Nurses at certain stages in their career need to upgrade their skills. While this would position them to take higher responsibilities, it would also help them gain specific skills. Specialization comes with a lot of opportunities. Therefore, if you’re a registered nurse, you can choose to study to become a family nurse practitioner when the time comes for you to upgrade your career. So, in this post, we will provide you the cheapest online programs for becoming a family nurse practitioner. Meanwhile, allow take you on a little refreshers course on everything you need to know about FNP Programs and all it takes to be a family nurse practitioner.
What is the FNP Program?
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program is an academic program in the medical discipline that prepares nurses to deliver primary health care to families in a variety of settings. That said, Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who focus on health promotion and disease prevention. Also, they work with patients of different ages and medical histories. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), these health professionals diagnose, treat and manage illnesses/diseases by conducting laboratory tests; design treatment plans (pharmacological and non-pharmacological); and advise patients and their families. Meanwhile, FNPs must participate in self-directed learning and continuing education (CE) hours, not only to maintain their credentials and licenses. But also to be up to date with the skills, technologies, and procedures that are constantly evolving in the field. Keep in mind that the responsibilities of FNPs vary by region. The AANP (2015) indicates that Northwestern states generally grant PNs more generous practice privileges than southern states, although with some exceptions. Additional regional information on the scope of practice for FNPs activities can be obtained from the state nursing boards, and a list is provided by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
What are the Educational Requirements for FNPs?
After graduating from high school, aspiring FNPs generally enroll in a two-to-four-year nursing program. Applicants are encouraged to seek accredited undergraduate nursing programs through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN). So you see, it may be prudent to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. These programs not only prepare candidates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses (RNs), but also cover a series of prerequisites of the graduate nursing program, which includes chemistry courses ( inorganic, organic and biochemistry), epidemiology, microbiology, human anatomy and physiology, statistics, and general education. Meanwhile, you can take alternate entry programs that will still set you on the right path in your career. The George Washington University (GWU) is an example of alternate entry programs, which offers an RN to MSN program for FNP applicants with an associate’s degree (ADN-prepared nurses). Also, the University of Pennsylvania offers an accelerated FNP program for candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Keep in mind, however, that most nursing graduate programs prefer to take nurses prepared by BSN, particularly online FNP programs.
How Can I Become a Family Nurse?
As mentioned above, FNP applicants must obtain at least a master’s degree in nursing (MSN), and some candidates, especially those who are interested in leadership positions, may choose to pursue a doctorate in nursing practice (DNP). So, if you’ll be enrolling for a graduate program, as part of your FNP requirement, you can get either an MSN or a DNP. Any of these programs will generally require the following to admit you: So, once you’re enrolled in an FNP program, you can choose to specialize. Specializing in a specific area can prepare for better job opportunities, especially in areas of high need, such as oncology. However, not all schools offer these areas of intervention. Nonetheless, some schools with the cheapest online FNP programs provide you with specialization options. Colleges like Duke University, for example, offers four specialties in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and HIV. When you’re through with all these, you will need to seek certification.
How Can I Get an FNP Certification?
After graduating from an MSN or DNP program, prospective FNPs seek certification and/or national and local licensing. In fact, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP 2015) states that 96.8% of all NPs have some form of national certification. There are two common organizations that offer national certification to FNPs: the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). The prerequisites for each of these certifications include: Finally, there are regional nursing commissions that certify or approve FNPs. The requirements and procedures vary by state. Check the website of the National Council of State Boards in Nursing (NCSBN) for a complete list of state boards of nursing and contact information. However, all licenses and certifications must be maintained through the acquisition of Continuing Education Credits. This keeps the FNP aware of the treatments, methods, and technologies that are changing. For example, the FNP-BC credential (“board-certified”) provided by the ANCC is valid for five years and offers two renewal options. The first option involves 1,000 hours of practice in the certification role. The second option involves a review. Both options also use professional development (ie, Hours of Continuing Education [CE]). See the specific certification tips for details on accreditation renewals.
Does the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Program Have Accreditation?
Yes, we encourage future FNPs to enroll in programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN) or by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) – the two organizations recognized by the US Department of Education. These organizations evaluate facilities, curricula, student outcomes, and other factors to ensure the program is adequately preparing FNPs. In addition, completing a program accredited by ACEN or CCNE is a prerequisite to obtaining the RN license through the National Council of State Boards in Nursing (NCSBN). Furthermore, FNPs must have completed an accredited program to pass the national certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
What are the Types of Online FNP Degree Programs?
All online FNP programs require students to be registered nurses with an active license. However, there are several online FNP programs for nurses with different levels of education. We classify FNP programs in different categories. Of the 12 categories, four are MSN programs, two are post-master certificate programs and six are DNP programs.
Online MSN and Post-MSN Certificate to FNP Programs
Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) FNP Programs
20 Most Affordable Online MSN-FNP Programs
Becoming a family nurse practitioner means obtaining at least a master’s degree, in addition to what is necessary to become a registered nurse. According to US News & World Report, the cost of a master’s degree in nursing generally ranges from $ 35,000 to $ 65,000, with significantly higher amounts. Not to mention the time it takes to go to school and your ability to work and earn income while you do it. All this adds to the fact that it is very important to find the most affordable online FNP program to enroll in. Hence, the programs discussed in the next couple of sections are some of the cheapest online FNP programs.
#1. Delta State University
Tuition: $10,500 Students at Delta State University can explore affordable professional nursing programs online through the school’s Doctor of Nursing degrees. In particular, the Master’s Program for Family Practitioner Nurses provides three semesters and 31 credits. However, you can customize this period by looking for full-time or part-time options. In both cases, you will take courses related to clinical practice, such as advanced statistics for clinical practice. Also, Delta’s FNP program asks applicants to create and carry out a scientific project. On the basis of this project, you should write an article and can continue its public dissemination through a presentation or publication in a peer-reviewed journal. This project must include 420 clinical hours. Meanwhile, the state nursing programs at Delta State are accredited through the Commission of University Education in Nursing. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#2. The University of Alabama
Tuition: $10,800 The University of Alabama issues a master’s degree in nursing with three concentrations, including a nurse practitioner. Students can take these affordable professional nursing programs online with 40 to 42 credits, or choose a double concentration of 53 credits that combines the nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health studies. This option of double concentration can include a thesis. UA offers this program in a combined format, so students must complete face-to-face tasks. Applicants must have a registered nurse’s license in Florida, Mississippi, Georgia or Alabama. The nursing programs in this school are accredited by the University Training Commission in Nursing. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#3. Columbus State University
Tuition: $11,550 The Master of Nursing degree for Nursing Practitioners at Columbus State University requires 44 credits that students can earn in two years of full-time study. This affordable online professional nursing program requires 765 hours of internship, what students can do close to home, as well as an internship where candidates practice professionally with supervision. The department provides all courses asynchronously so that students can finish their work at the appropriate times. Also, applicants must have a registered nurse’s license. The University Nursing Commission accredits this program. In addition, US News and World Report have ranked this institution among the 20 best innovation schools in its region. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#4. University of Southern Mississipi
Students may take the 45-credit Master of Science in Nursing course for family nurse practitioners from the University of Southern Mississippi online, except for at least two requirements on campus. More specifically, candidates must go to the campus for a biannual orientation and a clinical component. In addition, students must complete all clinical details of this program in Mississippi. Also, to graduate, students must pass a full exam and have a 3.0 GPA for the classes in the program. This affordable online professional nursing program is accredited by the University Nursing Education Commission. The program also comes from the school’s School of Nursing, which offers the only nurse anesthesia program in Mississippi. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#5. Georgia Southern University
Tuition: $13,860 Georgia Southern University offers a master’s degree of 37 nursing credits that students complete in six semesters. This affordable online professional nursing program prepares students to treat patients with compassion, allowing them to understand enough about health policies. Candidates follow this diploma at a normal or accelerated pace, although the faster pace is accompanied by higher requirements. For example, candidates at the accelerated pace must have a GPA of 3.3, while other candidates need a 3.0. The department offers courses in a synchronous and asynchronous manner and offers study options abroad in Costa Rica and Italy. In addition, students obtain a health insurance plan. The nursing programs in this school are accredited by the Commission of nursing university education.
#6. Indiana State University
Another affordable professional nursing program comes from the Nursing Masters of Indiana State University with a concentration in family practice nurses. Students must complete 47 to 50 credits, as well as clinical hours in their undergraduate status, to obtain this degree. The required work may include a diagnostic laboratory, a preceptor and a pharmacology course. Once graduated, students must understand how to treat illnesses, maintain quality care practices, and maintain a comfortable relationship with patients. Students from some states, such as Alabama and Louisiana, cannot participate in this program. In addition, departments require that students complete all elements of the program in less than five years. The Accreditation Commission for Nursing Education, Inc. accredits this program. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#8. Old Dominion University
Students who are considering affordable professional nursing online programs should explore the Master of Nursing program of 51 credits at Old Dominion University. For this program, candidates can choose a professional nursing goal, as well as a concentration of professional nurses in pediatrics or neonatology. However, students must visit the campus to learn about some components of the program, which include training, classroom exams, and a full exam. Students must also complete the clinical elements in person, but in any state that respects the National Council for State Authorization of Reciprocity Agreements. The US News and World Report have ranked this program ranked 58th on its list of graduate nursing programs online. In addition, the Commission of University accredits the nursing programs of the ODU Education in Nursing. ODU offers several degrees, masters, and doctorates, as well as promotion and certification programs. US News & World Report regularly ranks ODU University School of Nursing among the 25% of the best online nursing programs in the country. Also, the university has a 100% success rate of certification for nurses in anesthesia and educated family nurses, and 99% of nursing graduates find jobs in the space of a year. The online professional nursing programs of the University include family NP, Pediatric NP, and neonatal NP. Applicants must present the results of the GRE or MAT, unless their grade point average is greater than or equal to 3.5, and three letters of recommendation, one essay, and transcripts.
#9. University of Wyoming
The University of Wyoming offers a doctoral nursing program of 84 credits that allows applicants to choose a professional nursing concentration. The program includes an internship, a project, and a seminar, as well as courses on pharmacotherapy and physiopathology. Students can complete this program in three years, but can not continue their studies part-time. Candidates for a college degree must also attend on-campus sessions and perform clinical tasks in Wyoming, southern Montana or northern Colorado. However, regardless of clinical placement, applicants must have a Wyoming license and must pass the National Council Licensure Exam during their first year of study. This program is accredited by the Commission of University Education in Nursing. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#10. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Northwestern Louisiana State University offers a doctorate in nursing practice in two concentrations. One option requires 38 credits and guides the Registered Advanced Practice Nurses (APRN) toward the Leadership Doctorate. The second option informs all non-APRN candidates about the leadership of the organizational systems through 40 to 42 credits. Both options require clinical hours and laboratory work, as well as courses such as epidemiology and biostatistics. Also, the program is accredited by the Commission of University Education in Nursing. The school provides 24-hour crisis assistance and several student health services, including free medications and discounted diagnostic tests. Additionally, candidates can also attend job fairs and consult the interview tips and curriculum vitae of the school’s Career Center.
#11. Georgia College and State University
Georgia College prides itself on small classes and the diversity of its core offerings, which combine classroom knowledge with real-world experience. The School of Nursing of the university offers all its programs in a totally online format, with minimum requirements face to face. Also, MSN students can choose between the following concentrations: Family Nurse, Psychiatric Psychiatry Nurse, and Nurse Educator. After graduation, Georgia College MSN qualifies for career opportunities in administration, teaching, and advanced clinical practice. However, to participate in one of Georgia College’s online professional nursing programs, you must have access to a computer, preferably at home, as well as Microsoft Office software. So, become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#12. Stony Brook University SUNY
Stony Brook University offers an online learning experience that is almost 15% more affordable than the national average for public universities and 50% more affordable than for-profit institutions. Available online programs include training, educational leadership, higher education administration, human resources administration, liberal studies, nursing, nutrition, and medical assistance. Meanwhile, students wishing to use an MSN online at Stony Brook can choose from 10 specialized programs, which include nursing education, nursing leadership, midwifery nurses and various online skilled nursing programs. If you already have an associate’s degree in nursing and want to obtain your master’s degree at Stony Brook, consider your Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
#13. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers online degrees in numerous fields, many of which are classified as the best online programs, according to US News & World Report. UC’s online MSN program ranked 11th in online nursing programs for graduates in 2018. Meanwhile, candidates for MSN must have a bachelor’s degree; those with a BSN can apply for the MSN program and those with a non-nursing degree can apply through the accelerated program. Also, students may choose to specialize in Professional Nursing in Adult-Gerontology (Acute or Primary Care), Family Nurse, Neonatal Nurse, Midwife Nurse or Women’s Health Professional Nurse.
#14. Graceland University
The online campus of Graceland University offers five undergraduate degrees, eight master’s degrees and one doctorate (doctorate in nursing practice). Prospective students wishing to use MSN can choose between two online programs at Graceland: the RN to MSN track (for those who have a nurse’s license) or the MSN track (for those who want to focus on a family nurse or a nurse). Also, students can earn their MSN diploma at Graceland by studying full or part-time, working with online cohorts, taking part in campus focus sessions and participating in hands-on experiences to learn skills and competencies. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#15. Ball State University
Practicing nurses can obtain their MSN from Ball State University through their Family Practitioner Nurse Program, which is fully available online. The university also offers an RN to MSN option for students who already have a registered nurse’s license. Students in this program can complete 36 credits of their online courses, but must also complete a 180-hour internship in a business nursing program for an associate or bachelor’s degree during the last semester. Also, they may choose to supplement these hours on campus in their geographic area. The selected candidates are admitted to the Graduate Studies of Ball State, as well as to the MSN program itself. So, become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this affordable online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#16. East Carolina University
The online programs offered by ECU include more than 90 degrees and certificates, which makes it a leader in distance education in North Carolina. Meanwhile, ECU’s MSN program includes several professional online nursing programs such as specialists for aspiring adult-gerontology nursing professionals, neonatal nursing professionals, and family nursing professionals. Graduates can follow nursing leadership and testing critical nursing fields. They can also integrate theories and research from the field of nursing to guide their clinical practice and work independently in professional environments. MSU holders of the ECU are also prepared to do Ph.D. studies. So, become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by attending this affordable online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#17. Northern Arizona University
NAU’s MSN-FNP program is currently the only MSN-FNP accredited program available at a public university in Arizona), The program has the following highlights:
Accreditation: CCNECompulsory entry exam: none48 total credits offered completely onlineRanked among the best graduate nursing programs in the country according to US News & World Report780 clinical hours
Also, the FNP graduate program from NAU is designed to be practical. This Nursing School attracts the most dedicated students as nurse practitioners appreciate the format of online courses and the fact that only a few visits to the campus are needed. Meanwhile, the latest US News & World Report classifies NAU as one of the best graduate schools in nursing in the country. You will be a preferred candidate status if you have at least three years of experience in nursing or relevant life experience.
#18. American Sentinel University
American Sentinel’s total program cost is $6,879 less than the average total tuition for private MSN-FNP programs in Colorado. It also has the following highlights:
Accreditation: CCNECompulsory entry exam: none42 credits in total with each of the 14 courses that last 8 weeks.The program offered completely online without mandatory log-in hours585 clinical hoursEach student is assigned a counselor dedicated to success.Highly qualified faculty
This 100% online program will be completed in approximately 28 months, with blocks of eight weeks for each of its 14 courses. You can choose to start your studies in March, May or September. As an ASU student, you have a successful advisor to work with throughout the program, who will help you answer all your questions. Also, at ASU, more than 70% of teachers have PhDs. With 98% of recent students reporting that they are satisfied with the experience they have experienced here, you can be assured that ASU offers an exceptional student experience and exceptional value.
#19. Governors State University
GSU’s total program cost is $7,707 less than the average total in-state tuition for public MSN-FNP programs in Illinois. It also has the following highlights:
Accreditation: ACENCompulsory entry exam: none44 total credits available on campus540 clinical hoursThesis optionFull-time and part-time options
GSU’s MSN-FNP program was designed from scratch for working nurses. It offers convenient course planning on campus, as well as full-time and part-time options. If writing a thesis is one of your academic goals, you can complete this option here by adding three additional credits to your transcript. You will also complete your clinical experience at a primary or ambulatory health center in the area. The program has two convenient start times, one in the fall and one in the spring, which allows you to choose the time of the year that suits you best.
#20. Southern University
Southern University’s total program cost is $5,150 less than the average total in-state tuition for public MSN-FNP programs in Louisiana. It also has the following highlights:
Accreditation: CCNEEntry exam requirement: GRE41 credits in total, with possible completion in two years.Courses offered on campusPlanning options available full or part-time
The MSN program of SUBR in the College of Nursing and Related Health stands out as one of the NP programs for the most respected families in the state. This on-campus program allows students to fall, spring, and summer semesters, which allows them to start the time of year that best suits their personal schedule needs. You can as well choose a full-time or part-time schedule and, as a full-time student, you can complete this program in just two years (four semesters). To be eligible, however, you must have at least two years of registered full-time nursing experience in direct patient care.
5 Most Affordable Online DNP-FNP Programs
The online doctoral programs in nursing practice (online DNP) described here are graduation degrees in nursing. Students can obtain this degree in different stages: those with a BSN or MSN can access a DNP title. Although these programs are mainly in a flexible online format, students often have intermittent needs that must be taken into account on campus. While some schools refer to their online program and others use the term hybrid, some parts of the program on campus may be necessary. Prospective students interested in finding the most affordable online nurse practitioner programs, flexible and attractive DNP online program can find 50 opportunities here. Keep reading to find the DNP program that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals! Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#1. Fort Hays State University
FHSU offers DNP programs for eligible students in an online format with a remarkable enrollment rate. Fort Hays State University offers a BSN to DNP program and an MSN to DNP program. DNP graduates can look for exciting and influential leadership opportunities. Prospective students must determine if FSHU is allowed to offer online training in their country of residence, and international students should consider the different requirements. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#2. State of Oklahoma University of the Northwest
Northwestern Oklahoma State University offers an online program from BSN to DNP. This practical program prepares students to become family nurses. The program focuses on health care in rural areas. Although the program has an online element, students must complete a summer residency program. Students can register full or part-time and the program requires that they complete the internship hours. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#3. University of East Carolina
Do you have a rural and unattended population interest? The DNP online program in the ECU may be right for you! The program has an online format, as well as some days on campus throughout the semester and serves as a mentor to teachers upon completion of the final project. Students can obtain their DNP through a post-teacher format or through a BSN-to-DNP format with a Primary Care Track for Adult-Gerontology NP or an NPF Track. The ECU also offers a nursing specialty in anesthesia. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#4. Arkansas State University, Main Campus
ASU offers an online DNP graduate program that requires students to participate in an immersion on campus each semester. Professionals who have obtained an Advanced Practice Nurse License and wish to obtain an End-of-Course Diploma can enroll in the ASU DNP Online Program. The doctoral program in nursing practice in the ASU post-master program requires students to participate in full-time studies, and the program ends two years. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program.
#5. Missouri State University, Springfield
Missouri State University offers many opportunities for graduate studies in nursing for International students. Nurses can enroll in an online BSN-DNP program or an online DNP graduate program. The BSN to DNP program offers students the opportunity to prepare to face patients like NPF. The DNP post-master program prepares students to assume leadership roles that address inequities in health and improve outcomes for patients. The State of Missouri is proud to offer an online and affordable DNP program for nurses who want to grow as leaders. Become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) by going for this most affordable and cheapest online family nurse practitioner (FNP) program. Yes, you can earn a nurse practitioner degree online and it is becoming more and more in demand. Essentially, nurse practitioner degree online are for RNs who hope to specialize as a family nurse but have tight schedules that prevent them from attending the program physically. Thus, they get the coursework training which online studies provide perfectly as well as clinical hours which they get as they are practicing nurses. FNP Programs are ideal for RNs with a BSN or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. If this is you, then you can typically complete an MSN FNP program in one and a half to two years of full-time study, or two to four years of part-time study. In order to become a family nurse practitioner you’ll have to follow the steps below.1. Graduate from high school.2. Pursue a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a similar degree that will last for 4 years.3. Become a registered nurse (RN) and garner experience of a year or two. 4. Then pursue a graduate degree in family nurse practitioner that will last from 1.5 years to 4 years. Before you take the MSN for FNP, you must have acquired at least a 4-year degree in nursing. After earning your BSN, you’ll then need to complete a master’s degree program that trains nurse practitioners to become FNPs. This degree takes 1.5 years to four years to complete. So, it will take you 6 to 8 years to become an FNP if you’re a fresh high school graduate and 2 to 4 years if you are already an RN with BSN. FNP programs are not so costly. If you’re an out-of-state student expect to pay about $31,500 for FNP schools. However online programs are far cheaper. It costs anywhere from $250-$800 per credit, ultimately averaging about $22,500 for a nurse practitioner degree. Delta State University charges $10,500 for its online FNP program. Private universities, on the other hand, cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per credit. FNPs are generally classified as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and they earn $107,480 as salary according to BLS in 2018. However, Glassdoor specifically gives the average salary of FNPs as $121,763 per year. You should also know that salaries for these healthcare professionals tend to vary by region, specialty, education, experience, and demand.
