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

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
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
The University of Southern Mississippi's hybrid Master of Science in Nursing with Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner emphasis requires 34-48 credit hours. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, RN license, and clinical experience. This online program focuses on psychobiological theories, psychopharmacology, and family psychiatric care through clinical practicums. Graduates can sit for national certification exams while maintaining a 3.0 GPA throughout the program.
- 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.
- Health exam proof needed.
- Three reference letters.
Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Southern Mississippi offers a hybrid Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate requiring 26 credit hours over four semesters. This online program combines distance learning with one campus visit per semester, allowing clinicals in local communities. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, current RN license, and recent clinical experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. Accredited by CCNE, graduates are eligible for APRN board certification with a focus on leadership and evidence-based family care.
- 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.
- Recent clinical experience required.
- Fall only program start.
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
This fully online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi requires 28 credit hours over five semesters with no campus visits. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, one year of RN experience, and a Mississippi RN license. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. The CCNE-accredited program prepares nurses for advanced mental health practice and board certification eligibility, emphasizing clinical expertise and leadership.
- 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.
- Fall only admission.
- March 1st application deadline.
MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
This hybrid BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program at the University of Southern Mississippi combines online coursework with minimal campus visits, allowing clinicals in local communities. The 71-credit, three-year program requires a 3.0 GPA and clinical experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. CCNE-accredited, it prepares graduates for national certification and leadership roles in healthcare settings like private clinics and urgent care centers.
- 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
The University of Southern Mississippi's hybrid BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a flexible online format with minimal campus visits. This 73-credit, three-year program requires a 3.0 GPA and one year of RN experience. No entrance exam is mentioned as required. Accredited nationally, it prepares graduates for ANCC certification and diverse mental health settings, emphasizing leadership and scholarly practice through clinical training in local communities.
- 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
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 MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares working nurses for advanced practice through a hybrid format combining digital coursework with campus seminars. This two-year program requires a 3.0 GPA, valid RN license, and one year of clinical experience. The GRE entrance exam is needed for admission, with an application deadline of February 1st. CCNE-accredited, it offers flexible scheduling with part-time options and clinical placements near students' homes.
- 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 provides MSN-prepared nurses with specialized training through a hybrid online format. This program requires GRE scores, a 3.0 GPA, and clinical experience for admission, with an application deadline of February 1st. CCNE-accredited, it combines online courses with campus seminars and offers clinical placements near students' communities, preparing graduates for advanced practice certification.
- 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
- Clinical experience required
- Accredited by CCNE
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Delta State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration offers a rigorous pathway for registered nurses to advance clinical expertise. This program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and professional nursing experience but does not specify an entrance exam. Spanning 3-6 semesters with 65 credit hours and 1,200 clinical hours, it prepares graduates for national certification and leadership roles through evidence-based curriculum.
- 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 hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice with Family Nurse Practitioner concentration empowers nurses to expand patient care capabilities across lifespans. This flexible online program requires a 3.0 GPA but does not specify an entrance exam. With 31-65 credit hours and 1-3 campus visits per semester, it offers BSN and post-master's pathways, clinical hours in MS or AR, and prepares graduates for national certification and state licensure as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses.
- 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
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's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced primary care roles through a 44-credit hybrid curriculum. This program focuses specifically on Family Nurse Practitioner training, equipping graduates to serve diverse populations with comprehensive clinical skills. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, and the GRE requirement is currently waived. The flexible format combines online coursework with hands-on clinical practicums, allowing completion within six years while developing leadership capabilities for underserved communities.
- 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 offers an online Post Master Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner through a hybrid format blending digital learning with campus components. This advanced certificate program provides two track options (20-30 credits) for nurses with prior graduate coursework, focusing on clinical management, genetics, and advanced pharmacology. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, current nursing license, and interview, with the GRE requirement waived. Students complete clinical practicum hours and can finish within six years, emphasizing ethical healthcare delivery and leadership development.
- 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.
- Resume and goal statement required.
- Official transcripts mandatory.
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Alcorn State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration is a 36-credit hybrid program completed in five semesters. This practice-focused doctoral degree prepares Advanced Practice Registered Nurses for leadership roles by translating research into clinical practice to address health disparities. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and requires a DNP Project. As a doctorate-level program, it does not require entrance exams like the GRE, focusing instead on improving healthcare outcomes in complex systems through advanced clinical leadership.
- 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
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 Program | Length | Online/Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi University for Women | 12 Months | Campus |
| University of Southern Mississippi | 5 Semesters | Online (with one visit per semester) |
| Mississippi College | 18 – 24 Months | Online |
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 Name | Tuition Range | Estimated Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi University for Women | $9,000 – $14,000 | 39 |
| Delta State University | $21,000 – $23,000 | 45 – 48 |
| University of Mississippi | $15,000 – $20,000 | 42 |
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 Name | NP Specialty | Credits Required |
|---|---|---|
| University of Mississippi | Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | 39 |
| University of Southern University | Family Nurse Practitioner | 34 – 43 |
| Delta State University | Family Nurse Practitioner | 65 |
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:
- Mississippi University for Women – Columbus, MS
- Mississippi College – Clinton, MS
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:
- University of Mississippi – Lafayette, MS
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:
- Delta State University – Cleveland, MS
- University of Mississippi – Lafayette, MS
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:
- Mississippi University for Women – Columbus, MS
- Delta State University – Cleveland, MS
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:
- Mississippi State University – Meridian, MS
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
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
