7 Affordable Online Nurse Practitioner MSN Programs [Updated 2025]

Embarking on a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) journey with a focus on becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) represents a significant step forward in one’s nursing career. As the demand for specialized healthcare professionals rises, finding an affordable and flexible online program becomes crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of some of the most cost-effective online MSN Nurse Practitioner programs, examining their specializations, tuition costs, and online modalities. The programs below include concentrations in areas such as:
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Top 7 Most Affordable Online MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
The University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TX - Public 4-Year - utep.edu
Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner with Primary Care Focus
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas at El Paso's Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive primary care across patient life spans. This rigorous 49-credit hour online program equips students with critical skills in health promotion, wellness, and chronic illness management. Graduates are academically prepared for national certification, positioning themselves for diverse healthcare roles in private practices, community health centers, and physician offices.
- 49 credit hour online program
- 775 total clinical clock hours
- Two admission cycles annually
- Resident tuition $552 per credit
- Non-resident tuition $782 per credit
- Seven-week didactic course format
- Innovative simulation lab experiences
- Fall 2025 application deadline July 11
- Spring 2025 application deadline Nov 8
- Flexible for working professionals
Master's - Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas at El Paso's Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive healthcare for children and adolescents. This hybrid program offers flexibility for working professionals, with 49 online credit hours spread across seven semesters. Students gain advanced skills in health promotion, developmental assessments, and managing pediatric health conditions. Graduates become eligible for certification through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, positioning them for rewarding careers in primary pediatric care settings.
- 49 credit hours online
- 675 clinical clock hours
- Innovative simulation lab
- Two admission cycles yearly
- Flexible for working professionals
- Curriculum meets national standards
- Pediatric nursing certification eligible
Master's - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to provide comprehensive care for critically ill adults. Designed for working nurses, this flexible online master's degree spans 7 semesters with 49 credit hours and 720 clinical hours. Students gain specialized skills in acute and critical care, positioning themselves for national certification through prestigious nursing organizations. The program offers innovative simulation experiences and aligns with top nursing education standards, enabling graduates to become pivotal healthcare providers across complex medical settings.
- Online hybrid program
- 49 credit hour curriculum
- 720 total clinical hours
- Two annual admission cycles
- Innovative simulation experiences
- Resident tuition $552/credit hour
- Requires 2-3 years critical care experience
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- National certification eligibility
- Seven-week course format
Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Across the Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas at El Paso's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program equips advanced nursing professionals with comprehensive skills to diagnose and treat mental health conditions across all life stages. Designed for working healthcare professionals, this hybrid program combines online coursework with weekend classroom sessions, providing flexibility and in-depth training. Students complete 49 credit hours and 675 clinical hours, preparing for national certification and advanced practice roles in mental healthcare.
- Hybrid program format
- 49 credit hours online
- 675 clinical clock hours
- Across lifespan concentration
- Innovative simulation experiences
- Resident tuition $552/credit hour
- Two annual admission cycles
- Medication prescription training
- Psychotherapy intervention focus
Master's - Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver specialized care for complex pediatric patients. Designed for working professionals, this two-year hybrid program offers comprehensive training in intensive care settings. Students complete 49 credit hours and 765 clinical clock hours, gaining expertise in monitoring and managing acute, chronic, and critical health conditions for infants, children, and young adults. Resident tuition is approximately $552 per semester credit hour, with flexible online coursework and innovative simulation experiences.
- 49 credit hours online
- Two admission cycles yearly
- 765 clinical clock hours
- Hybrid program format
- Innovative simulation experiences
- Focuses on complex pediatric care
- Flexible for working professionals
- Prepares for national certification exam
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR - Public 4-Year - astate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program is tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in family care. This ACEN-accredited program, requiring no entrance exam, offers a comprehensive curriculum over 24 months for $15,355, making it an affordable option. It's designed for BSN-prepared nurses with a 3.25 GPA, focusing on primary care across all ages. The program's 100% online format and 750 clinical hours prepare graduates for national certification, enhancing their ability to serve in diverse healthcare settings.
- 100% online coursework
- 41.5 total credit hours
- Total tuition $15,355
- 24-month program length
- ACEN-accredited program
- BSN required for admission
- Minimum 3.25 GPA
- Next start date 3/10/25
- 750 total clinical hours
- Prepares for national certification
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Nursing - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at Arkansas State University is a 24-month, ACEN-accredited program with no entrance exam required. It's priced at $15,355, offering affordability for nurses seeking to specialize in acute care for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients. The program requires a BSN, RN license, and 1,500 practice hours, preparing students for ANCC/AACN certification exams. Its online format and six practicum courses provide flexibility and practical experience in acute care settings.
- 100% online coursework
- ACEN-accredited program
- 41.5 total credit hours
- 24-month completion option
- $15,355 total tuition
- Prepares for ANCC/AACN exams
- Multiple start dates annually
- 3.25 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Six practicum courses
- Practice in acute care settings
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Arkansas State University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program addresses the growing need for mental health professionals. This 26-month, ACEN-accredited program costs $23,750 and requires no entrance exam, making it accessible. Designed for BSN-prepared nurses, it focuses on treating mental health across age groups, with clinicals completed near home. The program prepares graduates for the ANCC Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing certification, combining online coursework with practical experience in mental health care.
- 100% online coursework
- 26 months program length
- 47.5 total credit hours
- Total tuition $23,750
- ACEN-accredited program
- Prepares for ANCC certification
- Clinicals near home
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing - Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Rural Health - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Rural Health Family Nurse Practitioner, designed to prepare nurses for primary care roles in rural settings. This 47-credit program, requiring no campus visits, focuses on evidence-based practice and disease prevention, with a 100% first-attempt national certification exam pass rate. Affordable at $703 per credit hour plus free textbooks, it's ideal for working professionals seeking flexibility with 8-week terms and multiple start dates. A 3.0 undergraduate GPA and one year of RN experience are required, making it a practical choice for advancing in rural healthcare.
- Online 47-credit MSN program
- Online tuition $703/credit hour
- Free textbooks for students
- No campus visits required
- Spring, summer, fall start dates
- 750 direct patient care hours
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- 1+ year RN experience required
- Accredited nursing program
- 100% first attempt certification pass
Master's - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Eastern Kentucky University equips nurses to address mental health needs across various settings. With a 49-credit curriculum and a 98.6% first-attempt certification exam pass rate, the program stands out for its affordability at $703 per credit hour and free textbooks. No campus visits are required, offering flexibility with 8-week terms and multiple start dates. Applicants need a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, an active RN license, and one year of nursing experience, positioning this program as a leading choice for mental health specialization.
- Online 49-credit MSN program
- $703 per credit hour
- Free textbooks for students
- 98.6% certification exam pass rate
- No campus visits required
- Multiple start dates annually
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Requires active RN license
- Minimum one year RN experience
- Top 50 online graduate nursing program
Master's - Rural Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Rural - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Rural Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration focuses on serving rural communities. This 49-credit program combines theoretical knowledge with clinical practicum, requiring a BSN, unencumbered RN license, 3.0 GPA, and one year of nursing experience for admission. Affordable and flexible, it prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in rural mental health, emphasizing comprehensive assessment and treatment. The program's structure, including an eight-course concentration sequence and oral comprehensive exam, ensures graduates are well-equipped to meet the mental health needs of underserved populations.
- Online graduate nursing program
- Rural psychiatric mental health focus
- 49 total credit hours
- 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
- Comprehensive clinical practicum
- Advanced practice nurse preparation
- Unencumbered RN license needed
- Eight-course concentration sequence
- Oral comprehensive exam required
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program is tailored for nurses aiming to enhance their clinical expertise in family care. Offered online and hybrid, it focuses on health promotion and primary care across all life stages. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, current RN license, and a basic statistics course. Notably, it offers provisional admission and is nationally accredited. This online program stands out for its flexibility, making it an affordable option for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without sacrificing their current job commitments.
- Online and hybrid program options
- Two delivery method formats
- Spans patient lifespan care
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Fall deadline: February 15
- Spring deadline: September 15
- Current RN license needed
- Requires basic statistics course
- Nationally-accredited nursing program
- Provisional admission possible
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care)
Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care Master's program at Texas Woman's University is a hybrid program designed for nurses specializing in pediatric care. It emphasizes managing acute and chronic conditions in children and adolescents, requiring a 3.0 GPA, BSN, and RN license. Preferred applicants have pediatric experience, with provisional admission available. Limited to Texas residents, this program combines remote learning with clinical placements in Texas, offering a focused and practical approach to pediatric primary care at an affordable cost for in-state students.
- Hybrid learning format
- Texas residents only
- Pediatric primary care focus
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- One year pediatric experience preferred
- Remote and clinical learning
- Advanced pediatric health management
Master's - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University offers a hybrid Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program, preparing nurses to care for adult and elderly populations. It requires a 3.0 GPA, BSN, and unencumbered RN license. The program's hybrid format and focus on evidence-based care make it a practical choice for Texas residents seeking specialized training in gerontology. Its affordability is enhanced by the hybrid model, reducing the need for frequent campus visits.
- Hybrid learning format
- Texas residents only
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Unencumbered RN license
- Summer full-time admission
- Fall/Spring part-time option
- Requires basic statistics course
- Clinical practice in Texas
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Texas Woman's University is a 100% online master's program addressing the mental health professional shortage. It prepares RNs for ANCC certification with a curriculum covering medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions. Requirements include a BSN, RN license, and preferably one year of behavioral health experience. This online program is an affordable pathway for Texas residents to enter a high-demand specialty, offering evening synchronized classes for flexibility.
- 100% online program
- 45 total credit hours
- 780 clinical practicum hours
- 12 months psychiatric nursing experience required
- ANCC certification exam eligibility
- Currently limited to Texas residents
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Evening synchronized classes
- Mental health professional shortage focus
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Women's Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid MSN program focusing on comprehensive healthcare for women. It combines online coursework with brief on-campus sessions, requiring 780 clinical hours and a 3.0 GPA. Accredited by CCNE, this two-year program is designed for Texas residents, offering a competitive and affordable option for nurses specializing in women's health, with synchronous and asynchronous courses to accommodate working professionals.
- Hybrid online/on-campus program
- 780 clinical practice hours
- Accredited by CCNE
- Two-year full-time format
- Requires Texas nursing license
- Competitive admission process
- Synchronous and asynchronous courses
- Two-day campus skills intensive
- Evidence-based practice project
- Limited to Texas residents
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY - Public 4-Year - nku.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website
Northern Kentucky University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult-Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner is tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in acute care settings. This CCNE-accredited program, requiring no entrance exam, offers a flexible online format ideal for working professionals. Over 24 months, students engage in 47 credit hours of coursework, including clinical residencies, preparing them for certification exams. With a total tuition of $32,956, the program is affordable, especially considering its comprehensive curriculum and the university's military-friendly status. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, and 1,000 clinical hours of nursing experience.
- 100% Online MSN Program
- CCNE Accredited Nursing Degree
- Total Tuition: $32,956
- 24-Month Program Length
- 47 Total Credit Hours
- Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Concentration
- Clinical Residency Included
- Prepares for Certification Exam
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Psych-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Science in Nursing program at Northern Kentucky University focuses on preparing Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, with no entrance exam required. This 47-credit hour program, completed in as few as 22 months, offers an affordable tuition of $32,956. It's designed for nurses seeking to specialize in mental health care across all age groups, featuring advanced psychopharmacology and mental health assessment. The program boasts an 88.94% pass rate on the ANCC certification exam and requires 750 clinical hours. Its online format and military-friendly policies make it accessible to a wide range of students, including those balancing work and study.
- 100% Online Program
- Total Tuition: $32,956
- 47 Credit Hours
- 22-Month Completion
- CCNE Accredited Program
- 88.94% ANCC Exam Pass Rate
- Covers Lifespan Mental Health Care
- Advanced Psychopharmacology Focus
- 5 Clinical Courses
- 750 Total Clinical Hours
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Master's - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program designed for nursing professionals aiming to provide holistic healthcare across all ages. This program stands out for its focus on health promotion, disease prevention, and managing acute and chronic conditions, requiring 52 credit hours and 780 clinical hours for completion. Ideal for working nurses, the part-time format spans about 2.5 years, with no GRE/MAT needed for admission. Students benefit from in-state tuition at $371.81 per credit, making it an affordable option, especially for Florida residents. The hybrid model combines online coursework with clinical experiences in South Florida, preparing graduates for certification exams.
- 52 credit hours required
- 780 clinical hours
- Part-time study format
- In-state tuition: $371.81/credit
- Out-of-state tuition: $1026.81/credit
- Admitted Fall semester only
- Three campus locations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- No GRE/MAT required
- Hybrid learning format
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - Public 4-Year - utrgv.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive healthcare across patient lifespans. Designed for BSN-prepared professionals, this innovative program blends traditional and online learning, emphasizing wellness, health promotion, and patient-centered care. Students gain critical skills in clinical decision-making, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership through a holistic educational approach that addresses diverse population healthcare needs.
- Advanced practice nursing track
- Lifespan patient care focus
- Traditional and online delivery
- Emphasizes holistic healthcare
- Leadership skill development
- Patient-centered care approach
- Interdisciplinary collaboration training
Understanding the Cost of MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
The rising cost of higher education has made affordability a critical factor for nurses pursuing Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees with nurse practitioner specializations. While the average MSN program costs between $30,000-$80,000, the most affordable options can significantly reduce this financial burden without compromising educational quality or career outcomes.
Affordable MSN nurse practitioner programs typically offer the same rigorous curriculum, clinical requirements, and accreditation standards as their more expensive counterparts. The key difference lies in institutional funding, state subsidies for public universities, and efficient program delivery methods that reduce overhead costs.
What Makes MSN NP Programs Affordable?
Several factors contribute to lower tuition costs in nurse practitioner programs:
Public vs. Private Institution Status
State-funded public universities often offer significantly lower tuition rates, especially for in-state residents. Public institutions typically charge 30-50% less than private colleges while maintaining comparable academic standards and accreditation.
Online and Hybrid Delivery Models
Programs utilizing online coursework and hybrid formats can reduce operational costs, savings that are often passed to students. These formats also eliminate housing and commuting expenses while providing flexibility for working nurses.
Efficient Credit Hour Requirements
The most cost-effective programs streamline curriculum to minimize unnecessary credit hours while meeting all accreditation requirements. Programs requiring 36-42 credit hours cost substantially less than those requiring 50+ credits.
Key Financial Considerations for MSN NP Students
When evaluating affordable nurse practitioner programs, consider these important cost factors:
Total Program Cost vs. Per-Credit Rates
Don’t focus solely on per-credit tuition rates. Calculate the total program cost including fees, books, clinical requirements, and any additional expenses. A program with higher per-credit rates but fewer required credits may cost less overall.
Hidden Fees and Additional Costs
Research beyond base tuition to identify:
- Technology fees for online platforms
- Clinical placement fees
- Certification exam costs
- Background check and drug screening requirements
- Liability insurance for clinical rotations
- Graduation and transcript fees
Time to Completion Impact
Longer programs mean extended opportunity costs from delayed salary increases. A slightly more expensive program that can be completed faster may offer better financial returns in the long run.
Strategies to Reduce MSN NP Program Costs
Maximize Financial Aid Opportunities
- Federal Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA to access federal loans, grants, and work-study programs
- Nursing-Specific Scholarships: Organizations like the American Association of Nurse Practitioners offer targeted scholarships
- State Nursing Workforce Programs: Many states provide loan forgiveness or scholarships for nurses committed to practicing in underserved areas
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Investigate whether your current employer offers educational benefits or tuition reimbursement
Consider In-State Public Options
Establishing residency in states with strong public nursing programs can dramatically reduce costs. Some states offer regional tuition agreements that provide reduced rates for students from neighboring states.
Transfer Previous Credits
Many affordable programs accept transfer credits from previous graduate coursework, potentially reducing required credit hours and overall costs. RN-to-MSN programs may also offer credit for nursing experience.
Choose Cost-Effective Specializations
Some nurse practitioner specializations require fewer clinical hours or have lower associated costs. Family nurse practitioner programs, for example, often cost less than specialized tracks like psychiatric mental health or acute care.
Evaluating Program Quality vs. Cost
Affordability shouldn’t come at the expense of educational quality. When evaluating low-cost MSN NP programs, verify:
- Accreditation Status: Ensure programs hold accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Look for programs with strong graduate outcomes and certification exam pass rates above national averages
- Clinical Partnership Quality: Investigate the strength of clinical site partnerships and preceptor availability
- Faculty Credentials: Review faculty qualifications and student-to-faculty ratios
Return on Investment Considerations
The most affordable MSN nurse practitioner programs often provide excellent return on investment. Nurse practitioners typically earn $95,000-$120,000+ annually, significantly more than staff nurses. When program costs are minimized through affordable options, graduates can achieve positive ROI within 2-3 years of graduation.

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