Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Mississippi 2024

Highlights for NP Students

• Nationally Recognized Programs: The College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers well-established NP programs which are recognized at both state and national levels.
• Comprehensive Accreditation: Its nursing programs are accredited by renowned agencies, ensuring top-tier quality education.
• Modern Nursing Labs: From dedicated practice and testing labs to advanced simulation labs, the university provides hands-on learning environments.
• Vandergriff Simulation Lab: This transformative six-bay hospital simulation lab offers real-time clinical scenarios, allowing students to enhance their clinical judgment.
• Rich History: The Graduate Nursing Program, initiated in 1974, has consistently maintained full nursing accreditation.
• Acclaimed Faculty: Learn from the best with our award-winning faculty, who have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to healthcare.

About the Mississippi University for Women Nursing School

Mississippi University for Women, located in Columbus, Mississippi, is a public institution with a rich history dating back to 1884. Originally focused on the education of women, today it welcomes all genders and offers a vast range of programs. The university's College of Nursing & Health Sciences excels academically. Consistent recognition from national bodies, such as the National Pfizer Advanced Nurse Practitioner Award, underlines the college's commitment to nursing education and its students' achievements. These acknowledgments, paired with the state-of-the-art Bill and Jo-Ann Vandergriff Simulation Learning Lab and dedicated Nursing Labs, affirm its leading role in nursing education.

NP students benefit from an environment that blends theory with practice. The Vandergriff Simulation Lab, for instance, allows students to engage with lifelike clinical scenarios, honing both technique and clinical judgment. Furthermore, the Learning Resource Center, specifically dedicated to the Nursing Department, offers a number of resources, from a computer lab to a media library, facilitating comprehensive learning. Hence, the university ensures that its nursing students are well-prepared for the challenges of the healthcare industry

About the Mississippi University for Women NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

This Master of Science in Nursing program offers a concentration in Family Nurse Practitioner. Tailored for individuals with a baccalaureate in nursing and two years of registered nursing experience, this program spans 39 semester hours and can be completed in 12 months. The curriculum is carefully designed to produce advanced practice nurses with extensive nursing and biopsychosocial science understanding.  Graduates can assess, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic health conditions in primary care and are encouraged to learn. All prospective students must pass a 45-contact-hour Advanced Pathophysiology course with a B before enrolling. To graduate, students need to fulfill a total of 39 semester hours of approved graduate credit, a clinical research project or thesis, and a comprehensive examination. The tuition for the 2023–24 academic year is set at $4,046 per semester, which is applicable for students taking 9–13 credit hours. This fee includes a mandatory $50 capital improvement fee, and out-of-state tuition charges do not apply.

Post-Graduate APRN Certificate Program

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

This certificate program builds upon the courses offered in the MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program. It requires postgraduate students who are already nurse practitioners but not Family Nurse Practitioners, to complete twenty-three credit hours. Meanwhile, nurses with a Master’s degree in nursing but not nurse practitioners need thirty credit hours. Course delivery follows a logical sequence, building upon content from the BSN and prerequisite coursework. Students are expected to fulfill clinical experiences amounting to 660 hours, with clinical credit hours having a set ratio of 1:4.5 to practice time. For admissions, various prerequisites are outlined based on the student's previous qualifications, including a Master of Science in Nursing and an unencumbered MS nursing license, among others. The tuition for the 2023–24 academic year is priced at $449.56 per credit hour for part-time students and $4,046 per semester for full-time students. Out-of-state tuition charges do not apply, and there are additional mandatory capital improvement fees.

Highlights for NP Students

• Research Excellence: Benefit from a Carnegie R1 research institution, positioning you among the best in nursing knowledge and innovation.
• Global Exposure: With students from over 70+ countries and 30 study-abroad programs, get a diverse and inclusive learning experience.
• Accreditation Confidence: Study in a university accredited by SACSCOC, ensuring the highest standards in your education.
• Comprehensive Learning: Engage in a college comprising four specialized schools dedicated to diverse health professions.
• Community Engagement: Join a student community actively contributing to over 100,000 volunteer hours annually.
• Legacy of Excellence: Be a part of the sixth-oldest acceptance-based Honors College in the nation, with a proud history.

About the University of Southern Mississippi's Nursing School

The 1910-founded University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in Hattiesburg is a Southern Association of Colleges and Schools-accredited public research university. Four schools make up this respected university's College of Nursing and Health Professions. These include the School of Health Professions, Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice, Professional Nursing Practice, and Speech and Hearing Sciences. This college prepares students for revolutionary healthcare roles. Its bachelor to doctoral programs are carefully designed to generate professionals who can improve healthcare and patient well-being. Nursing students lead healthcare innovation thanks to the university's Carnegie R1 research foundation.

The School of Leadership and Advanced Nursing Practice has dedicated and skilled faculty. They train advanced practice nurses to improve public health and well-being via clinical practice, scholarship, research, and service. The university's emphasis on research and scholarship, which advance nursing practice and education and improve health outcomes, reinforces their dedication. Moreover, with a legacy as the oldest acceptance-based Honors College in Mississippi and a rich tradition of community service, students are instilled with values of excellence and empathy. The presence of globally diverse students, and representation from over 70 countries, further enriches the learning environment. Thus nursing graduates are prepared for a global healthcare landscape.

About the University of Southern Mississippi's NP Programs

Graduate Programs (BSN to DNP and Graduate Certificate)

Concentrations:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The University of Southern Mississippi offers advanced graduate programs in nursing, specifically the BSN to DNP and Graduate Certificate programs.  Reflecting the university's commitment to excellence, these advanced practice nursing programs have rigorous standards. The program boasts an impressive 95–100% pass rate on board examinations and ranks at #136, according to USNWR.BSN-DNP and Post-Graduate Certificate programs are available.

The BSN-DNP program requires 71 hours over three years, while the MSN requires 44 credits over five semesters of full-time study, including summers. Meanwhile, the Post-Graduate Certificate requires 26 credit hours over four semesters.  Conveniently, the didactic courses are primarily online, requiring only one campus visit per semester. Furthermore, students can complete clinical requirements in their community or nearby. Moreover, it is worth noting that the university's programs prepare students for national certification exams. This includes exams from the AANPCB, ANCC, AACN, PNCB, and NCC, equipping graduates for state certification across all 50 states and U.S. protectorates.

Highlights for NP Students

• Superior Accreditation: Delta State University’s nursing programs are accredited by the respected Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Leading Online Programs: Delta State boasts the #2 Most Affordable Master’s Degree in Nursing Online.
• Renowned Faculty: Experience rich learning from experts in various nursing specialties who provide a high-quality education both online and in clinical settings.
• Simulation Excellence: The Robert E. Smith School of Nursing integrates modern simulation methods to ensure a comprehensive understanding of nursing concepts.
• Diverse Clinical Exposure: Students benefit from clinical practice at multiple healthcare agencies, broadening their skills and understanding.
• Generous Scholarships: Over 400 scholarships are offered by DSU annually, emphasizing their commitment to making quality education accessible.
• Strong Student-to-Teacher Ratio: With an 11:1 student-to-teacher ratio, students are ensured personalized attention.
• Rich Network Opportunities: Engage with multiple student and professional nursing organizations, opening doors to numerous networking prospects.

About Delta State University's Nursing School

Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, is a knowledge hub founded in 1924. It represents intellectual diversity by serving students from all 50 states and other countries.  It houses the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing, an institution that merges the liberal arts, life sciences, and behavioral sciences. DSU’s nursing school is not just any ordinary school. It’s ranked as the #2 nursing program in Mississippi. With its second-most affordable online master’s degree in nursing, it demonstrates its commitment to both quality and flexibility.

The school’s commitment to top-tier education is evident. With a faculty rich in expertise across various nursing specialties, students are assured a broad and in-depth education. Beyond traditional teaching, the school integrates state-of-the-art simulation techniques, ensuring that students are not only theory-ready but also practice-ready. Additionally, the clinical partnerships provide students with diverse real-world experience, making them adaptable and sought-after in the healthcare sector. The university’s recognition by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and its nursing accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education underscore its commitment to excellence. Hence, at Delta State University's Robert E. Smith School of Nursing, students are not just earning a degree. They are being molded into a competent, compassionate, and confident nurse practitioner ready to make a difference in healthcare.

About Delta State University's NP Programs

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is a versatile and comprehensive program designed to prepare nurses for advanced roles in the healthcare sector. The program is offered online, providing flexibility for both full-time and part-time students with a convenient clinical schedule. The clinical component can be completed in Mississippi or Arkansas for those pursuing the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track. The program is structured to include online courses paired with strategically scheduled campus seminars as well as clinical learning opportunities in facilities and agencies near the student's home community, pending faculty approval.
The MSN program has three primary goals: to provide a master's-level nursing education that builds on a generalist foundation; to prepare graduates for advanced professional nursing roles with specific functional and clinical abilities; and to equip graduates academically for further education beyond the master's level. The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) concentration requires 48 credit hours for completion, which includes 780 clinical hours. The program prepares graduates for national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), as well as state licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in primary care for families across the lifespan.

Post-Master’s Certificate

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

The Post-Master's Certificate program is tailored for registered nurses who hold a current RN license and a Master of Science in Nursing degree but are seeking another role concentration or certificate. This program is cohort-based with a fall term start, and clinical requirements must be completed in Mississippi or Arkansas for the FNP track. The curriculum is designed to provide master-prepared nurses with the necessary knowledge and skills to assume the role of a family nurse practitioner, improve health outcomes at various levels, and prepare academically for education beyond the master's level. The full-time and part-time program of study for the Post-Master’s Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate requires 40 credit hours and 780 clinical hours.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

This Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is an online program aimed at advancing the education of registered nurses at the master's level. This provides them the eligibility for national certification with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in the role of Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). The program includes 1-3 on-campus visits per semester, with clinical requirements to be completed in Mississippi or Arkansas for students pursuing the FNP track. It aims to provide doctoral-level nursing education, equip graduates with enhanced knowledge and skills for the family nurse practitioner role, and prepare them to be leaders in the profession, delivering high-quality healthcare through evidence-based practice. The full-time and part-time program of study for the Post-Master’s FNP-DNP requires 31 credit hours, with a minimum of seven hours. 

Highlights for NP Students

• Stellar Accreditation: Nursing programs at the Natchez Campus are endorsed by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring quality and recognition.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: The School of Nursing boasts a state-of-the-art learning environment, ensuring students grasp essential skills and knowledge for client-centered care.
• Personalized Guidance: Every nursing student benefits from a dedicated faculty advisor, guaranteeing targeted and beneficial academic guidance throughout their journey.
• Ample Resources: The Natchez Library Learning Resource Center (NLLRC) offers vast support, ensuring students and faculty have all the academic resources they need.
• Real-World Experience: The ASU Family Clinic, open five days a week, gives students hands-on experience, emphasizing health promotion, disease prevention, and acute care.

About Alcorn State University's Nursing School

Situated in Lorman, Mississippi, Alcorn State University is a historically black land-grant university with a rich history dating back to 1871. Home to the Cora S. Balmat School of Nursing, the university offers a diverse learning environment, merging online and traditional classroom experiences. The School of Nursing, located on the Natchez Campus, was founded in 1977 and has since produced hundreds of competent, caring, professional nurses. Comprising both undergraduate and graduate programs, the School of Nursing is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring that students receive top-tier education that equips them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for effective, client-centered care. Moreover, the real-world exposure at the ASU Family Clinic gives students a chance to apply their classroom knowledge, while the Natchez Library Learning Resource Center ensures they have all the tools they need. Alcorn, with its national recognition, vast resources, and experienced faculty, prepares fully-equipped nurse practitioners.

About Alcorn State University's NP Program

Master of Science in Nursing

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

The Graduate Nursing Program at Alcorn State University offers a comprehensive and focused curriculum for baccalaureate-prepared nurses looking to further their career. One of the notable options is the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track, structured to equip graduates with the skills to deliver primary health care to diverse and underserved populations across various life stages. Completing this track takes five semesters, including one summer, and 44 semester hours of intensive, full-time study. Successful graduates are then eligible for the national certification examination for FNPs. For those who already possess a Master's degree in nursing, Alcorn also offers a Post-Master’s Certificate option to delve deeper into specialized study as an FNP. The Graduate Nursing Program is firmly rooted in its mission to develop nursing leaders and scholars who are dedicated to serving global healthcare needs, ensuring quality, and emphasizing ethical considerations. Transfer of credit policies are stringent, with a minimum residency requirement at Alcorn State University and specific criteria for transfer eligibility.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program at Alcorn State University is designed for Certified Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) seeking top clinical practice. Evidence-based nursing practice, efficient delivery systems, and research translation are emphasized in this full-time program. Graduates are trained to improve healthcare and reduce health inequities.  Over the course of five semesters and 36 credit hours, students focus on areas like scientific underpinnings, organizational leadership, technology, health policy, and advanced nursing practice. The online curriculum includes minimal face-to-face sessions and requires 540 practicum hours, distributed across the latter semesters. A distinguishing feature of the DNP program is the DNP Project, showcasing mastery in advanced practice specialty. With stringent progression requirements and an emphasis on high academic standards, Alcorn ensures that its DNP graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in healthcare. The program allows a total of 6 years for completion, ensuring flexibility while maintaining quality standards.

Highlights for NP Students

• Academic Excellence: UMMC's School of Nursing (SON) has a strong foundation since its inception in 1948 and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: SON students have access to four specialized hospitals on the UMMC campus, including the only children’s hospital in Mississippi.
• Rich Clinical Exposure: Unique opportunities to train at the state’s sole Level 1 trauma center, Level 4 neonatal intensive care nursery, and organ transplant program.
• Community Engagement: SON clinics statewide offer practice, research opportunities, and have contributed over 60K service-learning hours, reflecting the school’s commitment to community health.
• Global Recognition: Acknowledged as a Center of Excellence in evidence-based practice, leading to a notable affiliation with the esteemed Cochrane US organization.
• Empowering Leaders: A dedicated emphasis on developing nurse leaders through innovative partnerships, community-based systems, and a commitment to excellence and continuous learning

About the University of Mississippi Medical Center's Nursing School

The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), located in Jackson, is an exclusive academic health science hub. UMMC is a leader in medical education, research, and patient care with seven health science schools. Since 1948, UMMC's School of Nursing (SON) has excelled. Its thousands of graduates demonstrate its commitment to Mississippian health care. SON’s commitment is evident through its innovative partnerships, community-based systems, and its focus on evidence-based practices. With UMMC housing the state’s only children’s hospital, a women’s and infant’s hospital, an adult hospital, and a critical care facility, SON students are exposed to unmatched clinical experiences. They learn at Mississippi’s sole Level 1 trauma center and Level 4 neonatal care nursery. This plethora of experiences ensures students are well-rounded and equipped to serve in diverse medical settings.

In addition to governmental status, the school has worldwide recognition.  Its evidence-based practice with JBI has earned it the title of a Center of Excellence and a coveted affiliation with the globally renowned Cochrane US organization. Furthermore, with a strong emphasis on community health, SON’s impact spreads throughout Mississippi, as seen by its widespread clinics and impressive service-learning contributions.

About the University of Mississippi Medical Center's NP Programs

MSN and Post-Master's Programs

Concentration:

• Acute/Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

The University of Mississippi School of Nursing offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Post-Master's program. This esteemed institution is perfect for bachelor's or master's-prepared Registered Nurses (RNs) aspiring to elevate their nursing education. The program is designed to accommodate both bachelor's and master's-prepared registered nurses (RN) seeking advanced practice roles. With five master's tracks, students can find a program that aligns with their career goals. The MSN and post-masters programs stand out for their flexible scheduling options, predominantly online coursework, and high pass rates on national certification examinations. Additionally, the low tuition costs make it an attractive option for potential students. With its affiliations with over 200 hospitals, community health centers, and other medical facilities, the program provides ample opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in clinical practice and research.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN to DNP)

Concentration:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

This Doctor of Nursing Practice (BSN-DNP) program provides a comprehensive educational experience tailored to suit the needs of its students. Those entering the program with a bachelor's degree have a plethora of track options. In terms of duration, post-baccalaureate students might need to render anywhere from eight to fourteen semesters, depending on their chosen nurse practitioner track. Throughout the program, the focus remains on providing a tailored learning experience. Whether it's accommodating part-time study needs or facilitating the transfer of courses from other institutions, Jackson's BSN-DNP program is built around the student. Additionally, post-baccalaureate DNP students receive relevant clinical hours, complemented by a DNP project that constitutes a significant part of their clinical component.