Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arkansas

Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program revolutionizes nursing education by providing a comprehensive, flexible pathway for professional advancement. Meticulously designed for working nurses, this ACEN-accredited degree transforms clinical practitioners into holistic primary care providers. Spanning 24 months with 750 clinical hours, students gain advanced skills in patient care across all age groups. The program's affordability ($15,355 total tuition) and rigorous curriculum prepare graduates for national certification exams, emphasizing leadership, comprehensive healthcare delivery, and expanded clinical competencies in diverse medical settings.

• 100% online coursework
• 41.5 total credit hours
• Total tuition $15,355
• 24-month program length
• ACEN-accredited program
• BSN required for admission
• Minimum 3.25 GPA
• Next start date 3/10/25
• 750 total clinical hours
• Prepares for national certification

Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner empowers nurses to excel in high-intensity medical environments. This ACEN-accredited program cultivates advanced clinical competencies for managing complex patient care across adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. Students navigate challenging healthcare scenarios through a 41.5 credit-hour curriculum, preparing for national certification and diverse practice settings. With a 24-month completion option, $15,355 tuition, and opportunities in emergency rooms and intensive care units, graduates become transformative healthcare professionals.

• 100% online coursework
• ACEN-accredited program
• 41.5 total credit hours
• 24-month completion option
• $15,355 total tuition
• Prepares for ANCC/AACN exams
• Multiple start dates annually
• 3.25 minimum undergraduate GPA
• Six practicum courses
• Practice in acute care settings

Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner addresses critical mental health workforce needs through innovative education. This comprehensive 47.5 credit-hour program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver nuanced mental healthcare across diverse populations and age groups. Designed for working professionals, the 26-month curriculum provides deep insights into complex psychological challenges. With ACEN accreditation, flexible clinical placements, and preparation for ANCC certification, graduates become pivotal mental health practitioners equipped to transform patient care strategies.

• 100% online coursework
• 26 months program length
• 47.5 total credit hours
• Total tuition $23,750
• ACEN-accredited program
• Prepares for ANCC certification
• Clinicals near home

Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner represents a transformative educational experience for ambitious nursing professionals. This meticulously crafted 41.5 credit-hour program emphasizes comprehensive primary care skills, preparing graduates to deliver exceptional patient-centered healthcare. With 750 clinical hours, a 24-month timeline, and $15,355 tuition, nurses develop advanced diagnostic, treatment, and assessment capabilities. The ACEN-accredited curriculum combines rigorous academic training with practical experience, enabling students to take national certification exams and excel across diverse healthcare environments.

• ACEN-accredited program
• 100% online coursework
• Total tuition $15,355
• Program duration 24 months
• 41.5 credit hours
• 750 clinical hours required
• BSN degree required
• Current RN license needed
• Minimum GPA 3.25
• Prepares for national certification

Arkansas State University's online Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner provides seasoned nursing professionals an accelerated pathway to specialized advanced practice. Tailored for MSN-prepared nurses seeking career expansion, this program enables rapid skill enhancement through flexible, innovative coursework. Completed in 6-18 months, the certificate prepares nurses for critical mental health roles, board certification exams, and emerging healthcare challenges. With ACEN accreditation and pay-by-course tuition, nurses can strategically advance their expertise without disrupting professional commitments.

• 100% online format
• 6-18 months program duration
• ACEN-accredited certificates
• Affordable pay-by-course tuition
• Multiple nursing specialties available
• Designed for MSN-prepared nurses
• Prepares for certification exams
• Flexible course schedules
• Expert nursing faculty support
• Career advancement opportunities

Arkansas State University's Post-Master's Certificate in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner offers experienced nurses a strategic opportunity to specialize in complex medical environments. This 21.5 credit-hour online program equips advanced practice nurses with sophisticated skills for managing acute and critical patient care. Designed for MSN graduates, the curriculum prepares students for ANCC and AACN certification exams through comprehensive training. With a 16-month timeline, $7,955 tuition, and multiple practicum experiences, nurses can efficiently transition into specialized acute care roles.

• Online 100% flexible format
• 21.5 total credit hours
• Prepares for ANCC/AACN exams
• $7,955 total tuition
• 16-month program duration
• ACEN accredited program
• Requires MSN for admission
• Multiple practicum experiences
• Advanced nursing specialization

This online Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Arkansas offers a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration for terminal degree seekers. It requires minimal campus visits, including a mandatory orientation, and has paths for BSN and MSN holders. Focusing on evidence-based practice and leadership, it prepares for national certification with in-state tuition around $583 per credit hour. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.

• Online program with minimal campus visits.
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration available.
• Prepares for national certification.
• Paths for B.S.N. and M.S.N. holders.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Leadership in healthcare transformation.
• Interprofessional collaboration emphasis.
• Technology and policy development focus.
• In-state tuition $583 per credit.
• Mandatory orientation visit required.

University of Arkansas offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, preparing nurses for certification and comprehensive lifespan care. It requires a BSN and RN licensure, emphasizing clinical expertise, leadership, and evidence-based practice through flexible coursework. No entrance exam is specified as required for this master's level program.

• Online program format
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• Requires BSN and RN licensure
• Flexible for working professionals
• Prepares for FNP certification
• Clinical practicums included
• Focus on evidence-based practice
• Leadership skills development
• Comprehensive lifespan care focus
• Higher earning potential post-graduation

The University of Arkansas offers an online post-graduate Family Nurse Practitioner certificate program for advanced nursing professionals. This 21-credit, part-time program includes 540 clinical hours and requires a master's or doctoral degree with two years of nursing experience. It prepares graduates for national certification in primary care across diverse populations, with multiple entry semesters and CCNE or ACEN accreditation. No entrance exam is required as it is a post-graduate certificate.

• Post-graduate nursing certificate
• 21 minimum credit hours
• 540 clinical practice hours
• Part-time program availability
• Master's or doctoral degree required
• Two years nursing experience
• Multiple entry semester options
• CCNE or ACEN accredited
• Advanced practice focus
• National certification preparation

This online Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Arkansas specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner, focusing on advanced clinical expertise and leadership. With minimal campus visits and in-state tuition of $583.11 per credit hour, it prepares nurses to solve complex health challenges and implement evidence-based care. Graduates are eligible for national certification, and no entrance exam is mentioned as required.

• Online DNP program
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• $583.11 per credit hour
• Minimal campus visits
• National certification eligibility
• Leadership-focused curriculum
• Evidence-based practice emphasis

The University of Arkansas provides an online Doctor of Nursing Practice with an Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner concentration. It equips nurses for acute care settings like ICUs, emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership. The program is flexible for working professionals, with a focus on rural healthcare needs, and no entrance exam is specified as required.

• Online flexible degree format
• Acute care nurse practitioner track
• Focuses on rural healthcare needs
• 52% job growth projected
• Average salary over $111,000
• Two-year MSN to DNP track
• Comprehensive leadership training
• Evidence-based practice emphasis

The BSN to DNP program at the University of Arkansas features a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed for career advancement over approximately four years. It includes 1,125 to 1,080 clinical hours, requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and RN license, with tuition at $594.77 per credit hour. The program is GRE exempt, making it accessible without an entrance exam for working professionals.

• Online coursework.
• 4-year completion.
• 1,125-1,080 clinical hours.
• GRE exempt.
• Flexible for professionals.
• Affordable tuition.
• BSN required.
• 3.0 GPA needed.
• RN license required.
• Focus on FNP.

The Master of Nursing Science (MNSc) with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences prepares students for advanced practice in mental health care. This campus-based program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experience, totaling 770 clock hours. Students learn to diagnose, treat, and manage mental health conditions across the lifespan. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, pharmacology, and therapeutic interventions. Admission requires a bachelor's in nursing and a current RN license. Graduates are equipped to make a profound impact in psychiatric care settings.

• Campus-based learning
• 770 clinical clock hours
• Psychiatric mental health focus
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Advanced pharmacology included
• RN license required
• Bachelor's in nursing needed
• Diagnosis and treatment skills
• Lifespan mental health care
• Hands-on clinical experience

UAMS's Post Masters Certification Program in Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner provides advanced nursing professionals specialized training in comprehensive pediatric healthcare. This hybrid program prepares nurses to deliver evidence-based care for children from birth through young adulthood, with a strong emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. Students can pursue national certification and advanced practice licensing, gaining expertise in managing complex pediatric health conditions across diverse clinical settings. The program offers flexible learning options and interprofessional team training, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to provide holistic pediatric care.

• Advanced pediatric nursing degree
• Primary and acute care tracks
• National certification preparation
• Post-masters certification option
• Comprehensive pediatric healthcare focus
• Evidence-based clinical practice
• Interprofessional team training
• Birth to young adult care
• Health promotion specialty

The Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate at UAMS offers experienced nurses an opportunity to specialize in comprehensive adult and geriatric healthcare. Through a robust 22-credit hybrid curriculum, participants develop advanced clinical skills focusing on patient-centered care across the adult lifespan. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on practicum experiences, emphasizing psychiatric nursing and holistic patient management. Graduates emerge as skilled practitioners prepared to deliver nuanced primary care in diverse healthcare environments.

• Post-Master's Certificate Track
• 22 total credit hours
• Hybrid program format
• Comprehensive theory courses
• Multiple clinical practicum components
• Advanced adult-gerontology focus
• Includes psychiatric nursing training

UAMS's Post Masters Certification Program in Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner equips advanced practice nurses to excel in complex pediatric healthcare environments. Designed for nurses seeking specialized training, this program prepares professionals to manage critically ill children and young adults. With an 18-month approximate completion time, students develop expertise in assessing life-threatening conditions and organ dysfunction. The hybrid format allows nurses to enhance their skills while preparing for national certification and advanced practice licensure in acute pediatric care.

• Post Masters Certification Option
• 18-month Approximate Completion Time
• Acute Care Pediatric Focus
• National Certification Preparation
• Advanced Practice Licensure Eligible

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a comprehensive Post Masters Certification Program for Dual Certification Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. This innovative track enables advanced practice nurses to gain expertise in both primary and acute care pediatric nursing. Over approximately 18 months, students develop skills in holistic healthcare delivery, focusing on physical, psychological, and social health needs of children. The program emphasizes interprofessional training, evidence-based clinical practice, and health promotion, preparing graduates for national certification and diverse pediatric healthcare settings.

• Post Masters Certification Track
• Dual Primary and Acute Care
• National Certification Preparation
• Advanced Practice Licensure
• Comprehensive Pediatric Healthcare Focus
• Interprofessional Team Approach
• Evidence-Based Clinical Training
• Approximately 18-Month Program
• Flexible Clinical Settings
• Health Promotion Emphasis

UAMS's Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares advanced practice registered nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across patient lifecycles. This hybrid program emphasizes prevention, patient education, and autonomous healthcare delivery. Students gain expertise in diagnosing and managing health conditions from infancy through adulthood, with opportunities to work in diverse settings like private practices, clinics, and underserved communities. Graduates are equipped to address complex medical needs and improve community health outcomes through evidence-based practice.

• Hybrid program format
• Advanced practice registered nurse preparation
• Practice in multiple healthcare settings
• Comprehensive patient lifecycle care
• Diagnostic and management skills

The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner doctoral program at UAMS provides comprehensive training in mental health care across all age groups. This hybrid program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver sophisticated interventions, including assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and therapeutic strategies. Students develop expertise in treating diverse mental health conditions through varied clinical experiences. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for national certification and advanced practice licensing, positioning them as critical providers in mental health treatment and intervention.

• Doctoral level mental health training
• Treats patients across lifespan
• Multiple clinical practice settings
• National certification preparation
• Advanced practice licensing eligible
• Comprehensive mental health interventions
• Includes therapy and medication management

UAMS's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program transforms nurses into expert practitioners specializing in complex adult patient care. Through a hybrid learning format, students develop advanced clinical reasoning skills, mastering sophisticated diagnostic techniques and intervention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based approaches, leadership development, and comprehensive management of acute and chronic conditions. Graduates emerge as transformative healthcare professionals capable of delivering high-quality care across diverse acute healthcare settings.

• Advanced clinical reasoning skills
• Hybrid program format
• Care across adult life span
• Complex patient management
• Leadership transformation focus
• Diagnostic skills training
• Evidence-based intervention approach

The Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program at UAMS prepares nurses to manage critically ill and physiologically vulnerable adult patients. This hybrid program blends online and campus learning, focusing on advanced clinical reasoning and comprehensive care strategies. Students develop skills in diagnostic interpretation, procedure performance, and healthcare improvement. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and complex patient management, equipping graduates to excel in acute and critical care environments.

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on acute, critical care
• Advanced clinical skills training
• Leadership in healthcare
• Comprehensive patient care approach
• Skills in diagnostics interpretation
• Procedural skills development
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Quality improvement projects
• Nursing background required

UAMS's Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program offers Registered Nurses a comprehensive pathway to advanced practice. This hybrid curriculum focuses on holistic adult-gerontology care, emphasizing assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based interventions. Students gain expertise in health promotion, end-of-life management, and clinical leadership. The program prepares nurses to deliver sophisticated primary care across the adult lifespan, with a strong emphasis on patient advocacy and comprehensive health management.

• Hybrid learning format
• Focus on adult-gerontology care
• Advanced clinical expertise
• Evidence-based practice emphasis
• Clinical leadership training
• Health promotion focus
• End-of-life management
• Requires nursing background
• Skills in diagnostic reasoning
• Care planning proficiency

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This three to four-year program provides aspiring nurse practitioners flexible learning through online coursework and on-campus lab experiences. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, the program emphasizes advanced practice skills and prepares students for national certification. With clinical sites across Arkansas and financial assistance available, this program offers an accessible pathway to specialized nursing practice.

• Hybrid program format
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• 3-4 years completion time
• BSN required for admission
• Fall admission only
• February 1 application deadline
• National certification preparation
• Clinical sites statewide
• Financial assistance available
• Distance learning options

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers a Post-BSN-to-DNP program with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This hybrid program blends online coursework with on-campus labs, allowing students to study close to home. Designed for aspiring nurse practitioners, it prepares graduates for national certification in their specialty. The program can be completed in three to four years, with fall-only admissions. Financial assistance is available, making advanced nursing education accessible. Ideal for those seeking to specialize in psychiatric-mental health care, this program combines flexibility with rigorous training.

• Hybrid program format
• Psychiatric-Mental Health focus
• 3-4 years completion time
• Fall-only admissions
• National certification eligibility
• Financial assistance available
• Combines online and on-campus learning
• Designed for aspiring nurse practitioners
• Flexible study options
• Rigorous training program

Harding University's Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid offering that combines online coursework with three annual on-campus intensives, totaling 45 credits and 750 clinical hours. It emphasizes holistic care with a Christian values foundation, boasts a 92% certification pass rate, and requires no entrance exam for admission. With full-time and part-time options, it costs approximately $48,650 and is military-friendly, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare roles.

• Hybrid online and on-campus format
• 45 semester credit hours
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• 92% certification pass rate
• Full-time and part-time options
• Three on-campus intensives yearly
• 99% employment rate
• Multiple program entry pathways
• Federal financial aid available
• Christian values integrated

Harding University's Family Nurse Practitioner program uses a hybrid format with online learning and on-campus intensives, covering 45 credit hours and 750 clinical hours. It focuses on evidence-based practice and Christian values for primary care roles, requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, and RN license for admission with no entrance exam, and offers financial aid. Graduates are eligible for national certification, enhancing careers in family and community health.

• Hybrid learning format
• 45 credit hours
• 750 clinical hours
• Christian values emphasis
• National certification eligibility
• BSN admission requirement
• 3.0 GPA needed
• Unencumbered RN license
• Financial aid available
• Holistic care focus

The Post Graduate Certificate in MSN Family Nurse Practitioner at Harding University is a hybrid program designed for advanced practice nurses, featuring 45 credit hours and 750 clinical practicum hours. It integrates Christian values into holistic patient care, offers flexible study tracks, and has a 92% certification pass rate. No entrance exam is required; admission needs a 3.0 GPA and an unencumbered RN license, with tuition around $48,650 and strong employment outcomes.

• Hybrid online/on-campus format
• 45 semester credit hours
• 750 clinical practicum hours
• Full-time or part-time options
• 92% certification pass rate
• Multiple program pathways
• Christian healthcare approach
• Tuition ~$48,650 total
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
• Unencumbered RN license required

The University of Central Arkansas offers a Post-Master’s Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner program, delivered in a hybrid format. This program is designed for nurses with a master's degree, focusing on advanced clinical skills without a specific concentration. It requires a bachelor's degree in nursing, a minimum 2.70 GPA, current RN licensure, and undergraduate statistics coursework. The curriculum includes 30 credit hours, preparing graduates for national certification and leadership roles. Entrance exams are not mentioned as required for this post-master's level program.

• Fully online MSN program
• 30 credit hours required
• Nurse Educator track focus
• Minimum 2.70 GPA required
• Current RN licensure needed
• Advanced teaching preparation
• National certification eligible

The University of Central Arkansas provides a Post-BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, offered in a hybrid part-time format over 11 semesters. It blends online coursework with periodic campus visits, emphasizing advanced clinical practice, evidence-based healthcare, and leadership. The program costs $69 per credit hour and prepares students for national FNP certification. For this doctorate-level program, entrance exams are not specified as required.

• Part-time online/hybrid format
• 11 consecutive semester track
• Family Nurse Practitioner focus
• National certification preparation
• Rigorous clinical practice training
• $69 per credit hour
• Periodic campus visits required

The University of Central Arkansas features a Post-BSN to DNP program concentrating on Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), delivered in a hybrid part-time model spanning 11 semesters. It combines online learning with campus visits, focusing on evidence-based practice, leadership, and health policy. Students dedicate about 15 hours weekly per course, with tuition at $69 per credit hour. This program readies graduates for FNP certification, and no entrance exams are indicated as necessary for this doctoral offering.

• Hybrid program format
• 11 semesters part-time
• FNP concentration
• Online and campus visits
• Prepares for FNP certification
• Rigorous coursework
• $69 fee per credit hour
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Leadership and health policy
• Requires 15 hours weekly per course