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.
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - husson.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive advanced care across patient lifespans. Students develop expert skills through a rigorous curriculum, achieving an impressive 95% national certification exam passage rate. The flexible, online format allows professionals to advance their nursing careers while balancing personal commitments. With 48 total credit hours and 540 clinical hours completed in 30 months, graduates can practice in diverse primary care settings, positioning themselves for robust job market opportunities.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGAC-NP) program offers a comprehensive 48-credit Master of Science in Nursing designed for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. Students gain specialized skills to deliver high-quality care to acutely ill young adults, older adults, and elderly patients across complex healthcare settings. The program is fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals. Graduates are prepared to sit for national certification exams and can expect to enter a high-demand healthcare specialty with competitive career opportunities.
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration prepares you for advanced nursing roles. This 48-credit program, costing $682 per credit hour, can be completed in 30 months. It includes 540 clinical hours and boasts a 95% national certification exam passage rate. The curriculum covers advanced pharmacotherapeutics, health assessment, and pathophysiology, focusing on family-centered care across all ages. Admission requires a BSN and professional nursing experience. Accredited by the CCNE, this program offers flexible start dates, free tutoring, and career services, making it ideal for advancing your nursing career.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's Post-Master's Nursing Certificates offer advanced practice registered nurses an opportunity to expand their expertise across three specialized tracks: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health. These 100% online programs provide comprehensive training with a remarkable 95% national certification exam passage rate. Each certificate requires 18-51 credits, depending on prior MSN education, and prepares nurses to sit for specialized certification exams. Graduates gain advanced clinical skills, theoretical knowledge, and the ability to provide specialized care across diverse patient populations.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Husson University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program provides advanced practice nurses with specialized training in comprehensive women's healthcare. Designed for existing family and adult nurse practitioners, this 21-credit, 12-month program equips healthcare professionals with in-depth knowledge across women's lifespans. Graduates gain expertise in gynecological services, well-woman care, health education, and prenatal care. The flexible program combines online, classroom, and experiential learning methods, accommodating busy professionals seeking to enhance their clinical skills and career opportunities.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Husson University's Post-Master's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate empowers experienced nurses to advance their clinical expertise. This fully online program provides comprehensive training in acute care settings, preparing professionals to deliver advanced nursing care for adult and geriatric patients. Designed for nurse practitioners seeking specialized credentials, the program enables graduates to qualify for national certification exams. With flexible credit requirements ranging from 18-48 credits, nurses can efficiently expand their professional capabilities and enhance patient care strategies.
Standish, ME - Private 4-year - sjcme.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Saint Joseph's College of Maine offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, MS program designed for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This program prepares graduates to provide comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan. With a focus on evidence-based practice, students gain skills in diagnosis, treatment, and management of psychiatric disorders. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, ensuring readiness for certification exams. Flexible online formats cater to working professionals, making it easier to balance studies with personal commitments. Accredited by the CCNE, this program meets high standards for nursing education.
Portland, ME - Public 4-Year - usm.maine.edu
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Southern Maine's Certificate of Advanced Study in Nursing offers master's-prepared nurses an exceptional opportunity to specialize in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (A-GACNP). This flexible blended program allows experienced nurses to expand their clinical expertise through comprehensive coursework and diverse clinical experiences. Designed for professionals seeking advanced practice credentials, the program requires 18-40 credit hours and can be completed in as few as three semesters. Graduates become eligible for national certification through prestigious nursing organizations, positioning themselves for enhanced career opportunities in acute care settings.
Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Maine's Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program prepares nurses for advanced roles in primary health care, focusing on health promotion, illness prevention, and managing common health issues across the lifespan. Tailored for both full-time and part-time students, the program blends online and classroom instruction with clinical experiences designed to meet individual needs. Graduates are eligible for national certification exams, with a strong track record of success. The curriculum emphasizes rural and underserved community health care issues, aligning with national standards for nurse practitioner education. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, and specific undergraduate courses, among other criteria.
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Maine's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) offers dynamic graduate programs preparing nurses for advanced professional roles. With two concentration tracks—Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Nursing Education—students can specialize in healthcare leadership. The program provides flexible full-time and part-time study options, blending online and classroom instruction. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, students benefit from expert faculty, comprehensive clinical experiences, and preparation for national certification. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, two years of nursing experience, and specific prerequisite courses.
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - beal.edu
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program, designed for nurses aiming to advance their careers. This program prepares graduates for leadership roles in family healthcare, focusing on patient care across all ages. It combines rigorous academics with practical skills, ensuring graduates are ready for certification exams. The curriculum covers advanced nursing practices, health assessment, and pharmacology. Flexible online classes cater to working professionals. Admission requires a BSN and RN license. Costs are competitive, with financial aid options available. This program is ideal for those seeking to specialize in family nursing practice without sacrificing their current job.
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.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
Husson University
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| University of Maine |
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| University of Southern Maine |
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| Certifying Board | Maine State Board of Nursing – Advanced Practice RN Section |
|---|---|
| Certification | National APRN credential (e.g., AANP, ANCC) with primary-source verification |
| License Renewal Period | Every two years by the Commissioner’s expiration date, with a 90-day grace period and late fee |
| Continuing Education | 50 CEUs each renewal cycle in nursing, medicine or allied health |
| License Application Fee | $100 initial APRN licensure fee |
| Clinical Hours | Official graduate transcripts verifying required practicum hours |
| Processing Time | Applications processed in order received, license issued via email upon approval |
| Endorsement | Out-of-state APRNs must hold an active RN license (Nursys for compact states) and verify national APRN certification |
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 Outlook | Maine | USA |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Husson University
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| Beal University |
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| University of Southern Maine |
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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.
Learn more about Nurse Practitioner specialities.
Additional Nursing Programs in Maine
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Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
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Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
Online Learning - Website
