Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Mississippi

Last Updated/Verified: Jul 18, 2025

Why Pursue an Online Nurse Practitioner Program in Mississippi?

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are clinical and professional healthcare leaders and are often utilized in rural and remote parts of the country that may have a shortage of physicians. NPs can undertake a wide variety of job roles working for community and home-health services, in educational roles, and in hospitals. 

Nurse practitioners sometimes serve as primary care professionals (particularly in underserved areas), off-setting the load for busy physicians, and often at a lower cost. NPs address the growing need for aging patient care. Often nurse practitioners and physicians can overlap roles in patient care. 

Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who have continued their education in specialized training for two to eight more years, often pursuing a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or doctoral degree (DNP). Nurses who already hold an MSN and wish to change specialties can enroll in a post-graduate certificate program. No matter the degree-level chosen, NPs who specialize in advanced skillsets can expect to earn a higher wage. 

Mississippi has the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients for nurse practitioners, employing 3,390 NPs for an annual mean wage of $110,740.

As physician shortages start to affect areas in the United States, NPs can expect a constant demand for their leadership skills, advanced training, and specialized skillset. 

2025 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Mississippi

Finding the best online nurse practitioner programs in Mississippi can help you advance your career without putting your life on hold. At nursepractitioneronline.com, we've ranked the top programs to make your search easier. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing you to balance work, family, and studies. Whether you prefer distance learning or virtual classrooms, these programs provide the quality education you need to succeed. Our rankings consider factors like accreditation, cost, and student support to ensure you get the best options. Learn more about how we rank these programs at https://www.nursepractitioneronline.com/rankings-methodology/.

#1

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS - Public 4-Year - usm.edu

Master's - Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), M.S.N.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The MSN in Nursing with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration at the University of Southern Mississippi prepares nurses for advanced mental healthcare provision. This hybrid program requires 34-48 credit hours, a 3.0 GPA, and an RN license. It focuses on psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and management, preparing graduates for national certification. The curriculum is designed to meet complex mental health needs, especially in rural and community settings, through a blend of theoretical coursework and clinical practicums.

  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Psychiatric mental health concentration
  • 34-48 total credit hours
  • Clinical practicum experiences
  • National certification preparation
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • RN license prerequisite
  • Hybrid program format
  • Comprehensive exam required

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Southern Mississippi's Family Nurse Practitioner program is a hybrid offering that combines online coursework with minimal campus visits, ideal for working nurses. It provides pathways from BSN to DNP or Post-Graduate Certificate, focusing on leadership in clinical practice. With a requirement of a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and at least one year of RN experience, the program prepares graduates for national certification, enabling careers in various healthcare settings. The CCNE-accredited program emphasizes clinical hours completed in local communities, offering both full and part-time study options.

  • BSN to DNP and Certificate Options
  • Hybrid Learning Format
  • Online Didactic Courses
  • 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
  • Requires 1+ Year RN Experience
  • 71 Credit Hours for DNP
  • National Certification Eligible
  • Full and Part-Time Study
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Hours in Local Communities

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Designed for advanced practice nurses, the University of Southern Mississippi's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program adopts a hybrid format. It requires a BSN, GRE scores, a 3.0 GPA, and a current RN license for admission. The program focuses on expanding clinical expertise in mental health, preparing graduates for APRN Board certification. With options for full or part-time study, students benefit from online coursework complemented by minimal campus visits and clinical experiences in their local communities.

  • Hybrid online/campus format.
  • BSN to DNP option available.
  • Post-Graduate Certificate option.
  • Requires 73 hours over 3 years.
  • MSN option requires 46 credits.
  • Post-Graduate Certificate: 28 credits.
  • Full and part-time study options.
  • Clinical experience required.
  • 3.0 GPA in undergraduate nursing.
  • GRE scores required.

Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Southern Mississippi is a hybrid program designed for working nurses, combining online learning with minimal campus visits. It requires a 3.0 GPA, clinical experience, and prepares students for national certification. The 71-credit hour program focuses on leadership in healthcare settings, offering opportunities in private clinics, urgent care centers, and academia. Graduates are equipped for expert clinical roles, with clinical requirements completed in their local communities.

  • Hybrid online/campus program
  • 71 credit hours total
  • 3 years to complete DNP
  • Requires 1+ year RN experience
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Full and part-time options
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Clinical hours in local community

Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Southern Mississippi's BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a flexible hybrid format for RNs aiming to specialize in mental health. Requiring a 3.0 GPA and one year of RN experience, the program spans 73 credit hours over three years. It prepares graduates for diverse mental health settings, emphasizing leadership and scholarly practice. The program includes online coursework with minimal campus visits, allowing students to integrate clinical training seamlessly into their schedules.

  • Hybrid Online/Campus Program
  • 73 Total Credit Hours
  • 3-Year DNP Option
  • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
  • One Year RN Experience
  • Clinical Hours in Local Community
  • ANCC Exam Preparation
  • Full and Part-Time Options
  • National Accreditation

Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)

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

Focusing on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, the University of Southern Mississippi's BSN to DNP program is a hybrid offering that blends online coursework with minimal campus visits. Admission requires a BSN, GRE scores, and a current RN license. The 71-credit hour program over three years prepares nurses for advanced clinical practice, emphasizing leadership and evidence-based care. Graduates are eligible for national certification, with clinical experiences in local communities and opportunities in various healthcare settings.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 71 credit hours
  • 3 years duration
  • BSN required for admission
  • GRE scores needed
  • Current RN license required
  • Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Eligible for national certification
  • Leadership in nursing practice
  • Evidence-based care focus

Doctorate - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Southern Mississippi is designed for RNs seeking advanced clinical practice in mental health. This hybrid program requires a BSN from an accredited institution, a GRE score with a 3.0 or higher on the analytical section, and a current RN license in Mississippi. Spanning 73 credit hours over three years, it offers online didactic courses with minimal campus visits, preparing graduates for board certification and roles in clinical, educational, and administrative settings.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 73 credit hours
  • 3 years duration
  • Online didactic courses
  • Minimal campus visits
  • Clinical in local communities
  • Leadership focus
  • BSN from accredited institution required
  • GRE 3.0 analytical minimum
  • Current RN license in MS
Show 6 More Programs ˅
#2

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS - Public 4-Year - deltastate.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing

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

Delta State University's Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program tailored for nurses aiming to specialize in family care. This program combines online coursework with on-campus seminars, offering flexibility for working professionals. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, a valid RN license, and one year of clinical experience, along with GRE scores. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for advanced practice roles, emphasizing comprehensive patient care across various settings. The program is CCNE accredited, ensuring a high standard of education.

  • Online MSN FNP program
  • Two-year full-time study
  • Part-time options available
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • One year clinical experience
  • Graduate Record Exam needed
  • Application deadline February 1st
  • Online courses with seminars
  • Clinical opportunities near home
  • CCNE accredited program

Graduate Certificate - Post Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Post Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate at Delta State University is a hybrid program designed for nurses seeking to expand their expertise in family care without committing to a full degree. This program offers the flexibility of online learning with the benefit of occasional campus seminars. Applicants must have a master's degree in nursing, a 3.0 GPA, and submit GRE scores. The program focuses on advanced clinical skills, preparing graduates for certification as Family Nurse Practitioners.

  • Online MSN Program
  • Multiple Nursing Specializations
  • Full & Part-time Options
  • 3.0 GPA Requirement
  • One Year Clinical Experience
  • Flexible Clinical Placements
  • Graduate Record Exam Required
  • Two-Year Program Length
  • Post-Master's Certificate Available

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Visit Website

Delta State University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, ideal for nurses pursuing the highest level of clinical practice. This program is structured for both full-time and part-time students, requiring 65 credit hours and 1,200 clinical hours. Admission criteria include a 3.0 GPA and professional nursing experience. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and prepares graduates for national certification. The program's flexibility and rigorous training make it a standout choice for advanced practice nurses.

  • Online DNP program
  • Full and part-time options
  • 65 total credit hours
  • 1,200 total clinical hours
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership and advanced practice focus
  • 3-6 semester completion timeline
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

The hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Delta State University, with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, is designed for nurses seeking to enhance their clinical and leadership skills. This program offers a blend of online coursework and minimal campus visits, accommodating working professionals. It requires a 3.0 GPA for admission and offers pathways for both BSN and post-master's students. Graduates are prepared for national certification and advanced roles in healthcare, with clinical hours completed in Mississippi or Arkansas.

  • Online DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • 31-65 total credit hours
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • 1-3 campus visits per semester
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • BSN and post-master's pathways
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Clinical hours in MS or AR
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Alcorn State University

Alcorn State, MS - Public 4-Year - alcorn.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

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

Alcorn State University offers a hybrid Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, designed for nurses aiming to provide primary care across diverse populations. This 44-credit program blends theoretical knowledge with clinical practicums, preparing graduates for advanced practice in underserved communities. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, and the GRE requirement is currently waived. The program emphasizes leadership development and research capabilities, offering both thesis and non-thesis options. Students must complete the program within six years, with multiple clinical practicums included. Professional liability insurance is required, highlighting the program's commitment to practical, hands-on learning.

  • 44 credit hours total program
  • Thesis or non-thesis option
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Six-year completion timeline
  • Multiple clinical practicums included
  • GRE requirement currently waived
  • Leadership development focus
  • Prepares primary care providers
  • Professional liability insurance required

Graduate Certificate - Post Master Certificate Option Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Post Master Certificate Option in Family Nurse Practitioner at Alcorn State University is tailored for nurses seeking to specialize further in family nursing. This hybrid program offers two tracks, requiring 20-30 credit hours focused on advanced pharmacology, physical assessment, and lab skills. It prepares nurses for leadership roles with an emphasis on ethical, legal, and organizational aspects of healthcare. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and a current nursing license. The curriculum is a blend of theoretical and practical learning, aimed at enhancing clinical practice and improving healthcare outcomes.

  • Two program tracks available.
  • 20-30 credit hours required.
  • Focus on advanced nursing skills.
  • Leadership and ethical training included.
  • Requires current nursing license.
  • 3.0 GPA for admission.
  • Bachelor's degree prerequisite.
  • Emphasis on healthcare outcomes.
  • Practical and theoretical blend.
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles.

Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice

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

Alcorn State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner, is designed for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses aspiring to leadership roles. This 36-credit hour, hybrid program can be completed in five semesters, focusing on translating research into practice to improve healthcare outcomes and address disparities. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to effect change in complex healthcare systems. A DNP Project is required, showcasing the program's commitment to practical application of research and advanced clinical nursing leadership.

  • 36-credit hour curriculum
  • Five semester continuous study
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Advanced clinical nursing leadership
  • Research application focused
  • DNP Project required
  • Interdisciplinary team skills
  • Complex health systems emphasis
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2023 Final Release Data.

List of Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Mississippi

Mississippi is known for its rich heritage and culture, along with its growing demand for licensed health care professionals. 

NPs who obtain their degree from an online nurse practitioner program will receive the same level of education and training as standard programs. Coursework can be delivered entirely online, or in a hybrid format, which combines online courses and some in-class learning.

Nurse practitioners will earn a higher wage than registered nurses, especially if they focus on an in-demand specialty field in nursing such as pediatrics or family care. 

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 4 online programs in Mississippi below:

MSN-FNP Programs

The University of Southern Mississippi

Hybrid - Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Hattiesburg, MS

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - Family Nurse Practitioner

Jackson, MS

Graduate Certificate-FNP Programs

The University of Southern Mississippi

Hybrid - Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate

Hattiesburg, MS

DNP-FNP Programs

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - BSN-DNP: Family Nurse Practitioner

Jackson, MS

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 4 online programs in Mississippi below.

MSN-AGNP Programs

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - Acute Care Adult-Gerontology NP

Jackson, MS

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP

Jackson, MS

DNP-AGNP Programs

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - BSN-DNP: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Jackson, MS

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - BSN-DNP: Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Jackson, MS

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Neonatal Nurse Practitioners care for infants experiencing varying levels of illness and/or injury, often in hospital NICUs. Those looking to become Neonatal Nurse Practitioners in Mississippi can enroll in the following online program.

MSN-NNP Programs

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Jackson, MS

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

Pediatric Nurse Practitioners focus their care on children from birth through adolescence. To become a Pediatric NP, students in Mississippi can enroll in the following online program.

MSN-PNP Programs

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - Acute Primary Care Pediatric NP

Jackson, MS

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 Mississippi can earn their specialized degree by enrolling in one of the 3 online programs below.

MSN-PMHNP Programs

The University of Southern Mississippi

Hybrid - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Hattiesburg, MS

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Jackson, MS

DNP-PMHNP Programs

University Of Mississippi Medical Center

Hybrid - BSN-DNP: Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner tracks

Jackson, MS

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