Best Delaware FNP Programs (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
With its growing employment market and high compensation packages, Delaware is an excellent state for family nurse practitioners! FNPs in the First State get paid $130,110 annually, and graduates of FNP programs in Delaware will see their job options grow by 55 percent over the next 10 years. Delaware lets FNPs practice to the full extent of their training, so once you attain your FNP certification, you’ll enjoy the professional autonomy to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications. If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to advance your nursing career, keep reading; this guide to the best FNP programs in Delaware was written for you.
FOLLOWING ARE THE BEST FNP PROGRAMS IN DELAWARE (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the best campus-based and online FNP programs in Delaware.)
1. University of Delaware - Newark
Programs Offered: MSN (Family/Individual Across the Lifespan), BSN-to-DNP (Family/Individual Across the Lifespan), and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Program Details: Are you a registered nurse with a bachelor's degree who wants to become a Family Nurse Practitioner? Have you looked for FNP programs in Delaware but feel unsure which ones are best? As a nurse educator, I believe the programs offered at the University of Delaware are worth considering.
One pathway the university offers is the Master of Science in Nursing FNP program. This program admits students four times annually in the fall, winter, spring, and summer and is designed to be completed in three years on a part-time basis. The program features 100% online coursework, allowing you to complete the program in your own time. This learning format makes the program an excellent choice for working nurses or those with a family or other responsibilities.
The MSN FNP program is a 48-credit pathway. Some of the courses in this program include Primary Care of Frail & Older Adults, Primary Care of Women, Primary Care of Children, Advanced Diagnostic Reasoning, and Advanced Pathophysiology. The curriculum includes six practicum courses with corresponding clinical practicums. You will complete a minimum of 816 clinical hours. The School of Nursing assists with clinical placements. You will have diverse experiences caring for patients across the lifespan in a variety of settings. All clinicals are completed under the supervision of qualified preceptors who are licensed practitioners or physicians.
MSN Admission Requirements: Candidates seeking admission to the MSN program need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an NLNAC- or CCNE-accredited nursing program and a current RN license in the state of Delaware or a compact state. Candidates must provide a Goals Statement, three letters of recommendation, a curriculum vitae or resume, a copy of their current RN license, and official college transcripts reflecting a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. An interview with the Director of Graduate Programs and/or members of the graduate nursing faculty may be required.
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: The BSN-to-DNP program at the University of Delaware is an excellent opportunity for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses who wish to obtain a clinical doctorate and specialize as a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program admits students once each year in the fall semester. Students are admitted as cohorts and may opt for a full-time, three-year plan of study or a part-time, five-year option.
The post-bachelor’s DNP Family Nurse Practitioner program features an 81-credit curriculum. The curriculum consists of core courses and population-focused advanced practice courses. This pathway also includes a total of 1,120 clinical hours. Clinicals include 784 direct patient care hours and 336 indirect hours, which are earned through the completion and presentation of a DNP Scholarly Project.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the BSN-to-DNP program, you must have a baccalaureate degree in nursing earned at a School of Nursing accredited by the ACEN, CCNE, or CNEA and be eligible for RN licensure in Delaware. All candidates are required to submit a written Statement of Goals and Objectives, a professional resume or CV, three letters of recommendation, and official college transcripts demonstrating a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. All candidates will participate in an interview with the DNP Program Coordinator and members of the DNP Subcommittee. Additionally, one year of full-time work experience as a registered nurse is required prior to beginning the first clinical course to remain in the program.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: If you have already earned a master’s degree in nursing, the Post-Master’s Certificate program makes it easy to add the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty and expand your scope of practice. The program admits students in the fall annually. You can opt to pursue the certificate part-time or full-time, depending on your goals.
An individualized plan of study will be developed after evaluating transcripts of your prior coursework. The Post-Master’s Certificate program incorporates a minimum of 500 clinical hours into the curriculum, ensuring you have adequate opportunities for developing and honing essential skills relevant to the Family Nurse Practitioner role.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: Prospective students desiring admission to the Post-Master’s Certificate program must have a master’s degree in nursing from an ACEN- or CCNE-accredited nursing program, hold licensure/certification as a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist, and be eligible for RN licensure in Delaware. Candidates must have a master’s GPA of 3.5 or higher. You are required to provide a Statement of Intent, three letters of recommendation, a CV or resume, and official transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• If you want to become a Family Nurse Practitioner but worry about the financial constraints of pursuing a graduate degree, the University of Delaware is definitely worth considering. The school works hard to keep tuition costs affordable for all students and has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report in its Best Value Schools category. Additionally, the school has several scholarship and grant opportunities for qualifying students.• Finding an FNP program in Delaware with good rankings and a reputation for providing high-quality education is essential. As an NLN Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, you can feel confident in choosing the University of Delaware as the place to earn your degree!
• Graduates of the FNP program at the University of Delaware have a record of a 100% pass rate on national certification exams. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a school because you must pass your certification exam to practice as a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner.
• Clinical practicums are an essential part of all nursing programs. One of the things most graduate nursing students express concern or stress about is trying to find clinical placement sites and preceptors. At the University of Delaware, program faculty and clinical coordinators will collaborate with you to identify placements and preceptors, ensuring you have adequate clinical experiences.
2. Wilmington University - New Castle
Programs Offered: MSN, Post-Master’s Certificate, and DNP with Post-Master's Certificate
MSN Program Details: Wilmington University is home to an outstanding FNP program in Delaware. The program admits students once per year in the fall and takes seven semesters to complete.
The MSN pathway features a hybrid schedule that combines synchronous online learning with two face-to-face seminars. The 55-credit curriculum consists of core nursing courses and FNP specialty courses. You may transfer up to 12 credits of eligible coursework into the program, which could reduce the total number of credits you need to earn the degree. Some courses in the curriculum include Differential Diagnosis & Clinical Decision-Making Across the Lifespan, Acute & Chronic Care Across the Lifespan, Epidemiology & Population Health, and Advanced Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan.
The program also includes 700 precepted clinical hours and simulation learning hours. Clinicals are split across four clinical practicum courses beginning in the latter part of the program. Clinicals are arranged collaboratively with program faculty to ensure you have adequate experiences with qualified preceptors.
MSN Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the MSN program at Wilmington University, you must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a nationally accredited nursing program and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Candidates must complete an online Graduate Application and submit a professional resume, a Statement of Goals, a copy of their current RN license, two written recommendations, and official transcripts. Completion of an undergraduate health assessment course with a grade of “C” or better is required. Additionally, you will be asked to participate in an admissions interview before a final offer of admission is extended.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master’s Certificate program at Wilmington University offers master’s-prepared nurses a pathway to gain the training to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. The program admits students two times per year, once in the fall and once in the spring.
The program features online didactic coursework and 700 clinical practicum hours. A minimum of 30 credits is required to earn the FNP Post-Master’s Certificate. However, a GAP analysis will be completed to determine an individual plan of study. If the GAP analysis indicates the need for Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Health Assessment, and Advanced Practice Roles courses, they will be added to your curriculum plan.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Post-Master’s Certificate option, applicants must have a Master of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited nursing program. In addition to submitting a Graduate Application, you are required to provide official transcripts reflecting a cumulative college grade point average of 3.0 or higher, a resume, a Statement of Goals, and a copy of your active, unencumbered RN license. An admission interview is also required.
DNP with Post-Master's Certificate Program Details: If you are a registered nurse with a master’s degree and you want to take your career to the next level by earning both a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner, Wilmington University has the perfect option! The DNP with Post-Master’s Certificate program is a dual option that provides the opportunity to earn a terminal nursing doctorate and Post-Master’s FNP certificate simultaneously. New classes are admitted in the fall and spring of each year.
The DNP with Post-Master’s FNP Certificate program requires the completion of 75 credits. The curriculum includes 42 credits and 700 clinical hours for the Family Nurse Practitioner certificate and 33 credits of coursework for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. The rich curriculum features classes, including Advanced Practice Roles in Nursing Practice, Acute & Chronic Care Across the Lifespan, Healthcare Politics & Policy, and Healthcare Leadership & Innovation.
DNP with Post-Master's Certificate Admission Requirements: Prospective students desiring admission to the DNP with Post-Master’s FNP Certificate program must have a Master of Science in Nursing degree earned from an accredited nursing program and possess a current, unrestricted RN license. Candidates are required to submit a Graduate Application and a Doctoral Application. Applicants must provide a professional resume, a copy of their RN license, a Goals Statement, an admissions essay, and a letter of professional recommendation from a doctoral-prepared professional.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• Wilmington University’s School of Nursing has a long history of providing quality nursing education programs. The nursing school was established in 1963, offering more than 60 years of expertise to the nursing profession!• Wilmington University believes everyone should enjoy the opportunity to go to school without the worry of financial strain. All students receive the same low tuition rate as in-state students, regardless of residency status. Additionally, the school is ranked as one of the most affordable universities in the Mid-Atlantic region.
• At Wilmington University, you will have an academic advisor who works with you throughout your time as a student in the FNP program. Your dedicated advisor will be your go-to person for advice, guidance, and resources, ensuring you have the support you need to succeed in the program.
• FNP program graduates at Wilmington University have outstanding job placement rates. Among graduates who respond to surveys following completion of the program, most report being employed in the FNP role within three to six months of graduating and taking the national FNP certification examination.
HOW MUCH DO FNP GRADUATES MAKE IN DELAWARE?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF FNP PROGRAMS IN DELAWARE EXPECT?
| Hourly | $46.02 |
| Weekly | $1,841 |
| Monthly | $7,980 |
| Annual | $95,720 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF FNP PROGRAMS IN DELAWARE EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $46.02 | $1,841 | $7,980 | $95,720 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $52.07 | $2,083 | $9,030 | $108,310 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $61.47 | $2,459 | $10,650 | $127,850 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $68.45 | $2,738 | $11,870 | $142,380 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $81.80 | $3,272 | $14,180 | $170,150 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE FNP SALARY IN DELAWARE?
| Hourly | $62.55 |
| Weekly | $2,502 |
| Monthly | $10,840 |
| Annual | $130,110 |
HOW MUCH DO FNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF DELAWARE?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Dover | $61.94 | $2,478 | $10,740 | $128,830 |
FNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. OTHER SALARIES
FNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. FNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Delaware FNP Annual Salary | Average National FNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $130,110 | $127,510 | +$2,600 | +2.04% |
FNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. FNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $160,310 | -$30,200 | -18.84% |
| Nevada | $147,540 | -$17,430 | -11.81% |
| Washington | $144,290 | -$14,180 | -9.83% |
| New Jersey | $143,920 | -$13,810 | -9.60% |
| Oregon | $143,840 | -$13,730 | -9.55% |
| Massachusetts | $142,910 | -$12,800 | -8.96% |
| New York | $141,740 | -$11,630 | -8.21% |
| Connecticut | $135,940 | -$5,830 | -4.29% |
| New Mexico | $135,730 | -$5,620 | -4.14% |
| Minnesota | $133,980 | -$3,870 | -2.89% |
| District of Columbia | $133,820 | -$3,710 | -2.77% |
| Rhode Island | $132,440 | -$2,330 | -1.76% |
| Hawaii | $131,600 | -$1,490 | -1.13% |
| Arizona | $131,550 | -$1,440 | -1.09% |
| Delaware | $130,110 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Iowa | $129,820 | +$290 | +0.22% |
| New Hampshire | $129,740 | +$370 | +0.29% |
| Texas | $129,020 | +$1,090 | +0.84% |
| Wisconsin | $127,350 | +$2,760 | +2.17% |
| Maryland | $127,010 | +$3,100 | +2.44% |
| Utah | $126,850 | +$3,260 | +2.57% |
| North Dakota | $126,790 | +$3,320 | +2.62% |
| Pennsylvania | $126,480 | +$3,630 | +2.87% |
| Illinois | $125,930 | +$4,180 | +3.32% |
| Alaska | $125,210 | +$4,900 | +3.91% |
| Vermont | $125,140 | +$4,970 | +3.97% |
| Montana | $123,690 | +$6,420 | +5.19% |
| Idaho | $123,600 | +$6,510 | +5.27% |
| Oklahoma | $123,380 | +$6,730 | +5.45% |
| Wyoming | $122,620 | +$7,490 | +6.11% |
| Indiana | $122,380 | +$7,730 | +6.32% |
| Maine | $122,000 | +$8,110 | +6.65% |
| Ohio | $121,930 | +$8,180 | +6.71% |
| Colorado | $121,060 | +$9,050 | +7.48% |
| Nebraska | $120,750 | +$9,360 | +7.75% |
| North Carolina | $120,660 | +$9,450 | +7.83% |
| Georgia | $120,230 | +$9,880 | +8.22% |
| South Dakota | $120,060 | +$10,050 | +8.37% |
| Virginia | $119,950 | +$10,160 | +8.47% |
| Michigan | $119,760 | +$10,350 | +8.64% |
| Florida | $118,800 | +$11,310 | +9.52% |
| Kansas | $118,360 | +$11,750 | +9.93% |
| Louisiana | $117,760 | +$12,350 | +10.49% |
| Mississippi | $116,590 | +$13,520 | +11.60% |
| South Carolina | $116,050 | +$14,060 | +12.12% |
| Missouri | $115,790 | +$14,320 | +12.37% |
| West Virginia | $112,580 | +$17,530 | +15.57% |
| Arkansas | $112,550 | +$17,560 | +15.60% |
| Kentucky | $109,530 | +$20,580 | +18.79% |
| Alabama | $109,180 | +$20,930 | +19.17% |
| Tennessee | $102,930 | +$27,180 | +26.41% |
FNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN DELAWARE
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $207,030 | -$76,920 | -37.15% |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $130,110 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nurse Midwife | $121,690 | +$8,420 | +6.92% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Postsecondary | $97,050 | +$33,060 | +34.06% |
| Registered Nurse | $94,670 | +$35,440 | +37.44% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $63,490 | +$66,620 | +104.93% |
| Nursing Assistant | $38,620 | +$91,490 | +236.90% |
FNP SALARY IN DELAWARE VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN DELAWARE
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Dentist | $227,200 | -$97,090 | -42.73% |
| Optometrist | $141,480 | -$11,370 | -8.04% |
| Pharmacist | $137,430 | -$7,320 | -5.33% |
| Physician Assistant | $136,270 | -$6,160 | -4.52% |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $130,110 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Veterinarian | $123,420 | +$6,690 | +5.42% |
| Radiation Therapist | $115,940 | +$14,170 | +12.22% |
| Physical Therapist | $104,530 | +$25,580 | +24.47% |
| Dental Hygienist | $98,660 | +$31,450 | +31.88% |
| Occupational Therapist | $94,180 | +$35,930 | +38.15% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $92,070 | +$38,040 | +41.32% |
| Audiologist | $88,370 | +$41,740 | +47.23% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accreds FNP Programs In Delaware?
| 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 Delaware?
| 2 |
3. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Hour In Delaware?
| $62.55 |
4. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Week In Delaware?
| $2,502 |
5. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Month In Delaware?
| $10,840 |
6. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Year In Delaware?
| $130,110 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For FNPs In Delaware?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2022-2032) |
| + 55.00% |
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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