Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs Online in Kansas
- 2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas
- Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
- Educational Routes for Nurse Practitioners – Online & Campus
- General Admissions Requirements
- Kansas NP License and Certification Requirements
- List of NP Programs in Kansas

It can be easy for a lot of registered nurses to feel that they are in a “dead-end” position even though they are working in a highly skilled professional healthcare role. It can be tough for nurses to move up at their jobs or ask for higher pay when there is little room to do so at their places of employment. One great remedy to this is getting your nurse practitioner license. Nurse practitioners leverage their additional training and specialization into a higher-paying and more independent role. Learn all about how to do this and where to find NP programs in Kansas (whether you live in Kansas City or Topeka or somewhere else) by taking a look at the sections below. Jump to program listings.
2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas
Washburn University
Topeka, KS - Public 4-Year - washburn.edu
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Washburn University's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate prepares advanced practice nurses for evidence-based mental health care across all ages through flexible, self-paced online classes with some live virtual sessions. The program takes about four semesters to complete and boasts a 94% certification exam pass rate, with clinical placements arranged near students' locations. This online program requires prior nursing education and licensure but no entrance exam, offering customized study plans for APRNs, nurse midwives, anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, or master's/doctoral-prepared RNs.
- Fully online program.
- Flexible self-paced format.
- Clinical placements near home.
- Four semesters to complete.
- 94% certification exam pass rate.
- Student-faculty ratio 10:1.
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification.
- Career forecast bright outlook.
- Median salary $139,976.
- Accredited by CCNE.
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Washburn University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers advanced practice nurses a transformative pathway to leadership in healthcare through flexible online learning combined with practical clinical experiences. Students complete 74-76 credit hours including 1,000 direct patient care hours, preparing them to improve patient outcomes and drive healthcare innovation. This hybrid program requires no entrance exam and is designed for working professionals, featuring competitive tuition and a strong faculty-to-student ratio.
- Online flexible learning format
- 1,000 direct patient care hours
- Nationally accredited program
- 74-76 total credit hours
- Summer start program
- Faculty with active clinical practices
- Bright career outlook
- Average salary $120,610
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP))
Online Learning - Visit Website
Washburn University's online BSN to DNP program with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for advanced practice roles through online coursework with minimal on-campus requirements. The program requires 74-76 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours, focusing on leadership, quality improvement, and systems thinking. This online program requires a BSN for admission but no entrance exam, offering flexibility with live virtual classes and financial aid options, with graduates prepared for primary care roles with an average FNP salary of $120,610.
- Online format with flexibility.
- 74 to 76 credit hours.
- 1000 clinical hours required.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- Live virtual classes included.
- Minimal on-campus requirements.
- BSN admission requirement.
- Financial aid options available.
- Bright career outlook.
- Average FNP salary $120,610.
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS - Public 4-Year - ku.edu
Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Kansas offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program that combines online coursework with on-campus clinical workshops at the KU Medical Center. This program prepares advanced practice nurses for primary care roles across the lifespan through a curriculum including theory, clinical practice, and preceptorship. The 16-credit hour program takes up to two years to complete and requires completion of an APRN graduate program, a 3.0 GPA, RN licensure, and a June 1 application deadline for fall enrollment. No entrance exam is specified as required.
- Hybrid online and campus format.
- Prepares for primary care roles.
- Requires APRN graduate program completion.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
- RN licensure in at least one state.
- Application deadline June 1 for fall.
- Program length two years maximum.
- Includes clinical practicum courses.
- Courses offered at KU Medical Center.
- Precepted experiences in community settings.
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Kansas provides an online Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program focused on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. This 24-credit hour program teaches psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacologic interventions for individuals, groups, and families. Courses are offered in sequence every other year, with the next start in Spring 2026. Admission requires completion of an APRN graduate program, a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, current RN licensure, and a November 1 application deadline for Spring admission. No entrance exam is specified as required.
- 24 credit hours.
- Online program format.
- Courses offered every other year.
- Spring 2026 next start.
- November 1 application deadline.
- APRN graduate program required.
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
- Current RN licensure needed.
- Official transcripts required.
- Criminal background check required.
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid online program that prepares advanced nursing professionals for leadership roles in primary care. This rigorous program emphasizes evidence-based practices, healthcare policy, and transformative patient outcomes across all life stages. With a remarkable 100% national certification exam pass rate, the program requires a minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA and professional licensure for admission. The online format offers two pathway options (BSN-DNP and MSN-DNP) and develops clinical skills through comprehensive experiences. No specific entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral-level program.
- 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
- Fully Online DNP Program
- Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
- Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
- Comprehensive Clinical Experience
- Evidence-Based Practice Focus
- Leadership Skills Development
- Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid online pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice roles. This program blends online coursework with practical experiences to prepare graduates for leadership in primary care across the lifespan. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and an RN license in Kansas, Nebraska, or Oklahoma. The program boasts a 100% pass rate on the National Certification Exam from 2020-2023 and emphasizes evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. No specific entrance exam is mentioned as required for this doctoral-level program, which is accredited by CCNE.
- Hybrid program format
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Requires BSN and RN license
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- 100% pass rate on certification
- Leadership and evidence-based focus
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Primary care across lifespan
- Admission from KS, NE, OK
- Accredited by CCNE
University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, KS - Private 4-year - stmary.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Mary's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration is a hybrid program combining digital coursework with limited on-campus intensives. This 53-credit program can be completed in two years and requires a BSN, RN license, 3.0 GPA, and clinical experience. At $775 per credit, it includes over 700 clinical hours and prepares graduates for advanced mental health care across all age groups. The program is accredited by CCNE and approved by KSBN, with no entrance exam required for admission.
- 53 credit hours.
- Hybrid online format.
- Two-year completion time.
- $775 per credit hour.
- BSN required for admission.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- RN license needed.
- One year clinical experience.
- Over 700 clinical hours.
- Two on-campus intensives.
Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS - Public 4-Year - pittstate.edu
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Pittsburg State University's online BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares nurses for advanced clinical roles through a hybrid format combining digital coursework with campus learning. This terminal degree emphasizes leadership, education, and practical skills for healthcare settings, with graduates often earning over $100,000. The program requires a BSN for admission and accepts applications from August 1st to October 10th for a Summer Session start. While designed for working professionals seeking career advancement, it does not specify entrance exam requirements. The hybrid structure offers flexibility while maintaining rigorous preparation for high-demand family practice positions.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner.
- Prepares for advanced practice roles.
- Salaries exceed $100,000.
- Starts Summer Session.
- Applications August 1-October 10.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Focus on leadership and education.
- Terminal degree in nursing.
- Combines online and campus learning.
Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
For most nurses, the best nurse practitioner programs in Kansas are the ones that are fast and affordable. Believe it or not, finding cheap and quick nurse practitioner programs in the state is not hard to do, especially if have a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree which will save you both time and money on your nurse practitioner program.
What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?
There are two degrees that will allow you to become a nurse practitioner — a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The quickest option of these two is usually the MSN which only takes about 2 years to complete (full-time) as opposed to the DNP which can take over six years to complete. Still, some MSNs are quicker to complete than others. For example, Baker University offers an MSN program that allows you to graduate in as little as two years.
What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?
If you’re looking to save money on your nurse practitioner education, an MSN is usually the cheapest option as well since you will be required to be enrolled for less time. If you have established residency in Kansas, you will also likely save on your education as many schools in Kansas have lower tuition rates for in-state students. One of the cheapest options in Kansas is Fort Hays State University which offers an MSN for between $8,000 and $12,000.
Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
One great thing about becoming a nurse practitioner is the ability to specialize in a practice area that interests you. This will not only give you momentum in your new career but it will also give you the opportunity to charge more (depending on the practice area). One cool option in Kansas is the Public Health Nursing specialization offered by the University of Kansas.
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 typical MSN degree programs, there are also lots of alternative options that may allow you to graduate faster and for less money.
MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
As mentioned, most future nurse practitioners usually go for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. This is because MSN programs are usually the fastest and cheapest option for most people who don’t meet the enrollment requirements of the options below. MSN programs located in Kansas include:
- Wichita State University – Wichita, KS
- The University of St. Mary – Leavenworth, KS
RN to NP Programs
If you have been working as a nurse for at least a year and have an associate degree in nursing, you may be able to skip the typical degree requirement (BSN) and go straight to the MSN program (though it will be a little longer in length than a typically MSN program). RN to NP programs available in the state:
- Baker University – Baldwin City, KS
DNP Nurse Practioner Programs
If you’re looking to invest more time into your education in order to seek higher-paying and more advanced career opportunities, you’ll likely want to look at Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. These programs last about 6 years and are located in Kansas at the following schools:
- The University of Kansas – Lawrence, KS
- Wichita State University – Wichita, KS
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. Post-master’s nurse practitioner certificates are not technically degrees. However, they can be 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:
- The Unversity of Kansas – Lawrence, KS
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 designed so that bachelor’s level graduates can achieve an MSN-level education even if they don’t have a nursing degree. As of now, these types of programs are not available in Kansas but they are available at the University of Colorado.
General Admissions Requirements
To apply to a nurse practitioner program, you’ll need to fulfill a number of general admissions requirements. These may be, but are not limited to:
- 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
Kansas NP License and Certification Requirements
To become a nurse practitioner in Kansas, applicants are required to submit supporting documentation, such as their RN license verification, academic transcripts, and any clinical practice records. The application process includes completing the necessary forms and submitting a fee, which typically amounts to about $100. More detailed application instructions can be found on the Kansas Board of Nursing website.
NPs in Kansas are also required to obtain certification in their area of specialization, which is generally available through national certifying bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Certification typically requires proof of completion of a graduate-level NP program and passing a competency exam for the specific specialty.
While Kansas NPs do not have full practice authority as of 2024, they do have collaborative practice agreements that allow them to diagnose and treat patients, as well as prescribe medications in collaboration with a physician. Kansas continues to evaluate the role of NPs in healthcare, with ongoing discussions about expanding their practice rights. For further resources and professional support, NPs can connect with the Kansas State Nurses Association (KSNA), which offers valuable tools, networking, and advocacy for advanced practice nurses across the state.
List of NP Programs in Kansas
Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% National Certification Exam Pass Rate
- Fully Online DNP Program
- Two Pathway Options: BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP
- Minimum 3.0-3.25 GPA Required
- Comprehensive Clinical Experience
- Evidence-Based Practice Focus
- Leadership Skills Development
- Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration
Lawrence, KS
University of Kansas
- Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 19 credit hours total
- Online didactic courses
- Face-to-face clinical experiences
- KU Health System placements
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Advanced practice RN prerequisite
- Acute care specialization
- Two-year completion timeline
- Graduate Certificate - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/campus format
- 16 total graduate credit hours
- Advanced practice RN prerequisite
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- Nationally accredited nursing program
- Comprehensive clinical practicums
- Focuses on adult/geriatric care
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online and campus format.
- Prepares for primary care roles.
- Requires APRN graduate program completion.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
- RN licensure in at least one state.
- Application deadline June 1 for fall.
- Program length two years maximum.
- Includes clinical practicum courses.
- Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 24 credit hours.
- Online program format.
- Courses offered every other year.
- Spring 2026 next start.
- November 1 application deadline.
- APRN graduate program required.
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
- Current RN licensure needed.
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- 1,000 supervised practice hours
- CCNE accredited program
- Multiple specialty options
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Leadership and scholarship focus
- Clinical and leadership tracks
- Advanced nursing practice preparation
- Comprehensive doctoral curriculum
Leavenworth, KS
University of Saint Mary
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 53 credit hours.
- Hybrid online format.
- Two-year completion time.
- $775 per credit hour.
- BSN required for admission.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- RN license needed.
- One year clinical experience.
Topeka, KS
Washburn University
- Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program.
- Flexible self-paced format.
- Clinical placements near home.
- Four semesters to complete.
- 94% certification exam pass rate.
- Student-faculty ratio 10:1.
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification.
- Career forecast bright outlook.
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Online flexible learning format
- 1,000 direct patient care hours
- Nationally accredited program
- 74-76 total credit hours
- Summer start program
- Faculty with active clinical practices
- Bright career outlook
- Average salary $120,610
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- Two program entry points
- Postbaccalaureate and post-master options
- Specializations in multiple areas
- Advanced curriculum focus
- Flexible full/part-time learning
- Healthcare systems knowledge
- Evidence-based practice training
- Multiple healthcare settings preparation
