Whether you’re based in Concord or Manchester, New Hampshire is a fantastic place to be a nurse. But if at a certain point you might find yourself looking for more independent and better paying roles within the medical field, you may want to consider becoming a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners have some of the highest salaries in the medical field and best of all, they get to specialize in unique and interesting practice areas that they’re passionate about. Jump to program listings.

2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in New Hampshire

#1

Rivier University

Nashua, NH - Private 4-year - rivier.edu

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Rivier University's Adult Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AG-ACNP) online MSN program equips healthcare professionals to address complex medical needs of aging populations. With a competitive cost of $725-$1,132 per credit and a flexible 3.5-5 year program length, students gain advanced clinical skills in acute care settings. The 48-54 credit hybrid program combines online coursework with short campus residencies, preparing graduates to assess patients, interpret diagnostics, and develop comprehensive treatment plans. Ranked #6 nationally for online nurse practitioner programs, this degree offers multiple entry paths for RNs and leads to AGACNP certification.

  • Multiple entry paths
  • Online with 10-day campus residency
  • 48-54 total credit hours
  • 3.5-5 year program length
  • Per credit cost $725-$1,132
  • Prepares for AGACNP certification
  • Low 6.1% nationwide certification rate
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Advanced clinical skills training

Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner—Post-Master's Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Rivier University's Adult Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate equips experienced nurses with advanced skills to provide comprehensive care for patients aged 17 through end-of-life. This rigorous online program allows healthcare professionals to expand their clinical expertise, specializing in acute care settings. Students gain critical competencies in patient assessment, diagnostic test interpretation, medication prescription, and comprehensive treatment planning. With a low-residency format featuring online coursework and eight campus days, the program offers flexibility for working professionals. Minimum 19 credit hours can be completed in approximately five semesters, with nursing course credits at $725 and clinical course credits at $1,132 per credit.

  • #1 NH Nursing School
  • Online with 8 campus days
  • 17+ age patient care focus
  • Minimum 19 credit hours
  • Five semester completion
  • ACEN Accredited Program
  • Post-Master's Certificate Option
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

University of New Hampshire

Durham, NH - Public 4-Year - unh.edu

BSN to MSN - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Advance your nursing career with UNH's online Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner program. Designed for passionate nurses seeking comprehensive primary care expertise, this 27-month, 52-credit degree prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver holistic healthcare across the lifespan. Students gain critical skills in health assessment, disease management, and evidence-based practice through a dynamic curriculum. With state-of-the-art simulation facilities and experienced faculty, graduates emerge ready to sit for national certification and practice autonomously in diverse healthcare settings.

  • Online Master's Degree
  • 52 Credit Hours
  • 27-Month Program Length
  • 750 Clinical Hours
  • 3.0 GPA Requirement
  • RN License Needed
  • Fall Deadline: June 15
  • Spring Deadline: November 1
  • Application Fee: $65
  • Nationally Accredited Program

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of New Hampshire's online Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares experienced nurses to excel in high-intensity medical environments. Designed for BSN-prepared registered nurses, this 46-credit, 24-month program offers comprehensive training in acute care settings like hospitals and ambulatory centers. Graduates gain advanced skills in diagnostic reasoning, treatment planning, and patient management, positioning themselves for critical roles in cardiology, critical care, and specialty clinics. With a focus on evidence-based practice, the program enables students to sit for national certification exams and potentially prescribe medications. Tuition information is available on the UNH Business Services website, and federal financial aid options exist through FAFSA.

  • Online Master's degree program
  • 46 total credit hours
  • 24-month program length
  • 500 clinical practice hours
  • National certification preparation
  • Prescriptive authority possible
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • One year nursing experience preferred
  • Diverse career opportunities
  • Evidence-based practice focus

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of New Hampshire's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Master's program prepares experienced registered nurses to become advanced mental health professionals. This comprehensive 50-credit, 30-month program equips students with advanced clinical skills to assess, diagnose, and manage mental healthcare across patient lifespans. Graduates become eligible for the ANCC board certification exam, opening doors to diverse career opportunities in settings ranging from private practices to integrated behavioral health centers. The program combines online learning with high-fidelity simulations and intensive clinical practicums, ensuring students develop expert-level competencies in psychiatric care.

  • Online Master's degree program
  • 50 total credit hours
  • 30-month program length
  • 750 clinical practice hours
  • Full and part-time options
  • ANCC certification preparation
  • Experienced nursing faculty
  • Minimum 1 year RN experience required
  • Across lifespan patient care focus
  • Competency-based curriculum

Graduate Certificate - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Elevate your nursing career with UNH's Post-Master's Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certificate. Designed for experienced nurses with a master's degree, this specialized online program prepares advanced practice registered nurses to provide comprehensive healthcare across all life stages. You'll develop critical skills in health assessment, disease management, and patient-centered care through a rigorous curriculum combining theory and evidence-based practice. The program offers individualized study plans, clinical simulation experiences, and prepares graduates to sit for national certification. With flexible online learning and support from expert faculty, nurses can expand their professional scope and make a meaningful impact in diverse healthcare settings.

  • Online Post-Master's Certificate
  • 750 Clinical Practice Hours
  • Customized Individual Study Plans
  • Prepares for National Certification
  • Advanced Health Assessment Focus
  • State-of-the-Art Simulation Center
  • Comprehensive Lifespan Care Approach
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
  • Unencumbered RN License Needed
  • Two Professional Recommendations

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Elevate your nursing career with UNH's Post-Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Online Certificate. Designed for advanced practice registered nurses, this intensive 29-credit program prepares healthcare professionals to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health patients across all life stages. Complete the program in just 17 months through a flexible online format with high-impact clinical practicums. Graduates become eligible for the ANCC certification exam, opening doors to diverse career opportunities in mental health settings like private practice, telehealth, and integrated behavioral health care.

  • Online graduate certificate program
  • 29 total credit hours
  • 17-month program length
  • 750 clinical hours required
  • Three on-campus intensives
  • Synchronous and asynchronous learning
  • For licensed APRNs
  • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Multiple mental health career paths

Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Post-Master's Certificate)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 500 clinical training hours
  • Online post-master's certificate
  • 25 total program credits
  • Designed for experienced nurses
  • Advanced acute care specialization

MSN to DNP - Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner (Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 80 credit hours total
  • 4-year online program
  • 750 clinical practice hours
  • Prepares for FNP certification
  • Asynchronous course delivery
  • Leadership and innovation focus
  • Advanced clinical assessment skills
  • Doctoral-level scholarly project
  • Comprehensive healthcare leadership preparation

MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 80 total credit hours
  • Fully online program
  • 750 clinical practice hours
  • ANCC certification eligible
  • Post-baccalaureate doctoral degree
  • Customizable program length
  • Small class sizes
  • Expert faculty mentorship
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Advanced practice preparation

MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 76 total program credits
  • Fully online asynchronous format
  • 500 clinical practice hours
  • Small class sizes
  • Dedicated faculty advisor
  • Doctoral scholarly project required
  • National certification preparation
  • Leadership skill development
  • Flexible professional schedule
  • Evidence-based practice focus

BSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (D.N.P.)

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online DNP program with flexible schedule
  • 750 total clinical hours
  • 76 total credit hours
  • Prepares for ANCC/AACN certification
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Advanced clinical management training
  • Customizable program length
  • Develops healthcare transformation skills
  • Designed for working RNs
  • Focuses on acute care settings

BSN to DNP - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online DNP program
  • 80 total credit hours
  • 4-year program length
  • 750 clinical hours
  • Leadership development focus
  • Small class sizes
  • Asynchronous coursework
  • Doctoral scholarly project
  • Full-time nurse friendly
  • 3.2 minimum GPA required

BSN to DNP - Bachelors of Science in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • 80 total credit hours
  • Online flexible learning format
  • 750 clinical practice hours
  • ANCC certification preparation
  • Advanced leadership training
  • Comprehensive mental health focus
  • Doctoral scholarly project required
  • Expert faculty mentorship
  • Interdisciplinary healthcare approach
Show 11 More Programs ˅
#3

University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online

Manchester, NH - Public 4-Year - cps.unh.edu

BSN to MSN - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of New Hampshire's online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program is a comprehensive pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced practice roles in primary care. Designed for healthcare professionals who want to expand their clinical expertise, this 27-month program prepares students to provide patient-centered care across the lifespan. Students develop advanced skills in health assessment, disease management, and evidence-based practice through a rigorous curriculum that includes 52 credit hours and 750 clinical hours. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can practice autonomously in diverse healthcare settings, from primary care clinics to hospitals and community health centers.

  • Online 27-month MSN program
  • 52 credit hours total
  • 750 clinical hours required
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Advanced practice nursing focus
  • GPA requirement 3.0+
  • Unencumbered RN license needed
  • Comprehensive health management curriculum
  • State-of-art simulation center

BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Transform your nursing career with UNH's advanced Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program. This comprehensive online master's degree prepares nurses to excel in critical and complex medical environments, providing specialized care for adult and geriatric patients. In just 24 months, students complete 46 credit hours and 500 clinical hours, gaining expertise in diagnostic reasoning, patient management, and evidence-based practice. The program offers flexible learning with a focus on acute care settings like hospitals and ambulatory centers. Graduates are positioned to sit for national certification, potentially increasing career opportunities and earning potential in specialized healthcare roles.

  • Online Master's degree program
  • 46 total credit hours
  • 500 clinical practice hours
  • 24-month program length
  • Prepares for AACN/ANCC certification
  • Minimal work experience required
  • Focuses on acute care settings
  • Nationally accredited nursing program
  • Supports prescription authorization
  • Diverse career pathway opportunities

BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of New Hampshire's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Master's program equips experienced registered nurses with advanced skills to assess, diagnose, and manage mental health care across patient lifespans. Designed for working professionals, the 30-month, 50-credit program combines online learning with clinical practicums, preparing graduates for board certification. Students complete 750 clinical hours and participate in intensive experiences, developing expertise in mental health treatment settings ranging from private practice to telehealth services.

  • Online 30-month masters program
  • 750 total clinical hours
  • ANCC board certification eligible
  • Full and part-time options
  • Minimum 1 year RN experience required
  • Across lifespan mental health focus
  • Three program intensives
  • Advanced practice nursing leadership
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH - Private 4-year - snhu.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Elevate your nursing career with Southern New Hampshire University's comprehensive Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Master of Science in Nursing program. Designed for ambitious nurses seeking advanced practice credentials, this 51-credit online degree prepares you to become a primary care provider across patient lifespans. With a competitive tuition of $637 per credit and flexible learning options, students can complete the program in as little as two years. The curriculum combines innovative online coursework with a transformative week-long immersion experience and 750 clinical practicum hours, ensuring graduates are fully equipped to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in diverse healthcare settings.

  • 51-credit online MSN program
  • $637 per credit tuition
  • 2-3.5 years completion time
  • 750 clinical practicum hours
  • Multi-day immersion experience
  • Prepares for national certification
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Two years RN experience needed
  • Unencumbered RN license required
  • Flexible part-time options
*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2024. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Depending on your level of exposure to nurse practitioner programs, you personally may not think to describe them using the words “fast” and “affordable.” But surprisingly, cheap and quick nurse practitioner programs are actually widely available in New Hampshire — if you know where to look.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

The fastest educational track for students with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). This option allows students to become nurse practitioners in as little as two years, and sometimes even less if utilizing online learning options or summer programs. This is a much faster timeline than a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree which can take almost a decade to complete. One great option for fast MSN programs in New Hampshire is Southern New Hampshire University which offers an online program.

What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?

Whether they’re already working in the nursing field or just starting out, when researching nurse practitioner programs the first question on everyone’s mind is “How much is it going to cost?” You may be surprised to learn that nurse practitioner programs located in New Hampshire (especially MSN programs) can be much lower than programs offered in other states. This is especially true if you have established residency in New Hampshire and you’re looking for schools with smaller nursing programs and in areas where the cost of living is lower. One good example is Colby Sawyer College which has a tuition range between $8,000 and $15,000.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the most well-known benefits to nurse practitioner programs is that they allow students to specialize in a particular medical field such as pediatrics, cardiology, or nursing education. This is true regardless of the level of degree you choose. For example, Rivier University offers an MSN program that specializes in Family Nurse Practice.

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

If a traditional MSN or DNP doesn’t work for your specific needs, don’t fret! There are several different types of nurse practitioner programs beyond these two options. Depending on what degree level you’re currently at, you may be eligible to enroll in a bridge program which could shorten your graduation time saving you thousands of dollars in the process.

MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs

As mentioned, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is one of the most common NP degrees. It is available in many NP specializations and takes about two years to complete. Here are a few you can find in New Hampshire:

RN to NP Programs

More commonly known as ADN to MSN programs or RN to MSN programs, this bridge track allows registered nurses with an associate’s degree to bypass the typical BSN degree and move to an accelerated version followed by a shortened MSN curriculum. Southern New Hampshire University currently offers the state’s only RN to MSN program.

DNP Nurse Practioner Programs

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree an NP can obtain. These programs can take 6-8 years to complete, depending on the education level you enter with. Examples in the state include:

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:

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, allow non-nurses with a bachelor's degree in an alternative area to become nurse practitioners in a shorter amount of time. Examples in New Hampshire include:

General Admissions Requirements

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices of nurse practitioner programs, it’s time to start applying! Below are the usual admissions requirements you can expect:

  • 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

New Hampshire NP License and Certification Requirements

Following your nurse practitioner degree program, you'll need to gather the necessary documents—like proof of your RN license and transcripts from your nurse practitioner program. Then, you'll submit an application to the New Hampshire Board of Nursing and pay the required fee, which is usually around $100. Be sure to follow the board's detailed instructions to avoid any issues with your application.

You'll also need to get certified in your specialty area. Certification is available through organizations like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Most certifications require you to pass an exam, so you'll need to prepare for that after completing your graduate program.

The good news? As of 2023, New Hampshire grants nurse practitioners full practice authority. This means you can diagnose, create treatment plans, and even prescribe medications independently, without needing physician supervision.

For additional support, continuing education, and professional resources, you can connect with the New Hampshire Nurse Practitioner Association (NHNPA), which provides valuable resources for NPs in the state.

List of NP Programs in New Hampshire

Jump to City:

Durham, NH

University of New Hampshire

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's degree program
    • 46 total credit hours
    • 24-month program length
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • National certification preparation
    • Prescriptive authority possible
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • One year nursing experience preferred
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (M.S.)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's degree program
    • 50 total credit hours
    • 30-month program length
    • 750 clinical practice hours
    • Full and part-time options
    • ANCC certification preparation
    • Experienced nursing faculty
    • Minimum 1 year RN experience required
  • BSN to MSN - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's Degree
    • 52 Credit Hours
    • 27-Month Program Length
    • 750 Clinical Hours
    • 3.0 GPA Requirement
    • RN License Needed
    • Fall Deadline: June 15
    • Spring Deadline: November 1
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Post-Master's Certificate)

    Online Learning - Website

    • 500 clinical training hours
    • Online post-master's certificate
    • 25 total program credits
    • Designed for experienced nurses
    • Advanced acute care specialization
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online graduate certificate program
    • 29 total credit hours
    • 17-month program length
    • 750 clinical hours required
    • Three on-campus intensives
    • Synchronous and asynchronous learning
    • For licensed APRNs
    • Prepares for ANCC certification
  • Graduate Certificate - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Post-Master's Certificate
    • 750 Clinical Practice Hours
    • Customized Individual Study Plans
    • Prepares for National Certification
    • Advanced Health Assessment Focus
    • State-of-the-Art Simulation Center
    • Comprehensive Lifespan Care Approach
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 76 total program credits
    • Fully online asynchronous format
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • Small class sizes
    • Dedicated faculty advisor
    • Doctoral scholarly project required
    • National certification preparation
    • Leadership skill development
  • MSN to DNP - Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • 80 credit hours total
    • 4-year online program
    • 750 clinical practice hours
    • Prepares for FNP certification
    • Asynchronous course delivery
    • Leadership and innovation focus
    • Advanced clinical assessment skills
    • Doctoral-level scholarly project
  • MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • 80 total credit hours
    • Fully online program
    • 750 clinical practice hours
    • ANCC certification eligible
    • Post-baccalaureate doctoral degree
    • Customizable program length
    • Small class sizes
    • Expert faculty mentorship

Manchester, NH

Southern New Hampshire University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 51-credit online MSN program
    • $637 per credit tuition
    • 2-3.5 years completion time
    • 750 clinical practicum hours
    • Multi-day immersion experience
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Two years RN experience needed

University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's degree program
    • 46 total credit hours
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • 24-month program length
    • Prepares for AACN/ANCC certification
    • Minimal work experience required
    • Focuses on acute care settings
    • Nationally accredited nursing program
  • BSN to MSN - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 27-month MSN program
    • 52 credit hours total
    • 750 clinical hours required
    • Prepares for national certification
    • Advanced practice nursing focus
    • GPA requirement 3.0+
    • Unencumbered RN license needed
    • Comprehensive health management curriculum
  • BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 30-month masters program
    • 750 total clinical hours
    • ANCC board certification eligible
    • Full and part-time options
    • Minimum 1 year RN experience required
    • Across lifespan mental health focus
    • Three program intensives
    • Advanced practice nursing leadership

Nashua, NH

Rivier University

  • BSN to MSN - Adult Gerontology – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Ranked #6 national NP program
    • Multiple entry paths
    • Online with 10-day campus residency
    • 48-54 total credit hours
    • 3.5-5 year program length
    • Per credit cost $725-$1,132
    • Prepares for AGACNP certification
    • Low 6.1% nationwide certification rate
  • Graduate Certificate - Adult Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner—Post-Master's Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Ranked #6 Nationally Online NP Program
    • #1 NH Nursing School
    • Online with 8 campus days
    • 17+ age patient care focus
    • Minimum 19 credit hours
    • Five semester completion
    • ACEN Accredited Program
    • Post-Master's Certificate Option
*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2024, NCES.