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

Finding the best online nurse practitioner programs in New Hampshire helps students advance their careers with flexible options. RegisteredNursing.org ranks these programs to guide your choice, considering both fully online and hybrid formats that include distance learning components. These online programs make education accessible for working nurses across the state, allowing them to balance studies with professional and personal commitments. The rankings evaluate factors like curriculum quality and student support to ensure you select a reputable program. For details on how we assess these programs, visit our methodology page at https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

University of New Hampshire

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

BSN to MSN - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of New Hampshire's online Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for advanced primary care roles across all life stages. This 27-month, 52-credit program requires 750 clinical hours and emphasizes health assessment, disease management, and evidence-based practice. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's-level program. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can 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 online Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner at UNH prepares BSN-prepared nurses for certification through AACN or ANCC. This 51-credit program includes 750 clinical hours with full-time completion in two years. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's-level program. The curriculum covers advanced health assessment, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning for roles in critical care, surgery, and specialty clinics.

  • Online Master of Science program.
  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
  • 51 credit hours required.
  • 750 clinical hours included.
  • Full-time completion in 2 years.
  • Part-time options available.
  • Online learning format.
  • Prepares for AACN or ANCC certification.
  • No prior work experience required.
  • Unencumbered RN license needed.

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

UNH's online Master of Science in Nursing for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners prepares registered nurses to provide comprehensive mental healthcare across all ages. This 50-credit program requires 750 clinical hours and can be completed full-time in 30 months. No entrance exam is mentioned for this master's-level program. Graduates become eligible for ANCC board certification, with training in psychiatric assessment, medication management, and therapeutic interventions.

  • Online program delivery.
  • Master of Science degree.
  • 50 credit hours required.
  • 750 clinical hours minimum.
  • Full-time: 30 months.
  • Part-time options available.
  • Fall or spring start.
  • Active RN license required.
  • One year RN experience needed.
  • Baccalaureate degree required.

Graduate Certificate - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

UNH's online Post Master's Graduate Certificate in Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner helps nurses with existing master's degrees expand their practice scope. This certificate program focuses on family healthcare across the lifespan, requiring 48 credits and 750 clinical hours. No entrance exam is mentioned for this graduate-level certificate. The program prepares graduates for FNP certification with clinical placement assistance and individualized study plans.

  • Online program format.
  • Post Master's certificate.
  • Focus on family nurse practitioner.
  • Requires MSN degree.
  • 750 clinical hours.
  • 48 credit hours.
  • 16 courses.
  • Individualized study plans.
  • National certification eligible.
  • Unencumbered RN license required.

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate at UNH prepares advanced practice nurses for mental healthcare roles. This 29-credit program requires 750 clinical hours and can be completed full-time in 17 months. No entrance exam is mentioned for this graduate certificate. Graduates become eligible for ANCC PMHNP certification, with the program featuring competency-based education and three on-campus/virtual intensives.

  • Online graduate certificate program.
  • Post-Master's PMHNP certificate.
  • 29 credit hours required.
  • 750 clinical hours total.
  • Full-time: 17 months.
  • Part-time options available.
  • Online learning format.
  • Three on-campus/virtual intensives.
  • Fall or spring start terms.
  • Requires RN license.

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

  • Online program delivery.
  • Post-Master's Certificate program.
  • 30 total credits required.
  • 750 clinical hours included.
  • Prepares for AGACNP role.
  • Focuses on adult-gerontological population.
  • Customized plan of study.
  • Meets ANCC certification requirements.
  • Meets AACN certification requirements.
  • Includes clinical practicum courses.

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 ˅
#2

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 hybrid MSN in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses for complex acute care management without requiring an entrance exam. This ACEN-accredited program combines online coursework with ten campus days in a low-residency format, offering multiple entry paths for RNs with different backgrounds. The 48-54 credit curriculum includes advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment over 3.5-5 years. Graduates are prepared for AGACNP-BC certification, with the program ranking nationally and as New Hampshire's top nursing school.

  • Online low-residency format.
  • Ten campus days required.
  • 48-54 credit hours.
  • 3.5-5 years program length.
  • Multiple entry paths available.
  • ACEN accredited program.
  • State-of-the-art clinical equipment.
  • Prepares for AGACNP-BC certification.
  • Advanced pathophysiology coursework.
  • Advanced pharmacology included.

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Rivier University's online Adult Gerontology - Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate provides experienced nurses with specialized skills for comprehensive patient care from age 17 through end-of-life. This ACEN-accredited program requires no entrance exam and features a flexible low-residency format with online coursework and just eight campus days. Students complete a minimum of 19 credits in approximately five semesters, focusing on acute care settings. As New Hampshire's top-ranked nursing school with national recognition, the program offers clinical course credits at $1,132 and nursing credits at $725 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 ˅
#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 College of Professional Studies Online offers a 27-month online Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner program for registered nurses seeking advanced primary care roles. This comprehensive program requires 52 credit hours and 750 clinical hours, focusing on health assessment, disease management, and evidence-based practice across the lifespan. Students need an unencumbered RN license and a 3.0+ GPA for admission. The program prepares graduates for national certification and autonomous practice in diverse healthcare settings. As a master's level program, it may require entrance exams like the GRE, though specific requirements should be verified with the school.

  • 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
#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

Southern New Hampshire University's online Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner program equips nurses with advanced primary care skills across patient lifespans. This 51-credit online program requires no entrance exam and can be completed in 2-3.5 years with flexible part-time options. At $637 per credit, it includes 750 clinical practicum hours and a transformative week-long immersion experience. Applicants need an unencumbered RN license, two years of RN experience, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification to deliver 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
*Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2024, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

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 of Science program.
    • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
    • 51 credit hours required.
    • 750 clinical hours included.
    • Full-time completion in 2 years.
    • Part-time options available.
    • Online learning format.
    • Prepares for AACN or ANCC certification.
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (M.S.)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery.
    • Master of Science degree.
    • 50 credit hours required.
    • 750 clinical hours minimum.
    • Full-time: 30 months.
    • Part-time options available.
    • Fall or spring start.
    • Active RN license 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

    • Online program delivery.
    • Post-Master's Certificate program.
    • 30 total credits required.
    • 750 clinical hours included.
    • Prepares for AGACNP role.
    • Focuses on adult-gerontological population.
    • Customized plan of study.
    • Meets ANCC certification requirements.
  • Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online graduate certificate program.
    • Post-Master's PMHNP certificate.
    • 29 credit hours required.
    • 750 clinical hours total.
    • Full-time: 17 months.
    • Part-time options available.
    • Online learning format.
    • Three on-campus/virtual intensives.
  • Graduate Certificate - Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Post Master's certificate.
    • Focus on family nurse practitioner.
    • Requires MSN degree.
    • 750 clinical hours.
    • 48 credit hours.
    • 16 courses.
    • Individualized study plans.
  • 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

    • Online low-residency format.
    • Ten campus days required.
    • 48-54 credit hours.
    • 3.5-5 years program length.
    • Multiple entry paths available.
    • ACEN accredited program.
    • State-of-the-art clinical equipment.
    • Prepares for AGACNP-BC certification.
  • 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.