Most Affordable Online FNP Programs of 2022

Keep reading to learn more about the key factors to consider when choosing a program or go straight to our ranking of the best FNP Programs.

Using Our Rankings: What to Look For in an Online FNP Program

It's crucial to pay attention to key factors when choosing an online FNP program. These elements can affect your eligibility and satisfaction with the program. The following data points contributed to the overall rankings and should be evaluated based on your unique needs.

1. Admission Requirements

Most programs have similar requirements, such as graduation from an accredited nursing program. However, there may also be requirements unique to the program you are considering. Checking admission requirements ensures you are qualified to apply.

2. Specializations

Achieving an FNP certification requires graduating from a program with an FNP specialization. Although nearly 70% of all nurse practitioners are FNPs, not all graduate nursing programs offer an FNP specialization.

3. Program Curriculum

The program's curriculum should prepare you for your national certification examination and cultivate advanced clinical skills. FNPs must be proficient educators, advocates, counselors, and clinicians. An FNP curriculum should address how to evaluate research, promote critical thinking skills, and help students assume leadership positions.

4. Clinical Experience

Information about how clinicals are structured may influence your program choice. Does the school help with placement? Are you limited to certain practices for clinical experiences? How is the time spent in clinical rotations broken up? Each of these factors may impact your decision.

5. Accreditation

Accreditation is a voluntary process that demonstrates a school's dedication to quality academics, industry best practices, and continuous improvement. You must graduate from an accredited program to qualify for the FNP certification examination.

6. Program Length

The number of credits you need depends on the program, your educational attainment, and your degree. An MSN FNP program may require 37-50 credits and 500-672 clinical hours.

7. School Graduation Rate

When selecting a school, look for the FNP program's graduation rate. A high graduation rate can indicate student satisfaction and your likelihood of completing the degree. It may also reveal the level of support available to students in the program.

8. Online Learning Format and Requirements

Online programs became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the popularity has continued as students and schools recognize the benefits. It is critical to understand the learning format used by the program you are considering, as it may not meet your learning needs.

Why Is FNP Program Accreditation Important?

Accreditation is vital for the online FNP program you consider. Each program listed in our ranking is accredited.

Accreditation is a third-party peer review to ensure the program meets educational standards and prepares students for the field. Reasons to attend an accredited program include:

• Accreditation ensures quality education that meets national standards
• Credits from an unaccredited program do not transfer
• Is required to take the NCLEX in states that require accreditation to practice
• Without accreditation, you may not qualify for federal aid
• Many states and employers require RNs to graduate from an accredited program
• Without accreditation, your license may not transfer through reciprocity
• Accredited programs receive more educational funding
• Graduates of accredited programs have better job prospects

Learn More About the Most Affordable Online FNP Programs & Schools

See our methodology to learn more about how we create our rankings.

How Online FNP Programs Work

It is helpful to understand how an online FNP program works as you search for a qualified option. The online versus in-person requirements vary depending on the program. Some schools allow students to complete all coursework online, while others require in-person labs or seminars.

All programs require at least 500 hours of clinical experience. Some online FNP programs help students find clinical placements and others do not. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both in-person or online options.

Applying to an Online Family Nurse Practitioner Program

There are several steps to the application process, including ensuring you meet admission and GPA requirements and gathering the necessary documentation. The application process can be demanding. But with preparation, you can become the ideal program candidate.

1. Admission Requirements

• Regionally accredited BSN
• Verified, valid, unrestricted RN license
• Two years of full-time experience in the past five years
• Schools consider volunteer work, time shadowing an NP, and certifications favorably

2. Admission Materials

• Completed application
• College transcripts
• Personal statement, goal statement, or letter of intent
• Resume
• Interview
• Letters of recommendation
• Direct entry or accelerated programs require a passing NCLEX score to finish the program
• Before starting clinicals students must provide:
• Health status
• State and federal background check
• Malpractice insurance
• Prerequisite classes may include:
• Anatomy and physiology
• Biomedical statistics
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Nutrition

3. GPA Requirement

• GPA requirement varies and may range from 2.7 to 3.2

Paying for FNP Programs

Several factors influence your ability to pay for your online FNP program out of pocket. These include the length of the program, cost per credit, whether you are paying in-state or out-of-state tuition and fees, and whether you can work while taking classes.

Many nursing students entering graduate school may still be paying for their undergraduate degrees if their loans are not yet eligible for federal loan forgiveness. You can also defer loans until you complete your FNP program. Some financial aid options for students include scholarships, grants, and student loans.

Additionally, some hospital benefits include tuition reimbursement. It is important to understand the reimbursement terms before accepting the aid. You may need to work at the hospital for a certain number of years after graduation.

What Can You Do as an FNP?

FNPs enjoy a broad scope of practice, but many specialize by earning certifications in areas like pain, obesity management, or diabetes. These certifications are not required, but they may increase an FNP's employment opportunities and salary potential while meeting the needs of patients.

According to Payscale, the average annual salary for an FNP in the U.S. is $98,563 as of August 2022. Years of experience, location, additional certifications, and practice setting can affect salary.

FNP APRNs can work in:

Hospitals
Urgent care centers
Doctor's offices or private clinics
Skilled nursing facilities
Hospice centers
Correctional facilities
College campuses
Health departments
Occupational sites

Private practice in states with full practice authority

Frequently Asked Questions About Online FNP Programs

Can you become a family nurse practitioner online?

Yes, you can earn an MSN or DNP through an online FNP program. However, some programs may require students to attend in-person labs or seminars throughout the program. All FNP candidates must complete at least 500 hours of clinical experience.

What is the fastest way to become a family nurse practitioner?

FNPs need an RN license, certification from one of two national organizations, and at least an MSN. One of the fastest ways to earn FNP credentials is by enrolling in a two-year MSN program with a BSN and RN license. But, becoming an FNP can take 2-7 years, depending on your current education level, whether you have an RN license, and if you enroll in a program part or full time.

Some options include RN-to-MSN programs, which can take 3-4 years. A student could also become an FNP within 6-7 years by completing a two-year ADN, getting two years of experience, and then enrolling in an RN-to-MSN program.

Does it matter where you go to FNP school?

Yes, it does. Graduates from prestigious schools will have an easier time getting their first job. Afterward, employers value experience more than your educational background. However, if you aspire to work in research, teach at the university level, or become a school nurse, you'll want to seek out an online FNP program with strengths in those areas.

Are family nurse practitioners in high demand?

Of the more than 355,000 NPs licensed in the U.S., 69.7% are family nurse practitioners. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, there's an expected shortfall of 48,000 family medicine physicians by 2034. This shortage opens greater opportunities and demand for FNPs to work in family medicine.

Page Last Reviewed: October 15, 2022

Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.