6 Best Arkansas FNP Programs (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
What’s the most versatile healthcare credential you can earn in Arkansas? Family nurse practitioner! As a graduate of one of the FNP programs in Arkansas, you’ll be able to assess medical histories, order diagnostic tests, and develop patient treatment plans under the supervision of a collaborating physician. In the Natural State, family nurse practitioners can count on making $112,550 annually, and demand for your services will be so high that your employment opportunities will go up by a whopping 61 percent within the next decade. Want to find out more? Keep reading the guide below to the 6 best FNP programs in Arkansas.
FOLLOWING ARE THE 6 BEST FNP PROGRAMS IN ARKANSAS (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the 6 best campus-based and online FNP programs in Arkansas.)
1. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - Little Rock
Programs Offered: Master of Nursing Science, BSN-to-DNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate
Master of Nursing Science Program Details: If you are searching for the best FNP programs in Arkansas, you need to look no further than the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. This school offers three pathways for registered nurses to pursue training and certification to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. One option at UAMS is the Master of Nursing Science FNP program.
The program is available with both part-time and full-time options, allowing you to choose a schedule that works best to meet your personal needs and academic goals. The pathway features a 45-credit curriculum. You will take classes, including Clinical Management of Child & Family, Clinical Management of Family Reproductive Health, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Prevention & Health Promotion. 770 clinical hours are embedded into the curriculum. All clinicals are held at approved sites under the supervision of approved preceptors.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences offers baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses the opportunity to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice, specializing as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The BSN-to-DNP program can be completed in three years if you enroll full-time, or you can choose a part-time schedule and graduate in four years.
The program is a 72-credit pathway. The rigorous curriculum includes classes such as Quantitative Epidemiology, Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics in Advanced Practice Registered Nursing, and Clinical Prevention & Health Promotion. The program also includes 1,120 clinical hours. Clinicals will prepare you to provide health assessment and clinical care to patients in all major areas, including medical-surgical, pediatrics, psychiatry, maternal, community health, and geriatrics. Clinical practicums are arranged in collaboration with program faculty.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: Registered Nurses who have already completed a master’s degree in nursing but wish to add the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty to their practice can pursue the Post-Master’s Certificate program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. The program has a 22-credit curriculum. However, a GAP analysis will be conducted to determine whether additional coursework is required to complete the certificate. All students in the Post-Master's Certificate program complete 770 clinical hours. Clinicals are held in various settings encompassing the care of patients across the lifespan.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• When I talk with prospective students who are searching for a nursing program or school, one thing I encourage is to look for schools/programs that are reputable or highly ranked. In your search for the right program, look for the ones that are ranked by well-known sources. For example, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences ranks among the top academic programs in U.S. News & World Report’s annual list of Best Graduate Schools for 2025!• The UAMS College of Nursing offers a scholarship opportunity designed specifically for Nurse Practitioner and DNP students. You can speak with a financial aid advisor to verify your eligibility and begin the application process.
• Another important factor to consider when choosing a school is the type of support you will have from faculty and preceptors. At the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, you will have an academic advisor who works with you from the time you are admitted to the program until you graduate. Your advisor will be your go-to person, offering guidance and support through every aspect of the program and ensuring you have access to the resources you need to succeed.
2. Arkansas State University - Jonesboro
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Program Details: Arkansas State University’s MSN program offers the bachelor’s-prepared registered nurse the option to earn a graduate degree and specialize as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program has several start dates throughout the year, making it easy to find a time to begin your studies that is most convenient.
This MSN FNP program in Arkansas combines 100% online coursework with in-person specialty-relevant clinicals. The 41.5-credit curriculum features core and support classes as well as advanced practice coursework. The plan of study includes six FNP Clinical Practicum courses with corresponding clinical preceptorships. You will complete a total of 750 hours of clinicals in this program.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master’s Certificate program at ASU is designed to help you elevate your professional practice by building on your MSN credentials and preparing to become certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program is delivered in an accelerated online format that can be completed in as few as 16 months and offers multiple start dates each year.
The Post-Master’s Certificate program requires the completion of at least 21.5 credit hours and 750 clinical hours. A GAP analysis will be conducted to determine if an individual plan of study is required based on your previous academic history.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Arkansas State University boasts a history of successful nursing education. Graduates of the FNP program consistently exceed national averages among first-time testers on national certification exams, indicating a high-quality program.• At ASU, you will learn from a diverse faculty comprised of clinically active practitioners and nurse educators. Their dedication to the nursing profession and nursing education are part of what makes this school an excellent choice for pursuing an FNP program in Arkansas!
• Arkansas State University believes every nurse should have the opportunity to advance their career without the worry of undue financial strain. The school offers one of the most affordable tuition rates in the state for FNP programs at just $370 per credit hour or $7,955 for the program total!
3. Harding University - Searcy
Programs Offered: MSN and Post Graduate Certificate
MSN Program Details: If you are searching for an FNP program in Arkansas that is rooted in Christian values, Harding University could be the perfect choice! One of the two options the school offers is the FNP Master of Science in Nursing program. The program admits students each year in the spring, summer, and fall semesters. Full-time students can complete the program in two years, while part-time students typically take three years.
The MSN program is delivered in a hybrid format featuring mostly online delivery of coursework, including lectures, virtual meetings, assignments, and testing. There are three on-campus intensives spaced out throughout the program. Campus visits are utilized for orientation, to perform skills competencies, and to present your Capstone Project.
The program features a 45-credit curriculum with classes, including Reproductive Health & Family Theory, Advanced Research Methodology, Adult/Elder Health & Family Theory, and Advanced Pharmacotherapeutics in Practice. Each clinical course includes a clinical practicum component. By the time you complete the program, you will have accomplished at least 750 supervised clinical hours.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: If you are an RN with a master’s degree and/or APRN certification and you want to expand your clinical focus to become a Family Nurse Practitioner, the Post-Graduate Certificate program at Harding University is a great option. The program is in person on the Searcy campus.
The Post-Graduate Certificate FNP curriculum is designed as a 32-credit pathway. However, if you have completed your MSN and have certification in a clinical practice focus (Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Midwife, etc.), your plan of study will reflect a reduced number of credit hours. A GAP analysis will be completed by faculty during the admission process to determine your individualized plan of study. The program includes 750 hours of supervised clinical practicum.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• If you have ever considered being involved with healthcare missions, Harding University can make that dream a reality. All students in the FNP program have opportunities to participate in international mission trips. Some mission trips have been to places including Cambodia, Nicaragua, Thailand, Guatemala, Tanzania, and Zambia.• At Harding University, you will have academic advisors, faculty, and preceptors who are dedicated to your success. Each faculty member and support staff maintain close relationships with students, offering guidance and support to help promote success in the program and in your career following graduation.
• One of the factors I recommend considering as you search for an FNP program in Arkansas is student outcomes. You can typically find student outcomes for programs published on the program’s webpage. For example, the FNP programs at Harding University have excellent student outcomes! From 2019-2023, the school reports completion, graduation, certification, and graduation rates between 92-99%!
4. University of Arkansas - Fayetteville
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP and Post-Master’s Certificate
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The University of Arkansas offers a post-bachelor’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program with the option to specialize as a Family Nurse Practitioner. This practice-focused doctorate is one of the best FNP programs in Arkansas. While the program is classified as online, some campus visits are required for program orientation, skills acquisition, and dissemination of your DNP Scholarly Project. Campus visits are usually limited to once per semester during the program.
The BSN-to-DNP program is a 78-credit pathway. The curriculum includes classes such as Evaluation Methods & Translational Research for Evidence-Based Practice, Healthcare Informatics, Analytic Methods & Epidemiology for Healthcare, and Advanced Pathophysiology. Students enrolled in this post-baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice FNP program complete a minimum of 1,000 clinical hours.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: Master’s-prepared RNs who wish to advance their careers and become certified with an APRN specialization as a Family Nurse Practitioner can take advantage of the Post-Master’s Certificate program at the University of Arkansas. The program features online coursework and clinicals near your home region, making it an excellent option for students who need flexibility with scheduling.
After a GAP analysis of your previous nursing transcripts is performed, an individualized plan of study will be developed for you. All FNP Post-Master’s Certificate program students complete a minimum of 500 clinical hours. Clinical practicums are arranged collaboratively with faculty, clinical sites, and preceptors.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
At the University of Arkansas, you will be assigned an academic advisor who is knowledgeable about the program’s requirements. Your advisor will assist you in program planning and other important matters pertaining to the program and is available to offer guidance and support when needed.• A major concern for many prospective graduate students is the cost of school. At the University of Arkansas, there are several options for financial support for master’s degree students. Some assistance options include scholarships, loans, and graduate assistantships. MSN students may also find support through the Nursing Faculty Loan Program. Financial aid advisors are available to discuss options and assist you with the application process.
• The University of Arkansas believes in promoting high-quality, cost-effective care for underserved children, adults, and families. The school works with the School of Nursing faculty and students to implement programs designed to thread nursing education and leadership programs within the community, helping to reduce healthcare disparities.
5. University of Central Arkansas - Conway
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: If you are a Registered Nurse with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and want to earn a nursing doctorate and become a Family Nurse Practitioner, the University of Central Arkansas is a school worth considering. This FNP program in Arkansas starts in the fall semester annually.
The program is designed to be completed on a part-time basis over 11 consecutive semesters. Most courses in the program are offered online. However, FNP clinical courses and Advanced Health Assessment require some campus visits, approximately three or four times per semester.
The BSN-to-DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program features a 73-credit curriculum. In this program, you will take classes, including Care of Children for Family Nurse Practitioners, Statistical Methods & Data Analysis, Health Policy for Advanced Nursing Practice, and Care of Adults Across the Lifespan. The Plan of Study consists of core nursing courses, FNP courses, and DNP courses. All students complete a DNP Scholarly Project. Additionally, the program integrates 1,125 clinical practice hours. 810 hours will be earned through direct patient care, and 315 hours will be earned through the completion of the DNP Scholarly Project.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• As a nurse educator, I feel simulated learning is a valuable tool. At the University of Central Arkansas, your visits to campus will include learning opportunities at the Nabholz Center for Healthcare Simulation. The Center is designed to promote opportunities for interprofessional collaboration while incorporating assessment and training skills as you prepare for practice.• The University of Central Arkansas has a well-established history of being a leader in nursing education. For over 50 years, the school has been home to accredited programs led by dedicated, experienced faculty.
• The University of Central Arkansas has great student satisfaction scores. Student surveys base satisfaction on factors including curriculum quality, program format, faculty engagement, clinical experiences, and student support services.
6. Henderson State University - Arkadelphia
Programs Offered: MSN
MSN Program Details: Henderson State University is home to another excellent Master of Science in Nursing FNP program in Arkansas. The program admits students in the fall of each year and takes an average of two years to complete.
Online classes make this a great option for working professionals. A two-day face-to-face session is required during the first semester. Clinical practicums are completed in your home region.
The MSN FNP program is a 45-credit pathway. The curriculum includes MSN graduate courses, MSN FNP courses, and specialty-relevant clinicals. In this program, you will take classes, including Advanced Nursing Concepts, Theory, & Research, Advanced Pathophysiology, and Advanced Nursing Pharmacology. The plan of study also includes three clinical courses with corresponding practicums totaling 540 clinical hours.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• I love the diversity that nursing offers, especially when it comes to opportunities to add new specialties or learn new skills. Henderson State University fosters the idea of continuous learning by not only offering an excellent MSN FNP program but by providing other opportunities to students, as well. For example, while earning your MSN and specializing as an FNP, you can also earn a graduate badge in Nursing Education. The school offers two badges: Nursing Education Theory and Nursing Education Technology.• Graduates of the FNP program in Arkansas at HSU have outstanding pass rates on national certification exams. Certification pass rates are a crucial factor to consider when choosing a school, as they indicate the program's quality and how well students are prepared to take on the new role of a Family Nurse Practitioner.
• Henderson State University reports high job placement rates among graduates of its FNP program. According to the school, graduates who responded to surveys after completing the program report being employed within three to six months of graduation and passing their national certification exams.
HOW MUCH DO FNP GRADUATES MAKE IN ARKANSAS?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF FNP PROGRAMS IN ARKANSAS EXPECT?
| Hourly | $39.81 |
| Weekly | $1,592 |
| Monthly | $6,900 |
| Annual | $82,800 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF FNP PROGRAMS IN ARKANSAS EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $39.81 | $1,592 | $6,900 | $82,800 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $45.04 | $1,802 | $7,810 | $93,690 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $53.17 | $2,127 | $9,220 | $110,600 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $59.22 | $2,369 | $10,260 | $123,170 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $70.76 | $2,830 | $12,270 | $147,180 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE FNP SALARY IN ARKANSAS?
| Hourly | $54.11 |
| Weekly | $2,164 |
| Monthly | $9,380 |
| Annual | $112,550 |
HOW MUCH DO FNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF ARKANSAS?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers | $58.35 | $2,334 | $10,110 | $121,370 |
| Fort Smith | $54.40 | $2,176 | $9,430 | $113,160 |
| Hot Springs | $51.67 | $2,067 | $8,960 | $107,470 |
| Jonesboro | $56.39 | $2,256 | $9,770 | $117,290 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway | $53.49 | $2,139 | $9,270 | $111,250 |
| Pine Bluff | $53.82 | $2,153 | $9,330 | $111,940 |
FNP SALARY IN ARKANSAS VS. OTHER SALARIES
FNP SALARY IN ARKANSAS VS. FNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Arkansas FNP Annual Salary | Average National FNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $112,550 | $127,510 | -$14,960 | -11.73% |
FNP SALARY IN ARKANSAS VS. FNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $160,310 | -$47,760 | -29.79% |
| Nevada | $147,540 | -$34,990 | -23.72% |
| Washington | $144,290 | -$31,740 | -22.00% |
| New Jersey | $143,920 | -$31,370 | -21.80% |
| Oregon | $143,840 | -$31,290 | -21.75% |
| Massachusetts | $142,910 | -$30,360 | -21.24% |
| New York | $141,740 | -$29,190 | -20.59% |
| Connecticut | $135,940 | -$23,390 | -17.21% |
| New Mexico | $135,730 | -$23,180 | -17.08% |
| Minnesota | $133,980 | -$21,430 | -15.99% |
| District of Columbia | $133,820 | -$21,270 | -15.89% |
| Rhode Island | $132,440 | -$19,890 | -15.02% |
| Hawaii | $131,600 | -$19,050 | -14.48% |
| Arizona | $131,550 | -$19,000 | -14.44% |
| Delaware | $130,110 | -$17,560 | -13.50% |
| Iowa | $129,820 | -$17,270 | -13.30% |
| New Hampshire | $129,740 | -$17,190 | -13.25% |
| Texas | $129,020 | -$16,470 | -12.77% |
| Wisconsin | $127,350 | -$14,800 | -11.62% |
| Maryland | $127,010 | -$14,460 | -11.38% |
| Utah | $126,850 | -$14,300 | -11.27% |
| North Dakota | $126,790 | -$14,240 | -11.23% |
| Pennsylvania | $126,480 | -$13,930 | -11.01% |
| Illinois | $125,930 | -$13,380 | -10.62% |
| Alaska | $125,210 | -$12,660 | -10.11% |
| Vermont | $125,140 | -$12,590 | -10.06% |
| Montana | $123,690 | -$11,140 | -9.01% |
| Idaho | $123,600 | -$11,050 | -8.94% |
| Oklahoma | $123,380 | -$10,830 | -8.78% |
| Wyoming | $122,620 | -$10,070 | -8.21% |
| Indiana | $122,380 | -$9,830 | -8.03% |
| Maine | $122,000 | -$9,450 | -7.75% |
| Ohio | $121,930 | -$9,380 | -7.69% |
| Colorado | $121,060 | -$8,510 | -7.03% |
| Nebraska | $120,750 | -$8,200 | -6.79% |
| North Carolina | $120,660 | -$8,110 | -6.72% |
| Georgia | $120,230 | -$7,680 | -6.39% |
| South Dakota | $120,060 | -$7,510 | -6.26% |
| Virginia | $119,950 | -$7,400 | -6.17% |
| Michigan | $119,760 | -$7,210 | -6.02% |
| Florida | $118,800 | -$6,250 | -5.26% |
| Kansas | $118,360 | -$5,810 | -4.91% |
| Louisiana | $117,760 | -$5,210 | -4.42% |
| Mississippi | $116,590 | -$4,040 | -3.47% |
| South Carolina | $116,050 | -$3,500 | -3.02% |
| Missouri | $115,790 | -$3,240 | -2.80% |
| West Virginia | $112,580 | -$30 | -0.03% |
| Arkansas | $112,550 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Kentucky | $109,530 | +$3,020 | +2.76% |
| Alabama | $109,180 | +$3,370 | +3.09% |
| Tennessee | $102,930 | +$9,620 | +9.35% |
FNP SALARY IN ARKANSAS VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN ARKANSAS
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $112,550 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Registered Nurse | $72,900 | +$39,650 | +54.39% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary | $66,920 | +$45,630 | +68.19% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $49,360 | +$63,190 | +128.02% |
| Nursing Assistant | $32,050 | +$80,500 | +251.17% |
FNP SALARY IN ARKANSAS VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN ARKANSAS
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Dentist | $168,760 | -$56,210 | -33.31% |
| Optometrist | $146,360 | -$33,810 | -23.10% |
| Pharmacist | $128,600 | -$16,050 | -12.48% |
| Podiatrist | $123,270 | -$10,720 | -8.70% |
| Veterinarian | $112,550 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $112,550 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Chiropractor | $110,110 | +$2,440 | +2.22% |
| Occupational Therapist | $92,680 | +$19,870 | +21.44% |
| Physical Therapist | $92,270 | +$20,280 | +21.98% |
| Physician Assistant | $88,720 | +$23,830 | +26.86% |
| Audiologist | $88,680 | +$23,870 | +26.92% |
| Radiation Therapist | $84,320 | +$28,230 | +33.48% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $84,060 | +$28,490 | +33.89% |
| Dental Hygienist | $78,040 | +$34,510 | +44.22% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits FNP Programs In Arkansas?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Accredited FNP Schools Are There In Arkansas?
| 6 |
3. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Hour In Arkansas?
| $54.11 |
4. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Week In Arkansas?
| $2,164 |
5. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Month In Arkansas?
| $9,380 |
6. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Year In Arkansas?
| $112,550 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For FNPs In Arkansas?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2022-2032) |
| +61.33% |
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
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