Top NP Programs in Mississippi in 2024

Discover Mississippi’s esteemed Nurse Practitioner- NP programs in Mississippi in 2024, tailored to equip students for advanced practice registered nursing (APRN). We shall delve into comprehensive insights encompassing costs, salary projections, and additional details below.

What Is an NP Program?

An NP program typically refers to a Nurse Practitioner program. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have obtained additional education and training beyond the requirements for registered nurses (RNs). NP programs prepare nurses to diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and manage overall patient care.

NP programs typically involve graduate-level education, often leading to a master’s or doctoral degree. These programs usually include coursework in advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and specialized training in a particular patient population or clinical area, such as family health, adult-gerontology, pediatrics, psychiatric-mental health, or women’s health.

Upon completion of an NP program, graduates are eligible to take national certification exams in their chosen specialty area. After obtaining certification, NPs may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and specialty clinics, providing high-quality, comprehensive care to patients across the lifespan

Premier NP Programs in Mississippi in 2024

The institutions we have listed are chosen utilizing all nurses’ comprehensive methodology, which entails surveying our readers to discern their highest priorities. We incorporate factors such as graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, affordability, delivery mode, program duration, and admission rates from a vast array of prominent nursing schools across the United States.

Mississippi University for Women

Established in 1974, the Mississippi University for Women offers a comprehensive MSN program with a specialized track in Family Nurse Practitioner, boasting full accreditation since its inception. This program aims to enhance the expertise of baccalaureate-prepared nurses, focusing on primary care, advanced nursing practice, and evidence-based methodologies. Key areas of concentration include health promotion, disease prevention, and the management of acute and chronic illnesses.

Graduates of this program emerge equipped for advanced, patient-centered nursing roles, firmly grounded in principles of leadership, patient safety, and the enhancement of healthcare delivery quality. Emphasizing a commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development, the program prepares nurses for a wide array of roles within the healthcare sector. It fosters the integration of interdisciplinary knowledge, utilization of emerging technologies, and the ability to influence health policy.

The Family Nurse Practitioner track at Mississippi University for Women is conducted in-person and leads to the attainment of a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. The tuition for this program is $4,046 per semester for 9-13 credit hours, with a duration of 12 months and a total of 39 credit hours. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program maintains rigorous admission standards.

Prospective applicants are required to hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited institution with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Additionally, three professional recommendations and a complete immunization record, including two doses of the MMR vaccine, are mandatory for admission consideration.

Delta State University

Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program through its Robert E. Smith School of Nursing. This program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers as either nurse educators or nurse practitioners, with a specialization available in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). The MSN curriculum is delivered online, providing flexibility for students to choose between full-time (four semesters) or part-time (six semesters) study plans. The availability of specific role focuses within the program is subject to enrollment in each specialty area.

The Family Nurse Practitioner program at Delta State University is structured with online courses and offers both full-time and part-time study options. Upon completion, students earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. The tuition for the program is $469.00 per credit hour or $4,217 per semester for 9-13 credit hours. The program spans a total of 48 credit hours and requires 780 clinical hours for completion. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Admission into the program requires a minimum GPA of 3.00, a valid RN license, at least one year of clinical experience, and completion of specific prerequisite courses. These courses include a graduate-level pathophysiology course, an introductory course in statistics, and successful completion of an interview conducted by the nursing faculty. The application deadline for this program is February 1st.

Alcorn State University

Alcorn State University, situated in the quaint town of Lorman, Mississippi, boasts a robust Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a specialized concentration on Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). This program is meticulously crafted to arm graduates with the essential skills required to deliver comprehensive primary healthcare to a wide array of populations, particularly those underserved, throughout the entirety of life’s stages.

At its core, the curriculum of this program seamlessly amalgamates theoretical frameworks and empirical insights sourced from various disciplines. This integration serves as a guiding light for nursing research, education, and advanced practice. Central to the program’s ethos is the cultivation of innovative teaching methodologies and clinical approaches, achieved through the fusion of research, theory, and practical knowledge. Moreover, the program places a paramount emphasis on the importance of global primary healthcare, ethical and legal considerations, and leadership roles within nursing organizations. Notably, the requirement for the GRE General Test is waived, facilitating a smoother admission process.

In terms of logistics, the MSN FNP program is delivered through in-person instruction. Upon completion, graduates are awarded a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. The tuition fee stands at $405 per credit hour, and the program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to progress at their own pace, with completion achievable within a maximum of six years. The total credit hours required for graduation are 44, and the program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

As for admission prerequisites, prospective students must possess a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additionally, applicants are expected to furnish three letters of recommendation, a comprehensive resume, and a goal statement delineating their aspirations. Official transcripts, evidencing a GPA of 3.0 or above in prerequisite and nursing courses, are mandatory. Furthermore, candidates must have obtained a grade of “C” or better in an undergraduate introductory-level statistics course, possess a current unencumbered nursing license, and provide a complete immunization record for admission consideration.

University of Southern Mississippi

In Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi provides advanced practice nursing programs, including an FNP track, offering pathways for BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate options. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of nurses seeking advanced preparation in clinical practice and to equip nurse scholars for leadership roles across clinical, educational, and administrative settings.

The didactic courses are primarily delivered online, with only one campus visit required per semester, while students fulfill clinical requirements in their own locales or nearby communities. Both full-time and part-time study avenues are available to accommodate the diverse needs of students. The overarching aim of these programs is to cultivate leadership in nursing practice and to prepare graduates for roles demanding rigorous and scholarly approaches to the discipline, with a steadfast dedication to the profession’s advancement.

In terms of the FNP Program, it follows a hybrid format and leads to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The tuition fees stand at $9,618 for Mississippi residents and $11,618 for non-residents. The duration varies depending on the pathway chosen, with the BSN to DNP pathway taking three years, the MSN to DNP pathway spanning five semesters, and the Post-Graduate Certificate pathway lasting four semesters. Credit hour requirements differ as well, with 71 credits for the BSN to DNP pathway, 44 credits for the MSN to DNP pathway, and 26 credits for the Post-Graduate Certificate pathway. The program holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), with a board examination pass rate ranging from 95-100%.

Regarding admission requirements, applicants must possess a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited institution and submit GRE scores, with a minimum score of 3.0 on the analytical section. Nurse practitioner program applicants should have at least one year of recent clinical experience as a Registered Nurse (RN). Additionally, a GPA of 3.0 or higher in undergraduate nursing courses, completion of a statistics course, and proof of a current Mississippi RN license are mandatory.

The University of Mississippi Medical Center

The University of Mississippi Medical Center, located in Jackson, Mississippi, offers an FNP track designed to prepare nurses for delivering primary healthcare to adults and families, often assuming roles traditionally held by physicians. Emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, the program includes 630 hours of clinical experience under the guidance of advanced practice nurses or physicians, completed within Mississippi. Graduates are eligible for national certification exams and state licensure in Mississippi as nurse practitioners.

Coursework for the FNP program is delivered through a blend of online, on-campus, and hybrid formats, with most courses available online or in hybrid formats. Flexible study plans, tailored to individual goals and geographic locations, are provided upon enrollment, including expedited plans for certified nurse practitioners in other specialties.

The MSN FNP Program Overview includes an online, on-campus, and hybrid format with flexible study plans leading to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Tuition is $545 per credit hour for Mississippi residents and $1,598 per credit hour for non-residents. The program duration is two years, comprising 50 credit hours and 630 clinical hours. Accreditation is provided by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Additionally, RN to MSN and BSN to DNP plans of study are available for the FNP concentration.

Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in nursing, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and one year of RN experience for nurse practitioner tracks. Additional criteria may apply, such as completing preadmission counseling and providing evidence of current RN licensure. Preference is given to applicants with recent relevant experience, and interviews may be required for some programs.

NP Salary Expectations in Mississippi

Based on the latest data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median national salary for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) stands at $124,680 annually, equivalent to $59.94 per hour. In Mississippi, NPs can expect an average annual salary of $117,260, translating to $56.38 per hour. With approximately 4,000 NPs employed in the state, Mississippi falls within the 25-50th percentile range for NP employment when compared to other states.

Industries that Employ NPs the Most

Home Health Care Services	7,460 employed
Outpatient Care Centers	23,760 employed
Offices of Other Health Practitioners	10,950 employed
Offices of Physicians	122,830 employed
General Medical & Surgical Hospitals	58,080 employed

 

The Highest Paying States for NPs

Nevada	$136,230
Oregon	$136,250
Massachusetts	$138,700
New Jersey	$143,250
California	$158,130

The Average Salaries for NP Specialties 

AGNP	$242,952
WHNP	$114,532
NNP	$139,590
PNP	$135,161
FNP	$130,295
PMHNP	$139,486

 

NP Program Costs in Mississippi

The expenses associated with NP programs in Mississippi can vary based on factors such as the institution, program duration, and specific requirements. These costs typically include tuition fees, books, supplies, clinical fees, and potentially additional expenses like transportation or housing if the program necessitates clinical rotations in different locations. Additionally, students should consider other financial obligations such as living expenses and potential loss of income if attending the program full-time while not working. It’s advisable for prospective students to research and compare the costs of different NP programs in Mississippi to make informed decisions about their education and financial planning.

What are NP Specializations?

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) can specialize in various areas of healthcare to provide focused and comprehensive care to specific patient populations. Some common NP specializations include:

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs provide primary care to patients of all ages, from infants to older adults, across various healthcare settings.

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP): AGNPs focus on providing care to adult and elderly patients, addressing both acute and chronic health concerns.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): PNPs specialize in providing primary and specialty care to infants, children, and adolescents, addressing their unique developmental and healthcare needs.

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs focus on providing specialized care to women across the lifespan, including reproductive health, gynecological care, and family planning services.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders across the lifespan, including providing therapy, prescribing medications, and managing psychiatric conditions.

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP): ACNPs focus on providing care to patients with complex acute and critical illnesses, typically in hospital or urgent care settings.

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP): NNPs specialize in providing care to newborn infants, particularly those who are premature, critically ill, or have congenital conditions, often working in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Oncology Nurse Practitioner (ONP): ONPs specialize in providing care to patients with cancer, including diagnosis, treatment planning, symptom management, and supportive care services.

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP): AGACNPs focus on providing acute and critical care to adult and elderly patients with complex health needs, typically in hospital settings.

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): While not strictly categorized as NPs, CNMs are advanced practice nurses who specialize in providing care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

These are just a few examples of NP specializations, and there are many other areas where NPs can focus their practice based on their interests, training, and professional goals.

NP prerequisites in Mississippi

In Mississippi, those aspiring to enroll in an NP Program must first meet several prerequisites and requirements to ensure they’re adequately prepared for the rigors of both the education and professional responsibilities that lie ahead. Firstly, a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) obtained from an accredited nursing program is typically a prerequisite for entry.

Furthermore, applicants must hold a current and unblemished Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, a specified period of clinical experience as an RN, usually ranging from one to two years depending on the program, is often required. Prospective students should also aim for a minimum GPA, commonly around 3.0, in their undergraduate coursework.

Completion of specific undergraduate courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics may be necessary. Letters of recommendation from both academic and professional sources are frequently requested to support the application. Finally, candidates must undergo a criminal background check as part of the application and licensure process. As for the financial aspect, costs associated with NP programs in Mississippi may vary and should be thoroughly researched by prospective students.

NP Career Outlook in Mississippi

The career outlook for Nurse Practitioners (NPs), essential members of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), appears exceptionally promising in Mississippi. Forecasts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipate a robust 38% growth in the broader APRN field by 2032, ushering in over 120,000 new positions. This substantial expansion is driven by factors such as an aging populace and the broadening scope of healthcare responsibilities.

Among APRNs, NPs particularly stand out due to their heightened demand across various healthcare sectors, a demand further exacerbated by general shortages in healthcare provision. Moreover, the American Medical Association’s alert regarding the national shortage of physicians underscores the indispensable role NPs play in addressing critical healthcare gaps, especially in primary care settings. This growing demand underscores the increasing significance of NPs and positions them as vital contributors to the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery in Mississippi and the wider United States