
Olivia Chen, NP
August 4, 2025
Choosing an affordable Nurse Practitioner program matters because it lets registered nurses advance to advanced‑practice roles without shouldering undue financial burden. By opting for a program with reasonable tuition and clear fees, you can concentrate on developing clinical expertise, leadership skills, and evidence‑based practice rather than juggling loan repayments. Cost‑effective NP pathways often leverage in‑state tuition rates, hybrid course delivery, and credit‑for‑prior‑learning policies to minimize expenses, while still delivering the rigorous curriculum required for a master’s or doctoral degree. This financial flexibility helps you complete your NP credential efficiently, qualify for higher‑paying positions, and pursue further specialization or doctoral studies sooner, without derailing your work–life balance.
Salt Lake City, UT - Public 4-Year - utah.edu
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The Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Utah prepares graduates to deliver comprehensive primary care across all ages. This hybrid program blends online learning with essential on-campus activities, completed in 8 semesters. Students gain hands-on experience through 780 direct patient care hours, ensuring readiness for real-world challenges. With a 100% national certification pass rate, graduates are well-equipped for leadership in healthcare. The program focuses on evidence-based care, health promotion, and professional adaptability, making it ideal for those aiming to impact family health significantly.
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The University of Utah's Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive care for high-risk newborns and their families. Students gain expertise in embryologic and physiological foundations of neonatal conditions, developing advanced clinical skills through 900 direct patient care hours. The hybrid program combines online learning with on-campus activities, allowing working professionals to advance their careers. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certification, with the program boasting a remarkable 100% certification pass rate. Prospective students must have two years of full-time critical care nursing experience with neonates or infants.
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The University of Utah's Post-APRN Graduate Certificate in Family Nursing offers advanced practice nurses a strategic pathway to expand professional capabilities. This hybrid program provides flexible distance learning options, particularly beneficial for rural practitioners seeking specialized certification. Affordable due to its targeted approach and individualized coursework, the program requires minimal additional investment beyond existing graduate nursing credentials. Candidates must possess an active APRN license and maintain a 3.0 GPA, with multiple population-focused tracks enabling nurses to enhance their clinical expertise efficiently.
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University of Utah's Post-APRN Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health nursing presents a cost-effective professional development opportunity for experienced advanced practice nurses. The hybrid program allows nurses to acquire new specialization without extensive financial burden, offering personalized study plans tailored to individual skill development. With multiple nursing tracks and partial distance learning, the program enables practitioners to expand their clinical competencies strategically. Admission requires previous APRN certification, a graduate nursing degree, and maintaining a competitive 3.0 GPA, making it an accessible advanced training option.
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The University of Utah's Post-APRN Licensure Certificate in Women's Health provides an economical pathway for certified advanced practice nurses to diversify their professional qualifications. This hybrid program offers distance learning capabilities, minimizing additional travel expenses while enabling nurses to pursue national certification in new specialty areas. With a 4-6 semester timeline and individualized study plans, the program represents a targeted, cost-effective approach to expanding nursing expertise. While federal financial aid is unavailable, the program's focused curriculum provides significant professional development opportunities.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Birmingham, AL - Public 4-Year - uab.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UAB's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a transformative educational pathway for working nurses seeking advanced primary care expertise. Through a hybrid format blending online synchronous classes and on-campus intensives, students complete 45 credit hours spanning six to seven semesters. The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive lifespan patient care, evidence-based practice, and quality improvement initiatives. With affordable per-semester tuition at $702 and a flexible part-time structure, the program enables nurses to advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments. Admission requires a BSN, unencumbered RN license, and minimum 3.0 GPA.
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UAB's MSN Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program provides an affordable, flexible pathway for nurses specializing in child healthcare. The 45-credit hybrid curriculum combines synchronous online classes with on-campus intensives, allowing working nurses to advance their expertise. Students develop comprehensive skills in pediatric assessment, diagnosis, and wellness promotion. With per-semester tuition of $702 and a part-time format, the program enables nurses to enhance their clinical capabilities while managing professional responsibilities. Admission requires a BSN, unencumbered nursing license, and 3.0 GPA.
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UAB's MSN Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers an economical route to advanced nursing practice. This 45-credit hybrid program prepares nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare across patient lifespans from adolescence through older adulthood. With synchronous online classes, on-campus intensives, and affordable resident tuition of $702 per credit, the program provides accessible professional development. Students gain sophisticated skills in complex health condition management, wellness promotion, and evidence-based practice, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious nursing professionals.
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UAB's MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program delivers a cost-effective pathway to specialized healthcare expertise. The 45-credit hybrid curriculum combines online learning with on-campus intensives, enabling working nurses to advance their acute and critical care skills. With an optional Registered Nurse First Assistant subspecialty, students develop comprehensive diagnostic and management capabilities. Affordable per-semester tuition, flexible scheduling, and a focus on advanced practice make this program an attractive investment for nurses seeking career progression without substantial financial strain.
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UAB's MSN Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides an affordable route to specialized mental health expertise. The 45-credit hybrid curriculum combines online coursework with on-campus intensives, enabling nurses to develop advanced skills in comprehensive mental health care. With per-semester tuition around $702 and a flexible part-time format, the program offers an economical pathway to professional advancement. Students gain sophisticated skills in evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment planning across patient lifespans, positioning themselves for impactful healthcare careers.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
El Paso, TX - Public 4-Year - utep.edu
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The University of Texas at El Paso offers an affordable Family Nurse Practitioner program with a unique primary care focus. At just $552 per credit for residents, this hybrid 49-credit online program provides exceptional value. Students complete 775 clinical clock hours, preparing for diverse healthcare roles through comprehensive training in health promotion and chronic illness management. The program's flexible seven-week course format and two annual admission cycles make it ideal for working professionals seeking advanced nursing credentials. Innovative simulation lab experiences and national certification preparation distinguish this accessible graduate-level nursing pathway.
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UTEP's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program provides an affordable, flexible pathway to advanced pediatric nursing credentials. Spanning 49 online credit hours with 675 clinical clock hours, the hybrid format supports working professionals. Competitive resident tuition and two annual admission cycles make this program financially accessible. Students gain comprehensive skills in pediatric health promotion and developmental assessments, preparing for certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board with minimal economic barriers.
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The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at UTEP offers an economical route to advanced nursing specialization. With resident tuition at just $552 per credit hour, the 49-credit online hybrid program provides exceptional value. Requiring 2-3 years of critical care experience and maintaining a 3.0 GPA, the program prepares nurses for complex acute care roles. The seven-week course format, 720 clinical hours, and innovative simulation experiences create an accessible pathway to national certification and advanced practice.
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UTEP's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers comprehensive, affordable advanced nursing education. At $552 per credit hour, the 49-credit hybrid program offers extensive across-lifespan mental health training. Students complete 675 clinical hours with flexible weekend classroom sessions and online coursework. The program emphasizes medication prescription training and psychotherapy interventions, providing a cost-effective pathway to advanced mental health practice. Two annual admission cycles and innovative simulation experiences further enhance the program's accessibility.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at UTEP offers an affordable, comprehensive pathway to specialized pediatric nursing expertise. With resident tuition at $552 per credit hour, the two-year hybrid program provides 49 credits and 765 clinical clock hours. Designed for working professionals, the program focuses on complex pediatric care across intensive settings. Innovative simulation experiences and flexible online coursework create an accessible route to national certification, enabling nurses to advance their careers without significant financial barriers.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Campus Based - Visit Website
Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
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Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program is ACEN-accredited and designed for working nurses, offering a flexible 24-month timeline with 41.5 credit hours. It requires a BSN, current RN license, and minimum 3.25 GPA for admission, with no entrance exam specified. The program prepares graduates for national certification exams and focuses on primary care across all ages, making it affordable at $15,355 total tuition due to its online format and competitive pricing.
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The online Master of Science in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at Arkansas State University is ACEN-accredited, requiring a BSN, RN license, and 1,500 practice hours, with no entrance exam specified. It can be completed in 24 months with 41.5 credit hours and $15,355 tuition, offering affordability through online delivery. Graduates are prepared for ANCC/AACN exams and roles in acute care environments.
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Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is ACEN-accredited, taking 26 months with 47.5 credit hours and $23,750 tuition. It requires a BSN and RN license, with no entrance exam mentioned, and prepares for ANCC certification. The program is affordable due to its online format and addresses critical mental health needs with clinicals near home.
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The Post-Master’s Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Arkansas State University is an online, ACEN-accredited program for MSN-prepared nurses, with a duration of 6-18 months. It does not require an entrance exam and offers pay-by-course tuition, enhancing affordability. This certificate prepares for certification exams and provides career advancement opportunities in mental health specialties at a low cost.
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Arkansas State University's online Post-Master’s Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner requires an MSN and active RN license, with no entrance exam mentioned. The 16-month program includes 21.5 credit hours and costs $7,955 total tuition, making it affordable through its online structure. It prepares for ANCC/AACN certification exams and focuses on acute care settings.
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
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Florida Atlantic University's Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic hybrid learning pathway for nursing professionals seeking advanced practice skills. Spanning 2.5 years, students complete 52 credit hours and 780 clinical hours, preparing for comprehensive healthcare delivery across patient lifecycles. The program's affordability is highlighted by competitive in-state tuition at $371.81 per credit, making it accessible for working nurses. With no GRE or MAT requirement and strategic clinical placements in South Florida, students gain practical expertise in health promotion, disease prevention, and acute/chronic condition management. Flexible part-time scheduling enables seamless professional development.
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Florida Atlantic University's Adult Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Primary Care concentration offers a strategic pathway for nurses specializing in adult and geriatric healthcare. This 52-credit, part-time program prepares students to deliver comprehensive primary care across diverse age groups through 780 clinical hours. The program's affordability is underscored by in-state tuition at $371.81 per credit, making advanced practice education accessible. With no prior clinical experience required and hybrid online/in-person courses, students can seamlessly integrate advanced learning into their professional lives while developing specialized gerontological expertise.
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Florida Atlantic University's Post Graduate Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides an innovative online pathway for licensed RNs with master's degrees. Designed for working professionals, the 28-credit curriculum covers comprehensive mental health skills, including psychopathology, pharmacology, and diverse therapy techniques. With 780 clinical practice hours and no GRE requirement, students can advance their careers without significant disruption. The program's affordability is evident through its competitive in-state tuition of approximately $9,295, enabling nurses to specialize in mental health care across patient lifecycles with minimal financial barriers.
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Florida Atlantic University's Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certificate provides targeted advanced training for MSN graduates. Designed for experienced nurses, this program emphasizes comprehensive geriatric care through holistic patient interventions. With strict admission requirements including a 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure, the program ensures high-quality professional development. The program's limited access and specialized clinical training offer a unique opportunity for nurses seeking advanced gerontological expertise, with a focus on sophisticated, patient-centered care approaches.
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Florida Atlantic University's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a comprehensive doctoral pathway for practicing nurses. Emphasizing healthcare equity and evidence-based practice, students develop advanced skills through 1000 clinical hours focusing on vulnerable populations. The program's affordability is notable, with in-state tuition around $29,744 and no GRE requirement. Hybrid learning across three campuses enables working professionals to pursue doctoral-level nursing expertise without significant career interruption, preparing graduates for innovative leadership in family healthcare.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Albuquerque, NM - Public 4-Year - unm.edu
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The University of New Mexico's DNP in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care focuses on training nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare to children, emphasizing well-care and prevention. With a 100% certification pass rate, small class sizes, and hands-on simulation, it's designed for affordability through scholarships and grants, particularly benefiting underserved New Mexico communities. No GRE or GMAT is required, and the program requires a BSN and one year of healthcare experience.
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This Post-Bachelor's DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for independent primary care, covering 70 credits and 825 clinical hours in a hybrid format. It emphasizes health equity and evidence-based practice, with no entrance exam specified in highlights, making it affordable through its focus on diverse populations and flexible learning options at the University of New Mexico.
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The DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at UNM offers hybrid learning with a focus on rural and underserved areas, featuring small class sizes and no GRE requirement. It provides clinical placement support and full prescriptive authority, with affordability enhanced by scholarships and a commitment to serving high-need communities in New Mexico.
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This Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner DNP program is hybrid, taking under three years with 1,000 clinical hours, and emphasizes acute care in rural settings. Financial aid, including scholarships up to $5,000, makes it cost-effective, and while no entrance exam is mentioned, it requires a New Mexico RN license for admission.
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UNM's Post-Bachelor's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program blends online and in-person learning over eight terms, requiring 1,000+ clinical hours and focusing on rural healthcare. Affordability is supported by financial aid and scholarships, with no entrance exam specified, and it prepares nurses for leadership roles in diverse communities.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson City, TN - Public 4-Year - etsu.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
East Tennessee State University's Family Nurse Practitioner MSN program offers a strategic pathway for nurses seeking advanced primary care expertise. Uniquely designed for working professionals, this 51-credit online program eliminates GRE requirements and provides flexible asynchronous learning. Students develop comprehensive skills in patient care across lifespans, focusing on acute and chronic illness management. The program's affordability stems from competitive tuition rates ranging from $646-$1,487 per credit, making it accessible for both in-state and out-of-state students. With CCNE accreditation and multiple start dates, nurses can seamlessly advance their careers while maintaining professional commitments.
Online Learning - Visit Website
East Tennessee State University's Master of Science in Nursing with an Adult, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Specialty offers a targeted approach to geriatric healthcare education. Focusing on rural and underserved communities, this program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care for older adult populations. The 46-credit curriculum emphasizes complex care management and patient-centered interventions. Affordability is enhanced through strategic tuition structures, while the program's comprehensive training prepares graduates for national certification and leadership roles in geriatric healthcare settings.
Online Learning - Visit Website
East Tennessee State University's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive online pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced mental healthcare expertise. Spanning 48 credit hours, this program offers flexible, asynchronous learning without GRE requirements. Its affordability is highlighted by tuition rates ranging from $646-$1,487 per credit hour, accessible to both Tennessee residents and out-of-state students. The curriculum prepares nurses to provide mental healthcare across patient lifespans, with options for BSN and non-nursing bachelor's degree holders, making it an inclusive and strategic educational investment.
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East Tennessee State University's RN-MSN program with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in mental health care. This hybrid program combines online coursework with practical experiences, offering flexibility for working professionals. Applicants need an RN license and a non-nursing bachelor's degree, plus completion of prerequisite courses. The program emphasizes advanced nursing knowledge, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership in mental health care. Graduates are equipped to improve community health, apply research in practice, and influence health policy. With a focus on psychiatric mental health, students gain specialized skills to serve diverse populations across the lifespan.
Online Learning - Visit Website
East Tennessee State University's Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates provide targeted professional development for nurses seeking specialized healthcare expertise. These flexible online programs eliminate GRE barriers and offer diverse concentrations including mental health and gerontology. With 12-32 credit hour options and competitive per-credit rates between $646-$1,487, these certificates represent an economical pathway for career advancement. Designed for working professionals, the programs feature 100% online coursework with strategic clinical components, enabling nurses to expand their skills efficiently and meet critical healthcare workforce needs.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Cullowhee, NC - Public 4-Year - wcu.edu
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Western Carolina University's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program is fully online, designed for working nurses with 51-52 semester hours and 640 clinical hours. It prepares graduates for primary care roles, with no entrance exam required, a BSN and active RN license needed. The program is low-cost due to its online delivery, which minimizes expenses, and its focus on career advancement with an average salary potential of $97,990 for nurse practitioners.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Carolina University's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a hybrid, 36-month full-time curriculum with 83 semester hours and 1000 clinical hours. It focuses on family healthcare across the lifespan, with no GRE/MAT required, a 3.0 GPA minimum, and one year of nursing experience. The program is affordable due to its public university status, financial aid eligibility, and high graduate pass rate, making it a cost-effective choice for advanced practice preparation.
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This DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Western Carolina University is 100% online, requiring 78 semester hours and 1020 clinical hours. It emphasizes mental health care for rural and diverse populations, with no entrance exam needed, a 3.0 GPA, and one year of experience. Affordability is enhanced by its online format, reducing relocation costs, and military-friendly policies, supporting accessible education for working professionals.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program at Western Carolina University is a hybrid, 36-month full-time option with 83 semester hours and 1000 clinical hours. It requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and one year of RN experience, with no GRE/MAT. Affordability stems from the public institution's lower tuition rates, financial aid availability, and the hybrid model that balances cost with hands-on learning opportunities.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Carolina University's DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is 100% online, focusing on comprehensive mental health services with 78 semester hours and 1020 clinical hours. It requires a 3.0 GPA and one year of clinical experience, with no GRE. The program is affordable due to its online nature, eliminating campus costs, and its alignment with high-demand mental health fields, offering good return on investment for graduates.
Youngstown, OH - Public 4-Year - ysu.edu
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Youngstown State University's CCNE-accredited online Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program emphasizes primary care across all ages, requiring 46 credits and 600 clinical hours. It can be completed in 20 months and does not require an entrance exam. With a focus on evidence-based practice and advanced coursework, the program is affordable due to competitive tuition rates and online flexibility, providing value for nurses seeking to enhance their careers without high costs.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Youngstown State University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is a 36-credit program designed for experienced nurses, focusing on advanced skills in acute care settings. It includes 540 clinical hours and prepares graduates for AG-ACNP certification, with no specific entrance exam required. The program is affordable at $18,972 for in-state students, offering flexible online completion in 18 months, making it a cost-effective choice for advancing in high-demand nursing roles.
Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Tennessee Tech's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program provides an affordable and flexible educational pathway for working nurses. Featuring a lean 45-credit curriculum completed in 2-2.5 years, the program minimizes tuition costs through efficient online delivery. Students benefit from geographically-tailored clinical experiences, allowing professionals to maintain employment while advancing their nursing credentials. With a focus on practical, accessible education, the program requires a modest 3.0 undergraduate GPA and offers local clinical hour arrangements that reduce additional expenses typically associated with advanced nursing education.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Tennessee Tech's online Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program provides an accessible and affordable advanced practice nursing pathway. By eliminating traditional campus attendance costs, the program offers substantial financial advantages for working professionals. Students receive comprehensive mental health training across diverse healthcare settings, preparing for national certification without substantial financial burden. The curriculum's online flexibility allows nurses to continue working while pursuing advanced educational credentials, making it an economically strategic professional development opportunity.
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Tennessee Technological University offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, designed for registered nurses aiming to advance their careers. This 100% online program spans 45 credit hours, typically completed in 2-2.5 years, offering flexibility with two courses per semester. It prepares students for advanced practice through specialized coursework and local clinicals, meeting requirements for Advanced Practice licensure. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, eligibility to practice as an RN, and submission of a professional document and references. Ideal for those seeking to specialize in family practice nursing.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Tennessee Technological University's Post-Graduate Certificate in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner represents a cost-effective specialization option for nurses seeking advanced pediatric healthcare expertise. The concise 23-credit hour program strategically reduces educational expenses while providing intensive clinical training through 510 clock hours. By offering a targeted curriculum that minimizes unnecessary coursework, nurses can efficiently expand their professional capabilities without significant financial investment. The program's streamlined design ensures affordable, practical advanced learning for pediatric nursing professionals.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Tennessee Tech's Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification delivers an economical pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice specialization. With a total estimated program cost between $17,000-$21,000, this fully online 23-credit hour certification offers exceptional value. The program's flexible four-semester structure allows working professionals to balance educational pursuits with current employment. By eliminating relocation or campus attendance expenses, nurses can affordably enhance their mental health practice credentials while maintaining professional continuity.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online Learning - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
An affordable NP program balances comprehensive academic standards with transparent, mid‑range pricing. Look for institutions that bundle tuition, lab fees, and clinical‑residency costs into a single per‑credit or per‑semester rate, and that clearly disclose expenses for textbooks, simulation‑lab access, certification exams, and background checks. Programs affiliated with health systems often cover or subsidize preceptorship site fees, reducing out‑of‑pocket costs. Flexible formats, such as part‑time, evening, or online coursework, can cut commuting and childcare expenses, while credit‑transfer agreements for MSN coursework shorten program length and overall tuition.
Several factors influence NP tuition costs. Public universities typically offer the lowest in‑state per‑credit rates thanks to government subsidies, while private schools rely on full‑tuition revenue. Programs that invest in small cohorts, advanced simulation centers, or research‑active faculty may charge a modest premium, reflecting higher‑quality resources. Geographic location also matters: urban campuses face higher facility and staffing expenses (passed on to students), whereas rural or suburban schools often benefit from lower overhead. Program format and length play a role, too, accelerated or competency‑based tracks can reduce total tuition by acknowledging existing graduate credits, while traditional semester‑based curricula spread costs over a longer timeline. Finally, accreditation and clinical‑residency fees, as well as ancillary costs (textbooks, background checks, certification applications), shape the overall price tag.
| Attendance Type | Public Universities | Private Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Full Time | $15,000 - $66,000 | $25,000 - $100,000 |
| Part Time | $22,000 - $34,000 | $30,000 - $75,000 |
An affordable NP program can still deliver high‑quality training when it upholds rigorous accreditation standards, offers robust clinical‑residency experiences, and provides experienced faculty mentorship. Accreditation bodies ensure even budget‑friendly programs cover essential competencies in pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and advanced clinical practice on par with more expensive alternatives. By leveraging health‑system partnerships for residencies, these programs maintain low student‑to‑faculty ratios and real‑world immersion without inflating costs. With dedicated support, such as writing centers, statistical consulting, and career placement, graduates emerge fully prepared for national certification exams and advanced‑practice roles, demonstrating that affordability need not compromise excellence.
Looking for the most affordable NP program? Ensure it also delivers on these essential quality points.
Striking the right balance between cost and quality in an NP program means selecting a mid‑range tuition model that still invests in accredited curriculum, meaningful residencies, and faculty expertise. Evaluate programs by comparing per‑credit or per‑semester costs against outcomes such as graduation rates, national‑certification pass rates, alumni career trajectories, and employer satisfaction. By aligning transparent pricing with measurable educational results, you’ll find a program that delivers the advanced‑practice training you need at a price that respects your budget and professional goals.