Most important takeaways…
- Memphis NP salaries reach a median of $116,860, roughly 8% above the Tennessee statewide median of $108,420.
- The University of Memphis MSN-FNP program requires at least 750 supervised clinical hours across a 46-credit curriculum.
- FNP, PMHNP, AGNP, PNP, WHNP, and AGACNP specialties are available through Memphis-area and Tennessee-based programs.
- DNP pathways from both BSN-entry and post-master's tracks give working nurses flexible doctoral options in the region.
Memphis anchors a regional healthcare network that includes Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, Baptist Memorial Health Care, Regional One Health, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, employers that together fuel steady demand for nurse practitioners in primary, specialty, and acute care roles.
For working nurses, this demand opens advancement paths, yet the number of degree options (MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificates in specialties like FNP, PMHNP, and AGNP) demands a clear-eyed look at cost, clinical placement, and the local job market.
In a metro where NP salaries run about 10% below the national median, choosing a program with manageable debt and realistic preceptorship arrangements is not just strategic; it is essential for a career that stays financially sound.
NP Programs Available in the Memphis Metro Area
Memphis-area nurses have access to a wide range of nurse practitioner programs across Tennessee, from locally based options at the University of Memphis and the UT Health Science Center to hybrid and online pathways from universities across the state. Whether you commute from Germantown, Bartlett, Collierville, Southaven, Mississippi, or West Memphis, Arkansas, these programs are designed to accommodate working professionals through flexible delivery formats and locally arranged clinical placements. Below is an overview of NP programs available to nurses in and around Memphis.
- Graduate outcomes and earnings
- Institutional graduation rates
- Net price and affordability
- Program breadth and specialties
- Clinical placement flexibility
- College Scorecard graduate earnings — collegescorecard.ed.gov
- Internal program database
- NCES-IPEDS federal institutional data — nces.ed.gov
- Independent program research
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Located in the heart of Memphis, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is the most geographically convenient option for local nurses. UTHSC's College of Nursing offers DNP tracks in FNP, PMHNP, and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP, along with post-graduate certificates for nurses who already hold advanced degrees. With in-state tuition around $14,941 and a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, UTHSC provides an intimate learning environment embedded within Memphis's robust healthcare ecosystem, with faculty-assisted clinical site selection across the Mid-South region.
- Hybrid format with on-campus intensives in Memphis
- 1,140 total clinical hours required
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP entry paths available
- 61 credit hours with capstone project
- 100% licensure pass rate reported
- CCNE accredited through 2034
- Faculty-assisted clinical placements across Mid-South
- 1,080 clinical hours with synchronous and asynchronous options
- Post-BSN and post-MSN entry pathways
- Dual PMHNP/FNP concentration available (73 credits)
- Prepares for ANCC PMHNP certification
- Faculty assist with clinical site placement
- Financial aid and employer reimbursement supported
- 1,020 clinical hours in acute care settings
- On-campus intensives three times per year
- Dual concentration options available
- CCNE accredited through 2034
- BSN-to-DNP and post-MSN pathways
- Prepares for AG-ACNP national certification
- 23-credit campus-based certificate program
- Requires existing DNP degree and NP or CNS certification
- Prepares for ANCC PMHNP certification exam
- Covers psychopharmacology and multiple therapy approaches
- Supervised clinical experiences included
- Priority application date of February 1
- 20 total credit hours, completable in one year
- Hybrid format with on-campus sessions twice yearly
- For licensed APRNs seeking AG-ACNP certification
- Clinical placements arranged near student's residence
- CCNE accredited
- Requires master's in nursing with NP focus
Family Nurse Practitioner DNP — Hybrid
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP DNP — Hybrid
Post-Graduate APRN Psychiatric-Mental Health NP Certificate — On-Campus
Post-Graduate Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Certificate — Hybrid
University of Memphis
As Memphis's public research university, the University of Memphis offers MSN and post-graduate certificate pathways in FNP and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP. The hybrid programs blend online coursework with limited on-campus intensives and locally arranged clinical practicums. With a net price around $12,397 for undergraduates and competitive graduate tuition, the university is among the most affordable options for Memphis residents. The AG-ACNP MSN track requires two years of ICU or ER experience and reports a 100% employment rate for graduates.
- 44-credit hybrid program with up to three on-campus intensives
- Requires two years of ICU or ER experience
- 100% employment rate reported for graduates
- Clinical practicums arranged in the student's local area
- Core MSN courses plus 22 concentration credits
- Rolling admissions with fall and spring starts
- Hybrid format for nurses who already hold an MSN
- Prepares for national FNP certification exam
- Covers health assessment, prescribing, and chronic illness management
- Hands-on clinical experience included
- Lifespan primary care focus from infants to seniors
- Addresses growing demand for FNPs
- Post-graduate hybrid certificate for advanced practice nurses
- Focus on high-acuity settings including hospitals and ICUs
- National certification eligibility upon completion
- Builds on existing pathophysiology and pharmacology knowledge
- Expands scope of practice into acute care
- Patient-centered care approach
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP MSN — Hybrid
Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Post-Graduate Certificate — Hybrid
Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University's School of Nursing in Nashville offers one of the broadest NP specialty menus in the state, spanning FNP, PMHNP, PNP (acute and primary care), AGPCNP, WHNP, neonatal NP, and emergency NP, all at the MSN level with post-master's certificate options. The hybrid model pairs online coursework with periodic on-campus intensives, and Vanderbilt's clinical placement team works to arrange rotations in students' preferred geographic areas, including Memphis and West Tennessee. With a 93.5% graduation rate and certification pass rates running above national averages, the investment in Vanderbilt's higher tuition comes with strong outcomes.
- Hybrid format completable in four full-time semesters
- Over 600 clinical hours in diverse settings
- Part-time plans available for working nurses
- Clinical placements arranged in preferred geographic area
- Certification pass rate 10% above national average
- Curriculum incorporates 2021 AACN Essentials
- Full-time completion in 16 months
- 560 supervised clinical hours across lifespan
- Includes psychotherapy and medication management training
- Available as MSN or post-master's certificate
- Hybrid online and on-campus delivery
- Eligible for ANCC PMHNP certification
- 500 clinical hours with placement team support
- No entrance exam required, rolling admissions
- 100% reported licensure pass rate
- Subspecialty certificates in dermatology and cardiology
- Dual AGPCNP/WHNP program available
- Small class sizes with low student-to-faculty ratio
- 560 clinical hours with experienced preceptors
- Requires prior pediatric work experience
- Small cohort size for personalized attention
- Prepares for PNCB PNP-AC certification
- Hybrid format with on-campus simulation sessions
- One of the first PNP-AC programs in the country
- 630 clinical practice hours in pediatric settings
- Four semesters full-time, part-time plans available
- Prepares for CPNP-PC certification
- BSN-to-DNP pathway also offered
- Focus on health promotion and family-centered care
- Post-master's certificate option available
- Dual WHNP/AGPCNP specialty, 1,190 clinical hours
- Five semesters full-time with part-time option
- Hybrid online and in-person format
- Robust clinical placements with geographic flexibility
- Comprehensive women's health and primary care curriculum
- Small class sizes with experienced faculty mentors
- 770 clinical practice hours required
- Requires two or more years of NICU experience
- Four full-time semesters in hybrid format
- Small collaborative classes
- Faculty-supervised training in neonatal care
- High employment rate after graduation
- Hybrid online and on-campus format
- Requires RN emergency department experience
- Dual certification potential
- Low faculty-to-student ratios
- Flexible full-time and part-time options
- Comprehensive emergency care curriculum
- Hybrid format over four to five full-time semesters
- 500 or more supervised clinical hours
- Individualized program of study with gap analysis
- 97% employment rate after graduation
- DNP combination option available
- CCNE accredited with high certification pass rates
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — Hybrid
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP MSN — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP MSN — Hybrid
Pediatric NP MSN (Acute Care) — On-Campus
Pediatric NP MSN (Primary Care) — On-Campus
Women's Health/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP MSN — Hybrid
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner MSN — Hybrid
Emergency Nurse Practitioner MSN — Hybrid
Post-Master's PMHNP Certificate — Hybrid
Union University
Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, sits roughly midway between Memphis and Nashville, making it one of the most geographically accessible hybrid options for West Tennessee nurses. The FNP track offers an intensive 16-month MSN and a 36-month BSN-to-DNP pathway, both blending online coursework with on-campus sessions in Jackson. With tuition at $739 per credit hour, a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and a faith-integrated mission, Union provides a more personalized and values-centered educational experience. Post-graduate certificates in both FNP and PMHNP are also available.
- 16-month full-time program, 46 credit hours
- Hybrid online and campus format in Jackson, TN
- 560 total clinical hours across the lifespan
- $739 per credit hour tuition
- Annual fall semester start with rolling admissions
- Prepares for ANCC FNP certification exam
- 36-month full-time program, 73 credit hours
- 1,220 total clinical hours required
- Blended online and campus delivery
- ACEN and CCNE dual accreditation
- DNP project capstone required
- Also offers PMHNP concentration within BSN-to-DNP
- 26 credit hours with 560 clinical hours
- Hybrid format, $739 per credit hour
- Requires existing MSN degree
- Rolling admissions with fall start
- Prepares for FNP certification exams
- Financial aid available
- 29 credit hours with 560 clinical hours
- Hybrid format focused on lifespan mental health
- Includes psychopharmacology coursework
- $739 per credit hour tuition
- Requires MSN and RN licensure
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — On-Campus
Family Nurse Practitioner BSN-to-DNP — Hybrid
Post-Graduate FNP Certificate — Hybrid
Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate — Hybrid
Middle Tennessee State University
Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro delivers its FNP and PMHNP programs in formats specifically designed for Tennessee nurses who want to stay in their own communities. The MSN in FNP is delivered fully online with clinical rotations arranged locally, which works well for Memphis-area students. At 42 credit hours and with CCNE accreditation, the program offers one of the more streamlined paths to FNP certification. A PMHNP MSN and a post-graduate PMHNP certificate round out the options.
- Fully online coursework, 42 credit hours
- 630 clinical hours completed in student's local area
- Completable in four or five semesters
- CCNE accredited program
- Holistic primary care focus across all ages
- Prepares for national FNP certification
- 42 credit hours with 630 clinical hours
- Online coursework with local clinical rotations
- Four to five semester completion timeline
- CCNE accredited, evidence-based curriculum
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification
- Covers assessment, diagnosis, and prescribing
- Online format for nurses with existing APRN core courses
- 630 minimum clinical hours required
- Meets national APRN standards
- Addresses growing mental health demand
- Supervised clinical experiences included
- Builds on prior graduate coursework
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — Online
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP MSN — Online
Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate — On-Campus
Tennessee Tech
Tennessee Tech in Cookeville offers fully online MSN and DNP programs that allow Memphis-area nurses to complete coursework from home while arranging clinical hours with local preceptors. The FNP MSN requires 45 credit hours and can be finished in about two and a half years. Tennessee Tech also partners with East Tennessee State University on joint DNP tracks in PNP, WHNP, AG-ACNP, and AGPCNP, providing access to specialties not commonly available at a single school. With in-state tuition around $12,386 and a net price near $14,246, it remains a cost-effective choice.
- Fully online, 45 credit hours
- Completable in two to two and a half years
- Local clinical preceptors arranged by student
- Flexible course loads, two courses per semester
- 3.0 GPA minimum for admission
- Prepares for FNP Advanced Practice licensure
- Online format with CCNE accreditation
- Focus on lifespan mental health care
- RN-to-MSN bridge option available
- Post-master's certificate option also offered
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification
- Collaborative healthcare team approach
- Joint program with ETSU
- BSN-to-DNP (83 credits) and MSN-to-DNP (32 credits) tracks
- Hybrid format with capstone project required
- Prepares for national FNP certification
- Patient-centered care across the lifespan
- Emphasizes quality of care and health outcomes
- Joint TTU/ETSU program with BSN and MSN entry options
- DNP project required (12 credit hours)
- Comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan
- Prepares for PMHNP national certification
- Hybrid format with capstone requirement
- Six concentration options available
- Joint program with ETSU, hybrid format
- BSN-to-DNP path requires 79 credit hours
- MSN-to-DNP path requires 32 credit hours
- Prepares for WHCNP national certification
- Capstone project required
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP tracks available
- Fully online, joint program with ETSU
- Focuses on care from birth to age 21
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways
- Requires two years of RN experience
- Prepares for Advanced Practice licensure
- Flexible course loads for working nurses
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — Online
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP MSN — Online
Family Nurse Practitioner DNP — Online
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP DNP — Online
Women's Health NP DNP — On-Campus
Pediatric NP DNP (Primary Care) — On-Campus
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's College of Nursing focuses its NP offerings at the DNP level, with tracks in FNP, PMHNP, and Pediatric NP (including a dual primary/acute care option). The hybrid format combines synchronous online class sessions with on-campus visits twice per semester, plus access to a high-fidelity simulation center. UTK also offers post-master's graduate certificates in FNP and PNP for nurses who want to add a new specialty without completing a full doctoral program. In-state tuition runs about $15,972.
- Hybrid format with 840 clinical hours
- Synchronous online classes plus twice-per-semester campus visits
- High-fidelity simulation center for clinical skills
- Mentored clinical rotations with licensed preceptors
- Evidence-based primary care across the lifespan
- BSN-to-DNP pathway available
- 600 direct patient care clinical hours minimum
- Total 1,000 hours required for DNP degree
- Hybrid with synchronous online meetings
- High-fidelity simulation center access
- BSN-to-DNP program of study
- Clinical rotations with licensed mentors
- Dual NP certification in primary and acute care
- Hybrid online with on-campus visits twice per semester
- High-fidelity simulation center and mentored rotations
- Addresses critical PNP shortage nationwide
- Synchronous online course meetings
- Two concentration options available
- Hybrid format with 840 clinical hours
- For nurses holding MSN and current APRN certification
- Holistic admissions with essay prioritized
- Mandatory on-site sessions required
- Prerequisites must be within five years
- Gap analysis of previous coursework conducted
- 840 clinical hours required
- Hybrid format with mandatory on-site sessions
- Requires MSN and current APRN certification
- Competency-based curriculum
- Gap analysis of previous coursework
- Two letters of recommendation required
Family Nurse Practitioner DNP — Hybrid
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP DNP — On-Campus
Pediatric NP DNP (Dual Primary/Acute Care) — Hybrid
Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate — Hybrid
Pediatric NP Post-Master's Certificate (Primary Care) — Hybrid
East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University offers broadly accessible online FNP and PMHNP programs at both the MSN and DNP levels, with a stated emphasis on rural and underserved populations that resonates with many West Tennessee communities surrounding Memphis. At $672 per credit hour for Tennessee residents, ETSU is one of the most affordable NP programs in the state. The university reports a 100% licensure pass rate for its DNP graduates and provides clinical placement assistance. Joint DNP tracks with Tennessee Tech expand specialty options into PNP, WHNP, AG-ACNP, and AGPCNP.
- Fully online with asynchronous coursework, 51 credits
- No GRE required, 3.0 GPA minimum
- $672 per credit for Tennessee residents
- Completable in five semesters full-time
- High FNP certification pass rate reported
- RN-to-MSN option available for non-BSN nurses
- Online asynchronous format, 48 credit hours
- No GRE required for admission
- High PMHNP certification pass rate
- Curriculum with rural healthcare focus
- Faculty mentorship provided throughout program
- Fall semester start with part-time option
- CCNE accredited with 100% licensure pass rate
- Online classes with in-person intensives
- $672 per credit for Tennessee residents
- Full-time completion in as few as four semesters
- Clinical placement assistance provided
- Top 100 DNP program ranking
- 100% licensure pass rate reported
- BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP pathways
- Intensives available via Zoom or in person
- $672 per credit for Tennessee residents
- Rural health curriculum focus
- Financial aid and scholarships available
- 46 credit hours with online delivery
- Focus on rural and underserved populations
- GRE test-optional admission
- CCNE accredited program
- Prepares for national AGPCNP certification
- Full-time study begins only in fall
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — On-Campus
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP MSN — Online
Family Nurse Practitioner DNP — On-Campus
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP DNP — Online
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP MSN — On-Campus
Belmont University
Belmont University in Nashville offers FNP pathways at both the MSN and DNP levels through a hybrid format that combines asynchronous online classes with limited on-campus requirements. The DNP program reports a 100% clinical placement rate and 800 clinical hours, along with opportunities for global health projects and interprofessional learning through Belmont's IMPACT Labs. As a private university, Belmont's net price is higher at about $33,147, but the school provides multiple levels of academic advising and a strong Nashville healthcare network.
- 41 credit hours in hybrid format
- 3.0 GPA and current RN license required
- $500 non-refundable enrollment deposit
- Six-year completion limit
- Application through NursingCAS
- Core theory, research, and FNP clinical courses
- CCNE accredited with 800 clinical hours
- 100% clinical placement rate reported
- Asynchronous online classes with on-campus components
- Global health project opportunities
- Interprofessional IMPACT Labs and simulation center
- Three levels of academic advising support
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — On-Campus
Family Nurse Practitioner DNP — On-Campus
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga offers FNP and PMHNP pathways at both the BSN-to-DNP and post-graduate certificate levels, as well as an AG-ACNP MSN and certificate. The BSN-to-DNP FNP track spans eight semesters and includes 1,050 clinical hours, with a reported 100% first-time certification pass rate. UTC's hybrid format combines online courses with clinical preceptorships in adult, women's health, and pediatric settings. In-state tuition of approximately $11,110 and a net price near $14,265 make it an affordable option for Tennessee residents.
- 83 credit hours over eight semesters
- 1,050 clinical hours with 100% first-time pass rate
- CCNE accredited hybrid delivery
- Preceptorships in adult, women's, and pediatric care
- Final practicum immersion experience
- March 1 application deadline, fall start
- 82 credit hours over eight semesters
- CCNE accredited hybrid format
- Above 96% first-time certification pass rate
- Preceptorships in various psychiatric settings
- Full-time enrollment required
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- 48 to 53 credit hours with 630 clinical hours
- Hybrid format with primary care lifespan focus
- Eligible for AANP or ANCC certification
- Multiple clinical practicums included
- Core courses in pharmacology, assessment, pathophysiology
- Thesis option available
- 25 credit hours over four semesters
- Hybrid format for MSN or DNP-prepared nurses
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification
- Includes clinical preceptorships
- Emphasis on evidence-based family primary care
- March 1 application deadline
- 28 credit hours over five semesters
- Hybrid format for MSN or DNP-prepared NPs
- Covers psychiatric diagnosis, counseling, and management
- Final practicum immersion included
- Prepares for national PMHNP certification
- CCNE accredited program
- 24 semester hours with 630 clinical clock hours
- Hybrid online and campus format
- Eligible for AANP or ANCC national certification
- Focus on adult-gerontology acute care nursing
- Clinical practicum parallels didactic coursework
- Requires master's degree for admission
Family Nurse Practitioner BSN-to-DNP — Hybrid
Psychiatric-Mental Health NP BSN-to-DNP — Hybrid
Family Nurse Practitioner MSN — Hybrid
Post-Graduate FNP Certificate — Hybrid
Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate — Hybrid
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Post-Master's Certificate — Hybrid
FNP, PMHNP, AGNP, and Other NP Specialties in Memphis
Memphis-area nursing schools collectively cover the full spectrum of nurse practitioner specialties, though no single institution offers every concentration. Understanding which programs prepare you for which patient populations helps you match your career goals to the right school and credential pathway.
Family Nurse Practitioner
The University of Memphis offers FNP preparation through its Master of Science in Nursing program and a post-master's FNP Graduate Certificate for nurses who already hold an advanced degree.1 Family nurse practitioners provide primary care across the lifespan, treating patients from newborns to older adults in clinics, urgent care centers, and physician practices throughout the Memphis metro area.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
PMHNP preparation is available through the University of Memphis via a graduate certificate program.2 This specialty addresses a critical workforce gap in the Mid-South, where behavioral health provider shortages create strong demand for psychiatric NPs. PMHNPs diagnose and treat mental health conditions in community mental health centers, hospital psychiatric units, addiction treatment facilities, and private practice settings throughout Memphis and the surrounding region.
Acute Care and Other Specialties
The University of Memphis also offers an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care NP Graduate Certificate, preparing nurses for roles in intensive care units, emergency departments, and hospital specialty services.2 For nurses interested in this pathway, you can explore AGACNP programs in Tennessee for a broader look at statewide options. UTHSC's DNP program in Memphis provides the broadest specialty selection in the region, with six NP concentrations and three dual-specialty options for students seeking multiple certifications.3
Union University, located about 80 miles east in Jackson, offers a general nurse practitioner track within its MSN program.4 For specialties not offered locally, such as Pediatric NP or Women's Health NP, Memphis-area nurses typically enroll in online PNP programs from other Tennessee institutions or accredited out-of-state schools that arrange clinical placements in the Memphis healthcare market. Nurses weighing their options may also want to consider which highest paid nurse practitioner specialties align with their clinical interests.
Tuition, Costs, and Financial Aid for Memphis NP Programs
NP program costs in Tennessee vary widely depending on the institution type, degree level, and residency status. The table below compares annual tuition figures and median graduate debt at schools serving Memphis-area nurses. Note that these are institution-level figures reported to federal databases; your actual cost will depend on program-specific credit requirements, fees, and financial aid. Program-level tuition for NP tracks (for example, the University of Memphis MSN-FNP per-credit rate of $678 for 2025-2026) may differ from the broader institutional averages shown here. Many Memphis-area employers, including Methodist Le Bonheur Health, Baptist Memorial Health Care, and Regional One Health, offer tuition reimbursement benefits that can substantially offset these costs. Check with your human resources department, as benefit structures and annual caps differ by employer and may require a service commitment after graduation. Beyond employer benefits, NP students should explore the HRSA Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, which covers up to 85 percent of qualifying nursing education debt in exchange for two to three years of service in a designated shortage area. Tennessee-specific options include the Tennessee Student Assistance Award for graduate students and NP-focused scholarships through organizations such as the Tennessee Nurses Foundation and the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health.
| School | Location | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Net Price | Median Graduate Debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Memphis | Memphis, TN | $11,628 | $15,840 | $12,397 | $23,300 |
| Baptist Health Sciences University | Memphis, TN | $13,796 (private) | $13,796 (private) | $11,212 | $29,500 |
| Austin Peay State University | Clarksville, TN | $10,518 | $15,702 | $9,735 | $20,547 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | $11,718 | $29,700 | $13,359 | $20,000 |
| Tennessee State University | Nashville, TN | $11,188 | $23,808 | $15,796 | $27,000 |
| Tennessee Tech | Cookeville, TN | $12,386 | $15,746 | $14,246 | $15,650 |
| South College | Knoxville, TN | $28,849 (private) | $28,849 (private) | $17,858 | $18,668 |
| Vanderbilt University | Nashville, TN | $57,868 (private) | $57,868 (private) | $15,846 | $14,000 |
Clinical Hour Requirements and Memphis-Area Placement
The University of Memphis MSN-FNP program requires a minimum of 750 supervised clinical hours spread across several practicum courses within a 46-credit curriculum.1 That figure sits slightly above the 600 to 720 range typical of many MSN-FNP tracks nationwide, giving graduates extra hands-on preparation before sitting for certification. DNP programs, including those at UTHSC, generally require 1,000 or more total practice hours, with the exact count depending on whether post-master's credit is awarded for hours completed during an earlier MSN. For a deeper look at what to expect during practicum courses, our guide to FNP clinical rotations breaks down hour requirements and scheduling strategies.
Placement Policies to Know
Clinical placement policies vary by school and can shift from year to year, so confirming the latest policy with your admissions advisor is important. Some programs assist students in coordinating placements through established affiliation agreements, while others expect students to identify and secure their own preceptors. If you are completing coursework through an online program, understanding how online NP students arrange local clinical placements can save you time and frustration. Either way, Memphis-area students benefit from a dense network of health systems and community clinics that regularly host NP learners.
Memphis-Area Clinical Sites
The metro area offers a wide range of practice settings for fulfilling your clinical hours:
- Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare: A multi-hospital system with acute care, pediatric, and primary care sites across Shelby County.
- Baptist Memorial Health Care: One of the Mid-South's largest systems, with facilities in Memphis and surrounding communities.
- Regional One Health: The area's only Level I trauma center, offering high-acuity and safety-net patient populations.
- Memphis VA Medical Center: Federal facility serving veterans, often open to NP student rotations through separate affiliation agreements.
- Christ Community Health Services: A federally qualified health center network providing primary and behavioral health care to underserved neighborhoods.
- Church Health: A faith-based clinic system focused on uninsured and working-poor populations, valuable for community health exposure.
Tips for Securing a Placement
Competition for preceptors in any major metro area can be stiff, so starting early gives you an advantage. Reach out to potential preceptors at least two semesters before your first practicum course. Lean on professional networks such as the Tennessee Nurses Association or local APRN groups to identify practitioners willing to mentor students. If your program permits it, consider placements in smaller cities within commuting distance, such as Germantown, Bartlett, Collierville, or even across the state line in Southaven and Olive Branch, Mississippi, where patient panels may be just as diverse but preceptor slots less contested.
NP Salary Snapshot: Memphis Metro Area
Nurse practitioners in the Memphis metro area earn a median annual salary of $116,860, roughly 8% above the Tennessee statewide median of $108,420 but about 10% below the national median of $129,210. Because Memphis consistently ranks well below the national average for cost of living, that salary stretches further here than comparable pay in many larger metros.
Admissions, Prerequisites, and DNP Pathways
The push toward doctoral-level preparation in advanced practice nursing continues to reshape how programs structure their admissions pipelines, and Memphis-area schools have responded with flexible options that let working nurses move from BSN to MSN or all the way through to a DNP without leaving their jobs.
What Memphis NP Programs Expect From Applicants
Most NP programs in the Memphis area share a common set of baseline requirements:
- Prerequisite degree: A BSN from a regionally accredited institution is the standard starting point for MSN and BSN-to-DNP tracks.1
- Minimum GPA: The University of Memphis sets a 3.0 cumulative GPA threshold for its MSN-FNP program. Applicants who fall in the 2.75 to 2.99 range may still gain conditional admission by completing two graduate courses with a grade of B or better.1
- RN licensure: An active, unrestricted RN license is required. Programs verify licensure status during the application review.2
- Clinical experience: While the University of Memphis does not publish a strict minimum hour count, clinical RN experience is evaluated as part of a holistic admissions review. Many programs across the region prefer one to two years of direct patient care.2
- Standardized tests: The University of Memphis does not require the GRE for MSN applicants.1 UTHSC program requirements vary by track, so applicants should confirm current testing policies directly with the admissions office.
Full-Time and Part-Time Timelines
The University of Memphis MSN-FNP program is designed for completion in roughly 24 to 36 months, depending on course load.3 A part-time option is available, which is especially valuable for nurses who plan to keep working while earning their degree. Part-time students should expect timelines closer to three to four years. If you are still mapping out how long the journey from bedside nursing to advanced practice takes, our from RN to NP planning guide breaks down realistic milestones. Programs at UTHSC similarly offer scheduling flexibility, though exact timelines depend on the specialty track.
DNP Pathways at UTHSC
UTHSC offers both a BSN-to-DNP route and a post-master's DNP pathway. The BSN-to-DNP track integrates clinical specialty coursework with doctoral-level scholarship, typically spanning three to four years of full-time study. Nurses who already hold an MSN can enter the post-master's DNP program, which is shorter since foundational advanced practice courses transfer in. For a detailed look at what doctoral programs generally require, review our overview of DNP prerequisites before you apply.
Employers across Tennessee, particularly large health systems in Memphis, are increasingly favoring DNP-prepared nurse practitioners for leadership and clinical roles. The doctoral degree also positions graduates for faculty appointments and health policy work. For nurses who are still weighing the MSN against the DNP, the BSN-to-DNP path eliminates the need to complete two separate programs, saving both time and tuition over the long run.
More NP Programs Available to Memphis-Area Nurses
In addition to the top-ranked programs, Memphis-area nurses have several other quality options within Tennessee. The following directory includes schools offering accredited NP programs in formats ranging from online to hybrid and on-campus, with locations across the state accessible to commuters from Memphis.
Memphis Area
Baptist Health Sciences University Memphis, TN · Hybrid
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Nashville Area
Austin Peay State University Clarksville, TN · Hybrid
- Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Tennessee State University Nashville, TN · Online
- Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Post-Graduate Certificate - FNP
Chattanooga Area
Lee University Cleveland, TN · Hybrid
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))
Southern Adventist University Collegedale, TN · Hybrid
- Post-Master’s Certificate (Acute Care Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner)
- Master of Science in Nursing (Primary Care, Psychiatric Mental Health NP)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Primary Care, Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Primary Care - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Acute Care, Adult/Gerontology NP
- BSN to DNP (Primary Care, Adult/Gerontology NP)
- BSN to DNP (Primary Care, Family NP)
- RN to MSN (Acute Care, Adult/Gerontology NP)
Knoxville and East Tennessee
Carson-Newman University Jefferson City, TN · Online
- Post-Master’s FNP Certificate
Lincoln Memorial University Harrogate, TN · Online
- Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate
- Master of Science in Nursing (Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
South College Knoxville, TN · Online
- Master of Science in Nursing with a Concentration in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Master of Science in Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner)
- Master of Science in Nursing with a Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))
- MSN - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate
- Nursing, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN PMHNP)
Tusculum University Greeneville, TN · Hybrid
- Family Nurse Practitioner
Tri-Cities Area
King University Bristol, TN · Hybrid
- Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner)
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Post-Master’s Certificate
- BSN to DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
- Bachelor of Science to Doctoral - Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))
- Bachelor of Science to Doctoral - Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP))
- Bachelor of Science to Doctoral - Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP) (Nurse Leadership & Administration (NLA))
