5 Cheapest Nurse Practitioner Programs To Consider in 2025
- 1. Auburn University at Montgomery
- 2. University of Texas at El Paso
- 3. University of Alabama
- 4. University of Texas Arlington
- 5. Columbus State University
- How Much Do Nurse Practitioner Programs Cost?
- What Does Nurse Practitioner Program Tuition Look Like Where You Live?
- How to Save Money on an NP Program
- Latest Articles & Guides
Pursuing a career as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a rewarding path that offers increased autonomy, higher earning potential, and the ability to make a significant impact in patient care. However, the cost of obtaining an NP degree can be a significant concern for aspiring students. Tuition and fees for NP programs vary widely, with some costing over $100,000. Fortunately, several high-quality, accredited NP programs are available at a more affordable price. Read on as we explore five of the cheapest Nurse Practitioner programs in the U.S., including their tuition costs, program length, and delivery format. Additionally, we'll break down the average cost of NP programs and provide practical strategies to help you save money while earning your degree.
1. Auburn University at Montgomery
- Location: Montgomery, AL
- Program: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner
- Tuition Range: In-State: $465 per credit hour; Out-of-State: $1,044 per credit hour
- Program Length: 48 credit hours
- Format: Online
Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). This program is designed to prepare nurses to provide comprehensive primary care across the lifespan, from infants to the elderly. The curriculum combines flexible online coursework with essential on-campus intensive experiences, ensuring both theoretical knowledge and practical skills are effectively developed. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams, such as those offered by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Notably, AUM’s FNP graduates have achieved a 100% pass rate on these certification exams. The program requires the completion of 48 credit hours and 780 clinical hours.
2. University of Texas at El Paso
- Location: El Paso, Texas
- Program: MSN – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Tuition Range: In-State: $552.00 per semester credit hour; Out-of-State: $782.00 per semester credit hour
- Program Length: 49 credit hours
- Format: Online with on-campus intensives
The University of Texas at El Paso offers an MSN program with a specialty in Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. The 49-credit-hour curriculum includes courses such as Advanced Pediatric Health Assessment, Advanced Pharmacology, and Management of Pediatric Acute and Chronic Health Problems. Students are required to participate in on-campus intensives for hands-on training and complete clinical practicum hours in pediatric settings. The program is designed to be completed in about two years of full-time study.
3. University of Alabama
- Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
- Program: MSN – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Cost Range: $23,320
- Program Length: 53-59 credit hours
- Format: Online
The University of Alabama’s MSN program with a concentration in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares students to provide mental health services across the lifespan. The program requires between 53 to 59 credit hours, depending on the student’s prior education and chosen plan of study. Coursework includes Advanced Mental Health Assessment, Psychopharmacology, and various therapy modalities. Students must also complete clinical practicum hours in psychiatric settings. The program offers both full-time and part-time options to accommodate working professionals.
4. University of Texas Arlington
- Location: Arlington, Texas
- Program: MSN – Accelerated Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Cost Range: $26,814
- Program Length: 41 credit hours
- Format: Online
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) MSN in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) online program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive primary care for adolescents through older adults, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and chronic illness management. The fully online curriculum includes advanced health assessment, gerontology management, primary care clinical practice, and an advanced nursing practicum, equipping students with leadership skills and research-based approaches to improve healthcare delivery.
5. Columbus State University
- Location: Columbus, Georgia
- Program: MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
- Cost Range: In-State: $395 per credit hour plus $395 online learning fee
- Program Length: 44 credit hours
- Format: Online
Columbus State University (CSU) offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration, designed for registered nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The program comprises 44 credit hours and requires the completion of 765 clinical hours, which students can fulfill in their local areas. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as two years. The curriculum includes advanced courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and specialized primary care for diverse populations across the lifespan. Graduates are prepared to sit for national FNP certification exams and pursue advanced practice roles in various healthcare settings. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
How Much Do Nurse Practitioner Programs Cost?
The cost of an NP program can vary significantly based on the institution, residency status, and delivery format (online, hybrid, or on-campus). Here's a general breakdown:
- In-State Tuition: $225 – $800 per credit hour.
- Out-of-State Tuition: $570 – $1,300 per credit hour.
- Online Programs: Typically range from $400 – $800 per credit hour.
Some elite private universities may charge over $100,000 for their NP programs, but there are many affordable options available without compromising on education quality.
What Does Nurse Practitioner Program Tuition Look Like Where You Live?
Nurse practitioner program tuition can vary based on location and type of school, with public universities generally offering cheaper tuition and fees compared to private universities. Take a look at the average tuition and fees for key states below:
| State | Public Tuition (USD) | Public Fees (USD) | Private Tuition (USD) | Private Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 23,000 | 1,500 | 37,000 | 2,000 |
| Texas | 22,000 | 1,400 | 36,000 | 1,900 |
| New York | 25,000 | 1,600 | 39,000 | 2,100 |
| Florida | 21,000 | 1,300 | 35,000 | 1,800 |
| Illinois | 23,500 | 1,450 | 36,500 | 1,950 |
Find Nurse Practitioner Programs in your state.
How to Save Money on an NP Program
Earning an NP degree doesn't have to be financially overwhelming. Here are some effective ways to reduce the cost:
1. Apply for Scholarships and Grants
Many organizations, such as the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), offer scholarships that cover tuition and provide a monthly stipend in exchange for service in underserved areas after graduation.
2. Utilize Employer Tuition Assistance
If you're currently working as a registered nurse, check with your employer about tuition reimbursement programs. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer financial assistance to employees pursuing advanced degrees.
3. Choose an Online or In-State Program
Online programs tend to be more affordable, and attending an in-state school can significantly reduce tuition costs. Consider hybrid programs if you want a mix of online and on-campus learning.
4. Budget and Cut Costs
Save money by using cost-effective study materials, purchasing used textbooks, meal-prepping, and considering public transportation instead of driving.
5. Look Into Loan Forgiveness Programs
The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and other state-specific loan forgiveness programs can help reduce or eliminate student loan debt in exchange for working in high-need areas.
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