Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Louisiana 2024

The nationally recognized LHC Group · Myers School of Nursing at UL Lafayette is renowned for producing highly competent nurses, nurse educators, and nurse practitioners. These professionals are committed to enhancing healthcare and evidence-based practice. The institution's innovative programs offer unique learning experiences, taught by celebrated faculty dedicated to student success, emphasizing personal mentoring and professional networking. The Master's programs provide a route to career advancement in healthcare as a family nurse practitioner (FNP), nurse educator, or psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner, with an impressive exam pass rate of over 96%. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program equips students to lead in a changing, complex healthcare environment.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

• Family Nurse Practitioner MSN: Ranked 45th in the Best Online Nursing Programs by U.S. News & World Report, this program prepares students to provide primary care across various settings and ages and apply for an advanced practice license. Graduates contribute to healthcare in professional shortage areas, highlighting a focus on prevention and primary care.

• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN: This online program prepares students for a career as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. Graduates are equipped to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans for patients across the lifespan, working in diverse clinical settings. Upon completion, students meet the educational requirements for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner national certification examination.

These programs are facilitated in affiliation with the Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master of Science in Nursing, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.

Key Student Takeaways

• Nationally recognized programs with high academic standards.
• Personalized mentoring from nationally recognized faculty.
• Network-building opportunities that extend beyond graduation.
• High pass rates on national certification examinations.
• Accredited and approved by recognized bodies.
• Career advancement opportunities in multiple healthcare roles.
• Flexible online learning for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program.
• Aligned with healthcare needs, contributing to professional shortage areas.

The LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing, with roots back to 1929, is steeped in a rich history of providing nursing education in response to healthcare needs. Committed to excellence in nursing education, practice, research, and public service, the school aims to develop professional nurse leaders equipped for advanced nursing practice. The belief that nursing promotes health, prevents and treats disease, and alleviates human suffering is core to the school's philosophy. Nine Core Values, including Stewardship, Organizational Citizenship, Nursing Innovation, Caring, Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence, shape its approach, with curricula designed to meet professional standards for nursing at all levels.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

1. Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: This 89-credit program spans over several semesters and concentrates on preparing students to provide patient-centered, evidence-based care to young adults, adults, and older adults with complex acute, chronic, and critical conditions. The program emphasizes the importance of adult-gerontology patient assessments, seminars, case studies, discussions, and clinical practicums to foster a comprehensive understanding of the continuous healthcare needs of adult patients. Under the supervision of experienced faculty and approved preceptors, students are guided through the progression of advanced nursing practice.

2. Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: An 84-credit curriculum that grooms students to assume responsibility for health maintenance, disease prevention, counseling, patient education, and diagnosis and management of acute and chronic diseases. The program's primary teaching techniques include adult-gerontology patient assessments, seminars, case studies/discussions, and clinical practicums that allow students to apply learned concepts to real-world scenarios.

3. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner: This 81-credit program prepares neonatal nurse practitioners at the graduate level. Students acquire specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide high-quality health care for preterm and term neonates, infants, and children up to 2 years of age. The program combines didactic instruction with practical experiences, including seminars, case studies, skills labs, simulation, and practicum experiences.

4. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care and Primary Care: These comprehensive 90-credit programs prepare the students to provide both preventive and illness care to children from birth to young adulthood. The programs make use of seminars, case studies, skills labs, and simulation, along with practicums for real-world experience and the development of practical skills.

5. Primary Care Family Nurse Practitioner: An extensive 92-credit program designed to groom a generalist registered nurse at the graduate level. It covers the breadth of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to engage in advanced nursing practice, providing care across the lifespan in community-based settings. The program emphasizes the role of the family nurse practitioner as a crucial component of the healthcare team.

6. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: This 94-credit program aims to prepare students for evidence-based psychiatric mental health nursing practice. The curriculum is designed to instill competency in providing care to culturally diverse populations across the lifespan. Students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide comprehensive and patient-centered psychiatric care.

Each program is meticulously designed to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the demands of advanced practice in their chosen specialty, offering an enriching blend of academic learning and hands-on clinical experiences.

Key Student Takeaways

• A rich history and strong reputation in nursing education.
• A wide range of specialty concentrations for advanced practice.
• A faculty dedicated to student academic and professional success.
• Opportunities for hands-on clinical practice in diverse healthcare environments.
• Curriculum guided by core values promoting excellence and professionalism.
• Fully articulated programs meeting professional standards for nursing.
• Preparation for leadership roles in various healthcare settings.
• A commitment to improving health outcomes and alleviating human suffering.
• Flexibility with both full-time and part-time plans of study available.

The Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master of Science in Nursing, a collaboration between McNeese State University, Nicholls State University, Southeastern Louisiana University, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, offers a master's degree program that is committed to improving community well-being through primary care, prevention, and health promotion. This program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, prepares students to provide both direct and indirect care to individuals, families, populations, or health systems, shaping future healthcare professionals.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at McNeese State University provides robust knowledge and training for nurses seeking to broaden their expertise and grow professionally. With a curriculum aligned with the Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master in Science of Nursing, students receive instruction from experienced faculty and hands-on clinical training. This fully online degree program offers flexibility and comprehensive support, boasting a 100% certification rate for family nurse practitioners and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. Students also benefit from experiential learning in advanced facilities, receiving expert instruction and gaining access to professional networking opportunities.

The MSN program offers two concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. FNPs often provide preventive health services, health education, and disease management with long-term patients, while Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners assess and diagnose mental health issues and offer treatment.

For those interested in further specialization, the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, PMC program is available and is fully online. Admission requirements can be found here.

Key Student Takeaways

• The opportunity to improve community well-being through primary care, prevention, and health promotion.
• Access to a fully online degree program, allowing for flexibility.
• Hands-on clinical training and experiential learning in advanced facilities.
• Expert instruction from experienced nursing faculty.
• Networking opportunities through the Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master of Science Nursing.
• 100% certification rate for specific practitioner areas.
• Multiple concentration options for specialization.
• Access to the Post-Master’s Certificate Program for further specialization (details).

Southeastern Louisiana University's School of Nursing is recognized for its leadership and excellence in nursing education. The school boasts over 1,400 majors in its undergraduate program and graduates approximately 150 students annually. Its programs, which include Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), have gained accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The school utilizes high-fidelity simulation experiences and community service learning activities, enhancing student learning while improving community health. The school's emphasis on safe patient care outcomes through direct patient care at multiple clinical facilities across the north shore region ensures real-world readiness for its students.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

1. Master of Science in Nursing: This advanced practice program is part of a consortium of four universities that work collaboratively to provide a comprehensive curriculum in advanced practice nursing, leading to an MSN degree. All clinical hours must be completed in Louisiana. The primary teaching techniques used in the program include web-based distance online learning, clinical practice, research, and mentorship in specialty concentrations.

2. Post-Master's Certificate Programs: The Post-Master’s Certificate programs provide a curriculum that strengthens the capabilities of existing adult nurse practitioners to care for patients across the lifespan as Family Nurse Practitioners or Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.

3. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): The DNP program at Southeastern Louisiana University prepares graduates to perform at the highest level of nursing practice. The program offers comprehensive coursework through online technology, requiring students on campus only for DNP orientation and defense of the DNP project. The program focuses on various aspects of advanced nursing practice, including biostatistics, epidemiology, clinical scholarship, preventive care, informatics, organizational and systems leadership, ethics, and healthcare policy.

Key Student Takeaways

• Gain from a school recognized as a leader in nursing education.
• Multiple degree options that cater to students' unique career trajectories.
• Access to high-fidelity simulation experiences and community service learning activities.
• Direct patient care experiences in multiple clinical facilities.
• Flexibility with online learning for graduate programs.
• Collaboration with a consortium of universities, providing a comprehensive curriculum.
• Opportunity to enhance capabilities through Post-Masters' Certificate programs.
• Preparation for the highest level of nursing practice through DNP.
• Student-centered learning approach emphasizing real-world readiness.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana leads in nursing education as the first public institution in Louisiana to establish both a baccalaureate and master's program in nursing. NSU offers a diverse array of nursing degrees — Associate of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, LPN to ASN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN program, Master of Science in Nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

The programs are offered across multiple campuses, allowing the university to cater to students in various geographical locations. The College of Nursing prides itself on graduating highly qualified nurses, made possible by a dedicated faculty of experienced healthcare professionals. Their commitment extends beyond the classroom as they actively contribute professional expertise to various local, state, and national arenas.

Nurse Practitioner (NP) Programs

NSU offers several Nurse Practitioner concentrations as part of their Master of Science in Nursing program. Each program requires a minimum of 42-44 credits and leads to an MSN degree:

1. Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner: This program prepares Advanced Practice Nurses who can provide acute care to adults of all ages. Graduates are eligible for ANCC and AACN certification examinations.

2. Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner: This program focuses on preparing nurses for primary care settings with people ranging from 16 through the end of the life cycle. Graduates can apply for certification examinations by ANCC and AANP.

3. Family Nurse Practitioner: This program equips nurses to provide primary care to people of all ages. Graduates are eligible to apply for ANCC and AANP certification examinations.

4. Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: This program prepares nurses to provide primary care to children of all ages. Graduates can apply for the National Certification Board of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners’ examination.

5. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: This program prepares nurses to provide psychiatric mental health nursing care to people of all ages. Graduates can apply for ANCC certification examination.

6. Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner: This program equips nurses to provide primary care to women of all ages. Graduates can apply for the National Certification Corporation (NCC) Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification examination.

Each program sequence includes core courses, clinical courses, clinical practicums, advanced assessment course, Pharmacotherapeutics, role courses, and a course in Family Dynamics. Nurse practitioner students also complete a professional paper in lieu of the thesis.

Key Student Takeaways

• Opportunities for advanced nursing specializations in six different areas.
• Experienced faculty provides personal and professional guidance throughout the course.
• High-quality programs recognized for producing highly qualified nurses.
• Flexibility in geographical learning locations, including online offerings.
• Comprehensive course sequence prepares students for real-world scenarios.
• Eligibility for several certification examinations upon program completion.
• Opportunity to contribute to a professional paper, enhancing research and analytic skills.

Highlights for Prospective NP Students

• Diverse Learning Opportunities: Nicholls State University's MSN program offers multiple concentrations, providing choices to tailor your education to your career goals.
• Exemplary Success Rates: With consistently high pass rates on certification exams, the MSN program demonstrates its strength in preparing students for professional practice.
• Accredited and Collaborative Learning: The program, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), offers a curriculum developed collaboratively by four universities, ensuring a comprehensive and diverse learning experience.
• Support for Career Progression: With articulation programs for LPNs and RNs, the nursing school provides avenues for nursing professionals to advance their education and careers.
• Inclusive Learning Environment: As a Military Friendly School and with a considerable population of first-generation college students, the university advocates for inclusive education, catering to diverse learners' needs.

About Nicholls State University's Nursing School

Nestled in Thibodaux, Louisiana, Nicholls State University has been promoting nursing education since 1948, offering an array of degree programs to a diverse community of around 5,900 students. This accredited regional university sits comfortably in the Bayou Region, surrounded by a vibrant culture and serves as a beacon of knowledge for first-generation college students.

The nursing school at Nicholls State University caters to both traditional and nontraditional students with programs that empower them to become advocates and providers of nursing services. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program equips students with the necessary skills for self-directed nursing practice and lays the foundation for advanced studies. Besides, the LPN to BSN and RN to BSN articulations present opportunities for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) to pursue a BSN degree, recognizing and validating their existing knowledge.

About Nicholls State University's NP Program

Nicholls State University takes pride in its Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, offered in collaboration with the Intercollegiate Consortium for a Master of Science in Nursing (ICMSN). This consortium comprises McNeese State University, Nicholls State University, Southeastern Louisiana University, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. They collaborate to provide students with a comprehensive curriculum that prepares them for diverse opportunities in the healthcare profession.

The MSN program offers specialty concentrations in Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nursing Education. Beyond academics, this program boasts stellar certification exam pass rates. In 2019, 2020, and 2021, the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track maintained a flawless 100% pass rate. Simultaneously, the Family Nurse Practitioner track achieved an impressive 100% pass rate in 2019 and 2020 and 94.7% in 2021. These figures underline the program's high quality and the readiness of its graduates for real-world practice.

Highlights for NP Students

• Dynamic Curriculum: SUBR's School of Nursing (SON) focuses on professional culture, research, and maintaining the highest standards of practice.
• History of Excellence: With a history of meeting the complex healthcare needs of vulnerable populations, the SON ensures relevant, quality nursing care.
• Stellar Faculty: Learn from outstanding educators, expert clinicians, and leading researchers in the field.
• Comprehensive Accreditation: Both the MSN and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Numerous scholarships are available, ranging from GPA-based honors to readiness for certifications, to support student success.
• Innovative Outreach: Experience the “Jag Mobile”, a state-of-the-art "clinic on wheels", providing health services to underserved populations, including telehealth capabilities.
• I-STAR-LC Integration: A learning center, I-STAR-LC focuses on retention, graduation rates, and preparing students for workforce demands with on-demand digitized tutorials.

About Southern University's Nursing School

Baton Rouge's Southern University and A&M College are Louisiana's largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU). It’s a flagship institution of the Southern University System and a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Southern University School of Nursing (SUSON) is a SUBR leader in professionalism and higher education.  With a strong emphasis on the preparation of professional nurses, it remains dedicated to nurturing an educational environment. The school places emphasis in research, professional culture, and standards of practice. Its longstanding academic-practice connections indicate that the school's Nurse Practitioner programs meet changing healthcare needs, especially for underserved populations.

SUSON's faculty includes veteran educators, pioneering researchers, and professional doctors. In terms of professional linkages, the school has affiliations with three renowned healthcare agencies and an impressive list of scholarships sponsored by CareSouth. Moreover, the innovative “Jag Mobile” initiative shows SUSON's commitment to bridging healthcare disparities, giving NP students important experience in varied contexts. 

About Southern University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Nurse Practitioner (Family Health Nursing)

SUSON offers an MSN program. One of the outstanding features of this program is its national recognition for fostering diversity within the nursing field.  The Diversity in Higher Education Annual Report says SUSON produces the most minority FNPs in the US. This award represents over 75% of Louisiana's FNPs, demonstrating the school's contribution to a diverse and competent nursing workforce. In terms of board results, the family nurse practitioner certification exam pass rates for SUSON alumni typically exceed the national average. To be eligible for admission, candidates must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution. Additionally, they must provide evidence of a current, unrestricted Louisiana RN license and have at least two years of full-time experience. Lastly, a satisfactory Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score, taken within the last five years, is required.

Highlights for NP Students

• Cutting-Edge Education: Grambling State offers innovative nursing education, setting students up for excellence in the healthcare field.
• High Certification Rate: In 2022, the MSN program scored a 100% certification rate for first-time test-takers.
• Strong Job Placement: A remarkable 100% job placement rate in 2022 showcases the program's commitment to student success.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The graduate nursing program integrates Patricia Benner’s "Novice to Expert" model, ensuring comprehensive learning.
• Full Approval: The Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN) has granted the MSN Program full approval.

About Grambling State University's Nursing School

Grambling State University is a prestigious public, historically black university. It is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The Grambling State University School of Nursing stands out for its commitment to shaping future healthcare leaders. They achieve this by offering a cutting-edge education. Furthermore, their Master's program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), reinforcing its caliber.

The school's impressive stats, such as the 100% certification rate and job placement rate for the MSN program in 2022, reflect the quality of their nursing education. The graduate nursing program's curriculum, which incorporates Patricia Benner’s renowned "Novice to Expert" theory, equips students with a holistic understanding. This approach ensures they progress from novice to competent professionals in their respective advanced nursing roles. Prospective students will indeed find Grambling State's nursing programs a transformative journey towards healthcare excellence.

About Grambling State University's NP Programs

Masters of Science in Nursing

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner Program
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program

The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Grambling State University is designed to span 21 months or five semesters, requiring students to complete 43 graduate credit hours.  classroom sessions are held every Monday on campus, with clinical experiences potentially taking place within the student's region.  On the other hand, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program also covers a 21-month or five-semester full-time study timeframe. This program gears its graduates towards offering primary health care in various settings. The emphasis is on delivering quality health interventions for infants through to adolescents.

The Family Nurse Practitioner Program has received significant recognitions. The University of Louisiana Systems has given its stamp of approval, and the National League of Nursing Accreditation Council (NLNAC) initially accredited the program for five years in June 2000. Subsequently, in June 2004, it earned a full eight-year accreditation status, and in July 2012, it received an additional eight-year accreditation, underscoring its consistent excellence.

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs

Concentrations:

• Post-Master’s Certificate (FNP)
• Post Certification Family Nurse Practitioner Programs - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) to Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Post-Certification FNP Program (Fast Track) - Adult Nurse Practitioner (ANP) to Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Post-Certification FNP Program (Fast Track) - Women’s Health Practitioner (WHNP) to Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Grambling State University offers Post-Master's Certificate Programs for nurses with a Master's degree who want to expand their practice. These programs allow students to build on their knowledge, improve their abilities, and broaden their practice while benefiting from Grambling State University's nursing education legacy.

Highlights for NP Students

• Exemplary Heritage: For over 30 years, the School of Nursing has been producing innovative and ethical leaders in the nursing field.
• Recognition of Excellence: Loyola's School of Nursing consistently ranks among the Best Graduate Schools of Nursing and hosts top-tier online nursing programs, as evidenced by U.S. News & World Report rankings.
• Flexible Financing: Offering deferment of up to 90% of tuition and fees until the end of the semester for those in employer-sponsored reimbursement programs, ensuring quality education is within reach.
• Wide Reach: As a participating member of NC-SARA, Loyola's distance education extends to most states in the U.S., offering unparalleled access to its esteemed programs.
• Accredited Programs: All core nursing programs, from baccalaureate to Doctor of Nursing Practice, are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: The Loyola Ochsner Nursing Simulation Lab in Monroe Hall provides hands-on experiences to bridge theory with practice in a safe environment.
• Realistic Training: The school has lifelike high-fidelity mannequins that students can interact with, mirroring real-time settings.

About Loyola University New Orleans' Nursing School

Loyola University New Orleans, a private Jesuit university in the heart of New Orleans, has served students of all faiths since 1904. For over three decades, its School of Nursing has produced leaders and visionaries who will change health care. This drive to excellence is shown in the school's and its students' academic and professional success.

With a variety of programs tailored to individual financial needs, Loyola ensures that quality education remains accessible. Its impressive national reach, thanks to its membership with NC-SARA, underscores its commitment to making top-tier nursing education available to a wider audience. In terms of learning experiences, the university houses a Nursing Simulation Lab. The said laboratory has a human-life mannequin that students can interact with.

About Loyola University New Orleans' NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

Loyola University New Orleans offers a completely online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. This nationally recognized MSN program offers a pathway to nurture future family nurse practitioners. The curriculum, comprising 48 credit hours and 720 supervised practicum hours, is designed for flexibility with online courses taught by seasoned professionals. Except for the on-field practicum, everything is online. Successful graduates emerge with the ability to offer holistic care, spanning individuals to entire populations. They are also fully equipped to take the national certification examination.

Post-Master’s Certificate

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

For master-educated nurses, Loyola's Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate is an opportunity to further refine expertise. This program, flexible and fully online, is tailored to cater to the needs of working professionals. A combination of online coursework and at least 500 supervised clinical hours is required. The program's foundation is Loyola's Jesuit values, thus emphasizing holistic approach to care.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Dual Nurse Anesthesia and Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Loyola University New Orleans is a for for nurses seeking career advancement. This program combines Loyola's top academics with innovative learning in online and hybrid formats.  There's an array of specialized DNP tracks to align with students' career aspirations. Each course, from Family Nurse Practitioner to Dual Nurse Anesthesia and Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, is designed to maximize knowledge, abilities, and values.