9 Best Alabama FNP Programs (Online & Campus) – 2024

Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

Are you an RN who’s passionate about impacting your Alabama community in positive ways? Then, family nurse practice may be the right path for you. The Cotton State has epidemic levels of obesity, high blood pressure, substance abuse, and other chronic health conditions that are amenable to the types of interventions primary healthcare providers like FNPs are trained to offer. As a family nurse practitioner, you can work in hospitals, clinics, physicians’ practices, and community clinics, and your average salary will be $106,350 a year. Want to find out more about FNP programs in Alabama? The list below of the 9 best FNP programs in Alabama is an excellent place to start.

FOLLOWING ARE THE 9 BEST FNP PROGRAMS IN ALABAMA (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2024

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 9 best campus-based and online FNP programs in Alabama.)

1. The University of Alabama at Birmingham - Birmingham

Programs Offered: RN-to-MSN, MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate

About The University of Alabama at Birmingham: If you want to obtain your FNP training from one of the best online FNP programs in Alabama, then the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s FNP is an excellent choice. The nursing school offers innovative education that transforms the lives of its students. The program produces compassionate family nurse practitioners who are efficient healthcare leaders. The school offers four excellent FNP programs; an RN to MSN, MSN, BSN to DNP, and a post-graduate certificate, so depending on your previous nursing degree, you can choose your preferred FNP pathway.

RN-to-MSN Program Details: UAB’s RN-to-MSN program is designed for ADN-prepared registered nurses who want to become family nurse practitioners. The RN-to-MSN program starts with bridge courses, after which students complete the graduate core and FNP-related courses. The bridge courses comprise 11 credits, after which students complete 45 credits.

RN-to-MSN Admission Requirements: To qualify for UAB’s RN-to-MSN-FNP program, applicants must have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with an ADN. This FNP program in Alabama also requires you to have an active and unencumbered RN license. Also, your undergraduate GPA must be at least 3.2. To complete the admission requirements, the program requires the submission of three professional letters and an official transcript.

MSN Program Details: UAB’s FNP is ranked among the U.S. News & World Report’s top FNP programs. The program prepares excellent family nurse practitioners by offering evidence-based graduate nursing courses. The MSN-FNP, comprising 45 credits covers topics such as interprofessional leadership & role development, advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, evidence-based practice, and assessment & diagnostic reasoning.

MSN Admission Requirements: The MSN-FNP program requires a baccalaureate in nursing with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Also, applicants are required to have an active and unencumbered RN license. To apply, you must be prepared to submit your professional references and transcripts.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are a BSN-prepared registered nurse who wants to become a doctorally prepared family nurse practitioner, then UAB’s BSN-to-DNP program is an excellent choice. The program is designed for working nurses and therefore offers online coursework. Combining doctoral core, practice core, and FNP-specialty courses, this FNP program offers a well-rounded education. The BSN-to-DNP-FNP program consists of 59 credits in didactic courses and 20 credits in clinical practice.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To qualify for UAB’s BSN-to-DNP, you must have an undergraduate degree in nursing with a GPA of 3.2. Also, the program requires the submission of three letters of recommendation, a resume, and official transcripts to complete the application process.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: The post-graduate certificate expands on your nursing education and makes you a leader in family health. As such, the exact graduation requirements are based on a gap analysis of your previous transcripts. However, a minimum of 27 credits are required for graduation. The coursework mainly focuses on the primary care of individuals and families across the lifespan. Upon completion of this program, you’ll be eligible to take the FNP certification exam.

Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: To complete the admission requirements for this post-graduate degree, you must have an MSN from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, an unencumbered RN license is required. The program also requires the submission of three professional references, official transcripts, and a copy of your unencumbered RN license.

2. The University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa

Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate

About The University of Alabama: The University of Alabama is one of the leading nursing schools that offers some excellent FNP programs. Here, you can enroll either in the MSN-FNP, BSN-to-DNP-FNP, or post-graduate certificate program. The school actively engages in path-breaking research and scholarly activities to solve some of the pressing challenges of healthcare delivery. Also, the school partners with premier healthcare organizations to provide students with a wide range of clinical experiences.

MSN Program Details: One of the best online FNP programs in Alabama, the University of Alabama’s MSN-FNP program is designed for registered nurses who have a bachelor’s degree and who aspire to become family nurse practitioners. The program builds on your advanced nursing practice knowledge by enhancing critical thinking, and clinical reasoning skills. The MSN-FNP track comprises a total of 45 credits in graduate core and FNP-related courses. The coursework covers topics such as population health, nursing informatics health care, advanced health assessment, organizational systems leadership, research & evidence-based practice, and advanced pharmacology & advanced pathophysiology. The program also includes family nurse practitioner didactic and clinical courses.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for the University of Alabama’s MSN-FNP program, applicants must have a BSN with an active RN license. The program’s admission requirements also include the submission of transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Whether you want to obtain a terminal nursing degree or aspire to become a family nurse practitioner, the University of Alabama’s BSN-to-DNP will take you from a registered nurse to a doctorally prepared FNP. This family nurse practitioner program in Alabama is 70-credit coursework that includes graduate core courses, FNP-specific courses, and a DNP project immersion. The doctoral courses prepare you for healthcare leadership by training you in population health, interdisciplinary leadership, health policy, project evaluation & methods, and evidence-based strategies.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: The University of Alabama’s BSN-to-DNP is open to BSN-prepared registered nurses who have a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program also requires a valid RN license in one of the approved states. Also, students who are interested in this program must be prepared to submit their transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and resume.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: The University of Alabama’s post-graduate certificate is ideal for nurses who have at least a master's degree in nursing. The program’s graduation requirements are based on a review of your previous transcripts. The coursework mainly emphasizes the primary healthcare management of individuals & families across the lifespan. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to take the FNP certification exam.

Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: The postmaster's certificate requires applicants to have at least a master's degree in nursing from an accredited college or university. Besides, applicants must have a valid RN license or a current APRN license, depending on whether they already have an advanced practice nursing specialization or not.

3. The University of Alabama in Huntsville - Huntsville

Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate

About The University of Alabama in Huntsville: Some of the best nursing professionals in Alabama are produced by the University of Alabama. If you want to enter the primary workforce, then the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s FNP is an excellent choice. The university is home to some of the best online FNP programs in Alabama, including an MSN, a BSN-to-DNP, and a post-master’s certificate. The university is ranked among the best public universities in the U.S. News & World Report’s rankings, and enrolls a diverse student population, coming from all across the nation and the world. The university’s FNP graduates report an excellent pass rate, no wonder they are desired by regional employers for their excellent academic and clinical training.

MSN Program Details: The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s MSN-FNP program is rather suitable for BSN-prepared registered nurses. The program is offered in a hybrid format, combining online and on-campus classes. Starting twice a year in the fall and summer, the program covers topics such as advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, professional roles in advanced practice nursing, and family health. Upon graduation, you’ll obtain your master's degree in nursing and be eligible to take the FNP certification exam.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for the MSN-FNP program, you must foremost have a BSN and an active and unencumbered RN license. This FNP program in Alabama also requires your undergraduate GPA to be at least 3.0. Besides, to submit a completed application, you must be prepared to include your official transcripts, a resume, three letters of recommendation, a professional statement, and a copy of your unencumbered RN license.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s BSN-to-DNP program advances your nursing education, taking it to the doctoral level. The program is entirely online, requiring students to complete only one doctoral intensive in the Spring semester. Also, the program offers affordable tuition costs, making the program rather accessible. Based on your convenience, you can complete this program full-time or part-time. The program comprises around 70 credits and covers topics such as health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, clinical data management & analysis, evidence-based design & transaction, population health, health policy, and healthcare informatics. The BSN-to-DNP-FNP ends with the DNP doctoral project.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: This BSN-to-DNP-FNP program accepts applications from BSN-prepared registered nurses who have a GPA of at least 3.0. Also, submission of official transcripts, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement is required.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s post-masters certificate is an excellent choice for masters prepared registered nurses who want to enter the primary care workforce. The program mainly focuses on the primary care of individuals and families across the lifespan. The program comprises at least 24 semester credits and 720 hours of clinical practice.

Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: This post-masters certificate is open to applicants who have a masters degree, and an active and unencumbered RN license. The program also requires the submission of official transcripts, a resume, and three letters of recommendation.

4. Samford University - Birmingham

Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate

About Samford University: Samford University should be on your list if you are looking at enrolling in one of the reputable online FNP programs in Alabama. The school offers excellent online education so that FNP students can complete their training without relocating. Also, the faculty here is well-versed in the online teaching methods, offering students an FNP education that is engaging and of high quality. With four FNP programs, an MSN, BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, and post-graduate certificate, here, students can choose their preferred program based on their academic needs.

MSN Program Details: If you are interested in becoming a masters-prepared family nurse practitioner, then Samford’s MSN is an excellent option. Leading to the FNP certification, the program expands your RN experience and makes you an evidence-based primary care provider. The MSN-FNP program is 42-credit coursework that includes at least 660 clinical hours. The program covers topics such as advanced physiology & pathophysiology, advanced physical assessment, pharmacotherapeutics, statistics, ethical leadership, research, theory & quality improvement, and population health. Also, students gain proficiency in primary care of individuals & families across the lifespan. You can complete this program within two years of full-time study.

MSN Admission Requirements: To qualify for Samford’s MSN-FNP, you must have a BSN and an unencumbered RN license. The program also requires applicants to have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0. Other application requirements include submission of transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a professional resume.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you have a BSN and are aspiring to obtain the highest level of clinical expertise, then Samford’s BSN-to-DNP is a suitable path to become a doctorally prepared family nurse practitioner. The program takes three years to complete, having the first year committed to theoretical learning and the remaining second half for clinical training. This rigorous FNP program in Alabama comprises 74 credits and prepares graduates for leadership in a variety of interprofessional healthcare settings.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for Samford’s BSN-to-DNP, you must foremost have a BSN with an active and unencumbered RN license. The program also requires applicants to have a GPA of at least 3.0.

MSN-to-DNP Program Details: Samford’s MSN-to-DNP is designed for masters-prepared registered nurses who want to obtain a doctorate. The credits required for the MSN-to-DNP program are determined after a GAP analysis of your previous transcripts. As a graduate of this program, you’ll be eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam.

MSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: The admission requirements for Samford’s MSN-to-DNP include having an active RN license and a master's degree in nursing. The program also requires a GPA of at least 3.5.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: If you are an advanced practice nurse who wants to expand your scope of practice in family health, then Samford’s post-graduate certificate is a perfect choice. The program consists of 30 credits and 660 clinical hours. Also, you have a choice of taking the optional education courses worth nine credits.

Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: To be eligible for this certificate, the program requires applicants to have an active APRN licensure and at least an MSN with a GPA of 3.5. Also, applicants must be prepared to submit their transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.

5. University of Mobile - Mobile

Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master's Certificate

About University of Mobile: University of Mobile offers faith-based FNP programs in Alabama that prepare compassionate family nurse practitioners with a holistic approach. Offered in-person, the school’s FNP faculty comprises experienced practitioners and leading researchers. Besides, students are provided with ample practice in its state-of-the-art clinical simulation labs, after which they transition to real-world clinical training. The school offers FNP programs that accommodate the academic needs of nurses having a BSN, or a graduate nursing degree.

MSN Program Details: The University of Mobile’s MSN is a 49-credit coursework that includes core MSN and FNP-related courses. The program prepares graduates for interprofessional primary care by covering topics such as advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, informatics, research & quality methods in evidence-based care, and leadership & interprofessional collaboration. The program also includes courses in family health, after which graduates are eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam.

MSN Admission Requirements: The FNP program in Alabama is open to registered nurses who have an accredited BSN degree. The program requires applicants to submit their official transcripts, a personal statement, and a resume.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The University of Mobile’s BSN-to-DNP produces leaders who have a Christian perspective. The program builds on your baccalaureate education in nursing and prepares you to influence healthcare at all levels. The program comprises a total of 87 credits in the graduate core, FNP-related courses, doctoral courses, and a doctoral project.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: The BSN-to-DNP program accepts applications from BSN-prepared registered nurses who have a GPA of at least 3.0. The admission requirements also include submission of all official transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and having at least one year of clinical work experience.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you want to strengthen your nursing practice in family health, then the University of Mobile’s post-masters certificate can prepare you for a career expansion or even for a change of role in advanced practice nursing. The program can be completed within as little as four semesters. The coursework comprises 38 credits and 660 hours of clinical practice. Graduates are prepared to sit for the FNP certification exam.

Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: To apply for this post-masters certificate admission, you must have an MSN with a GPA of at least 2.75. Also, an active and unencumbered RN license is required. Other requirements include three references, a resume, and a personal statement.

6. University of North Alabama - Florence

Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master's Certificate

About University of North Alabama: University of North Alabama, a leader in nursing education, has produced excellent-quality nursing professionals since 1973. The school not only offers some of the most affordable FNP programs in Alabama but also provides a flexible coursework to accommodate the needs of working students. Based on your previous nursing degree, you can enroll either in the MSN or post-master's certificate program.

MSN Program Details: University of North Alabama’s MSN prepares you for patient-centered care for individuals and families across the lifespan. The curriculum comprises 41 credits and covers topics such as health policy, social issues, advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and evidence-based practice and research. The coursework also includes courses that prepare you for primary care practice in a variety of healthcare settings.

MSN Admission Requirements: This MSN-FNP program is designed for registered nurses who have a BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This FNP program in Alabama also requires the submission of official transcripts, a written statement, two letters of recommendation, and a resume.

Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: This post-master’s certificate emphasizes the primary care of individuals and families across the lifespan. The program requires the completion of 23 to 32 credits, depending on the courses previously completed by you. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam.

Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: If you are interested in this certificate program, you must have an active RN license and at least a master's degree in nursing. Also, applicants must have at least one year of clinical work experience. Applicants must also submit their resume and all their official transcripts.

7. Jacksonville State University - Jacksonville

Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP

About Jacksonville State University: Established in 1967, Jacksonville State University School of Nursing is one of the well-known nursing schools, producing exemplary nurses who care for diverse patient populations across the nation. In conjunction with its BSN to DNP, the school offers one of the sought-after online family nurse practitioner programs in Alabama.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Jacksonville State University’s BSN-to-DNP program is designed to take the careers of baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses to the doctoral level. The program comprises a total of 69 credits in the graduate core, FNP-related courses, and an FNP residency. The program covers topics such as evidence-based practice & quality improvements, organizational & systems leadership, healthcare policy & finance, advanced health assessment, and health promotion & disease prevention & issues. Also, you learn about project planning & development, biostatistics, and innovative leadership & collaboration. This family nurse practitioner program in Alabama also includes a family nurse practitioner residency.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To qualify for admission, applicants must have a BSN with a GPA of 3.0. Also, applicants must be prepared to submit their official transcripts, resume, and recommendation letters.

8. University of South Alabama - Mobile

Programs Offered: MSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate

About University of South Alabama: If you are searching for affordable family nurse practitioner programs in Alabama, then the University of South Alabama’s FNP is an excellent choice. The school has been offering affordable, high-quality nursing education for more than 50 years. Further, the small classes that offer personalized attention make the overall learning process rather engaging and fruitful.

MSN Program Details: University of South Alabama’s MSN-FNP is a 45-credit curriculum that takes two years to complete. The program prepares evidence-based family nurse practitioners by offering courses such as advanced nursing assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, healthcare & policy, organizational & systems leadership, and health promotion & disease prevention. The program also offers courses in family health, fully training you in the primary healthcare management of individuals and families across the lifespan.

MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for this MSN-FNP program, you must foremost have a valid RN license and an accredited BSN. Also, your undergraduate GPA must be at least 3.0. To complete your application, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts, a resume, a personal goal statement, and letters of recommendation.

BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you desire to earn your doctoral degree in advanced practice nursing, then the University of South Alabama’s BSN-to-DNP FNP can help complete your DNP rather seamlessly. Comprising core courses, clinical requirements, and a DNP project, the program makes you an expert healthcare leader. The program requires the completion of a total of 69 credits, after which you’ll earn an MSN and a DNP. Some of the doctoral courses you take cover topics such as healthcare policy & finance, organizational & systems leadership, population health, quality improvement & outcomes assessment, and data management & decision-making.

BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: For admission into the University of South Alabama’s BSN-to-DNP, you must have an accredited BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, your RN license must be valid and unencumbered in your state of practice. To complete the admission requirements, applicants must be prepared to submit their transcripts, a resume, a personal goal statement, and letters of recommendation.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: The post-graduate certificate program is designed to empower you for advanced practice nursing in family health. The credit requirements for this program are determined after a review of your previous transcripts. The program mainly focuses on the primary healthcare management of individuals & families across the lifespan. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam.

Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: The University of South Alabama’s post-graduate certificate is designed for registered nurses who have a master's in nursing. The program also requires a valid and unencumbered RN license. Other admission requirements for this family nurse practitioner program in Alabama include a resume, official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

9. Auburn University at Montgomery - Montgomery

Programs Offered: MSN

About Auburn University at Montgomery: Auburn University at Montgomery offers a fully online FNP program that can be completed from anywhere and at any time. The school provides students with career-focused training in a close-knit learning environment. Recognized as one of the top-ranking nursing schools, as per the U.S. News & World Report, the school’s tuition fees are lower than most other similar nursing schools in the nation. Therefore, if you are searching for affordable online family nurse practitioner programs in Alabama, then its MSN-FNP is a befitting choice.

MSN Program Details: Auburn University’s MSN-FNP prepares you for one of the most rewarding advanced practice nursing careers. The program consists of 48 credits and includes 780 hours of clinical practice. Some of the classes you attend include ethics, legal issues & health policy, advanced physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, and evidence-based practice. Also, you’ll learn about healthcare quality, safety & prevention, and primary healthcare management for male and female patients across the lifespan.

MSN Admission Requirements: If you are interested in applying for the family nurse practitioner program in Alabama, then foremost you must have an active and unencumbered RN license and an accredited BSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program also requires the submission of transcripts, references, a resume, a personal statement, and a copy of your RN license.

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