Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah 2024

Become a Nurse Practitioner in Utah

1. Educational Requirements
   • To become a Nurse Practitioner in Utah, you’ll need either a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from an accredited program. Accrediting bodies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
2. Licensure and Certification
   • After completing your educational training, you’ll need to pass a national certification exam in your specialized field. Then, you can apply for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) license through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.
3. Scope of Practice
   • Utah grants Nurse Practitioners “Reduced Practice” status, which means NPs have some limitations in one or more aspects of NP practice. NPs in Utah must maintain a collaborative agreement with a physician to engage in some aspects of practice.
4. Prescriptive Authority
   • Nurse Practitioners in Utah do have prescriptive authority, but they must have a consultative relationship with a physician for patients requiring Schedule II drugs.
5. Employment and Salary
   • There are currently 2,180 Nurse Practitioners employed in Utah.
   • The average salary for an NP in Utah is $112,920 per year or $54.29 per hour.
   • About 1% of U.S. Nurse Practitioners work in Utah.
6. Job Outlook
   • By 2030, Utah is projected to need 3,610 new Nurse Practitioners.
   • This equates to roughly 290 new NPs needed per year.
7. Regulatory Body
   • The main regulatory body for NPs in Utah is the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

Utah offers a range of opportunities for Nurse Practitioners, despite some limitations in scope of practice. The state’s growing need for NPs makes it a viable option for those considering where to practice. The salary and job outlook should also be strong considerations in your career planning.

Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah

#1 in Utah

#2 in Utah

#3 in Utah

See our Ranking Methodology

8 Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Utah

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 Utah.
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: Start your journey in Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah by contacting the Utah State Board of Nursing to secure your NP licensure.
7. Obtain a DEA Number: The ability to prescribe medication in Utah requires a DEA registration. The process begins with obtaining your NPI number, free of charge, through the NPPES website. Use your NPI number to apply for your State Controlled Substances Authority for Utah through the Utah Board of Pharmacy. Your final step is to secure your DEA registration via the DEA Diversion Control Division.
8. Maintain Active Certification and Licensure: Staying in good standing as a Nurse Practitioner involves continuous education and practice. The certifying body and the Utah Board of Nursing provide information about maintaining certification and licensure. Typical requirements include completing Continuing Education (CE) credits, engaging in clinical practice, and renewing your license every two years. For CE opportunities, check out Utah-specific resources.

Online NP Programs Accepting Utah Applicants

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

Time It Takes to Become an NP in Utah

How much time it takes to become a Nurse Practitioner in Utah 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 Utah Students

Registered Nurse (RN) to Nurse Practitioner

For Registered Nurses in Utah, Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah provide a way to advance their career. Programs typically take 2 to 3 years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment.

• Requirements: Active RN license in Utah, Bachelor’s degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, specific prerequisite courses
• Program Duration: 2 to 3 years
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

BSN to Nurse Practitioner

Nurses with a BSN can advance their skills with a Nurse Practitioner program. These programs typically take 2 to 4 years to complete.

• Requirements: BSN, Active RN license in Utah, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: 2 to 4 years
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

MSN to Nurse Practitioner

Those with an MSN can become Nurse Practitioners through specialized programs, typically lasting 1 to 2 years.

• Requirements: MSN, Active RN license in Utah, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: 1 to 2 years
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

Direct Entry MSN Nurse Practitioner

Direct entry programs allow those without a nursing background to earn an MSN and become a Nurse Practitioner, typically in 3 to 4 years.

• Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: 3 to 4 years
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner Program

These programs allow BSN-prepared nurses to earn a DNP and become a Nurse Practitioner, typically within 3 to 4 years.

• Requirements: BSN, Active RN license in Utah, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: 3 to 4 years
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

MSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner

MSN to DNP programs offer advanced training for nurses to become Nurse Practitioners, typically in 1 to 2 years.

• Requirements: MSN, Active RN license in Utah, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: 1 to 2 years
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

Post-Master’s Certification Nurse Practitioner

These programs are for MSN-prepared nurses seeking certification in a different specialization. Program length varies based on specialization and prior experience.

• Requirements: MSN, Active RN license in Utah, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: Varies based on specialization and experience
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Online programs offer flexibility for working professionals. They typically follow the same timelines as traditional programs but may have different supervised hour requirements.

• Requirements: RN or BSN, Active RN license in Utah, minimum 3.0 GPA
• Program Duration: Varies based on degree and enrollment status
• Supervised Hours: Varies by program and specialization

Requirements for Online NP Programs

Earning a degree online opens doors for prospective Nurse Practitioners in Utah, offering flexibility and accessibility.

Admission Process:

The admission process for Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah typically follows these steps:

• Application: Prospective students submit an online application along with their official transcripts from all attended institutions.
• Prerequisites: Applicants usually need a minimum GPA, often around 3.0, and must have completed prerequisite coursework in areas such as statistics, anatomy, and physiology.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation, often from professional or academic contacts.
• Resume/CV and Personal Statement: A resume or CV detailing relevant work experience and a personal statement are often required.

Timeline:

• Admission Deadlines: Programs usually have application deadlines in the fall or spring. Deadlines vary by program, so it’s essential to check each school’s specific dates.
• Admissions Decisions: Admissions decisions are typically sent out a few weeks to a couple of months after the application deadline.

Program Length and Time to Completion:

• Program Length: The length of online Nurse Practitioner programs in Utah can vary based on the degree level and enrollment status. MSN programs can take about 2 to 3 years, while DNP programs can take 3 to 4 years.
• Part-Time vs. Full-Time: Programs often offer both full-time and part-time options, allowing students to choose a pace that works best for their schedule. Part-time students typically take longer to complete the program than full-time students.

Online programs offer a convenient way for current nurses and others looking to enter the field to further their education and advance their careers in Utah’s evolving healthcare landscape.

40 Top Employers for Utah NPs

Utah offers numerous opportunities for Nurse Practitioners. After graduating from one of the many Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah, you may work in a variety of healthcare settings. These settings provide diverse experiences and cater to the distinct skills that Nurse Practitioners bring to the healthcare team.

Hospitals and Medical Centers

Hospitals and medical centers offer a broad range of services, catering to various health needs in one location. Nurse Practitioners play a crucial role in patient care within these settings.

• University of Utah Health
• Intermountain Healthcare
• Steward Healthcare
• MountainStar Healthcare
• HCA Healthcare

Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care Centers

Outpatient clinics and urgent care centers provide essential healthcare services. They offer convenience and timeliness, making healthcare more accessible for patients.

• Utah Valley Clinic
• Medallus Urgent Care
• Intermountain InstaCare
• FirstMed Urgent Care
• After Hours Medical

Private Practices and Specialty Clinics

Private practices and specialty clinics offer care focused on specific health issues, enabling Nurse Practitioners to specialize in their areas of interest.

• Granger Medical Clinic
• Utah Digestive Health Institute
• Utah Cardiology
• Foothill Family Clinic
• Utah Orthopedic Specialists

Community Health Centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

Community Health Centers and FQHCs provide comprehensive services to underserved populations, making healthcare more equitable.

• Utah Partners for Health
• Mountainlands Community Health Center
• Midtown Community Health Center
• Wasatch Homeless Health Care
• Fourth Street Clinic

Long-Term Care Facilities and Nursing Homes

Long-term care facilities and nursing homes cater to elderly patients and those with chronic conditions, offering specialized, prolonged care.

• Utah Health & Rehab
• Legacy Village of Sugar House
• Mission at Community Living
• Orem Rehabilitation & Nursing
• Highland Care Center

Academic Institutions and Universities

Academic institutions and universities employ Nurse Practitioners in various capacities, from providing care in campus health centers to teaching in nursing programs.

• University of Utah
• Brigham Young University
• Weber State University
• Utah Valley University
• Utah State University

Government and Military Facilities

Government and military facilities employ Nurse Practitioners to provide care to public servants and military personnel.

• Utah Department of Health
• Salt Lake City VA Health Care System
• Utah National Guard
• Department of Human Services
• Utah State Hospital

Home Health Care Agencies

Home health care agencies offer a unique opportunity for Nurse Practitioners to provide care within patients’ homes, focusing on personalized care.

• Harmony Home Health
• Interim HealthCare of Salt Lake City
• Millcreek Home Health and Hospice
• Bristol Hospice Utah
• Canyon Home Care & Hospice

Most Popular 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 Utah

In Utah, nurses can further their education and skills by enrolling in one of the Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah. These programs typically comprise courses that offer comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing nurses for various patient care scenarios. Below are ten courses commonly found in these programs and what a nurse will typically learn in each.

1. Advanced Health Assessment
This course provides nurses with in-depth knowledge and skills to conduct comprehensive and focused health assessments across all ages. Students learn to integrate assessment data to guide clinical decision making.

2. Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing
Here, nurses learn the principles of clinical pharmacology. The course covers pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and drug classes, equipping nurses to prescribe medications safely and effectively.

3. Pathophysiology
This course dives into the study of abnormal physiological processes that lead to diseases. Nurses learn to identify signs and symptoms of various diseases and understand their pathogenesis.

4. Family Primary Care
This course prepares nurses to provide primary care to families. Students learn about the healthcare needs of all family members across their lifespan.

5. Adult-Gerontology Care
In this course, nurses learn about the health management of adult and elderly patients. Topics include disease prevention, chronic disease management, and end-of-life care.

6. Pediatric Care
This course covers the unique health needs of infants, children, and adolescents. Nurses learn to provide age-appropriate care, from preventive health strategies to managing common pediatric conditions.

7. Women’s Health
This course equips nurses to address women’s health issues. Topics include reproductive health, pregnancy, menopause, and gender-specific health conditions.

8. Mental Health for Nurse Practitioners
This course provides nurses with the skills to address mental health issues in a primary care setting. Topics include mental health screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

9. Health Policy and Advocacy
This course teaches nurses about health policies and how they affect healthcare delivery. Students learn to advocate for policies that improve health outcomes.

10. Research and Evidence-Based Practice
This course equips nurses with skills to conduct research and apply evidence-based practice in their healthcare delivery.

The University of Utah is one of the notable institutions offering Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah. Nurses can explore their programs to enhance their skills and broaden their scope of practice.

Costs of Nurse Practitioner Programs in Utah

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 Utah NP Students

Pursuing a career as a Nurse Practitioner in Utah can be financially challenging, but numerous scholarships are available to help offset the costs. Here are ten scholarships with award amounts of $2,500 or more:

1. Utah Hospital Association Health Career Scholarship: The Utah Hospital Association awards several scholarships of $3,500 each to nursing students. The deadline for applications is June.
2. Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing Scholarships: Sigma Theta Tau offers several scholarships of $2,500 or more to graduate nursing students. Deadlines vary depending on the specific scholarship.
3. American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) Scholarships: AANP provides numerous scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 for AANP members enrolled in an accredited nurse practitioner program. Applications are typically due by March.
4. Mountain America Scholarship: Mountain America Credit Union provides $2,500 scholarships for students in healthcare fields, including nursing. Applications are due by April.
5. Dr. Erol Kepkep Memorial Scholarship: Administered by the Intermountain Medical Center, this scholarship awards $5,000 to a nurse practitioner student with a commitment to serving underprivileged communities. Deadline is July.
6. Utah Health Care Association Scholarship: The Utah Health Care Association offers several scholarships of up to $3,500 for nursing students. Applications are accepted year-round.
7. Nightingale Tribute Nursing Scholarship: Sponsored by the Utah Nurses Association, this scholarship provides $2,500 to an outstanding nurse practitioner student in Utah. The deadline is August.
8. March of Dimes Dr. Margaret C. Freda Graduate Nursing Scholarship Award: This national scholarship from the March of Dimes awards $5,000 to graduate nursing students and is open to Utah residents. Deadline is January.
9. AfterCollege/AACN Nursing Scholarship Program: Sponsored by AfterCollege, this program provides $2,500 scholarships for students pursuing a degree in nursing, including nurse practitioners. The deadline varies.
10. Promise of Nursing Regional Faculty Fellowship Program: This fellowship from the Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association awards between $1,000 and $7,500 to registered nurses enrolled in graduate-level education programs to become nurse educators. Deadline is May.
11. AACN’s Certified Background Nurse.com Scholarship: Sponsored by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, this scholarship awards $2,500 twice yearly to graduate nursing students from underrepresented groups in nursing or disadvantaged backgrounds. Deadlines are January and July.

Remember that applying for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens doors to federal, state and institutional financial aid opportunities along with these private scholarships.

Salaries for Utah Nurse Practitioner Graduates

Department of Labor, and other sources, the salary for a Nurse Practitioner in Utah varies based on specialization.

For instance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners earn an average of $115,000 annually. On the other hand, Family Nurse Practitioners make around $105,000 per year. Pediatric Nurse Practitioners have an average income of $110,000 annually.

Beyond salary, Nurse Practitioners in Utah also enjoy non-salary benefits such as:

• Professional Development Opportunities: Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance for further education.
• Health Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance including dental and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plans: Most employers provide 401k matching programs.
• Paid Time Off: Paid vacation days, holidays, and sick leave are common.

To gain a deeper understanding of the earning potential of a Nurse Practitioner in Utah and across different specializations, review the full 2023 Nurse Practitioner Salary Report.

Remember that salaries vary based on experience level, geographic location within Utah, and the specific healthcare setting. Always consider these factors when assessing potential earnings.

List of All Online & Campus Programs in Utah

Utah’s nurse practitioners can pursue advanced education through three notable programs. The University of Utah’s College of Nursing offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice program, emphasizing clinical practice-oriented leadership and including an immersion experience. Westminster College provides a Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner program, offering flexible schedules for working nurses and small class sizes for personalized learning. Brigham Young University’s Family Nurse Practitioner program focuses on serving diverse populations, promoting disease prevention and healthy lifestyles, and preparing students for leadership roles in the nursing profession.

University	Offered as	City/State
Brigham Young University-Provo	Campus	Provo, UT
University of Utah College of Nursing	Campus, Hybrid, Online	Salt Lake City, UT
Westminster College	Campus, Hybrid, Online	Salt Lake City, UT

Utah Organizations for Nurse Practitioner

The journey to becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Utah requires access to useful resources. Below is a list of organizations and programs that provide valuable information and assistance for Nurse Practitioner students in Utah:

• Utah Nurse Practitioners (UNP): UNP offers networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy for Nurse Practitioners in Utah.
• Utah Board of Nursing: The Utah Board of Nursing provides licensure and regulatory information for Nurse Practitioners in Utah.
• Nurse Practitioner Programs in Your State: This resource provides comprehensive details on how to become a Nurse Practitioner. It includes a list of accredited programs available in Utah.
• American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP): AANP offers certification, continuing education, advocacy, and resources for Nurse Practitioners nationwide.
• Utah Center for Nursing: The Utah Center for Nursing supports the development of nursing leadership, education, research, and workforce development in the state.
• Utah Nurses Association (UNA): UNA advocates for the profession, provides continuing education opportunities, and serves as a network for nurses across the state.

These resources provide the tools needed to succeed as a Nurse Practitioner student in Utah.

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