Best Rhode Island FNP Programs (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Are you an RN looking for more autonomy in your Rhode Island workplace? FNP programs in Rhode Island will help you build on the skills you possess to expand your scope of practice. After graduation, you’ll have the opportunity to put your education to good use, diagnosing and treating patients to the full extent of your training because Rhode Island is a full-practice state. FNPs in the Ocean State have plenty of employment opportunities to choose from, and the demand for their services is expected to rise by 45 percent in just one decade. Once you start working, you’re looking at a salary that averages $132,440 annually. This list of the best FNP programs in Rhode Island has more information.
FOLLOWING ARE THE BEST FNP PROGRAMS IN RHODE ISLAND (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the best campus-based and online FNP programs in Rhode Island.)
1. University of Rhode Island - Kingston
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Program Details: If you are a registered nurse with aspirations to become a Family Nurse Practitioner, it is natural to have lots of questions. One of the most important steps in your journey is to find a school that has a solid program with a proven record of success. If you’re looking for a top FNP program in Rhode Island, the University of Rhode Island is an excellent choice!
The MSN Family Nurse Practitioner pathway offers part-time and full-time enrollment options. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as four semesters. The 42-credit curriculum features classes, including Pharmacotherapeutics, Advanced Health Assessment Skills Across the Life, Family Nurse Practitioner Primary Care, Evidence-Based Strategies to Improve Health, and Translating Research into Evidence-Based Practice.
As a student in the MSN-FNP program, you will complete 750 clinical hours. Clinical practicum experiences occur in a variety of settings, including community health centers, hospital clinics, urban and rural private health offices, and health maintenance organizations. Clinical practicums are planned in collaboration with program faculty.
MSN Admission Requirements: Admission to the MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program is based on several criteria. Candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing earned at an AACN- or NLN-accredited nursing program and be eligible for RN licensure in Rhode Island. A completed Graduate School Application is required, as well as three letters of recommendation, a curriculum vitae or resume, a 1-2 page Goals Statement, and copies of all post-secondary transcripts. Transcripts should show proof of a minimum college GPA of 3.0 and completion of a basic Statistics course. Candidates with a grade point average of 3.3 or higher are preferred.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The Post-Master’s Certificate program is the perfect option for prospective students who already hold a master’s degree in nursing and wish to add the Family Nurse Practitioner certification to their professional profile. Admissions occur in the fall and spring of each year.
Students in the Post-Master’s Certificate program complete 18-19 credits of coursework. The curriculum consists of three FNP clinical courses with corresponding clinical practicums. You will complete a minimum of 750 clinical hours.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: Prospective students desiring admission to the Post-Master's Certificate program must hold a master's degree in nursing from a nursing program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and be eligible for RN licensure in Rhode Island. Applicants are required to submit a Goals Statement, a professional resume or CV, and official transcripts from all colleges or universities previously attended. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and a graduate GPA of 3.3 are required.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• The University of Rhode Island offers several graduate assistantships, traineeships, and other Graduate School Financial Assistance to help students with program costs. By working with experienced financial aid advisors, you can take advantage of opportunities to reduce the cost of earning your degree, which means you can focus on your education without the added worry of finances.• As a student in the FNP program at the University of Rhode Island, you will learn from faculty who are leaders in cutting-edge research initiatives and nursing practice. College of Nursing faculty are active in and lead research projects in a broad range of focal areas, including health disparities, infants and families, adolescent and emerging adult health and risk behaviors, and opioid overdose prevention. As a nurse educator, I find the level of clinical involvement the program's faculty have in research and practice is impressive. To me, it indicates a true commitment to improved practices and outcomes. In my experience, faculty with this type of commitment to the profession make some of the best instructors!
• Graduates of the FNP program at the University of Rhode Island have excellent job placement rates. According to the school, among those who respond to post-graduation surveys, nearly all report being employed as Family Nurse Practitioners within six months of completing the program and taking their national certification exams.
2. Salve Regina University - Newport
Programs Offered: MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate
MSN Program Details: Salve Regina University is home to another excellent FNP program in Rhode Island. The school offers a post-bachelor’s MSN pathway for registered nurses desiring to become Family Nurse Practitioners.
The program is presented in an online format consisting of live, self-paced coursework, offering flexibility to working professionals. A campus visit before beginning the clinical portion of the program is required to complete a skills-based colloquium.
The curriculum consists of 14 classes totaling 48 credits. You will study in classes such as Pharmacologic Principles for Advanced Practice Nursing, Advanced Care for the Pediatric Patient, Advanced Care for the Maternal and Family Unit, and Global Influences in the Advanced Management of Care. The program includes a minimum of 750 supervised, direct patient care clinical hours. Clinicals are arranged collaboratively with program faculty.
MSN Admission Requirements: The MSN program utilizes a rolling admission process, accepting applicants on a continuous basis. Classes begin three times each year in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
To be considered for admission to the MSN program, you must hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program and have a current, unrestricted RN license. Candidates are required to submit an online application, a Personal Statement, a current resume, and official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. A cumulative college GPA of 3.0 and successful completion of a three-credit Statistics course is also required.
Post-Master’s Certificate Program Details: The FNP Post-Master's Certificate program at Salve University offers a pathway for registered nurses who already have a master's degree in nursing to extend their scope of practice to include the family practice specialty. The program offers three admission points throughout the year in the fall, spring, and summer.
Although coursework is delivered online, you will visit the campus to complete a skills intensive before beginning the clinical component of the program. The program requires the completion of 39 credits of coursework and 750 supervised clinical hours.
Post-Master’s Certificate Admission Requirements: Candidates seeking admission to the Post-Master's Certificate program at Salve Regina must hold a master's degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program and have a current, unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse. Applicants are required to submit an online application, a Personal Statement, a current resume, two professional letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from each post-secondary school previously attended.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• At Salve Regina University, you will learn from nursing faculty who have several decades of experience as both educators and clinicians. Their personal commitment to lifelong learning and the advancement of nursing means you can feel confident that you will receive the guidance and instruction you need to help you succeed!• Salve Regina University’s College of Nursing is known for its holistic approach to nursing education. The school prides itself on guiding students to provide compassionate, empathetic care to patients while implementing advanced, evidence-based nursing knowledge and interventions.
• One of the things I like about the FNP program in Rhode Island at Salve Regina is that when you visit campus, you will experience simulated learning experiences to prepare you for your clinical practicums. During this scheduled colloquium, you will collaborate with faculty and peers and develop and hone essential skills to help prepare you for your new role as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
3. New England Institute of Technology - East Greenwich
Programs Offered: MSN
MSN Program Details: If you are a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree who wants to earn a master’s degree and become a Family Nurse Practitioner, the FNP program in Rhode Island at New England Institute of Technology is a great option to consider. The program can be completed in 24 months of full-time study.
The flexible online format makes this program a great choice for busy professionals. One in-person visit to campus is required to complete a weekend-long skills immersion. The program features a 66-quarter-credit curriculum. You will begin your studies by taking advanced courses, including Advanced Pathophysiology, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses, Research for Advanced Practice Nurses, and Advance Physical Assessment. The curriculum includes FNP specialty courses such as Primary Care of the Infant, Child, & Adolescent, Primary Care of the Adult I, II, & III, and Women's Health.
Each specialty course is complemented by a corresponding clinical practicum. You will complete at least 750 supervised clinical hours. In some cases, you may be able to complete clinicals in your hometown or at your place of employment. All clinical sites and preceptors must be approved by the MSN Program Coordinator.
MSN Admission Requirements: Prospective students seeking admission to the MSN program must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited nursing program. Candidates must have an unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse in the United States and at least one year of clinical experience as an RN within the previous two years. All applicants are required to complete an online application and provide a Personal Statement and official transcripts reflecting an overall college GPA of at least 3.0 and showing completion of a bachelor-level Statistics course and Health Assessment course with a grade of B+ or better.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• The FNP program at the New England Institute of Technology has a great record of success. The school reports that program graduates consistently exceed national averages, with a 100% pass rate on national FNP certification exams. This is a crucial factor to consider when choosing an FNP program in Rhode Island or any other state, as pass rates indicate how well students are prepared with the knowledge and skills to take on the role of a Family Nurse Practitioner.• New England Institute of Technology is dedicated to student success. Academic advisors collaborate with you to ensure you stay on track and have the support and resources you need. Career coaches promote networking opportunities and offer help with job placement if needed. Faculty, preceptors, and other support staff are also available to offer guidance and promote your success along the way!
• The FNP program at the New England Institute of Technology has a high retention and graduation rate. These are a few other factors that are important to consider when choosing a school, as they indicate student satisfaction and success.
HOW MUCH DO FNP GRADUATES MAKE IN RHODE ISLAND?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF FNP PROGRAMS IN RHODE ISLAND EXPECT?
| Hourly | $46.85 |
| Weekly | $1,874 |
| Monthly | $8,120 |
| Annual | $97,440 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF FNP PROGRAMS IN RHODE ISLAND EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $46.85 | $1,874 | $8,120 | $97,440 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $53.00 | $2,120 | $9,190 | $110,250 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $62.57 | $2,503 | $10,850 | $130,140 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $69.68 | $2,787 | $12,080 | $144,930 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $83.27 | $3,331 | $14,430 | $173,200 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE FNP SALARY IN RHODE ISLAND?
| Hourly | $63.67 |
| Weekly | $2,547 |
| Monthly | $11,040 |
| Annual | $132,440 |
HOW MUCH DO FNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF RHODE ISLAND?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Providence-Warwick | $63.50 | $2,540 | $11,010 | $132,090 |
FNP SALARY IN RHODE ISLAND VS. OTHER SALARIES
FNP SALARY IN RHODE ISLAND VS. FNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Rhode Island FNP Annual Salary | Average National FNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $132,440 | $127,510 | +$4,930 | +3.87% |
FNP SALARY IN RHODE ISLAND VS. FNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $160,310 | -$27,870 | -17.39% |
| Nevada | $147,540 | -$15,100 | -10.23% |
| Washington | $144,290 | -$11,850 | -8.21% |
| New Jersey | $143,920 | -$11,480 | -7.98% |
| Oregon | $143,840 | -$11,400 | -7.93% |
| Massachusetts | $142,910 | -$10,470 | -7.33% |
| New York | $141,740 | -$9,300 | -6.56% |
| Connecticut | $135,940 | -$3,500 | -2.57% |
| New Mexico | $135,730 | -$3,290 | -2.42% |
| Minnesota | $133,980 | -$1,540 | -1.15% |
| District of Columbia | $133,820 | -$1,380 | -1.03% |
| Rhode Island | $132,440 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Hawaii | $131,600 | +$840 | +0.64% |
| Arizona | $131,550 | +$890 | +0.68% |
| Delaware | $130,110 | +$2,330 | +1.79% |
| Iowa | $129,820 | +$2,620 | +2.02% |
| New Hampshire | $129,740 | +$2,700 | +2.08% |
| Texas | $129,020 | +$3,420 | +2.65% |
| Wisconsin | $127,350 | +$5,090 | +4.00% |
| Maryland | $127,010 | +$5,430 | +4.28% |
| Utah | $126,850 | +$5,590 | +4.41% |
| North Dakota | $126,790 | +$5,650 | +4.46% |
| Pennsylvania | $126,480 | +$5,960 | +4.71% |
| Illinois | $125,930 | +$6,510 | +5.17% |
| Alaska | $125,210 | +$7,230 | +5.77% |
| Vermont | $125,140 | +$7,300 | +5.83% |
| Montana | $123,690 | +$8,750 | +7.07% |
| Idaho | $123,600 | +$8,840 | +7.15% |
| Oklahoma | $123,380 | +$9,060 | +7.34% |
| Wyoming | $122,620 | +$9,820 | +8.01% |
| Indiana | $122,380 | +$10,060 | +8.22% |
| Maine | $122,000 | +$10,440 | +8.56% |
| Ohio | $121,930 | +$10,510 | +8.62% |
| Colorado | $121,060 | +$11,380 | +9.40% |
| Nebraska | $120,750 | +$11,690 | +9.68% |
| North Carolina | $120,660 | +$11,780 | +9.76% |
| Georgia | $120,230 | +$12,210 | +10.16% |
| South Dakota | $120,060 | +$12,380 | +10.31% |
| Virginia | $119,950 | +$12,490 | +10.41% |
| Michigan | $119,760 | +$12,680 | +10.59% |
| Florida | $118,800 | +$13,640 | +11.48% |
| Kansas | $118,360 | +$14,080 | +11.90% |
| Louisiana | $117,760 | +$14,680 | +12.47% |
| Mississippi | $116,590 | +$15,850 | +13.59% |
| South Carolina | $116,050 | +$16,390 | +14.12% |
| Missouri | $115,790 | +$16,650 | +14.38% |
| West Virginia | $112,580 | +$19,860 | +17.64% |
| Arkansas | $112,550 | +$19,890 | +17.67% |
| Kentucky | $109,530 | +$22,910 | +20.92% |
| Alabama | $109,180 | +$23,260 | +21.30% |
| Tennessee | $102,930 | +$29,510 | +28.67% |
FNP SALARY IN RHODE ISLAND VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN RHODE ISLAND
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $132,440 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nurse Midwife | $125,820 | +$6,620 | +5.26% |
| Registered Nurse | $95,070 | +$37,370 | +39.31% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Post-secondary | $82,820 | +$49,620 | +59.91% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $75,470 | +$56,970 | +75.49% |
| Nursing Assistant | $43,390 | +$89,050 | +205.23% |
FNP SALARY IN RHODE ISLAND VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN RHODE ISLAND
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Dentist | $196,540 | -$64,100 | -32.61% |
| Podiatrist | $190,020 | -$57,580 | -30.30% |
| Veterinarian | $148,920 | -$16,480 | -11.07% |
| Optometrist | $146,950 | -$14,510 | -9.87% |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | $132,440 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Physician Assistant | $131,460 | +$980 | +0.75% |
| Pharmacist | $113,110 | +$19,330 | +17.09% |
| Radiation Therapist | $104,230 | +$28,210 | +27.07% |
| Occupational Therapist | $95,660 | +$36,780 | +38.45% |
| Physical Therapist | $95,160 | +$37,280 | +39.18% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $91,310 | +$41,130 | +45.04% |
| Audiologist | $82,360 | +$50,080 | +60.81% |
| Dental Hygienist | $79,980 | +$52,460 | +65.59% |
| Chiropractor | $71,650 | +$60,790 | +84.84% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits FNP Programs In Rhode Island?
| 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 Rhode Island?
| 3 |
3. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Hour In Rhode Island?
| $63.67 |
4. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Week In Rhode Island?
| $2,547 |
5. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Month In Rhode Island?
| $11,040 |
6. On Average, How Much Does A Family NP Make Per Year In Rhode Island?
| $132,440 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For FNPs In Rhode Island?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2022-2032) |
| +45.14% |
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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