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

Whether you live in a small town such as Taos or in the urban sprawl of Albuquerque, nurses have plenty of opportunities to advance their careers into something more rewarding and more representative of their specific interests. Becoming a nurse practitioner can be a fulfilling option for many nurses who may feel stuck in their current position and it offers a variety of specializations in fascinating practice areas. Learn how you can become a nurse practitioner by taking a look at the sections below. Jump to program listings.
2026 Best Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in New Mexico
New Mexico Highlands University
Las Vegas, NM - Public 4-Year - nmhu.edu
BSN to MSN - MSN–FNP (Optional Cognate Concentration)
Online Learning - Visit Website
New Mexico Highlands University's online MSN-FNP program provides a strategic pathway for nurses seeking advanced practice credentials. Tailored for working professionals, the program spans two to three years with flexible online coursework. Students benefit from an Optional Cognate Concentration and comprehensive clinical training, including 800 total clinical hours across three practicum courses. The curriculum prepares learners for national APRN certification without GRE/GMAT entrance exam requirements. With an affordable tuition structure of $625 per credit and opportunities to transfer up to 6 credits, this program offers an accessible route to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner, emphasizing patient-centered care across diverse populations.
- Online, flexible 2-3 year program
- 49-58 total credit hours
- Cost per credit: $625
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- Optional 9-credit cognate concentration
- 800 total clinical hours
- Prepare for APRN certification
- Three practicum courses
- Mandatory in-person orientation
BSN to MSN - MSN–FNP
Online Learning - Visit Website
New Mexico Highlands University offers an innovative online MSN-FNP program designed for ambitious nursing professionals seeking career advancement. The curriculum provides accelerated and part-time learning tracks, enabling completion in as little as two years. Students engage in comprehensive clinical training, including 800 clinical hours and three practicum courses, preparing for Board Certification. With no GRE/GMAT prerequisites and asynchronous online coursework, the program accommodates busy healthcare professionals. The affordable $625 per credit tuition and potential to earn a median salary of $120,680 make this program an attractive investment in professional development and specialized healthcare expertise.
- 2-3 years program duration
- Cost per credit: $625
- Total credits: 49-58
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Online asynchronous coursework
- 800 total clinical hours
- Optional cognate concentration
- Accelerated track available
- Prepare for APRN certification
- Median salary $120,680
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM - Public 4-Year - nmsu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner - Post-Masters Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
New Mexico State University's online Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate offers an intensive 18-credit program designed for experienced nurses seeking specialty expansion. Participants develop advanced clinical skills through comprehensive healthcare training across the lifespan. The curriculum includes rigorous coursework and 500 clinical hours, strategically preparing graduates for national Family Nurse Practitioner certification. Ideal for certified nurse practitioners, this program focuses on health assessment, pathophysiology, and clinical management techniques. Students gain expertise in primary care settings, enhancing their professional capabilities and career opportunities through a flexible online learning platform.
- 18 total credit hours
- 500 clinical hours required
- Online post-graduate certificate
- For certified nurse practitioners
- Prepares for national certification exam
- Focuses on family health across lifespan
- Advanced health assessment training
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Post-Masters Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Masters Certificate at New Mexico State University provides advanced practice nurses with specialized mental health training. This 18-credit program equips healthcare professionals with sophisticated skills in mental disorder diagnosis, psychotherapy techniques, and medication management. Designed for certified nurse practitioners, the curriculum emphasizes evidence-based research, healthcare systems, and quality improvement strategies. Covering mental health across all life stages, the program prepares graduates to sit for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam, expanding professional opportunities in diverse mental healthcare environments.
- 18 total credit hours
- Minimum 500 clinical hours
- Prepares for certification exam
- Four core PMHNP competencies
- Online post-graduate certificate
- Covers lifespan mental health
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Recommended for current APRNs
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner (Integrated primary and mental health care)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
New Mexico State University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner program addresses critical healthcare provider shortages through comprehensive training. This three-year, 74-credit program blends online coursework with over 1000 clinical hours, focusing on integrated primary and mental health care. Students develop advanced leadership skills and evidence-based practice techniques, preparing to provide patient-centered care across the lifespan. With a competitive admission process requiring a 3.0 nursing GPA and current RN license, graduates are positioned for national certification and diverse healthcare settings, emphasizing interprofessional education and flexible distance learning.
- 3-year online DNP program
- 74 total credit hours
- 1000+ clinical hours
- Integrated primary/mental healthcare
- Flexible distance education format
- National certification exam preparation
- Full-time study commitment
- 3.0 minimum nursing GPA required
- On-campus orientation included
- Interprofessional education opportunities
BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Family Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
New Mexico State University's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner program delivers comprehensive primary care training across patient lifespans. Combining online coursework with community-based clinical practicums, this program emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competency, and healthcare leadership. Requiring a BSN, RN license, and 3.0 GPA, students complete over 1000 clinical hours focusing on advanced nursing theory, pharmacology, and health assessment. With special emphasis on pediatrics and women's health, graduates become eligible for ANCC or AANP certification, addressing critical provider shortages through innovative, interprofessional education.
- Hybrid program format
- Over 1000 clinical hours
- Focus on primary and mental health care
- Eligible for ANCC/AANP certification
- BSN and RN license required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- 74 credit hours
- 3 years full-time
- Online with on-campus sessions
- Focus on pediatrics and women's health
BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
New Mexico State University's online Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program addresses nationwide mental healthcare shortages. This three-year comprehensive program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver expert mental healthcare across patient lifespans. Through 74 credit hours and over 1,000 clinical hours, students develop sophisticated skills in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health and substance use disorders. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and flexible distance learning, graduates become eligible for ANCC certification, positioning themselves for diverse roles in community health centers, psychiatric hospitals, and integrated care settings.
- 3-year online doctoral program
- 1,000+ clinical experience hours
- Substance use disorder focus
- Flexible distance education format
- ANCC certification preparation
- 74 total credit hours
- Interprofessional education opportunities
- Holistic mental healthcare approach
- Competitive admission process
- Clinical practicum in hometown
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM - Public 4-Year - unm.edu
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of New Mexico's hybrid Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers an innovative pathway for registered nurses seeking advanced mental health expertise. Uniquely positioned to serve rural and underserved populations, the program features an exceptional 8:1 student-instructor ratio and comprehensive clinical training. Students benefit from full prescriptive authority preparation and 100 lab training hours. With no GRE requirement and strategic clinical placement support, this program empowers nurses to address complex mental health challenges across patient lifespans. The hybrid format accommodates working professionals while ensuring rigorous, evidence-based psychiatric care education.
- Hybrid program format
- 100% certification pass rate
- No GRE required
- Clinical placements provided
- 8:1 student-instructor ratio
- Focus on rural healthcare
- Full prescriptive authority
- 100 lab training hours
MSN to DNP - Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice (Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UNM's hybrid Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner prepares advanced nursing professionals for high-intensity healthcare environments. Spanning just under three years with a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours, this program emphasizes system-level knowledge and specialized acute care skills. Designed to support rural and underserved communities, students receive comprehensive training in complex medical settings. With competitive scholarship opportunities ranging from $200-$5,000 annually and strategic clinical placements throughout New Mexico, graduates emerge as sophisticated healthcare leaders prepared to address sophisticated medical challenges.
- 8 consecutive terms to complete
- Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
- Hybrid learning model
- New Mexico RN license required
- Clinical placements throughout state
- Supports rural healthcare needs
- Competitive admissions process
BSN to DNP - Post-Bachelor's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of New Mexico's hybrid Post-Bachelor's DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program provides a comprehensive educational experience for nurses targeting diverse and under-resourced communities. Blending online coursework with intensive clinical experiences, the program requires 1,000 clinical hours and spans eight terms. Designed for working professionals, it emphasizes leadership, advanced clinical skills, and meeting New Mexico's unique healthcare needs. With financial aid options, scholarships up to $5,000, and a focus on rural healthcare, students can transform their nursing practice while addressing critical healthcare gaps in underserved regions.
- Hybrid program model.
- 8 terms to complete.
- 1000+ clinical hours required.
- New Mexico RN license needed.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on rural healthcare.
- Leadership and clinical skills.
- Diverse patient populations.
- Scholarships up to $5,000.
- Application via NursingCAS.
BSN to DNP - Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
UNM's Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offers an immersive program preparing advanced practice nurses for comprehensive mental health care. With an exceptional 8:1 student-instructor ratio, the hybrid format provides hands-on learning and high-tech simulation experiences. Faculty actively practicing in the field ensure cutting-edge training. The program supports full prescriptive authority and focuses on serving rural and underserved populations. No GRE is required, and clinical placement support helps students transition seamlessly into advanced psychiatric nursing roles across all patient age groups.
- 100% Certification Pass Rate
- Hybrid Program Format
- No GRE Required
- Full Prescriptive Authority
- Small Cohort Sizes
- Clinical Placement Support
- Focus on Rural Healthcare
- Diverse Faculty Expertise
BSN to DNP - Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of New Mexico's hybrid Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care offers a specialized pathway for nurses dedicated to child healthcare. Requiring 8 consecutive terms and over 1,000 clinical hours, the program emphasizes leadership, clinical expertise, and system-level knowledge. With a minimum 3.00 GPA requirement and comprehensive application process through NursingCAS, students receive rigorous preparation for pediatric primary care. The program's unique focus on rural and underserved communities ensures graduates are equipped to address diverse pediatric healthcare challenges and improve health outcomes.
- Hybrid program model.
- 8 terms to complete.
- Over 1,000 clinical hours.
- Focus on rural healthcare.
- Financial aid available.
- Minimum GPA 3.00 required.
- NursingCAS application needed.
- Supplemental UNM application.
- Leadership and clinical skills focus.
- Prepares for pediatric primary care.
Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs
Before diving into becoming a nurse practitioner, there are several primary concerns that RNs in New Mexico typically consider. Two of the most common ones is the cost associated with tuition and the time that it typically takes to complete an NP program. The good news is that there are plenty of affordable options for RNs to become nurse practitioners in New Mexico, especially if they have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and some nursing experience.
What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?
The fastest option when it comes to nurse practitioner programs is usually the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree program. This will take much less time (usually around 2 years) than a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program (typically takes around 6 years or even more). Among the fastest MSN programs available in New Mexico is Eastern New Mexico University which can be completed in as little as 2 years.
What Are the Most Affordable Online NP Programs?
If you’re like most students, you’re looking for the best possible value for your nurse practitioner education. MSN programs are usually the most frugal choice as you’ll be required to be enrolled for a shorter amount of time. You can make the most of your savings by establishing residency in the state and choosing schools with smaller nursing programs. One of the cheapest options for nursing students in New Mexico is New Mexico State University’s MSN program which can be completed for as little as $5,000 to $19,000 per year.
Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties
If you’re looking specifically for nurse practitioner programs that allow you to specialize in an exciting area such as family practice or cardiology, you can find them widely available in New Mexico. Specialized nurse practitioner programs, such as PROGRAM are great for nurses who are interested in a particular practice area and make it easier to get certified later on down the line. Western New Mexico University for example offers a Community & Rural/Frontier Health MSN program.
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
Beyond the traditional programs like MSN and DNP programs, there are also many other types of accelerated and bridge programs that you may be interested in depending on your individual background and the level of degree and experience you already have.
MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs
As mentioned, most nursing students decide on Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs due to their speed, cost, and their entry requirements. MSN programs located in New Mexico include:
- University of New Mexico – Albuquerque, NM
- Eastern New Mexico University – Portales, NM
RN to NP Programs
RN to NP programs are an umbrella term that typically refers to ADN to MSNs, in which RNs who hold an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) complete accelerated BSN and MSN-level nurse practitioner coursework. As of now, these types of programs are not offered to students in New Mexico, but you can find them in neighboring states such as Texas such as the RN to MSN program offered by the University of Texas, Arlington.
DNP Nurse Practioner Programs
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest degree an NP can obtain. These programs typically take 4-6 years to complete, though this may be higher or lower depending on the number of credits you enroll with. DNP programs located in New Mexico include:
- University of New Mexico – Albuquerque, NM
- New Mexico State University – Las Cruces, NM
Post-Master's Certificate NP Programs
A Post-Master's Nursing Certificate is designed for MSN-educated nurse who want to enter or switch to a new NP specialty. While not a degree in and of itself, they’re a shorter and often more affordable way for eligible nurses to gain NP training, typically completed in a year or less. New Mexico offers these types of programs at the following schools:
- New Mexico State University – Las Cruces, NM
- University of New Mexico – Albuquerque, NM
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. While New Mexico doesn’t currently offer this type of program within its borders, you can find them readily available in Texas. The University of Texas’s direct-entry program is just one example.
General Admissions Requirements
The exact types of admissions requirements you’ll need to meet will vary depending on the nurse practitioner programs you apply to, however, in general you can expect 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
New Mexico NP License and Certification Requirements
Becoming a nurse practitioner in New Mexico involves meeting several specific requirements, which are in place to ensure that individuals are fully qualified to practice in advanced roles. Key eligibility criteria include:
- Valid RN License: Candidates must hold a current, unrestricted registered nurse (RN) license issued by the state of New Mexico.
- Completion of an Accredited NP Program: Applicants must graduate from a nationally accredited nurse practitioner program. This education typically involves advanced coursework and hands-on clinical training in a specific area of specialization.
Once these prerequisites are met, prospective nurse practitioners need to gather and submit supporting documentation, which includes proof of licensure, transcripts from their nurse practitioner program, and verification of clinical hours. Additionally, candidates will need to complete an application and pay an associated fee, which is usually around $150. For detailed information on the application process and instructions, applicants can refer to New Mexico’s Board of Nursing website.
Certification in a specialty is required for NPs in New Mexico, and this can be obtained through organizations such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). In general, certification requires holding an active RN license and completing a graduate-level program that aligns with the candidate's specialty. Successfully passing a certification exam is also necessary.
As of 2024, New Mexico grants nurse practitioners full practice authority, which allows them to independently diagnose, manage, and treat patients without needing a physician's supervision. This autonomy enables NPs to provide a wide range of healthcare services across various settings. New Mexico nurse practitioners can access additional resources and professional support through the New Mexico Nurses Association (NMNA), which offers continuing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
List of NP Programs in New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM
University of New Mexico
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner – Primary Care - Campus Based - Website
- 3-year doctoral program
- 8:1 student-faculty ratio
- 100 lab hours
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Full prescriptive authority
- BSN from accredited university
- 1 year healthcare experience
- Dedicated clinical placement team
- MSN to DNP - Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website
- 8 consecutive terms
- 70 total credits
- 825 clinical hours
- Hybrid course delivery
- CCNE accredited program
- Nationally certifiable graduates
- Diverse clinical experiences
- Small class sizes
- MSN to DNP - Post-Bachelor's Doctor of Nursing Practice
Concentration: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 8 consecutive terms to complete
- Minimum 1,000 clinical hours
- Hybrid learning model
- New Mexico RN license required
- Clinical placements throughout state
- Supports rural healthcare needs
- Competitive admissions process
- MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 100% certification pass rate
- No GRE required
- Clinical placements provided
- 8:1 student-instructor ratio
- Focus on rural healthcare
- Full prescriptive authority
- 100 lab training hours
Las Cruces, NM
New Mexico State University
- Graduate Certificate - Family Nurse Practitioner - Post-Masters Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 18 total credit hours
- 500 clinical hours required
- Online post-graduate certificate
- For certified nurse practitioners
- Prepares for national certification exam
- Focuses on family health across lifespan
- Advanced health assessment training
- Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Post-Masters Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 18 total credit hours
- Minimum 500 clinical hours
- Prepares for certification exam
- Four core PMHNP competencies
- Online post-graduate certificate
- Covers lifespan mental health
- Advanced practice nursing focus
- Recommended for current APRNs
- MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice - Family Nurse Practitioner
Concentration: Integrated primary and mental health care - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 3-year online DNP program
- 74 total credit hours
- 1000+ clinical hours
- Integrated primary/mental healthcare
- Flexible distance education format
- National certification exam preparation
- Full-time study commitment
- 3.0 minimum nursing GPA required
Las Vegas, NM
New Mexico Highlands University
- BSN to MSN - MSN–FNP
Online Learning - Website
- 2-3 years program duration
- Cost per credit: $625
- Total credits: 49-58
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Online asynchronous coursework
- 800 total clinical hours
- Optional cognate concentration
- Accelerated track available
- BSN to MSN - MSN–FNP
Concentration: Optional Cognate Concentration - Online Learning - Website
- Online, flexible 2-3 year program
- 49-58 total credit hours
- Cost per credit: $625
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- Optional 9-credit cognate concentration
- 800 total clinical hours
- Prepare for APRN certification
