comprehensive curriculum
*Citation: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.