Best Online Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs in Arkansas
- 2025 - Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arkansas
- Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
- Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
- General Admissions Requirements
- Arkansas NP License and Certification Requirements
- List of NP Programs in Arkansas

2025 - Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Arkansas

Introducing RegisteredNursing.org's 2025 rankings of the Best Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Arkansas! Our rankings are crafted to assist prospective nurse practitioners in finding the top online programs across the state. We use a thorough methodology that considers various factors to help you choose the program that best meets your needs. Key criteria for our rankings include completion rates, cost of living, institutional competitiveness, program diversity, and faculty experience. These elements together offer a comprehensive evaluation of each program's strengths and potential for student success. For more details on our ranking process, please visit our methodology page.
Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University offers a Nurse Practitioner program with flexible online and hybrid formats. This structure allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments while gaining advanced clinical skills and knowledge. The program is designed to prepare graduates for successful careers in various healthcare settings
MSN Programs- Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas provides a Nurse Practitioner program through an online format, with some on-campus requirements. The program is renowned for preparing graduates with advanced clinical skills and knowledge, ensuring they are well-equipped for leadership roles in diverse healthcare environments.
DNP Programs
Harding University
Harding University’s Nurse Practitioner program is acclaimed for its robust curriculum and dedicated faculty. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical training and a strong foundation in advanced practice, preparing graduates to excel in various healthcare settings with confidence and expertise. Its commitment to quality education makes it a standout choice for aspiring nurse practitioners.
MSN Programs- Family Nurse Practitioner Online/Hybrid

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
Nurse practitioner programs are a great way for registered nurses to advance in the field, specialize in an area that they’re passionate about, and increase their salary substantially. Many nurses who have considered becoming a nurse practitioner have hesitated to do so due to the cost and time required to do so, however, through bridge programs and online learning, it has never been cheaper or faster to enter this exciting career.What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?
Becoming a nurse practitioner will require at least a graduate degree in nursing such as a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). Typically, those two degrees require a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) and several years of committed study. If you’re looking to graduate as quickly as possible, an MSN is typically the fastest option, especially if you’re enrolling with a significant amount of transfer credits or enrolling in an accelerated or bridge program (see more below). Here are a few of the fastest MSN programs available in Arkansas:NP Program | Length | Online/Campus |
---|---|---|
Arkansas State University | 24 Months | Online |
University of Arkansas | 4 Semesters | Online or Campus |
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences | 2 Years | Campus |
What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?
MSNs also lead nursing graduate programs in terms of price. Because MSNs take less time to complete, they usually end up costing less as well. You can unlock additional savings by comparing other program costs as well whether they’re technology fees, dining room costs, or the general cost of living in the area where your school is based. Here is a collection of the cheapest nurse practitioner programs currently available in Arkansas:School Name | Tuition Range | Estimated Credits |
---|---|---|
Arkansas Tech University | 8,071 – 13,891 | 39 |
Arkansas State University | $15,355 | 41.5 |
University of Arkansas at Monticello | 8,431 – 14,281 | 39 |
Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
Some nurse practitioner specializations are more in demand than others, and if your goal is to make a higher salary, narrowing your focus to a popular nurse practitioner specialization is a great way to do so. Most nurse practitioner programs in Arkansas offer some type of specialization whether it’s in cardiology, neurology, or something else entirely. Here are a few options for specialized nurse practitioner programs in Arkansas:School Name | NP Specialty | Credits Required |
---|---|---|
University of Arkansas at Monticello | Case Management | 39 |
Arkansas State University | Family Nurse Practitioner | 41.5 |
Arkansas Tech University | Nursing Administration | 39 |
Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
Through the highly specialized education routes students can choose from never been easier to advance their career as a nurse practitioner based on their specific qualifications and background. Here are a few alternative ways that nurse practitioners can reach their educational goals through specialized routes.MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
As mentioned, a master’s degree in nursing is the most common degree that nurse practitioners aim for. They usually take around two years to complete. Examples in Arkansas include:- University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, AR
- Arkansas State University – Jonestown, AR
RN to NP Programs
Nurses who already have spent some time as an RN, have their nursing license, and have graduated from either an ADN or ASN program may be interested in becoming a nurse practitioner through an RN to NP program (also called an ADN/ASN to MSN program). This will allow you to complete your MSN program in a much shorter amount of time. Unfortunately, these types of programs are only available to other states at this time.DNP Nurse Practioner Programs
Students hoping to get the highest NP degree available, the DNP, will need to invest between 4-6 years following their master’s degree program. Here are a few to choose from in the state:- University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, AR
- Arkansas State University – Jonestown, AR
Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs
Post-master's nursing certificates are designed for MSN-educated nurses wanting to enter or switch to a new NP specialty. While not a degree in and of itself, it's a shorter and often more affordable way for eligible nurses to gain NP training, typically completed in a year or less. Examples in the state include:- University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, AR
- University of Central Arkansas – Conway, AR
Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice
Master's entry to nursing practice programs, also called direct-entry or accelerated MSN programs, allow non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in any subject to enter directly into an MSN program. These programs essentially combine BSN and MSN coursework into one rigorous program. As of now, Harding University in Searcy, AR is the only program available in the state.General Admissions Requirements
The general admissions requirements to your NP program of choice will depend on your specific background, including nursing experience, credentials, and degree as well as your program’s specific requirements, but in general, you’ll need to have:- A BSN from an accredited school
- Transcripts from all colleges attended
- A minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
- An active, unencumbered RN license
- An essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
- Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
- A resume or CV
Arkansas NP License and Certification Requirements
Arguably, the most important part of the journey to becoming a nurse practitioner (other than education) is getting licensed and certified. To do this in Arkansas, you’ll need a current RN license (valid in the state) and a graduate degree in nursing. Applicants must provide documentation of these qualifications, submit an application form, and pay the associated fee, which is generally around $100-$150. Detailed instructions for NP licensure/certification in Arkansas can be found through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing. Certification for most nurse practitioner specialty areas can be obtained through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Applicants must typically hold an active RN license and have completed a graduate-level nursing program in the relevant specialty. As of 2024, licensed and certified NPs in Arkansas have reduced practice authority, which means they are required to have a collaborative practice agreement with a physician. More information can be accessed through the Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Association (ARNA).List of NP Programs in Arkansas
Arkadelphia, AR
Henderson State University
- Master's - MSN Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online MSN-FNP program
- 45 total credit hours
- 540 practicum hours
- Two-day face-to-face session
- Requires 2000+ RN hours
- Prepares for national certification
- Primary care across lifespan
- Advanced assessment training
Conway, AR
University of Central Arkansas
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Fully online MSN program
- 30 credit hours required
- Nurse Educator track focus
- Minimum 2.70 GPA required
- Current RN licensure needed
- Advanced teaching preparation
- National certification eligible
- Doctorate - Post-BSN to DNP
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Part-time online/hybrid format
- 11 consecutive semester track
- Family Nurse Practitioner focus
- National certification preparation
- Rigorous clinical practice training
- $69 per credit hour
- Periodic campus visits required
Fayetteville, AR
University of Arkansas
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Post-graduate nursing certificate
- 21 minimum credit hours
- 540 clinical practice hours
- Part-time program availability
- Master's or doctoral degree required
- Two years nursing experience
- Multiple entry semester options
- CCNE or ACEN accredited
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology/Acute-Care Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online flexible degree format
- Acute care nurse practitioner track
- Focuses on rural healthcare needs
- 52% job growth projected
- Average salary over $111,000
- Two-year MSN to DNP track
- Comprehensive leadership training
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website
- Online DNP program
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- $583.11 per credit hour
- Minimal campus visits
- National certification eligibility
- Leadership-focused curriculum
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Jonesboro, AR
Arkansas State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 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
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Certificate – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- Online 100% flexible format
- 21.5 total credit hours
- Prepares for ANCC/AACN exams
- $7,955 total tuition
- 16-month program duration
- ACEN accredited program
- Requires MSN for admission
- Multiple practicum experiences
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master’s Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- 6-18 months program duration
- ACEN-accredited certificates
- Affordable pay-by-course tuition
- Multiple nursing specialties available
- Designed for MSN-prepared nurses
- Prepares for certification exams
- Flexible course schedules
Little Rock, AR
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
- Graduate Certificate - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post-Master's Certificate Track
- 22 total credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- Comprehensive theory courses
- Multiple clinical practicum components
- Advanced adult-gerontology focus
- Includes psychiatric nursing training
- Graduate Certificate - Post Masters Certification Program
Concentration: Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post Masters Certification Option
- 18-month Approximate Completion Time
- Acute Care Pediatric Focus
- National Certification Preparation
- Advanced Practice Licensure Eligible
- Graduate Certificate - Post Masters Certification Program
Concentration: Dual Certification Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Post Masters Certification Track
- Dual Primary and Acute Care
- National Certification Preparation
- Advanced Practice Licensure
- Comprehensive Pediatric Healthcare Focus
- Interprofessional Team Approach
- Evidence-Based Clinical Training
- Approximately 18-Month Program
- Graduate Certificate - Post Masters Certification Program
Concentration: Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced pediatric nursing degree
- Primary and acute care tracks
- National certification preparation
- Post-masters certification option
- Comprehensive pediatric healthcare focus
- Evidence-based clinical practice
- Interprofessional team training
- Birth to young adult care
- Doctorate - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Advanced clinical reasoning skills
- Hybrid program format
- Care across adult life span
- Complex patient management
- Leadership transformation focus
- Diagnostic skills training
- Evidence-based intervention approach
- Doctorate - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Advanced practice registered nurse preparation
- Practice in multiple healthcare settings
- Comprehensive patient lifecycle care
- Diagnostic and management skills
- Doctorate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Doctoral level mental health training
- Treats patients across lifespan
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- National certification preparation
- Advanced practice licensing eligible
- Comprehensive mental health interventions
- Includes therapy and medication management
Searcy, AR
Harding University
- Master's - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and on-campus format
- 45 semester credit hours
- 750 clinical practicum hours
- 92% certification pass rate
- Full-time and part-time options
- Three on-campus intensives yearly
- 99% employment rate
- Multiple program entry pathways
- Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate Certificate in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/on-campus format
- 45 semester credit hours
- 750 clinical practicum hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- 92% certification pass rate
- Multiple program pathways
- Christian healthcare approach
- Tuition ~$48,650 total