4 Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Kansas 2024

Highlights for NP Students

• State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab: Engage in hands-on practice using advanced technology in KU's nursing labs.
• Diverse Clinical Rotations: Gain clinical experience throughout Kansas, including at the University of Kansas Health System and Salina Regional Health Center.
• Academic Excellence: Join a program with 10 nationally ranked offerings, part of an institution with 115 years of nursing education legacy.
• Global Learning Opportunities: Dive into coursework on global healthcare systems and participate in international clinical sessions during winter and summer breaks.
• Innovative Faculty: Benefit from instruction by award-winning, innovative faculty dedicated to student success.
• Renowned Research Centers: Access the National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center and the NIH-designated Alzheimer's Disease Research Center.

About the University of Kansas Medical Center's Nursing School

The University of Kansas Medical Center, an institution founded in 1864, serves Kansas with a commitment to excellence in education, research, and patient care. Nestled in Kansas City, Kan., at the corner of 39th Street and Rainbow Avenue, the KU Medical Center comprises the School of Nursing, School of Health Professions, and School of Medicine. This comprehensive hub is also home to The University of Kansas Hospital, operated by The University of Kansas Health System. The KU School of Nursing, with campuses in both Kansas City and Salina, offers premier nursing education in the region. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Kansas State Board of Nursing, it offers degrees at various levels, from bachelor's to Ph.D.

Future Nurse Practitioners (NPs) can expect a student-centered environment packed with resources. The state-of-the-art Simulation Education Program ensures technical skill development in a modern framework. Graduate NPs, whether in Family, Adult-Gerontology Primary Care, or Psych/Mental Health, benefit from tailored lab-based curricular activities, including virtual simulations. Outside of lab settings, clinical education is rich and varied. The close proximity to leading hospitals ensures real-world experience in diverse settings, preparing students for the challenges of modern healthcare. Moreover, the recently launched Kansas Nursing Workforce Center symbolizes KU's commitment to addressing the intricate issues of nursing leadership, workforce sustainability, and optimized patient care.

About the University of Kansas Medical Center's NP Programs

Post-Bachelor’s Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

KU School of Nursing offers a Post-Bachelor’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. This program is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses at the highest level of practice, ensuring they are equipped to provide patient-centered, evidence-based care. The flexible learning environment facilitates the development of skills necessary for clinical scholarship and transformational leadership in nursing practice. The BSN-to-DNP specialty tracks are comprehensive, integrating core nursing courses with specialized training in the chosen concentration. Graduates are prepared for advanced practice specialty certification and APRN eligibility as a primary care certified nurse practitioner (CNP). This program meets the requirements of various states and prepares students for national exams necessary for specialty certifications. The cost of the program is competitive, with tuition rates being $442.20 per credit hour for in-state and online students, and $1,039.10 per credit hour for out-of-state students.
The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration requires 75 credit hours, preparing nurses to provide primary health care across the lifespan. Clinical sites are mainly located in the Kansas City metropolitan area but may extend across Kansas. Similarly, the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration requires 79 credit hours and prepares graduates to assess and provide care for individuals with chronic mental illness. Clinical experiences include a variety of settings and focus on psychiatric assessment, therapy, and medication management.

Advanced Practice Clinical Certificates

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Developed for those who have completed an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) program from a nationally accredited institution, these certificates demand prior completion of vital advanced practice courses.  The Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate program comprises of 16 credit hours and 640 clinical hours. This certificate program prepares students to offer holistic health care services to clients of all ages. Emphasizing hands-on training, students benefit from a wide array of clinical sites spanning the state of Kansas and other regions. While didactic courses are conveniently available online, the program mandates periodic visits to the KU Medical Center for specialized workshops and exams.

Meanwhile, the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Track is a 24-credit-hour program focused on training nurses to diagnose and manage prevalent mental health disorders. Beyond standard medical settings, students are adeptly skilled to provide specialized psychiatric care. The program follows a web-based format and is offered sequentially every alternate year, with the upcoming session commencing in Spring 2024. Applications for this round are due by November 1, 2023.

Highlights for NP Students

• Exemplary Accreditation: The School of Nursing at Wichita State has maintained its accreditation since 1973, ensuring a high standard of nursing education.
• Experienced Faculty: Learn from dedicated and distinguished educators and researchers passionate about inspiring change in health care.
• State-of-the-art Simulation: The use of Standardized Patients offers real-life clinical situations in a safe, monitored environment, fostering skill development and confidence.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The School offers several nursing scholarships to students, making quality education more accessible.
• Strategic Location: Located in Wichita, Kansas, students benefit from both urban and rural clinical settings.
• Innovative Learning Environment: Integration of Assessment Labs, Clinical Learning Labs, and renowned centers ensures a comprehensive education.
• Strong Research Emphasis: With increasing R&D expenditures, students partake in impactful community research.
• Affordability and Value: Recognized as one of the most affordable institutions, Wichita State ensures quality education without breaking the bank.

About Wichita State University's Nursing School

Wichita State University, a prominent public research university located in Wichita, Kansas, has earned accolades for its commitment to innovation, research, and applied learning. Founded in 1886 and steered by the Kansas Board of Regents, the university's reputation extends to its distinguished School of Nursing. The School of Nursing at Wichita State stands out due to its consistent accreditation since 1973, highlighting its commitment to maintaining exceptional standards.  In addition, one of the distinct features is the school's emphasis on hands-on clinical experience. Thanks to its strategic location in Wichita, students can delve into a wide range of nursing scenarios, from urban healthcare setups to rural clinics. The introduction of state-of-the-art simulation experiences using Standardized Patients ensures that students face real-life clinical challenges in controlled settings, prepping them for the realities of nursing with both skill and confidence.
The faculty at the School of Nursing, not just experienced but also passionate, play a crucial role in molding the next generation of nurses. Their dedication to innovation, education, scholarship, and community service ensures that students receive a holistic education. Furthermore, the emphasis on research is evident. Wichita State's rise in R&D expenditures and its active engagement with over 30 renowned centers and institutes means students partake in meaningful research, positively impacting communities. 

About Wichita State University's NP Programs

Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration:

• Adult Gero Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Wichita State University offers an esteemed Post Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice (PB-DNP) program, an alternative to traditional research-focused PhD programs. Tailored for nurses eager to intensify their focus on clinical practice, leadership, and quality enhancement, this program follows the standards set by the American Association of College of Nursing (AACN). T Distinctive program features include comprehensive education in evidence-based practice, healthcare system leadership, and quality improvement. Notably, students undergo a systematic curriculum approach, inclusive of online courses and significant face-to-face interactions with seasoned faculty. These components not only foster deeper learning but also equip students for national certification. Additionally, the program encompasses guided clinical practicums in diverse settings, cutting-edge simulations, and a unique student-led community improvement project.

For those considering the PB-DNP program, entrance begins in the Fall semester, with the program spanning an average of 4.5 years. This comprehensive program requires a GPA of 3.5 for application and mandates registered nurse licensure. Also, before diving into practicum coursework, students must acquire professional liability insurance coverage. With a class size ranging between 10 to 20 students per specialization, individuals receive an optimal blend of personalized attention and collaborative learning.

Highlights for NP Students

• Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Enjoy the benefits of small class sizes, ensuring close interactions with professors.
• Prestigious Faculty: 71% of full-time faculty hold the highest degrees in their fields, which means they can provide top-tier education without reliance on graduate assistants.
• Genuine Experience: Gain real-world exposure with mandatory internships in many majors, setting you up for success post-graduation.
• Nationally Recognized: Washburn stands out for its low student debt upon graduation, as noted by U.S. News and World Report.
• Comprehensive Support: Ensure success with on-campus tutoring, study centers, and the First Year Experience program.
• Accreditation: Be assured of the program's quality with accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

About Washburn University's Nursing School

Since 1865, Washburn University has been a top academic institution in Topeka, Kansas. Its School of Nursing excels in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. Washburn University's urban setting is great for a metropolitan experience while keeping it small and manageable. Nursing students benefit from this balance, which exposes them to real-world healthcare circumstances and fosters close relationships with experienced teachers. In terms of teaching force credibility, 71% of full-time instructors have the highest degree in their field, ensuring a top-notch education.

Distance or online learning from the School of Nursing guarantees compliance with state nursing requirements for prospective NPs nationwide. Moreover, the Behavioral Health Workforce Education for Longitudinal Learning (BWELL) initiative prepares DNP Family Practice track students for rural primary care, emphasizing on behavioral health and telehealth. Financial support avenues, including federal loans, private loans, and an array of scholarships, ensure students have ample opportunities for funding.

Hence if you want to improve healthcare and get a great nursing education, Washburn University's School of Nursing is for you. With its top-notch curriculum, real-world exposure, and financial support, it can shape the next generation of nursing leaders.

About Washburn University's NP Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration:

• Family Track (FNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Track (PMHNP)

The Washburn University DNP program provides an advanced educational experience for nurses, tailored to accommodate the varying entry education levels, certifications, and practice interests. Uniquely designed, the program encourages students to continue their professional work while pursuing higher education. The distance-accessible online format allows flexibility for students, facilitating learning at their convenience. However, it retains a structured learning environment with live virtual classes and periodic on-campus training sessions. Offered in three distinct pathways - BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP with NP status, and MSN to DNP without NP status, the program varies in its curriculum and clinical hours based on the student's educational and certification backgrounds. Students are required to accumulate a minimum of 1000 hours in direct patient care, overseen by experienced faculty and program staff.

Further testament to its quality is the faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring personalized guidance and clinical supervision. Graduates can expect promising career prospects, with an average salary range of $120,610 for FNPs to $130,813 for PMHNPs. With a 36% job growth projected from 2016-2026, the program is well-poised to train the next generation of nurse leaders. The program's cost is inclusive of tuition, administrative fees, and learning resources, with financial aid and scholarships available to eligible students.

Post-Graduate Certificate

Concentration:

• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Washburn University also offers a post-graduate certificate on psychiatric mental health. The entirety of the PMHNP program is offered online, prioritizing flexibility and accessibility. Students have the advantage of self-paced learning, with live virtual classes that foster dynamic interaction with faculty and peers. A standout feature is the innovative virtual simulation, which enables students to hone their psychiatric diagnostic interviewing skills. This simulation uses the Learn Brite platform and has demonstrably enhanced students' competencies in interviewing. Upon graduation, students are primed to pursue national board certification via the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The program's efficacy is evident in its PMHNP certification exam pass rate of 93.55% in 2022 and a student-to-faculty clinical ratio of 10:1.

Highlights for NP Students

• Historic Foundations: Fort Hays State University (FHSU) was established in 1902, providing over a century of educational excellence.
• Stellar Reputation: FHSU ranks among the top regional universities in the American Midwest, making it a reliable choice for your NP education.
• Impressive Job Placement: 95% of FHSU graduates secure employment or further their education after graduating, underscoring the program's effectiveness.
• Online Excellence: FHSU has been at the forefront of online education since the early 1900s, reflecting their dedication to accessible and high-quality online programs.
• World-Class Faculty Interaction: Engage with highly experienced faculty in intimate class settings, benefiting from their clinical and nursing expertise.
• Accredited Programs: The BSN, MSN, and DNP nursing programs at FHSU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring recognized quality.
• Vibrant Campus Life: Based in the cultural hub of Hays, Kansas, students can indulge in diverse activities from live music to cultural festivals.

About Fort Hays State University's Nursing School

The Kansas Board of Regents' fourth-largest university, Fort Hays State University, is known for its academic brilliance. Before becoming a regional comprehensive public university in 1902, FHSU was a teacher's college. Today, the institution values creative, driven, and compassionate academics. What sets Fort Hays State's Department of Nursing apart is its commitment to academic excellence which is evident through its consistent ranking as among the top regional universities in the Midwest. Moreover, its post-graduation success rate is an astonishing 95%, a testament to their rigorous academic programs and faculty-student relationships. These relationships are further enhanced by experiential learning opportunities that equip students to excel in global job markets.

In terms of affordability, FHSU remains unmatched. Prospective students get world-class education at reasonable fees. When it comes to program quality, their leadership in online education showcases their adaptability and commitment to student needs. Its BSN, MSN, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education Thus, at FHSU's Nursing School, students are thrust into a feedback-centric learning environment. With technology at the helm, students benefit from interactions with esteemed faculty in smaller class settings. 

About Fort Hays State University's NP Programs

Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP )

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

Nurses who undertake the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Fort Hays State University are provided with an enriching academic experience geared towards nurturing top-notch healthcare professionals. The program emphasizes the provision of efficient, high-quality, and patient-centered care rooted in collaborative and evidence-based practices.  One of the distinguishing features of Fort Hays State University’s DNP offering is the BSN-to-DNP Pathway. Designed for students with a Bachelor's of Science in Nursing, this pathway employs a hybrid approach. While most of the program can be pursued online, certain semesters necessitate brief campus visits. However, Fort Hays provides students with ample notice, ensuring they're informed about on-campus days at least six weeks prior to commencement. The program requires 75 credit hours focusing on the Family Nurse Practitioner tract and mandates that all preceptor clinical occur within Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
A unique element of this pathway is the emphasis on hands-on clinical experience. Students are guided to secure the department's approved preceptors and clinical sites, with the university already having multiple agreements across Kansas. The stringent requirements for clinical preceptors, whether they are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN) or physicians, further underline the program's commitment to maintaining high standards.