Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas

Last Updated/Verified: Jul 28, 2025

Why Pursue an Online Nurse Practitioner Program in Kansas?

A nurse practitioner (NP) is an autonomous licensed clinician focused on managing their patient's health conditions, aiding the sick, and offering medical care without requiring physician supervision. These advanced practice nurses often enter an NP specialty, including pediatric, family, and women's health. Nurse practitioners are advanced-practice registered nurses (APRNs) who must obtain a graduate degree, such as a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctoral degree (DNP). Current NPs who hold an MSN and wish to change specialties can complete a post-graduate certificate program.

NPs in Kansas who wish to take their careers to the next level often enter online nurse practitioner (NP) programs. Learning in the comfort of your own home allows nurses to raise their families, maintain their work schedule, and study at their own pace. Many graduates of online NP programs credit the flexibility and convenience of these programs with their success in completing them.

Nurse practitioners in the state of Kansas will always be in high demand, and many will enjoy competitive annual wages and benefits. NPs who specialize in nursing fields like primary care, neonatal care, or family care can increase their yearly salaries. Their role in health care, particularly in rural and historically underserved areas, gives them the ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions, order and interpret lab tests, and create health treatment plans for their patients.

Nurse practitioners serve a critical role in the medical field, and they can address the need for advanced practice health care providers.

Learn more about Nurse Practitioner degree levels:

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas

Navigating the world of nursing education has never been easier with online Nurse Practitioner programs in Kansas. NursePractitionerOnline.com brings you the most comprehensive ranking of top virtual nursing education opportunities in the state, helping aspiring healthcare professionals advance their careers without sacrificing their current work or personal commitments. Distance learning programs have revolutionized how nurses can pursue advanced degrees, offering flexible schedules and cutting-edge curriculum that prepare students for complex healthcare challenges. Our expert team has carefully evaluated each program based on academic rigor, clinical placement opportunities, faculty credentials, and student success rates. These online programs provide Kansas nurses with unprecedented access to high-quality advanced practice education, enabling them to expand their skills and improve patient care across diverse healthcare settings. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas offers a comprehensive Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate designed for experienced registered nurses seeking advanced primary care skills. This hybrid online program provides a flexible two-year pathway to expanding nursing capabilities, blending rigorous online coursework with intensive clinical experiences. Tailored for APRNs, the program requires a graduate nursing degree, current RN licensure, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students develop expertise in managing healthcare needs across all life stages, with a curriculum emphasizing comprehensive patient care through theoretical instruction and hands-on preceptorship. The program's nationally accredited status ensures high-quality professional training.

  • Online and campus hybrid
  • 16 total credit hours
  • Advanced practice RN required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Clinical practicum experiences
  • Two-year completion timeline
  • Nationally accredited program
  • State licensure requirement
  • Graduate-level coursework
  • Comprehensive clinical training

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of Kansas delivers a comprehensive Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate entirely online, equipping advanced practice nurses with specialized mental health intervention skills. This 24-credit-hour program focuses on interpersonal, psychotherapeutic, and psychopharmacologic treatments for individuals, groups, and families. Designed for APRNs, the program requires an advanced practice nursing degree, active RN licensure, and a 3.0 GPA. Students explore sophisticated diagnostic and treatment methodologies, preparing for effective psychiatric care across diverse clinical settings. With courses strategically sequenced every other year, the program offers a structured approach to advanced mental health nursing education.

  • 24 credit hours.
  • Online course delivery.
  • Spring 2025 start.
  • APRN graduate degree required.
  • Current RN licensure needed.
  • 3.0 GPA minimum.
  • Background check required.
  • Focus on mental health care.
  • Interpersonal skills development.
  • Psychotherapeutic interventions.

Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas provides a specialized Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate through a hybrid learning model. This 19-credit intensive program prepares advanced practice registered nurses to excel in acute care environments, emphasizing complex patient management and interprofessional collaboration. Combining online didactic learning with hands-on clinical experiences at the KU Health System, the program offers a comprehensive approach to acute care specialization. Designed for APRNs with primary care backgrounds, the certificate requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and current RN licensure, enabling practitioners to develop advanced skills in episodic and continuous patient care.

  • 19 credit hours total
  • Online didactic courses
  • Face-to-face clinical experiences
  • KU Health System placements
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
  • Acute care specialization
  • Two-year completion timeline

Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Kansas offers an innovative Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate, designed for graduate-level nursing professionals seeking specialized adult and geriatric healthcare expertise. This hybrid program integrates online coursework with on-campus clinical intensives, providing a flexible and comprehensive learning experience. Spanning 16 graduate credit hours, the certificate prepares nurses to assess and manage acute and chronic health conditions across diverse adult populations. Graduates can practice in primary care clinics, internal medicine, home health, and long-term care facilities. The program requires advanced practice RN status, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and offers nationally accredited, rigorous clinical training.

  • Hybrid online/campus format
  • 16 total graduate credit hours
  • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • Nationally accredited nursing program
  • Comprehensive clinical practicums
  • Focuses on adult/geriatric care
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Washburn University

Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Washburn University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Post-Graduate Certificate provides advanced nursing professionals a specialized pathway in mental health care. Entirely virtual, the program uniquely prepares graduates to evaluate and treat psychiatric disorders across all life stages. With an impressive 94% certification exam pass rate, students complete the program in four semesters through self-paced learning. The curriculum integrates innovative virtual simulations and personalized clinical placements, ensuring comprehensive training. No specific entrance exam is required, making it accessible for practicing nurses seeking to advance their psychiatric care expertise. Graduates become eligible for national board certification, entering a high-demand field with substantial career opportunities.

  • Fully online program
  • 4 semester completion time
  • 94% certification exam pass rate
  • Clinical ratio 10:1
  • Virtual simulation training
  • Flexible clinical placements
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Preceptor-guided experiences
  • Current field-working instructors

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Washburn University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative educational experience for working healthcare professionals. Designed flexibly, the program combines rigorous academic training with practical clinical experiences, requiring 74-76 credit hours and a minimum of 1,000 direct patient care hours. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, healthcare innovation, and complex patient care strategies. While no specific entrance exam is mandated, applicants should possess a strong nursing background. The program prepares nurses to drive systemic healthcare improvements, with potential for significant career advancement in primary care settings. Competitive tuition and potential financial aid enhance the program's accessibility.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • 1,000 direct patient care hours
  • Nationally accredited program
  • 74-76 total credit hours
  • Summer start program
  • Faculty with active clinical practices
  • Bright career outlook
  • Average salary $120,610

Doctorate - BSN to DNP

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Visit Website

Washburn University's comprehensive online BSN to DNP program, specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, provides a strategic pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. Blending virtual coursework with minimal on-campus requirements, the program demands 74-76 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours. Focused on leadership, quality improvement, and systems thinking, the curriculum prepares nurses for complex healthcare challenges. No specific entrance exam is required, making the program accessible to qualified BSN graduates. Live virtual classes and flexible learning formats accommodate working professionals. Graduates can anticipate promising career prospects in primary care, with competitive salary potential and opportunities for significant healthcare impact.

  • Online format with flexibility.
  • 74 to 76 credit hours.
  • 1000 clinical hours required.
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Live virtual classes included.
  • Minimal on-campus requirements.
  • BSN admission requirement.
  • Financial aid options available.
  • Bright career outlook.
  • Average FNP salary $120,610.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Fort Hays State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides an exceptional pathway for advanced nursing professionals. The hybrid program uniquely combines digital learning with practical experiences, emphasizing evidence-based practice and leadership development. Notably recognized for its 100% national certification exam pass rate, the program offers two strategic pathways: BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP. Students must maintain a competitive 3.0-3.25 GPA and possess professional licensure. The curriculum comprehensively prepares graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered primary care across all life stages, with a strong focus on healthcare policy and interdisciplinary collaboration.

  • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
  • Fully Online DNP Program
  • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
  • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
  • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
  • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
  • Leadership Skills Development
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Doctorate - BSN to DNP

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

Fort Hays State University's BSN to DNP program delivers a comprehensive Family Nurse Practitioner concentration through an innovative hybrid model. Designed for ambitious nurses seeking advanced practice roles, the program combines rigorous online coursework with practical clinical experiences. Admission requirements include an accredited BSN, minimum 3.0 GPA, and RN licensure in Kansas, Nebraska, or Oklahoma. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership skills, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for transformative primary care roles across patient lifespans. With a remarkable 100% certification exam pass rate from 2020-2023, this program represents a strategic educational investment for nursing professionals.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Requires BSN and RN license
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • 100% pass rate on certification
  • Leadership and evidence-based focus
  • Interprofessional collaboration
  • Primary care across lifespan
  • Admission from KS, NE, OK
  • Accredited by CCNE
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu

Doctorate - BSN to DNP

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

Pittsburg State University offers a comprehensive BSN to DNP program specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner preparation. This innovative hybrid program strategically blends online coursework with campus-based learning, providing maximum flexibility for working healthcare professionals. Designed to elevate nursing careers, the program emphasizes advanced clinical skills, leadership development, and comprehensive healthcare education. Prospective students with a BSN can apply between August 1st and October 10th, with the program commencing in the Summer Session. Graduates are positioned for high-demand advanced practice roles with potential salaries exceeding $100,000. The program's unique structure allows nurses to advance their education without interrupting professional commitments, making it an attractive option for career-driven practitioners seeking a terminal nursing degree.

  • Hybrid learning format.
  • Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner.
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
  • Salaries exceed $100,000.
  • Starts Summer Session.
  • Applications August 1-October 10.
  • Flexible for working professionals.
  • Focus on leadership and education.
  • Terminal degree in nursing.
  • Combines online and campus learning.
#5

University of Saint Mary

Leavenworth, KS - Private 4-year - stmary.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Saint Mary's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) online program offers a comprehensive hybrid learning experience designed for advanced practice nurses. Students complete a rigorous 53-credit curriculum spanning two years, with online asynchronous classes and two on-campus intensives. The program uniquely emphasizes holistic mental health care across patient lifespans, providing over 700 clinical training hours. Requiring a BSN, active RN license, minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year nursing experience, the program prepares graduates for high-demand mental healthcare roles. CCNE-accredited with competitive $775 per credit tuition, students benefit from remote admissions processes and flexible learning modalities tailored to working healthcare professionals.

  • 53 total credit hours
  • Online asynchronous classes
  • Two on-campus intensives
  • 700+ clinical hours
  • Competitive $775/credit tuition
  • Requires BSN, RN license
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • One year nursing experience
  • Remote admissions interview
  • CCNE accredited program
*Federal data source: IPEDS 2023, administered by NCES.

List of Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Kansas

Known as the Sunflower State, the Midway State, and the Wheat State, Kansas is integral to the food supply within the country. Nurse practitioners can enjoy its rugged beauty.

Online nurse practitioner programs allow NPs to successfully complete their continued education studies while also treating patients in rural or remote areas.

Nurse practitioners have at least two-years more education than traditional RNs in specific fields, like women's health, pediatrics, or family practice than registered nurses. Online NP programs usually boast a curriculum of core courses, concentrated nursing courses relating to the specialty area chosen, and hands-on clinical requirements. Didactic coursework can be completed entirely online, or students can opt to enter a hybrid program which combines online courses with some campus-based courses. Clinical hours must be completed in person, but can often be arranged in the student’s local area.

Jump to City:

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University

  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP

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

    • Hybrid program format
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • Requires BSN and RN license
    • Minimum GPA of 3.0
    • 100% pass rate on certification
    • Leadership and evidence-based focus
    • Interprofessional collaboration
    • Primary care across lifespan
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

    • 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
    • Fully Online DNP Program
    • Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
    • Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
    • Comprehensive Clinical Experience
    • Evidence-Based Practice Focus
    • Leadership Skills Development
    • Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration

Lawrence, KS

University of Kansas

  • Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 19 credit hours total
    • Online didactic courses
    • Face-to-face clinical experiences
    • KU Health System placements
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
    • Acute care specialization
    • Two-year completion timeline
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/campus format
    • 16 total graduate credit hours
    • Advanced practice RN prerequisite
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Multiple clinical practice settings
    • Nationally accredited nursing program
    • Comprehensive clinical practicums
    • Focuses on adult/geriatric care
  • Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online and campus hybrid
    • 16 total credit hours
    • Advanced practice RN required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • Clinical practicum experiences
    • Two-year completion timeline
    • Nationally accredited program
    • State licensure requirement
  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 24 credit hours.
    • Online course delivery.
    • Spring 2025 start.
    • APRN graduate degree required.
    • Current RN licensure needed.
    • 3.0 GPA minimum.
    • Background check required.
    • Focus on mental health care.
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner focus
    • Requires BSN or MSN
    • Over 1,000 clinical hours
    • Advanced practice and leadership
    • Evidence-based care emphasis
    • Patient-centered curriculum
    • Prepares for high-level practice

Leavenworth, KS

University of Saint Mary

  • Master's - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 53 total credit hours
    • Online asynchronous classes
    • Two on-campus intensives
    • 700+ clinical hours
    • Competitive $775/credit tuition
    • Requires BSN, RN license
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • One year nursing experience

Pittsburg, KS

Pittsburg State University

  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP

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

    • Hybrid learning format.
    • Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner.
    • Prepares for advanced practice roles.
    • Salaries exceed $100,000.
    • Starts Summer Session.
    • Applications August 1-October 10.
    • Flexible for working professionals.
    • Focus on leadership and education.

Topeka, KS

Washburn University

  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • 4 semester completion time
    • 94% certification exam pass rate
    • Clinical ratio 10:1
    • Virtual simulation training
    • Flexible clinical placements
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Preceptor-guided experiences
  • Doctorate - BSN to DNP

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Website

    • Online format with flexibility.
    • 74 to 76 credit hours.
    • 1000 clinical hours required.
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • Live virtual classes included.
    • Minimal on-campus requirements.
    • BSN admission requirement.
    • Financial aid options available.
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online flexible learning format
    • 1,000 direct patient care hours
    • Nationally accredited program
    • 74-76 total credit hours
    • Summer start program
    • Faculty with active clinical practices
    • Bright career outlook
    • Average salary $120,610

Wichita, KS

Wichita State University

  • Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Two program entry points
    • Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
    • Specializations in multiple areas
    • Advanced curriculum focus
    • Flexible full/part-time learning
    • Healthcare systems knowledge
    • Evidence-based practice training
    • Multiple healthcare settings preparation
*Postsecondary data from: IPEDS 2023, NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Jump to Program Specialty

Family Nurse Practitioner

A popular nurse practitioner specialty, the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) cares for patients of all ages, often acting in a primary care role. Prospective FNPs can enroll in any of the 3 online programs in Kansas below:

Graduate Certificate-FNP Programs

University of Kansas

Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Kansas City, KS

DNP-FNP Programs

University of Kansas

Family Nurse Practitioner

Lawrence, KS

Washburn University

BSN To DNP-Family Track (FNP)

Topeka, KS

Gerontology Nurse Practitioner

Nurses who wish to focus on the care of adult patients from the teen years through the geriatric years, whether in a primary or acute care setting, can opt for one of the 3 online programs in Kansas below.

Graduate Certificate-AGNP Programs

University of Kansas

Online Campus - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Kansas City, KS

University of Kansas

Online Campus - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Kansas City, KS

DNP-AGNP Programs

University of Kansas

Adult/Gerontological Nurse Practitioner

Lawrence, KS

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are tasked with caring for patients with a range of mental health illnesses and disorders. As the demand for mental health practitioners continues to grow, prospective PMHNPs in Kansas can earn their specialized degree by enrolling in one of the 4 online programs below.

Graduate Certificate-PMHNP Programs

University of Kansas

Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Kansas City, KS

Washburn University

Post-Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Online Program

Topeka, KS

DNP-PMHNP Programs

University of Kansas

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner BSN to DNP

Lawrence, KS

Washburn University

BSN-to-DNP Program (PMHNP)

Topeka, KS

Are we missing your school's nurse practitioner program or need to update any of the information listed? Please contact us.