Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma 2024

About Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma

1. Educational Requirements
   • To practice as a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma, you need to obtain a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from an accredited nursing program. The program must be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
2. Licensure and Certification
   • After completing your educational requirements, you’ll need to pass a national certification exam in your chosen area of specialization. You can then apply for an NP license through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing.
3. Scope of Practice
   • Oklahoma operates under a “Reduced Practice” model. This means that NPs can assess, diagnose, and treat patients, but they need a collaborative agreement with a physician to do so. They are not allowed to practice independently.
4. Prescriptive Authority
   • Nurse Practitioners in Oklahoma have the authority to prescribe medications, including Schedule III-V controlled substances. However, a supervisory agreement with a physician is required to exercise this authority.
5. Employment and Salary
   • There are currently 2,580 Nurse Practitioners employed in Oklahoma.
   • The average salary for NPs in the state is $116,650 per year or $56.08 per hour.
   • Oklahoma accounts for about 1% of all Nurse Practitioners employed in the U.S.
6. Job Outlook
   • Oklahoma is expected to need 3,170 new Nurse Practitioners by the year 2030.
   • This equates to approximately 240 new NP positions being created each year.
7. Regulatory Body
   • The Oklahoma Board of Nursing is the regulatory agency responsible for overseeing NP licensure, practice, and rules. For any updates and changes in practice guidelines, regularly check their website and publications.

For more information and to stay updated on any regulatory changes affecting NPs in Oklahoma, visit the Oklahoma Board of Nursing and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) advocacy page.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma

#1 in Oklahoma

#2 in Oklahoma

See our Ranking Methodology

8 Steps to Become an NP in Oklahoma

1. Earn an RN Degree: Start by obtaining your RN degree through an ADN or BSN program from an accredited university. Accreditation by the ACEN or CCNE ensures that your course credits will be accepted by Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: Prepare for and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to obtain your RN licensure.
3. Earn Your MSN or DNP: Pursue either a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree to become an NP. MSN programs typically take around 2 years, while DNP programs require about 4 years. Choose a population focus area, such as gerontology, family, or neonatal, when enrolling in your program.
4. Complete Supervised Clinical Hours: Depending on your chosen population focus, you will need to complete between 500-600 clinical hours for an MSN program or 1000 hours for a DNP program.
5. Become Board Certified: Obtain board certification from the appropriate certifying body based on your population focus area:
   • National Certification Corporation: For Women’s health and neonatal NPs.
   • The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners: For family and adult-gerontology NPs.
   • The American Association of Critical Care Nurses: For adult-gerontology NPs.
   • The American Nurses Credentialing Center: For adult-gerontology, family, psychiatric mental health, and pediatric NPs.
   • Pediatric Nursing Certification Board: For pediatric NPs.
6. Obtain Licensure: Reach out to the Oklahoma State Board of Nursing for your NP licensure.
7. Obtain a DEA Number: In Oklahoma, prescribing medication calls for a DEA registration. Start by getting your NPI number at no cost via the NPPES website. Use this NPI number to apply for the State Controlled Substances Authority for Oklahoma via the Oklahoma Board of Pharmacy. Complete the process by seeking your DEA registration from the DEA Diversion Control Division.
8. Maintain Active Certification and Licensure: The certifying body, together with the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, provides guidance on maintaining certification and licensure. Regularly complete continuing education (CE) credits and clinical practice. Also, renew your license with the board every two years.

Online NP Programs Now Accepting Oklahoma Applicants

If you are currently an RN, the following schools are currently accepting Oklahoma students into their online Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs, providing flexible learning options to accommodate your busy schedule.

Time It Take to Become an NP in Oklahoma

How much time it takes to become a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma really depends on your background. Depending on the path you take it will be 2 to 4 years of education before you can become a Certified Nurse Practitioner. If you’re already an RN it can take as little as 2 years by earning your MSN. If you are not an RN some direct entry programs are as short as 2 years as well. If you already have your MSN but are not an NP you can do a DNP program in 2-3 years and become and NP while also earning your doctorate.

Here are examples of how long it will take you to become an NP depending on what degree you are starting with:

Starting Degree	How Many Years to Become an NP
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)	2 – 3 years
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN)	2 years
Bachelor’s in a non-nursing field	2 – 3 years
Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN)	1 – 2 years

NP Bridge Programs for Students Oklahoma

Registered Nurse (RN) to Nurse Practitioner

The path from an RN to a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma provides an exciting opportunity for nurses to advance their careers. The journey usually starts with earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). RNs can benefit from the rich combination of advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

• Completion of an accredited RN program
• Active RN license in Oklahoma
• Minimum GPA in prior studies
• Prerequisite coursework
• BSN and MSN program duration: 2-3 years each
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

BSN to Nurse Practitioner

For those already holding a BSN degree, the next logical step is to pursue a graduate-level nursing program. This pathway offers intensive training and specialization opportunities, preparing nurses to provide comprehensive patient care and assume leadership roles in healthcare.

• Active RN license in Oklahoma
• BSN degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA in BSN program
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program
• Typical MSN program duration: 2-3 years

MSN to Nurse Practitioner

The journey from an MSN to a Nurse Practitioner is not as long, thanks to the groundwork laid during MSN studies. Oklahoma offers numerous programs geared toward MSN graduates, blending specialized education with clinical practice to shape competent Nurse Practitioners.

• Active RN license in Oklahoma
• MSN degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA in MSN program
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

Direct Entry MSN Nurse Practitioner

Designed for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, the Direct Entry MSN Nurse Practitioner pathway paves the way to enter the nursing profession at a more advanced level. This unique route offers an intensive nursing education, covering foundational nursing principles and advanced practice concepts.

• Bachelor’s degree in non-nursing field
• Prerequisite courses
• Minimum GPA in previous program
• Direct Entry MSN program duration: 2-3 years
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner Program

The BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner pathway is an ambitious route that equips nurses with the highest level of nursing education. This comprehensive journey integrates advanced nursing practice with leadership and administrative skills, opening doors to executive roles in healthcare.

• Active RN license in Oklahoma
• BSN degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA in BSN program
• DNP program duration: 3-4 years
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

MSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner

For MSN graduates eyeing the apex of nursing practice, the MSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner pathway provides a robust curriculum focused on advanced clinical skills, leadership, policy, and advocacy. This route helps nurses emerge as leaders in healthcare delivery and policy-making.

• Active RN license in Oklahoma
• MSN degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum GPA in MSN program
• DNP program duration: 1-2 years
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

Post-Master’s Certification Nurse Practitioner

The Post-Master’s Certification Nurse Practitioner pathway offers a chance for nurses with a Master’s degree to gain further specialization in their field. It prepares graduates to tackle complex healthcare needs and offer specialized care.

• Active RN license in Oklahoma
• Master’s degree in nursing
• Minimum GPA in previous program
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Online Nurse Practitioner Programs are a flexible and accessible route to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. These programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as traditional programs, providing students the chance to learn at their own pace and convenience.

• Active RN license (if applicable)
• Accredited degree (level depends on program)
• Minimum GPA in previous program
• Supervised clinical hours: Varies by program

Requirements for Online NP Programs

Admission Process and Timeline

Applying to Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma involves a multi-step process.

• Application Submission: Applicants must submit an application, typically through an online portal. This step includes providing personal information and academic history.
• Documentation: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. They may also need to provide proof of RN licensure, letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, and a personal statement.
• Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the admission process. The interview can be in-person or virtual.
• Decision Notification: After reviewing all applications, the program will notify applicants of their admission decision.

The timeline for this process varies by program but typically spans several months. Most programs have specific application deadlines, often in the fall or spring.

Program Length and Time to Completion

The length of online Nurse Practitioner programs in Oklahoma depends on several factors.

• Full-Time vs Part-Time: Full-time students can often complete the program faster than part-time students. However, part-time study offers more flexibility for working professionals.
• Previous Education: The program length also depends on the student’s previous education. Those with a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) may finish faster than those with an Associate’s degree in nursing (ADN).
• Clinical Hours: Programs require a certain number of clinical hours for graduation. The time it takes to complete these hours can affect the overall length of the program.

Typically, online Nurse Practitioner programs take 2 to 4 years to complete. This time frame includes coursework and required clinical hours.

25 Top Employers for NPs in Oklahoma

Graduates of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma have numerous career opportunities. These span from large hospitals to specialized clinics, and each setting offers unique experiences and challenges.

Hospitals and Medical Centers

Hospitals and medical centers offer dynamic environments where Nurse Practitioners can work alongside a diverse team of healthcare professionals.

• OU Medicine: https://www.oumedicine.com/
• Integris Health: https://integrisok.com/
• Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City: https://www.mercy.net/practice/mercy-hospital-oklahoma-city/
• Saint Francis Hospital: https://www.saintfrancis.com/
• Oklahoma Heart Hospital: https://www.okheart.com/

Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care Centers

Outpatient clinics and urgent care centers offer fast-paced settings where Nurse Practitioners can provide critical care to patients with immediate needs.

• Access Medical Centers: https://amc.nextcare.com/en/locations/#oklahoma
• GoHealth Urgent Care: https://www.gohealthuc.com/
• Xpress Wellness Urgent Care: https://xpresswellnessurgentcare.com/
• MedNOW Clinics: http://mednowclinics.com/
• Immediate Care OK: http://immediatecareok.com/

Private Practices and Specialty Clinics

Private practices and specialty clinics offer the opportunity for Nurse Practitioners to focus on specific areas of medicine, from family practice to cardiology.

• Utica Park Clinic: https://uticaparkclinic.com/
• The Broadway Clinic: http://thebroadwayclinic.com/
• Oklahoma Arthritis Center: http://okarthritis.com/
• Allergy Clinic of Tulsa: http://allergyclinicoftulsa.com/
• Cardiovascular Health Clinic: http://cvhealthclinic.com/

Community Health Centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

Community health centers and FQHCs are vital for providing care to underserved populations, offering rewarding opportunities for Nurse Practitioners.

• Variety Care: http:/varietycare.org/
• Community Health Connection: http:/communityhealthconnection.org/
• Morton Comprehensive Health Services: http:/mortonhealth.org/

Long-Term Care Facilities and Nursing Homes

Long-term care facilities and nursing homes provide a setting where Nurse Practitioners can deliver compassionate care to elderly or chronically ill patients.

• Diakonos Group: https:/diakonosgroup.com/
• Grace Living Centers: https:/gracelivingcenters.com/

Academic Institutions and Universities

Academic institutions offer Nurse Practitioners the chance to contribute to the education of future healthcare professionals in Oklahoma.

• University of Oklahoma College of Nursing : https:/nursing.ouhsc.edu/
• Kramer School of Nursing at Oklahoma City University: www.okcu.edu/nursing

Government and Military Facilities

Government and military facilities give Nurse Practitioners the opportunity to serve those who serve our country.

• OKC VA Health Care System : www.oklahoma.va.gov/

Home Health Care Agencies

Home health care agencies allow Nurse Practitioners to deliver personalized care in patient homes across Oklahoma.

• Interim Healthcare of Tulsa : www.interimhealthcare.com/tulsaok
• Carter Healthcare : www.carterhealthcare.net/

Most Pop ular NP Certifications

As an NP the world is at your fingertips. You can work in a variety of settings and will have the flexibility throughout your career to change it up. Here are some examples of where you may work.

• Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP: Cardiology,  neurology, emergency departments, intensive care units, medical surgical units, military settings, and more.
• Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP: primary care clinics, nursing homes, correctional facilities, college health, occupational health, military settings, and more.
• Family NP: Primary care clinics, community health, urgent care, college health, occupational health,  military settings, dermatology, shelters, and more.
• Neonatal NP: neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), emergency departments, labor and delivery units, and more.
• Pediatric Acute Care NP: Emergency departments, specialty units in children’s hospitals, urgent care.
• Pediatric Primary Care NP: community health centers, schools, children’s hospitals, private practices.
• Psychiatric Mental Health NP: outpatient therapy, inpatient psychiatric units, partial hospitalization units, nursing homes, and more.
• Women’s Health NP: Community health centers, women’s prisons, private practices, urogynecology practices, adolescent health, and more.

Certification	Percent of NPs
Family Nurse Practitioner	69.7
Adult Care	10.8
Adult–Gerontology Primary Care	7.0
Psychiatric/Mental Health	4.7
Acute Care	4.1
Pediatrics–Primary Care	3.2
Adult–Gerontology Acute Care	2.9
Women’s Health	2.9
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care	1.8
Neonatal	1.0
Pediatrics–Acute Care	0.7

Classes NP Students Take in Oklahoma?

Nurse Practitioner Programs in Oklahoma provide a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles. These programs typically include a mix of core and specialized courses that cover essential nursing theory and clinical skills. Below are 10 typical courses one might take in a program such as the one offered at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing.

• Advanced Pathophysiology: This course delves into the changes in body systems that result from diseases or injuries. Nurses learn to identify these changes to diagnose conditions accurately and develop effective treatment plans.
• Pharmacology for Advanced Practice: This course covers the principles of pharmacology, including drug classification, mechanism of action, therapeutic use, and potential side effects. It prepares nurses to prescribe medication safely and effectively.
• Health Assessment: Nurses learn to conduct comprehensive health assessments, including history taking and physical examination. They also learn to interpret findings to make accurate diagnoses.
• Research Methods: This course introduces nurses to research methodologies commonly used in healthcare. Nurses learn how to critically appraise research studies and apply findings to their practice.
• Primary Care of Adults: This course focuses on the management of common acute and chronic health problems in adults. It includes topics such as disease prevention, health promotion, and disease management.
• Primary Care of Women: Nurses learn about the unique health needs of women across the lifespan. Topics include reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause.
• Primary Care of Children: This course covers the assessment, diagnosis, and management of common health problems in children from infancy through adolescence.
• Healthcare Policy: This course explores how healthcare policies impact practice and patient outcomes. Nurses learn about policy development processes and advocacy strategies.
• Ethics in Healthcare: This course examines ethical issues commonly encountered in healthcare settings. Nurses learn to apply ethical principles when making decisions about patient care.
• Leadership in Healthcare: This course prepares nurses for leadership roles by exploring theories and practices related to leadership, management, and organizational behavior.

By completing these courses, nurses gain a solid foundation in the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced nursing practice.

Costs of NP Programs in Oklahoma

To help offset the cost of becoming an NP you can apply for scholarships and/or loan forgiveness programs. Here are a few examples.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Individual Hospital Repayment Programs
• Perkins Loan Cancellation
• Military Programs
• Nurse Corps Loan Forgiveness

Scholarships outside of the school you are applying to are not as common for NP programs as they are for BSN programs, but our Nursing School  and Scholarship guide  can help you figure out additional ways to offset costs.

10 Scholarships for Nurse Practitioner Students

Financial aid can make a significant difference for those pursuing a career as a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma. Several scholarships are available, specifically designed to support Oklahoma nurses with award amounts of $2,500 or more.

• Oklahoma Nurses Foundation Scholarship: The Oklahoma Nurses Foundation offers scholarships to undergraduate and graduate nursing students in Oklahoma. The scholarship amount varies each year, with a minimum award of $2,500. Applications are typically due in March.
• Nightingale Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded by the Oklahoma Nurses Association to support nursing students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential. The award amount is $2,500 and the application deadline is in June.
• Future Nurse Scholarship Program: Administered by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, this scholarship provides financial assistance to Oklahoma residents enrolled in a nursing program. Scholarships of up to $5,000 are awarded each year, with applications due in April.
• Dr. Eloise M. Pike Nursing Scholarship: This scholarship is open to nursing students from rural Oklahoma communities. The award amount is $2,500 and applications are due in February.
• Frances Ward Givens Nursing Scholarship: Offered by the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, this scholarship supports nursing students who demonstrate financial need. The award amount is $3,000 and applications are typically due in February.
• Oklahoma League for Nursing Scholarship: The Oklahoma League for Nursing awards scholarships to students enrolled in an accredited nursing program in Oklahoma. The award amount is $2,500 and applications are due in May.
• Ruth K. Jacobs Memorial Scholarship: Administered by the March of Dimes, this scholarship provides financial support to nurses who are enrolled in graduate education with a focus on maternal-child nursing. The award amount is $3,000 and applications are typically due in January.
• American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Scholarship: The AANP offers scholarships to AANP members who are currently enrolled in an accredited Nurse Practitioner program. Scholarships of up to $5,000 are awarded each year, with applications due in March.
• Indian Health Service Scholarship Program: The Indian Health Service offers scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native health profession students, including those studying to become Nurse Practitioners. Scholarships cover tuition, fees, and living expenses, with applications typically due in March.
• Oklahoma’s Promise Scholarship: The Oklahoma’s Promise program offers scholarships to Oklahoma residents who meet certain income and academic requirements. While not specifically for nursing students, this scholarship can be used for any undergraduate degree program, including nursing.

While scholarships can greatly help finance your education, it’s also important to explore all financial aid opportunities. Be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on the Federal Student Aid website. This form is crucial for determining your eligibility for federal financial aid programs such as grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

Every bit of financial aid can help reduce the cost of your education, so it’s worth taking the time to explore all available options and apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for.

Salaries for Oklahoma NP Graduates

• Family Nurse Practitioners in Oklahoma earn an average of $113,700 per year.
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners in the state make about $124,300 annually.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioners average around $110,650 per year.
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioners typically receive $122,500 annually.
• The average pay for Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners in Oklahoma is $118,450 per year.

In addition to their salaries, these healthcare professionals enjoy a number of non-monetary benefits such as:

• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work schedules
• Career advancement potential
• Job security
• Comprehensive health coverage
• Retirement plans

While the salary of a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma may vary depending on specialization, all practitioners can expect competitive compensation and benefits. For more detailed information on the earnings of each type of nurse practitioner, refer to the 2023 Nurse Practitioner salary report.

Note: Salaries may vary based on experience level, education, and location within the state.

Type of Nurse Practitioner	Average Salary
Family Nurse Practitioner	$113,700
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner	$124,300
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner	$110,650
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner	$122,500
Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner	$118,450

List of Online & Campus Programs in Oklahoma

Oklahoma Organizations for Nurse Practitioner

For those aspiring to become a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma, various resources can provide support and guidance. These resources range from state nursing boards to student associations and offer information on licensing, job opportunities, and professional development.

• Oklahoma Board of Nursing: The Oklahoma Board of Nursing is the regulatory body for nursing practice in the state. It provides licensure information, practice guidelines, and educational resources for Nurse Practitioners.
• Association of Oklahoma Nurse Practitioners: The Association of Oklahoma Nurse Practitioners supports NPs across the state with networking opportunities, legislative advocacy, and continuing education.
• Oklahoma Nurses Association: The Oklahoma Nurses Association offers resources for all nursing professionals, including Nurse Practitioners. It provides information on career advancement, leadership opportunities, and professional networking.
• University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing: The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing offers advanced practice nursing programs including a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
• Nurse Practitioner Programs in Your State: This comprehensive resource provides information on how to become a nurse practitioner, including details on education requirements, licensing procedures, and job outlook. Visit Nurse Practitioner Programs in Your State for more details.
• Oklahoma Nurses Foundation: The Oklahoma Nurses Foundation supports nursing research and scholarships for nursing students in the state.

Utilizing these resources can assist anyone interested in becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Oklahoma navigate their path to success.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs Near Me

We identified the top nurse practitioner programs for you through rigorous research. These premier schools have a record of graduating career-ready nurses who positively impact lives. Starting with the program best fit for you puts purposeful, meaningful work within reach. Let us guide your first steps towards a future of healing hope.

Best Nurse Practitioner (NP) Methodology