Idaho is a hidden gem full of stunning natural beauty and vast mountainous landscapes but beyond the breathtaking scenery available at nearly every turn, there are also numerous opportunities for registered nurses to become nurse practitioners through a variety of nurse practitioner educational programs. These programs can be found in places like Boise or Pocatello or numerous communities across the state. Below is some information on how you can locate these programs and what the typical process is for becoming a specialized nurse practitioner in this state. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Idaho

RegisteredNursing.org has carefully evaluated and ranked the best online nurse practitioner programs in Idaho, highlighting the critical role of distance learning in expanding healthcare education opportunities. These virtual programs offer nurses flexible pathways to advance their careers without disrupting current work schedules. Online nurse practitioner programs in Idaho provide accessible, high-quality education that prepares professionals to meet growing healthcare demands while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Nurses can now earn advanced degrees from accredited institutions through comprehensive remote learning platforms that maintain rigorous academic standards and clinical training requirements. Our rankings consider factors like program reputation, student outcomes, faculty expertise, and clinical placement opportunities to help aspiring nurse practitioners make informed educational choices. View our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Boise State University

Boise, ID - Public 4-Year - boisestate.edu

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing (Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Boise State University's Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing program in Primary Care delivers a comprehensive online educational experience for registered nurses. Focusing on patient care from age 12 to end-of-life, this hybrid program combines flexible online coursework with three summer intensive sessions. Priced competitively at $890 per credit hour without out-of-state fees, the CCNE-accredited curriculum develops advanced clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and prepares graduates for diverse healthcare roles across community settings.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Online Course Delivery
  • Flexible Clinical Placements
  • No Out-of-State Fees
  • Primary Care Concentration
  • Advanced Practice Preparation
  • Summer Intensive Sessions
  • Comprehensive Patient Care Skills
  • Leadership Development Focus

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing (Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Boise State University's Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing Acute Care program provides a dynamic pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced specialization. This CCNE-accredited hybrid program delivers online coursework complemented by three summer intensives, preparing students to serve adult patients from age 12 to end-of-life. With a competitive $890 per credit hour rate and no out-of-state fees, students develop sophisticated clinical reasoning, diagnostic expertise, and leadership skills tailored to complex acute care environments.

  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Online Course Delivery
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • $890 Per Credit Hour
  • No Out-of-State Fees
  • Clinical Placement Coordinator
  • Acute Care Concentration
  • Advanced Practice Focus
  • Comprehensive Patient Care
  • Leadership Skill Development

Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Boise State University's Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate offers an advanced online pathway for nursing professionals seeking specialized expertise in acute care settings. Designed exclusively for certified nurse practitioners, this hybrid program delivers comprehensive clinical training through 512 total clinical hours, including 448 hours of direct patient supervision. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices and includes two intensive summer on-campus sessions, preparing graduates to tackle complex healthcare challenges with advanced practice skills and specialized adult-gerontology acute care knowledge.

  • Online graduate certificate program
  • 512 total clinical hours
  • Specialized adult-gerontology acute care focus
  • 2-6 credits per semester
  • Designed for certified nurse practitioners
  • Two on-campus summer intensive sessions
  • Prepares for certification and licensure
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Graduate Certificate Adult-Gerontology Primary Care (Primary Care)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Boise State University's Post-Master's Graduate Certificate in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care provides licensed nurse practitioners an opportunity to expand their clinical competencies in community health environments. This intensive one-year hybrid program specifically targets comprehensive care delivery for teens, adults, and elderly populations. With 19 credit hours and individualized study plans, the curriculum prepares advanced practice nurses for diverse primary care settings. Applicants must possess an accredited master's nursing degree, maintain an active NP license, and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, ensuring high-quality professional development.

  • One-year hybrid certificate program
  • 19 maximum credit hours
  • Two summer intensive sessions
  • Community-based clinical settings
  • Individualized study plans
  • Licensed NP prerequisite
  • 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
  • Multiple state eligibility
  • Professional practice expansion

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Boise State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers an innovative hybrid pathway for advanced nursing professionals. Designed for bachelor's and master's-prepared nurses, this program blends online coursework with annual summer intensives, providing flexibility for working professionals. Featuring a 100% clinical placement success rate, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, person-centered care, and healthcare innovation, preparing nurses for leadership roles through comprehensive interprofessional training.

  • Hybrid online/intensive program
  • 100% clinical placement rate
  • No out-of-state tuition
  • FNP concentration available
  • Flexible full/part-time options
  • Evidence-based curriculum
  • Leadership-focused training

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, BS to DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • Hybrid program format
  • No out-of-state tuition
  • 100% clinical placement success
  • Flexible full-time or part-time
  • Focus on Adult Gerontology Acute Care
  • Online courses with summer intensives
  • Dedicated clinical placement team
  • Innovative curriculum
  • Cohort model learning
  • Advanced leadership training

BSN to DNP - BS to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • Hybrid program format
  • No out-of-state tuition
  • 100% clinical placement success
  • Innovative curriculum
  • Cohort model for peer support
  • Flexible full-time or part-time options
  • Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Combines online and in-person learning
  • Prepares for advanced leadership roles
  • Open to nurses across the US

BSN to DNP - BS to DNP (Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGNP))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • Hybrid program format
  • No out-of-state tuition
  • 100% clinical placement success
  • Innovative curriculum
  • Cohort model for peer support
  • Flexible full-time or part-time options
  • Dedicated clinical placement team
  • Annual summer intensives
  • Focus on acute care for adults and elderly
  • Leadership in healthcare preparation
Show 7 More Programs ˅
#2

Idaho State University

Pocatello, ID - Public 4-Year - isu.edu

Graduate Certificate - FNP to PMHNP Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Idaho State University's online FNP to PMHNP Certificate offers a specialized pathway for licensed Family Nurse Practitioners seeking to expand their mental health expertise. Tailored for experienced professionals with two years of direct clinical practice, this program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care across diverse populations. No GRE is required for admission, with a minimum 3.0 GPA and current FNP certification mandatory. The online format enables working nurses to seamlessly transition into psychiatric mental health practice, with the curriculum designed to help students sit for PMHNP certification. Students benefit from over $100,000 in annual nursing scholarships and resident tuition rates.

  • Post-Master's Certificate Program
  • Requires 2 years FNP experience
  • No GRE required
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Current FNP certification needed
  • Over $100k in scholarships
  • Online graduate program
  • Resident tuition rates
  • Prepares for PMHNP certification
  • Focuses on rural populations

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Idaho State University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration delivers an advanced clinical leadership program designed to transform healthcare outcomes. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and innovative healthcare strategies, preparing nurses to excel in complex medical environments. Students engage in a flexible learning model combining campus intensives with online coursework. No GRE is required for admission, though a 3.0 GPA and unencumbered nursing license are essential. The program focuses on interprofessional leadership, systems improvement, and policy advocacy, offering clinical placement assistance and multiple state enrollment options.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • Two campus locations
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • No GRE needed
  • Two years healthcare experience preferred
  • Clinical placement assistance
  • Multiple state enrollment options
  • Over $100k annual scholarships

MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Idaho State University's hybrid Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner DNP program equips nurses to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations. Designed for experienced registered nurses, the program offers flexible full-time and part-time tracks with comprehensive clinical training. Students benefit from national certification preparation, leadership-focused curriculum, and clinical intensives each semester. No GRE is required, with a 3.0 GPA minimum and unencumbered nursing license necessary for admission. The hybrid format combines online learning with periodic campus sessions, enabling students to advance their clinical expertise while maintaining professional commitments.

  • Hybrid DNP program format
  • Two degree track options
  • No GRE required
  • Clinical placement assistance
  • Over $100k in scholarships
  • State-limited admission
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • Clinical intensives each semester
  • National certification pathway
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Northwest Nazarene University

Nampa, ID - Private 4-year - nnu.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Northwest Nazarene University's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic hybrid learning experience tailored for working registered nurses. Spanning 48 credits, the program provides comprehensive preparation for FNP national licensure with competitive $840 per credit tuition. Students benefit from experienced faculty, interactive online cohort models, and flexible clinical placements within their home state. The CCNE-accredited curriculum uniquely blends faith-centered principles with advanced clinical training, enabling nurses to develop comprehensive patient care skills. Campus residency hours complement the online format, ensuring robust practical experience. With a focus on compassionate, evidence-based healthcare, the program prepares advanced practice clinicians to excel in diverse medical environments.

  • Online flexible learning format
  • $840 per credit tuition
  • 48-credit MSN program
  • National FNP licensure preparation
  • Clinicals in home state
  • Campus residency hours
  • Experienced nursing faculty
  • Faith-centered curriculum
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Top 5 national ranking 2021
*Based on: IPEDS 2024, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Before diving into becoming a nurse practitioner, there are several primary concerns that RNs in Idaho typically consider. Two of the most common ones is the cost associated with tuition and the time that it typically takes to complete an NP program. The good news is that there are plenty of affordable options for RNs to become nurse practitioners in Idaho, especially if they have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and some nursing experience.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

In most cases, students who want to become nurse practitioners will need to complete either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The quickest option between these two is the MSN. On average, you can expect to complete your MSN in 2 – 6 years, depending on how many credit hours you complete per semester and how many you are allowed to transfer. One of the quickest MSN programs available in Idaho is Northwest Nazarene University’s MSN which takes about 2 years of full-time study to complete.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

If you’re like most students, you’re looking for the best possible value for your nurse practitioner education. MSN programs are usually the most frugal choice as you’ll be required to be enrolled for a shorter amount of time. You can make the most of your savings by establishing residency in the state and choosing schools with smaller nursing programs. One of the cheapest options for nursing students in Idaho is Idaho State University’s MSN program which costs between $15,000 – $20,000 in total.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the coolest things about becoming a nurse practitioner is that a lot of the graduate programs you’ll be required to take to become one offer ways to get specialized training in a variety of practice areas. This makes getting certified much easier. One good example of a specialized nurse practitioner program in Idaho is Northwest Nazarene University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program.

Find out more about popular NP specialty programs: Acute Care (ACNP), Adult Gerontology (AGNP), Family (FNP), Pediatric (PNP), Psychiatric (PHMNP), Women’s Health (WHNP).

Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus

Beyond the traditional programs like MSN and DNP programs, there are also many other types of accelerated and bridge programs that you may be interested in depending on your individual background and the level of degree and experience you already have.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, most nursing students decide on Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs due to their speed, cost, and their entry requirements. They take about two years to complete. Here are some examples available in Idaho:

RN to NP Programs

RN to NP programs are an umbrella term that typically refers to ADN to MSNs, in which RNs who hold an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) complete accelerated BSN and MSN-level nurse practitioner coursework. As of now, these types of programs are not available to students in Idaho, but you can find them available in Utah at Southern Utah University.

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree an NP can obtain. These programs typically take 4-6 years to complete, though this may be higher or lower depending on the number of credits you enroll with. DNP programs located in Idaho include:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

A Post-Master's Nursing Certificate is designed for MSN-educated nurse who want to enter or switch to a new NP specialty. While not a degree in and of itself, they’re a shorter and often more affordable way for eligible nurses to gain NP training, typically completed in a year or less. Currently, there are no post-masters certificate nursing programs available in Idaho, however you can find them located at the University of Utah.

Accelerated, Direct & Master’s Entry (MENP/MEPN) to Nursing Practice

Master's Entry to Nursing Practice (MENP) programs, also called direct-entry or accelerated MSN programs, are perfect for students who have already graduated from a bachelor’s degree program with a non-nursing major but would like to become nurse practitioners without getting another bachelor’s degree. They are longer than a traditional MSN program, but they are shorter than having to earn two degrees.

General Admissions Requirements

The exact types of admissions requirements you’ll need to meet will vary depending on the nurse practitioner programs you apply to, however, in general you can expect the following:

  • BSN from an accredited school
  • Transcripts from all colleges attended
  • Minimum grade point average (often 3.0 or above, but varies by school/program)
  • Active, unencumbered RN license
  • Essay or statement of purpose outlining career goals
  • Letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
  • Resume or CV

Idaho NP License and Certification Requirements

In Idaho, nurse practitioners must meet specific requirements before they can apply for licensure and practice independently. Here are the primary qualifications:

  • Active Idaho RN License: Applicants need to hold a current, unrestricted registered nurse (RN) license issued by the Idaho Board of Nursing.
  • Educational Background: Candidates must complete an accredited nurse practitioner program, which includes both advanced clinical practice and specialized academic training.

Once the foundational qualifications are met, prospective NPs must submit supporting documents such as academic transcripts, proof of clinical experience, and evidence of holding an active RN license. The application process also involves completing the necessary paperwork and paying a fee, which typically hovers around $80. Applicants can find detailed guidance and application instructions through Idaho's official licensing portal.

In Idaho, NPs are also required to be certified in their chosen area of expertise. This certification can be obtained from national credentialing organizations, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Most certification bodies require that candidates hold a graduate degree in a specific specialty, and in most cases, candidates will need to pass a certification exam to prove their competency in the field.

Idaho is considered a full-practice state, meaning that, as of 2024, nurse practitioners are authorized to assess, diagnose, and treat patients independently, without the need for physician supervision. NPs in Idaho can prescribe medications and operate autonomously in many healthcare settings. For those seeking additional resources or support, the Idaho Nurses Association (INA) offers guidance, networking opportunities, and continuing education tailored to nurse practitioners.

List of NP Programs in Idaho

Jump to City:

Boise, ID

Boise State University

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing

    Concentration: Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Online Course Delivery
    • Hybrid Learning Model
    • $890 Per Credit Hour
    • No Out-of-State Fees
    • Clinical Placement Coordinator
    • Acute Care Concentration
    • Advanced Practice Focus
  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Master of Nursing

    Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Online Course Delivery
    • Flexible Clinical Placements
    • No Out-of-State Fees
    • Primary Care Concentration
    • Advanced Practice Preparation
    • Summer Intensive Sessions
    • Comprehensive Patient Care Skills
  • Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online graduate certificate program
    • 512 total clinical hours
    • Specialized adult-gerontology acute care focus
    • 2-6 credits per semester
    • Designed for certified nurse practitioners
    • Two on-campus summer intensive sessions
    • Prepares for certification and licensure
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Graduate Certificate Adult-Gerontology Primary Care

    Concentration: Primary Care - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • One-year hybrid certificate program
    • 19 maximum credit hours
    • Two summer intensive sessions
    • Community-based clinical settings
    • Individualized study plans
    • Licensed NP prerequisite
    • 3.0 minimum graduate GPA
    • Multiple state eligibility
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/intensive program
    • 100% clinical placement rate
    • No out-of-state tuition
    • FNP concentration available
    • Flexible full/part-time options
    • Evidence-based curriculum
    • Leadership-focused training

Nampa, ID

Northwest Nazarene University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online flexible learning format
    • $840 per credit tuition
    • 48-credit MSN program
    • National FNP licensure preparation
    • Clinicals in home state
    • Campus residency hours
    • Experienced nursing faculty
    • Faith-centered curriculum

Pocatello, ID

Idaho State University

  • Graduate Certificate - FNP to PMHNP Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Post-Master's Certificate Program
    • Requires 2 years FNP experience
    • No GRE required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
    • Current FNP certification needed
    • Over $100k in scholarships
    • Online graduate program
    • Resident tuition rates
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • Two campus locations
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • No GRE needed
    • Two years healthcare experience preferred
    • Clinical placement assistance
    • Multiple state enrollment options
    • Over $100k annual scholarships
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid DNP program format
    • Two degree track options
    • No GRE required
    • Clinical placement assistance
    • Over $100k in scholarships
    • State-limited admission
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • Clinical intensives each semester
*Source: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2024. National Center for Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/