Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs Online in Mississippi
- 2027 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.
2027 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 offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner emphasis. This hybrid program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles. Students complete 34-48 credit hours. Admission requires a BSN, 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, RN license, and clinical experience. Graduates can sit for national certification exams. The program focuses on psychobiological theories, psychopharmacology, and family psychiatric care. It includes clinical practicum courses. Students must maintain 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 Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate for advanced nursing professionals. This post-graduate certificate requires 26 credit hours over four semesters. It prepares nurses for expanded clinical practice in family care settings. The hybrid program combines online didactic courses with one campus visit per semester. Clinical requirements can be completed in local communities. Admission requires a BSN from an accredited institution, a 3.0 GPA, current RN license, and recent clinical experience. The program aligns with national nurse practitioner competencies. Graduates are eligible for APRN board certification. It focuses on leadership in nursing practice and evidence-based 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
The University of Southern Mississippi offers a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice in mental health care. It requires 28 credit hours over five semesters. Courses are fully online, with no campus visits needed. Admission requires a BSN, a 3.0 GPA, one year of RN experience, and a Mississippi RN license. The program is accredited and leads to board certification eligibility. It focuses on clinical expertise and leadership in nursing practice.
- 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
The University of Southern Mississippi's BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles. The hybrid format combines online didactic coursework with one campus visit per semester and clinical placements in students' local communities. The curriculum covers leadership, evidence-based care, advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and pathophysiology over 71 credit hours and three years. Full-time and part-time study is available. The program aligns with the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Competencies and the APRN Consensus Model. Graduates are eligible for ANCC or AANP certification and pursue careers in private clinics, urgent care, federally qualified health centers, and nursing education. CCNE accredited. Requires 3.0 GPA, one year RN clinical experience, and a statistics prerequisite.
- CCNE accredited
- 3-Year program
- 71 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
- One campus visit per semester
MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Southern Mississippi's BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in mental health care. The curriculum emphasizes leadership in nursing practice, with online didactic courses complemented by one campus visit per semester. Students complete clinical hours in their own communities, gaining hands-on experience in diverse settings such as private mental health clinics, federally qualified health centers, and inpatient facilities. Graduates are eligible for national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. The program requires 73 credit hours over three years and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With both full-time and part-time options, working nurses can balance education with professional responsibilities. The dedicated faculty focus on developing experts in clinical practice, scholarship, and service to improve mental health outcomes across populations.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 3-Year program
- 73 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for ANCC
BSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Family Nurse Practitioner) (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
- CCNE accredited
- 3-Year program
- 71 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for ANCC or AANPCB
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 offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. This hybrid program combines online coursework with campus seminars, allowing for flexible scheduling. Admission requires a BSN with a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, and one year of recent RN experience. The program is accredited by CCNE and offers both full-time (2-year) and part-time study options. Clinical placements can be arranged near students' communities with faculty approval.
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Hybrid online and campus format
- Full-time study in 2 years
- Part-time study available
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- GRE entrance exam required
- One year RN experience required
- February 1st application deadline
- Clinical placements near home
Graduate Certificate - Post Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Delta State University offers a Post Master's Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate for nurses with an MSN degree. This hybrid program combines online courses with campus seminars. Admission requires an MSN with a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, and clinical experience. The program focuses on family nurse practitioner training with clinical placements near students' communities. It provides certification for advanced practice nursing roles.
- 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 (DNP) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration is designed for registered nurses seeking to elevate their practice. The curriculum combines advanced theory, evidence-based methods, health policy, and leadership, culminating in a DNP project. Students gain skills to assess, diagnose, and manage patients across the lifespan, preparing for national certification as an FNP. With multiple entry points (BSN or MSN), flexible full-time or part-time pacing, and clinical placements in Mississippi or Arkansas, this program fits working professionals. Graduates pursue roles as FNPs, nurse educators, or healthcare leaders. Small campus visits per semester and dedicated online advisement support success. Accredited by CCNE and offering graduate funding opportunities, it's a practical path to advanced nursing practice.
- CCNE accredited
- Complete in 1.5 to 3 year program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for AANP or ANCC
BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Delta State University's online BSN to DNP program with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares registered nurses for advanced practice. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and family practice across the lifespan. Students complete 1,200 clinical hours in Mississippi or Arkansas and engage in a DNP capstone project. Graduates are eligible for AANP or ANCC certification and APRN licensure, opening doors to primary care roles, leadership positions like director of nursing, and opportunities to teach at the graduate level. The hybrid format combines online coursework with 1-3 campus visits per semester, offering flexibility for working nurses. Full-time and part-time paths are available, with program completion in 1.5 to 3 years. CCNE-accredited, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, health policy, and interprofessional collaboration to prepare leaders in diverse healthcare settings.
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- Complete in 1.5 to 3 year program
- 65 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 1200 clinical hours
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
Alcorn State University
Alcorn State, MS - Public 4-Year - alcorn.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post Master Certificate Option Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Alcorn State University offers a Post Master Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles. It features two tracks: a 20-credit option for those with prior coursework and a 23-30 credit option for others. The hybrid format blends online and campus learning. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, a nursing license, and an interview. Costs vary, and financial aid may be available. The curriculum includes clinical management and genetics courses. Students complete practicum hours. The program takes up to six years to finish. It focuses on leadership and ethical healthcare delivery.
- 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.
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).
See Related Articles
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
Browse Our List of Programs
Alcorn State, MS
Alcorn State University
- 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.
Cleveland, MS
Delta State University
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Family Nurse Practitioner concentration
- Hybrid online and campus format
- Full-time study in 2 years
- Part-time study available
- CCNE accredited program
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- GRE entrance exam required
- One year RN experience required
- 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
- CCNE accredited
- Complete in 1.5 to 3 year program
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- Prerequisite courses required
Columbus, MS
Mississippi University for Women
- BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- 39 semester hours required
- 12-month program length
- Family Nurse Practitioner track
- BSN and RN experience required
- Primary care focus
- Advanced nursing practice
- Evidence-based practice
- Prepares for doctoral education
- 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
- CCNE accredited
- 3-Year program
- 71 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
- MSN to DNP - Nursing (BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 3-Year program
- 73 total credit hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Work experience required
