Online Nurse Practitioner Schools in Idaho

Last Updated On Oct 24, 2024

10 Min Read

Fast & Affordable Nurse Practitioner Programs

Before diving into becoming a nurse practitioner, there are several primary concerns that RNs in Idaho 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 Idaho, especially if they have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and some nursing experience.

What Are the Fastest Online NP Programs?

In most cases, students who want to become nurse practitioners will need to complete either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The quickest option between these two is the MSN. On average, you can expect to complete your MSN in 2 – 6 years, depending on how many credit hours you complete per semester and how many you are allowed to transfer. One of the quickest MSN programs available in Idaho is Northwest Nazarene University’s MSN which takes about 2 years of full-time study to complete.

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 Idaho is Idaho State University’s MSN program which costs between $15,000 – $20,000 in total.

Schools Offering Popular Nurse Practitioner Specialties

One of the coolest things about becoming a nurse practitioner is that a lot of the graduate programs you’ll be required to take to become one offer ways to get specialized training in a variety of practice areas. This makes getting certified much easier. One good example of a specialized nurse practitioner program in Idaho is Northwest Nazarene University’s Family Nurse Practitioner 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. They take about two years to complete. Here are some examples available in Idaho:

Idaho State University – Pocatello, ID
Northwest Nazarene University – Nampa, ID

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 available to students in Idaho, but you can find them available in Utah at Southern Utah University.

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 Idaho include:

Boise State University – Boise, ID
Idaho State University – Pocatello, ID

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. Currently, there are no post-masters certificate nursing programs available in Idaho, however you can find them located at the University of Utah.

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.

Eagle Gate College – Idaho Falls, ID

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

Idaho NP License and Certification Requirements

In Idaho, nurse practitioners must meet specific requirements before they can apply for licensure and practice independently. Here are the primary qualifications:

Active Idaho RN License: Applicants need to hold a current, unrestricted registered nurse (RN) license issued by the Idaho Board of Nursing.
Educational Background: Candidates must complete an accredited nurse practitioner program, which includes both advanced clinical practice and specialized academic training.

Once the foundational qualifications are met, prospective NPs must submit supporting documents such as academic transcripts, proof of clinical experience, and evidence of holding an active RN license. The application process also involves completing the necessary paperwork and paying a fee, which typically hovers around $80. Applicants can find detailed guidance and application instructions through Idaho's official licensing portal.

In Idaho, NPs are also required to be certified in their chosen area of expertise. This certification can be obtained from national credentialing organizations, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Most certification bodies require that candidates hold a graduate degree in a specific specialty, and in most cases, candidates will need to pass a certification exam to prove their competency in the field.

Idaho is considered a full-practice state, meaning that, as of 2024, nurse practitioners are authorized to assess, diagnose, and treat patients independently, without the need for physician supervision. NPs in Idaho can prescribe medications and operate autonomously in many healthcare settings. For those seeking additional resources or support, the Idaho Nurses Association (INA) offers guidance, networking opportunities, and continuing education tailored to nurse practitioners.