If you’re a nurse based in Mississippi, then you know firsthand how desperate the state is for advanced-practice nurses and nurse practitioners, especially with the ongoing nursing shortage. Cities such as Jackson and Biloxi as well as rural communities across the state have seen this deficit first hand and the time has never been more inviting for nurses to level up their careers into more advanced and specialized roles. Take a look at the sections below to learn about some of the best nurse practitioner degree programs in the state. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Mississippi

At RegisteredNursing.org, we understand the critical importance of accessible nursing education, especially through online nurse practitioner programs in Mississippi. Our comprehensive rankings highlight the top virtual nursing programs that enable aspiring healthcare professionals to advance their careers without geographic limitations. These remote learning opportunities provide working nurses flexible pathways to earn advanced degrees, allowing them to balance professional responsibilities while pursuing higher education. Mississippi's online nurse practitioner programs offer comprehensive curricula that prepare students for advanced clinical roles, addressing the state's growing healthcare needs. By leveraging distance learning technologies, these programs ensure that dedicated nurses can enhance their skills and expand their professional opportunities without sacrificing current employment. Review our detailed ranking methodology
#1

Alcorn State University

Alcorn State, MS - Public 4-Year - alcorn.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Alcorn State University offers a comprehensive online and hybrid Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Family Nurse Practitioner program targeting ambitious healthcare professionals. This 44-credit degree prepares students to deliver primary care across diverse populations, with a strategic focus on underserved communities. The program uniquely combines theoretical learning with extensive clinical practicums, emphasizing leadership development and advanced practice skills. Currently, the GRE requirement is waived, making entry more accessible. Students benefit from a flexible six-year completion timeline and must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Multiple clinical practicums and professional liability insurance requirements ensure graduates are thoroughly prepared for advanced nursing roles.

  • 44 credit hours total program
  • Thesis or non-thesis option
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Six-year completion timeline
  • Multiple clinical practicums included
  • GRE requirement currently waived
  • Leadership development focus
  • Prepares primary care providers
  • Professional liability insurance required

Graduate Certificate - Post Master Certificate Option Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Alcorn State University's Post Master Certificate Option in Family Nurse Practitioner is a specialized online and hybrid program designed for licensed nurses seeking advanced expertise. Offering two distinct tracks, the program accommodates diverse educational backgrounds and focuses on advanced pharmacology, physical assessment, and clinical skills. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, current nursing license, and 3.0 GPA. The 20-30 credit hour curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical training, emphasizing leadership, ethical considerations, and healthcare outcomes. This certificate provides a strategic pathway for nurses aiming to enhance their clinical practice and professional capabilities in family nursing.

  • Two program tracks available.
  • 20-30 credit hours required.
  • Focus on advanced nursing skills.
  • Leadership and ethical training included.
  • Requires current nursing license.
  • 3.0 GPA for admission.
  • Bachelor's degree prerequisite.
  • Emphasis on healthcare outcomes.
  • Practical and theoretical blend.
  • Prepares for advanced practice roles.

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Alcorn State University's online and hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner is an innovative 36-credit program designed for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses seeking transformative leadership roles. Completed in five consecutive semesters, the curriculum emphasizes translating research into practice, improving healthcare outcomes, and addressing systemic health disparities. With a strong commitment to evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration, the program prepares graduates to drive meaningful change in complex healthcare environments. The required DNP Project ensures students develop advanced clinical leadership skills and contribute substantively to nursing science and patient care.

  • 36-credit hour curriculum
  • Five semester continuous study
  • Practice-focused doctoral degree
  • Advanced clinical nursing leadership
  • Research application focused
  • DNP Project required
  • Interdisciplinary team skills
  • Complex health systems emphasis
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Delta State University

Cleveland, MS - Public 4-Year - deltastate.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Delta State University's online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration provides a robust two-year program tailored for working nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. The hybrid format allows flexibility with online coursework and strategic campus seminars, enabling students to balance professional responsibilities. Requiring a 3.0 GPA, valid RN license, and one year of clinical experience, the program prepares graduates to deliver comprehensive patient care. Students must complete the Graduate Record Exam and can arrange clinical opportunities near their home community, ensuring a practical and accessible educational pathway.

  • Online MSN FNP program
  • Two-year full-time study
  • Part-time options available
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • One year clinical experience
  • Graduate Record Exam needed
  • Application deadline February 1st
  • Online courses with seminars
  • Clinical opportunities near home
  • CCNE accredited program

Graduate Certificate - Post Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Delta State University's Post Master's Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate offers an innovative online program designed for BSN graduates seeking specialized advanced nursing education. With multiple nursing specialization tracks, including Nurse Administrator, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Practitioner, the curriculum provides comprehensive professional development. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA, submit GRE scores, and possess one year of clinical nursing experience. The flexible two-year program accommodates both full-time and part-time students, featuring online courses complemented by strategic campus seminars and adaptable clinical placement opportunities.

  • Online MSN Program
  • Multiple Nursing Specializations
  • Full & Part-time Options
  • 3.0 GPA Requirement
  • One Year Clinical Experience
  • Flexible Clinical Placements
  • Graduate Record Exam Required
  • Two-Year Program Length
  • Post-Master's Certificate Available

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Delta State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a transformative pathway for registered nurses to elevate their clinical expertise. This rigorous program prepares healthcare professionals to deliver evidence-based care across patient lifespans through a comprehensive curriculum. Spanning 3-6 semesters, the program supports both BSN and post-master's students with full and part-time options. Requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and professional nursing experience, graduates gain advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and national certification preparation. The program encompasses 65 credit hours and 1,200 clinical hours, ensuring comprehensive professional development.

  • Online DNP program
  • Full and part-time options
  • 65 total credit hours
  • 1,200 total clinical hours
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership and advanced practice focus
  • 3-6 semester completion timeline
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Delta State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Family Nurse Practitioner concentration empowers nurses to advance their healthcare careers through a flexible online curriculum. Designed for registered nurses with baccalaureate or master's degrees, the program offers comprehensive preparation for delivering patient care across diverse age groups. With 31-65 credit hours and 1-3 campus visits per semester, students can pursue full-time or part-time study. The program prepares graduates for national certification and Advanced Practice Registered Nurse licensure, emphasizing leadership skills and evidence-based practice through a nationally accredited curriculum with clinical hours in Mississippi or Arkansas.

  • Online DNP program
  • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
  • 31-65 total credit hours
  • Full-time and part-time options
  • 1-3 campus visits per semester
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • BSN and post-master's pathways
  • Nationally accredited program
  • Clinical hours in MS or AR
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS - Public 4-Year - usm.edu

BSN to MSN - Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), M.S.N.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

USM's Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration provides rigorous advanced practice training. The hybrid program delivers comprehensive mental healthcare education spanning 34-48 credit hours. Students develop advanced clinical skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and management, with a particular emphasis on rural and community mental health needs. Requiring a 3.0 GPA and current RN license, the program prepares graduates for national certification examinations. Clinical practicums complement theoretical coursework, ensuring students gain practical expertise in addressing complex psychiatric healthcare challenges.

  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • Psychiatric mental health concentration
  • 34-48 total credit hours
  • Clinical practicum experiences
  • National certification preparation
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • RN license prerequisite
  • Hybrid program format
  • Comprehensive exam required

Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Southern Mississippi's Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers a comprehensive hybrid online learning experience designed for advanced nursing professionals. Students can pursue BSN to DNP or Post-Graduate Certificate pathways, with flexible coursework that minimizes campus visits. The program emphasizes practical clinical training in local communities, preparing graduates for national certification across diverse healthcare settings. Requiring a 3.0 GPA and minimum one-year RN experience, this CCNE-accredited program supports full and part-time study options. Graduates are equipped to excel in private clinics, urgent care centers, and federally qualified health centers, demonstrating leadership and advanced clinical expertise.

  • BSN to DNP and Certificate Options
  • Hybrid Learning Format
  • Online Didactic Courses
  • 3.0 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
  • Requires 1+ Year RN Experience
  • 71 Credit Hours for DNP
  • National Certification Eligible
  • Full and Part-Time Study
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • Clinical Hours in Local Communities

Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

USM's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate offers an advanced hybrid program targeting experienced nurses seeking specialized mental health training. The curriculum combines online coursework with strategic campus interactions, preparing students for complex clinical, educational, and administrative roles. Admission requires a BSN, GRE scores, 3.0 GPA, and active RN license. The program spans 28 credits with comprehensive preparation for APRN Board certification. Students benefit from a scholarly approach focused on leadership, research, and improving mental health outcomes across diverse patient populations.

  • Hybrid online/campus format.
  • BSN to DNP option available.
  • Post-Graduate Certificate option.
  • Requires 73 hours over 3 years.
  • MSN option requires 46 credits.
  • Post-Graduate Certificate: 28 credits.
  • Full and part-time study options.
  • Clinical experience required.
  • 3.0 GPA in undergraduate nursing.
  • GRE scores required.

MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Southern Mississippi's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program offers a dynamic hybrid pathway for working nurses seeking advanced clinical leadership. This comprehensive 71-credit hour program combines online learning with minimal campus visits, allowing students to complete clinical requirements locally. Designed for nurses with minimum one-year experience, the curriculum emphasizes professional development and national certification preparation. Graduates emerge as expert clinicians ready to serve in diverse healthcare settings, including private practices, urgent care centers, and academic environments, supported by CCNE accreditation and flexible full/part-time study options.

  • Hybrid online/campus program
  • 71 credit hours total
  • 3 years to complete DNP
  • Requires 1+ year RN experience
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Full and part-time options
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership focused curriculum
  • Clinical hours in local community

MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

USM's BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program transforms experienced RNs into advanced mental health specialists through an innovative hybrid learning model. Spanning 73 credit hours, the program offers comprehensive online coursework with strategic campus interactions. Students develop sophisticated clinical skills, leadership capabilities, and scholarly practice techniques. Requiring a 3.0 GPA and minimum one-year RN experience, the curriculum prepares graduates for ANCC certification and diverse mental health professional roles. Full and part-time options accommodate varied student schedules, ensuring accessibility and flexibility.

  • Hybrid Online/Campus Program
  • 73 Total Credit Hours
  • 3-Year DNP Option
  • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
  • One Year RN Experience
  • Clinical Hours in Local Community
  • ANCC Exam Preparation
  • Full and Part-Time Options
  • National Accreditation

BSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner) (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

  • Hybrid program format
  • 71 credit hours
  • 3 years duration
  • BSN required for admission
  • GRE scores needed
  • Current RN license required
  • Focus on Family Nurse Practitioner
  • Eligible for national certification
  • Leadership in nursing practice
  • Evidence-based care focus
Show 5 More Programs ˅
*Data source: NCES IPEDS survey, 2024.

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

At some point in their career, many nurses consider more advanced and higher-paying positions within the medical field. The role of a nurse practitioner is one of the highest-paying and independent positions that nurses can strive for but many but few realize just how easy it is nowadays to become a nurse practitioner and how fast and affordable nurse practitioner programs have become, especially if they have already graduated from a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program. Learn about the quickest and cheapest nurse practitioner positions in Mississippi in the sections below.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

There are many educational routes to becoming a nurse practitioner, but the fastest (in general) is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs typically take between 2 – 6 years to complete but through the use of online learning and summer programs, you may be able to complete your program much faster than a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree or even the minimum 2 years usually needed to graduate from an MSN program. Here are some of the fastest MSN programs located in Mississippi.

NP ProgramLengthOnline/Campus
Mississippi University for Women12 MonthsCampus
University of Southern Mississippi5 SemestersOnline (with one visit per semester)
Mississippi College18 – 24 MonthsOnline

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

There are hundreds of nurse practitioner programs across the state, but students based in Mississippi are fortunate to have access to both well-respected and affordable nurse practitioner programs all equipped with a number of specialized curriculums. Again, MSN programs outshine some of the other nurse practitioner degree routes as they’re much shorter and therefore are much cheaper to attend. Here are just a few of the more affordable MSN options in the state:

School NameTuition RangeEstimated Credits
Mississippi University for Women$9,000 – $14,00039
Delta State University$21,000 – $23,00045 – 48
University of Mississippi$15,000 – $20,00042

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

The ability to specialize in a particular practice area is one major factor that draws many nurses to graduate school every year. Regardless of whether you decide to go with an MSN or DNP, you can find all sorts of fascinating NP specializations throughout Mississippi’s colleges and universities. Here are a few examples you may be interested in:

School NameNP SpecialtyCredits Required
University of MississippiAdult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner39
University of Southern UniversityFamily Nurse Practitioner34 – 43
Delta State UniversityFamily Nurse Practitioner65

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

As mentioned, there are alternative educational routes for becoming a nurse practitioner besides MSN and DNP degrees. Below are a few other degree options you be interested based on your own specific circumstances.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs, for most working nurses, are the fastest route to becoming a nurse practitioner. They generally take between 2 and 6 years and come in a variety of specializations. Examples in Mississippi:

RN to NP Programs

RN to NP programs (also known as RN to MSN programs and ADN/ASN programs) are ideal for nurses who want to become nurse practitioners and have an associate’s degree in nursing and an RN license. They usually take about four years, give or take, depending on how many credits you’re able to transfer. Here are some options in Mississippi:

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

If you want to gain the highest level of education you can obtain as a nurse practitioner and you don’t have a limit on the time you want to invest, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a great option. These degrees take a minimum of 6 years to complete, but they often result in higher-paying and more advanced career aspects. In Mississippi, they’re offered by:

Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs

While they’re not technically degrees, Post-Master's Nursing Certificates are a great option for licensed nurse practitioners who want to change their specialization or dual specialize in a different practice area. Here are a few that are available in Mississippi:

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. Here are a few located in Mississippi:

General Admissions Requirements

As with any type of degree program, the specific admissions requirements will depend on the school. However, you can generally expect to submit 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

Mississippi NP License and Certification Requirements

If you want to become a nurse practitioner in Mississippi, you’ll need to get licensed and certified in a field of your choice. The two main requirements you’ll need to achieve this are a valid RN license and a graduate degree which reflects your specialization. Once these qualifications are met, you will need to submit various documents, including proof of your RN license, transcripts, and evidence of completing clinical training. The application process requires completing a formal application form and paying an application fee, typically around $175. More information and detailed instructions for NP licensure/certification in Mississippi can be found on the state’s licensing website.

Once you’ve gone through the licensure process, you must be certified in your specialty area. Certification can be earned through national organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Certification requirements usually include holding a current RN license and completing a graduate-level NP program in a specialty field. Applicants are often required to pass a certification exam to demonstrate their expertise.

As of 2024, Mississippi offers a reduced practice environment for nurse practitioners. This means that NPs must work under the supervision of a physician for certain aspects of care, including prescribing medications. However, efforts to expand NP practice authority continue in the state. NPs seeking support and additional resources can access information and advocacy through the Mississippi Nurses Association (MNA), which plays a vital role in advancing the profession and providing continuing education opportunities for nurse practitioners.

List of NP Programs in Mississippi

Jump to City:

Alcorn State, MS

Alcorn State University

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

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 44 credit hours total program
    • Thesis or non-thesis option
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Six-year completion timeline
    • Multiple clinical practicums included
    • GRE requirement currently waived
    • Leadership development focus
    • Prepares primary care providers
  • Graduate Certificate - Post Master Certificate Option Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Post Master Certificate program.
    • Family Nurse Practitioner focus.
    • 20-30 credit hour tracks.
    • Hybrid online and campus format.
    • Up to six years completion time.
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
    • Current nursing license needed.
    • Three letters of recommendation.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 36-credit hour curriculum
    • Five semester continuous study
    • Practice-focused doctoral degree
    • Advanced clinical nursing leadership
    • Research application focused
    • DNP Project required
    • Interdisciplinary team skills
    • Complex health systems emphasis

Cleveland, MS

Delta State University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Online MSN FNP program
    • Two-year full-time study
    • Part-time options available
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • One year clinical experience
    • Graduate Record Exam needed
    • Application deadline February 1st
    • Online courses with seminars
  • Graduate Certificate - Post Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Post Master's certificate program
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • Hybrid online and campus format
    • Online courses with campus seminars
    • Clinical placements near student's home
    • Requires MSN degree for admission
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • GRE scores required
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online DNP program
    • Full and part-time options
    • 65 total credit hours
    • 1,200 total clinical hours
    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • National certification preparation
    • Leadership and advanced practice focus

Columbus, MS

Mississippi University for Women

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Family Nurse Practitioner track
    • 39 semester hours total
    • 12-month program duration
    • Requires BSN degree
    • Two years nursing experience needed
    • Full nursing accreditation status
    • Patient-centered care approach
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice
  • Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate APRN Certificate

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
    • 23-30 credit hours required
    • 660 clinical practice hours
    • Campus-based program delivery
    • Uses MSN FNP curriculum courses
    • Advanced Health Assessment included
    • Advanced Pharmacology included
    • Advanced Pathophysiology prerequisite

Hattiesburg, MS

University of Southern Mississippi

  • BSN to MSN - Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), M.S.N.

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • 34-48 credit hours.
    • BSN required for admission.
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement.
    • GRE scores required.
    • Current RN license needed.
    • One year clinical experience.
    • CPR certification required.
  • Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 26 credit hours required.
    • Four semester program length.
    • Hybrid online and campus format.
    • One campus visit per semester.
    • Clinicals in local communities.
    • BSN from accredited institution required.
    • 3.0 GPA minimum.
    • Current RN license needed.
  • Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 28 credit hours required.
    • Five semesters program length.
    • Fully online delivery.
    • BSN and 3.0 GPA needed.
    • One year RN experience required.
    • Mississippi RN license needed.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Eligible for board certification.
  • MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/campus program
    • 71 credit hours total
    • 3 years to complete DNP
    • Requires 1+ year RN experience
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Full and part-time options
    • National certification preparation
    • Leadership focused curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid Online/Campus Program
    • 73 Total Credit Hours
    • 3-Year DNP Option
    • 3.0 Minimum GPA Required
    • One Year RN Experience
    • Clinical Hours in Local Community
    • ANCC Exam Preparation
    • Full and Part-Time Options
*Information sourced from the NCES Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (2024).