Best Family Nurse Practitioner Programs in California

California State University-San Marcos offers a robust Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialization designed for working registered nurses. This part-time program equips advanced practice nurses with comprehensive skills to deliver healthcare across all age groups. Students can expect a structured curriculum emphasizing health assessment, diagnosis, and disease management. With a total cost of $34,251, the program provides opportunities for professional growth, higher earning potential, and ANCC credentialing exam eligibility. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and clinical experience.

• Part-time MSN program
• Total program cost $34,251
• Family Nurse Practitioner specialization
• 49 total program units
• Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
• California RN licensure needed
• One year nursing experience
• ANCC credentialing exam eligible
• Cohort-based learning model
• Campus visits one day weekly

Elevate your nursing career with California State University-San Marcos' Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. Designed for working registered nurses, this part-time degree offers specialized tracks in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Graduates can expect expanded career opportunities, with advanced practice roles providing comprehensive patient care across diverse healthcare settings. Total program cost is approximately $34,251, with flexible cohort-based learning and a curriculum that prepares students for ANCC credentialing exams. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA, and one year of nursing experience.

• Part-time MSN program
• Two specialization tracks
• Total cost $34,251
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• One year nursing experience
• Cohort-based learning
• ANCC exam preparation
• Campus visits weekly
• Small class sizes
• Median salary $113,930

California State University-San Marcos offers a comprehensive BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice program specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This rigorous 79-semester unit hybrid program prepares advanced practice nurses for complex clinical and leadership roles. Students complete 1000 doctoral clinical hours, with 750 patient care hours, developing advanced competencies in evidence-based practice, leadership, health policy, and academic teaching. The program emphasizes translating research into practice through systematic project seminars and provides extensive clinical field experience across diverse healthcare settings.

• Hybrid program format
• 79 total semester units
• 1000 doctoral clinical hours
• Evidence-based practice focus
• Advanced clinical competencies
• Leadership and policy training
• Family Nurse Practitioner track
• Non-online instructional model

The BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at California State University-San Marcos prepares nurses for advanced practice and leadership roles. Focused on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, this hybrid program combines rigorous academic coursework with clinical practice. Students complete 79-semester units, including 1000 doctoral clinical hours. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology, alongside leadership and healthcare policy. Admission requires a BSN, with applications accepted until May 31st for the Fall 2025 semester. This program is ideal for nurses aiming to enhance their clinical expertise and assume leadership positions in healthcare.

• Hybrid program format
• 79-semester units
• 1000 clinical hours
• Family Nurse Practitioner focus
• Advanced health assessment
• Leadership in healthcare
• Healthcare policy training
• BSN required for admission
• Fall 2025 start
• May 31st application deadline

California State University-San Marcos offers a comprehensive BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice program with two specialized tracks: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This rigorous doctoral program prepares advanced practice nurses for complex clinical and leadership roles. Students complete 79 semester units and 1000 doctoral clinical hours, with 750 hours dedicated to patient care. The hybrid program emphasizes evidence-based practice, leadership development, healthcare policy, and academic teaching skills. Prospective students gain advanced competencies through a structured curriculum that integrates clinical experience, research inquiry, and professional development.

• Hybrid program with clinical focus
• 79 semester units total
• 1000 total doctoral clinical hours
• Two specialized practice tracks
• Evidence-based practice project required
• Advanced leadership preparation
• 750 patient care clinical hours

Point Loma Nazarene University's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track offers a transformative educational journey for nurses seeking advanced practice skills. The fully online, flexible program prepares students to provide comprehensive care across patient populations, with competitive tuition at $820 per unit. Designed for working nurses, the two-and-a-half-year program combines rigorous academic instruction with 500-750 direct patient care clinical hours, enabling graduates to expand their professional capabilities and earn national certification through ANCC or AANP.

• Fully online asynchronous format
• 2.5 years program length
• $820 per unit cost
• 500-750 clinical hours
• National certification eligible
• Option for in-person classes
• One year RN experience required
• 43-54 total graduate units
• Summer and Fall start dates
• Optional synchronous sessions

Point Loma Nazarene University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, designed for working nurses seeking advancement. This program blends faith, service, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles. With options for ADN and BSN-prepared nurses, it includes 500-750 clinical hours. Costs are $890 per unit, with financial aid available. Admission requires a 3.2 GPA, RN license, and one year of nursing experience.

• Online format
• Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
• Faith-integrated curriculum
• 500-750 clinical hours
• $890 per unit
• 3.2 GPA requirement
• RN license needed
• 1 year nursing experience
• ADN and BSN entry points
• Small class sizes

Point Loma Nazarene University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) certification offers an innovative, fully online program designed for working nurses seeking advanced practice expertise. Spanning approximately 3.3 years, the program provides comprehensive training to become a high-level primary care provider. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours, including 750 direct patient care hours, preparing them for diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum emphasizes holistic patient care, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, with competitive tuition at $820 per unit. Graduates are positioned for a rapidly growing career field with a projected 52% job growth, enabling them to provide comprehensive care across various patient populations and healthcare environments.

• Fully online asynchronous program
• 1,000 total clinical hours
• CCNE accredited program
• Two entry pathways: BSN and MSN
• Optional synchronous sessions
• Small class sizes (15-20 students)
• 52% job growth projection
• $820 per unit tuition
• California Board of Nursing approved
• Two on-campus intensive weekends

Azusa Pacific University's Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares advanced nursing professionals to deliver comprehensive healthcare across the human lifespan. Students gain expert skills through a rigorous curriculum, developing clinical competencies for patient-centered care. The nationally ranked School of Nursing offers flexible learning options across multiple campuses, with competitive tuition at $860 per unit. Prospective students can expect a supportive academic environment with a low 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and comprehensive financial aid options.

• 44-56 total program units
• Cost per unit: $860
• Multiple campus locations
• Priority deadline April 1
• Final deadline June 15
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• CCNE accredited program
• California Board of Nursing approved
• Prepares for national certification
• Advanced clinical preparation

Azusa Pacific University's BSN to DNP program, with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), offers a hybrid learning model combining online and in-person classes. Designed for RNs with a BSN, this program eliminates the need for an MSN, streamlining the path to a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Students can choose between full-time and part-time options, focusing on advanced practice nursing. The program requires 67-73 units, with a cost per unit of $1,160, totaling an estimated base cost of $77,720-$84,680. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, current California RN license, and eight months of RN experience for the FNP track. The curriculum includes 1,000 clinical residency hours and culminates in an evidence-based project.

• Hybrid learning model
• 67-73 program units
• $1,160 per unit cost
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1,000 clinical residency hours
• Evidence-based culminating project
• 3.0 GPA admission requirement
• California RN license required
• Eight months RN experience for FNP
• Multiple in-person locations

Azusa Pacific University's BSN to DNP pathway offers registered nurses a streamlined route to advance their nursing career directly to a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Focusing on the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner concentration, this program eliminates the traditional MSN requirement. Students complete 67-73 units with flexible full-time or part-time options, including online and hybrid learning formats. The comprehensive curriculum prepares nurses for advanced clinical practice, emphasizing evidence-based research and leadership skills. With competitive tuition around $1,160 per unit and a potential base cost of $77,720-$84,680, graduates can expect promising career opportunities, with DNP professionals in California earning an average salary of $166,630.

• Direct BSN to DNP pathway
• Online and hybrid learning
• 67-73 program units
• $1,160 per unit cost
• Multiple campus locations
• Full-time and part-time options
• 1,000 clinical residency hours
• 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• 8+ months RN experience required
• Evidence-based culminating project

Azusa Pacific University's BSN to DNP program, with a concentration in Health Systems Leadership, is designed for nurses aiming to elevate their careers. This hybrid program blends online and in-person learning, offering flexibility for working professionals. With a focus on leadership in healthcare systems, students gain the skills to lead with compassion and innovation. The program requires 67-73 units, with a cost per unit of $1,160, making the total estimated cost between $77,720 and $84,680. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, a California RN license, and relevant work experience. This program is perfect for those seeking to make a significant impact in healthcare leadership.

• Hybrid learning format.
• 67-73 program units.
• $1,160 cost per unit.
• Requires California RN license.
• 3.0 GPA for admission.
• Focus on Health Systems Leadership.
• Flexible full or part-time options.
• Includes 1,000 clinical residency hours.
• Accredited by WSCUC and CCNE.

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at USF prepares advanced registered nurses to become comprehensive healthcare providers. Students can complete the program in four years with a BSN or three years with an MSN, with flexible hybrid learning options. The curriculum emphasizes holistic patient care, evidence-based practice, and social justice, enabling graduates to assess, diagnose, and treat patients across diverse settings. Graduates gain advanced clinical competencies, leadership skills, and the ability to advocate for ethical healthcare policies.

• Hybrid program with online/classroom learning
• 4-year BSN to DNP track
• 3-year MSN to DNP track
• Social justice healthcare focus
• CCNE accredited program
• Preceptor program support
• Weekend teaching schedule
• Multiple entry pathways
• Dual MPH/DNP option available

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) DNP program at the University of San Francisco equips registered nurses with the skills to become Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners. This hybrid program blends online and classroom learning, offering flexibility. It focuses on comprehensive health assessments, diagnosing and managing illnesses, and serving as primary health care providers. Graduates are prepared to work in diverse settings, from hospitals to private practices. The program emphasizes social justice, ethical care, and leadership in health policy. Admission requires a BSN or MSN, with program completion in three to four years. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students.

• Hybrid learning format
• Focus on social justice
• Prepares for diverse settings
• BSN or MSN required
• 3-4 years completion
• Financial aid available
• Emphasizes ethical care
• Leadership in health policy
• Comprehensive health assessments
• Diagnose and manage illnesses

UC Irvine's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration offers a transformative three-year hybrid program for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses. Designed to elevate nursing expertise, the program prepares advanced practice registered nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across patient lifespans. Students complete 720 direct patient care hours, develop scholarly projects, and gain leadership skills essential for modern healthcare environments. Graduates become highly qualified Family Nurse Practitioners capable of providing preventive, urgent, and chronic disease management care.

• First UC campus DNP-FNP program
• Three-year hybrid commitment
• 720 direct patient care hours
• Quarterly campus clinical skills development
• Advanced practice registered nurse preparation
• Comprehensive primary care focus
• Interprofessional leadership training
• Scholarly project requirement
• Ambulatory care settings experience

The Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at the University of California-Irvine is a pioneering program designed for BSN and MSN-prepared nurses. This three-year hybrid program blends online and on-campus learning, focusing on primary care across the lifespan, leadership, and health policy. Students complete 720 direct patient care hours in ambulatory settings, preparing for the FNP board certification. The program emphasizes a scholarly project, enhancing skills in quality improvement and evidence-based practice. With faculty practicing in UC Irvine Health clinics, students gain hands-on experience in diverse settings. The DNP-FNP equips graduates for advanced practice roles, offering flexibility in career paths within nursing.

• Three-year hybrid program
• 720 direct patient care hours
• Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
• Combines online and on-campus learning
• Prepares for FNP board certification
• Scholarly project requirement
• Faculty practice team involvement
• Primary care across lifespan
• Leadership and health policy focus
• Hands-on ambulatory care experience

USC's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive primary care across patient lifespans. With flexible full-time (21 months) and part-time (33 months) tracks, students complete 50-52 credit hours and 786 clinical hours. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes integrative healthcare, focusing on biomedical and social factors influencing patient well-being. Accredited by CCNE and California BRN, the program boasts impressive board examination pass rates, with 92% ANCC and 88% AANP success in 2023.

• Online FNP program
• Full and part-time options
• 50-52 total credit hours
• 786 clinical practice hours
• 21-33 month completion time
• 92% ANCC board pass rate
• Accredited by CCNE
• Clinical placements locally
• Two on-campus intensives
• Integrative healthcare approach

The University of Southern California offers a Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program, designed for aspiring nurse practitioners. This hybrid program blends online coursework with two on-campus intensives, focusing on advanced nursing practice. Students engage in 49 units of study, including theory, clinical practicum, and social work courses. The program prepares graduates for leadership in healthcare policy and research, offering full-time and part-time options. Clinical practica are tailored to students' locations, enhancing flexibility. USC's commitment to diversity and excellence in nursing education shines through this program, equipping students with the skills for evidence-based patient care.

• Hybrid program format
• 49 units total
• Full-time or part-time
• Two on-campus intensives
• Clinical practicum flexibility
• Prepares for leadership roles
• Focus on evidence-based care
• Diverse learning environment
• Collaboration with health sciences
• Online via Virtual Academic Center

National University's Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization prepares advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare across lifespans. Students develop critical thinking skills, learn evidence-based practices, and gain expertise in health promotion, disease prevention, and primary care management. The program offers year-round enrollment, prepares graduates for national certification exams, and emphasizes culturally sensitive, patient-centered care through an innovative curriculum blending online coursework with immersive clinical experiences.

• CCNE Accredited Program
• 4-week course format
• Year-round enrollment availability
• Online with clinical immersions
• 180-240 clinical practice hours
• Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification
• Requires BSN degree
• Minimum 3.0 GPA required
• Multiple specialization courses
• Advanced physical assessment training

The RN to MSN Pathways program at National University is designed for registered nurses with an associate or diploma in nursing, aiming to fast-track their Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) without needing a BSN. Specializing in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), this online program allows completion in 12-21 months, with minimal on-campus requirements. It features one-on-one faculty advising, board certification review courses, and practicum in faculty-approved clinical settings. Admission requires a nursing diploma or associate degree from an accredited program, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and an unencumbered RN license. The program is accredited by WSCUC and CCNE, offering a flexible path to advanced practice nursing.

• Online program
• 12-21 months completion
• Family Nurse Practitioner specialization
• Minimal on-campus requirements
• Board certification review
• One-on-one faculty advising
• Practicum in clinical settings
• No BSN required
• Accredited by WSCUC and CCNE
• Flexible course lengths

Elevate your nursing career with Charles R Drew University's transformative 16-month MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner program. Designed for ambitious nurses, this hybrid learning experience combines intensive weekend sessions with hands-on clinical immersion. Students gain advanced skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and comprehensive patient care across all life stages. The program prepares graduates for national certification exams, empowering them to become compassionate, competent healthcare professionals who can address diverse community health needs.

• 16-month executive-style program
• 51 total credit hours
• Hybrid learning format
• Monthly weekend intensive sessions
• Clinical experiences in multiple settings
• CCNE and California Board accredited
• Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification
• Multiple semester start dates
• Face-to-face and digital instruction
• Diverse faculty mentorship

The Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program at Charles R. Drew University is a 16-month hybrid program designed for nurses aiming to advance their careers. It focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and clinical management across the lifespan. The program combines intensive weekend sessions with hands-on clinical experiences, preparing graduates for national certification exams. With a diverse faculty and a commitment to inclusivity, students gain practical skills in various healthcare settings. The program requires 51 credit hours and offers a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing community and diversity.

• 16-month program duration
• Hybrid learning format
• 51 credit hours required
• Hands-on clinical immersion
• Prepares for national certification
• Focus on health promotion
• Disease prevention emphasis
• Clinical management skills
• Diverse faculty insights
• Community-focused care

California State University-Long Beach's MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program provides comprehensive advanced nursing education for healthcare professionals. This rigorous graduate degree prepares nurses to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care across family populations. Students gain advanced clinical skills through intensive theoretical coursework and extensive clinical training. The program emphasizes professional development, research application, and specialized family healthcare knowledge. Designed for registered nurses seeking career advancement, the curriculum covers pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and specialized family practice clinical studies.

• 30-48 graduate units required
• 3.0 minimum GPA
• Board of Nursing approved
• Multiple clinical practice courses
• Comprehensive core and specialty courses
• Current RN license needed
• Statistics prerequisite required
• Physical assessment course required
• Pathophysiology course required
• CCNE accredited program

The Family Nurse Practitioner Specialty at California State University-Long Beach offers a comprehensive MSN program designed for those aiming to excel in family healthcare. This program prepares students with advanced clinical skills and theoretical knowledge to provide high-quality care across the lifespan. With a focus on family health, the curriculum includes courses in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment. Admission requires a BSN, RN license, and a 3.0 GPA. The program blends rigorous academics with practical clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the demands of modern healthcare settings.

• Accredited by CCNE.
• Requires BSN and RN license.
• 3.0 GPA for admission.
• Focus on family health.
• Includes clinical experiences.
• Courses in advanced pharmacology.
• Advanced pathophysiology included.
• Health assessment training.
• Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
• Comprehensive curriculum.

California State University-Long Beach's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) prepares advanced practice nurses for complex clinical, leadership, and teaching roles. This comprehensive 72-unit, three-year program focuses on the Family Nurse Practitioner concentration, equipping students with high-level competencies through evidence-based inquiry, health policy advocacy, and intensive clinical training. Students complete 1,000 clinical hours and develop a scholarly doctoral project aimed at improving patient care. Designed for registered nurses with a bachelor's degree, the program requires a 3.0 GPA, current nursing license, and multiple prerequisite courses.

• 72-unit, three-year program
• 1,000 clinical practice hours
• Multiple nurse practitioner specialties
• Evidence-based doctoral project
• 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
• National certification preparation
• Advanced clinical practice focus
• Comprehensive admission requirements

Pacific College's Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program equips nursing professionals with advanced skills for primary care settings. Designed for RNs with a BSN, this online program includes clinical experiences locally. Graduates are prepared for national certification, offering care across the lifespan. The curriculum covers health policy, advanced pathophysiology, and pharmacology, blending theory with practice. Admission requires a California RN license, BSN, and relevant coursework. A great choice for those aiming to enhance patient care in diverse communities.

• Online coursework
• Local clinical experiences
• 40 units total
• 18 courses required
• Prepares for national certification
• Focus on primary care
• For RNs with a BSN
• California RN license required
• Includes health policy
• Advanced pathophysiology covered