WHNP Programs in Minnesota (Online & Campus) – 2025
Written By: Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
Although women's health nurse practitioners in Minnesota provide specialized care, their scope of care is extensive. They provide care to women of all ages from adolescence through menopause and beyond. The care they deliver includes well-woman exams, and prenatal and postpartum care, as well as treatment for illnesses, and they work in a wide variety of practice settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private physicians' offices. There's a high demand for the services of WHNPs in Minnesota, and within 10 years, that demand is expected to increase by 44 percent. Graduates of WHNP programs in Minnesota make $131,750 on average. You'll find more info below in our list of the best WHNP programs in Minnesota.
FOLLOWING ARE THE WHNP PROGRAMS IN MINNESOTA (ONLINE & CAMPUS) FOR 2025
(Based on our Ranking Methodology, we have ranked the campus-based and online WHNP programs in Minnesota.)
1. University of Minnesota - Minneapolis
Programs Offered: BSN-to-DNP (Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse) and Post-Graduate Certificate (Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse)
BSN-to-DNP Program Details: Are you a registered nurse who is passionate about advancing women’s health and becoming a leader in patient-centered, holistic care? Have you considered earning a doctorate in nursing and becoming a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner? Choosing a graduate program to help accomplish your goals is more than an academic decision; it is a declaration of your vision for healthcare, your commitment to serving communities with expertise and compassion, and your personal values. The University of Minnesota offers a post-baccalaureate DNP program with the option to specialize as a Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner.
The Women’s Health/Gender-Related NP specialty honors the complexity of women’s health, preparing nurses capable of providing advanced care to women across the lifespan, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. As a student in this program, you will learn to provide prenatal and postpartum care and well-woman health services. You will gain the skills needed to assess and treat reproductive health and chronic and acute illness management through a gender-informed lens.
The BSN-to-DNP program, which is one of the best WHNP programs in Minnesota, utilizes a hybrid learning format. Online didactic instruction is combined with week-long campus-based sessions each semester. Additionally, beginning in the second year of the program, you will attend campus two more times for one to two days each time to complete required coursework. You have the option of enrolling part-time or full-time. Based on your enrollment status, you can complete the program in three or four years.
The program features a 79-credit curriculum. You will take classes, including Advanced Concepts in Reproductive & Sexual Health Care, Reproductive Healthcare for Patients with Complex Conditions, Advanced Nursing for Public, Population, & Planetary Health, and Reproductive Healthcare for Women at Risk.
As a nurse educator, I am passionate about the importance of hands-on learning when it comes to patient care. Clinical practicums are an essential part of a quality nursing program. At the University of Minnesota, 1,000 practicum hours are required to earn the DNP. You will complete 840 hours of direct patient care clinical hours and earn an additional 160 hours via completion of a DNP Scholarly Project and other required course activities. Practicums are arranged collaboratively with the Practicum Coordination Staff to ensure that you have adequate experiences under the supervision of the most experienced preceptors.
BSN-to-DNP Admission Requirements: If you have a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program and possess an active, unrestricted RN license, you are eligible to apply for admission to the BSN-to-DNP program at the University of Minnesota. In addition to completing an admission application through NursingCAS, you need to submit a curriculum vitae or resume, a Personal Statement/Essay, three professional references, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion essay response, and official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended. The program requires a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Post-Graduate Certificate Program Details: If you have already earned a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and wish to earn the Women’s Health/Gender-Related NP certification, the Post-Graduate Certificate program offered at the University of Minnesota is a great choice! The program admits new students in the fall and spring each year. While most coursework is delivered in an online format, post-graduate certificate students are required to attend campus at designated times each semester.
This WHNP program in Minnesota has a 21-credit curriculum plan. A GAP analysis is performed to identify competencies you met through your previous degree program and those needed to meet the criteria to sit for the appropriate certification exam. Once the analysis is performed, an individualized plan will be developed in collaboration with the specialty faculty. The time it takes to complete the certificate program depends on the total number of credits you need. Most students complete the program within five semesters. The program also includes a total of 840 practicum hours.
Post-Graduate Certificate Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission to the Post-Graduate Certificate program, you need a Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in a clinical nursing specialty area, as well as a valid, unencumbered RN license and a valid APRN license. Your application will be considered using a holistic approach. To ensure your application is reviewed, you need to submit three letters of recommendation, a current resume or CV, a Personal Statement, and official transcripts reflecting a GPA of 3.0 or higher for your most recently obtained degree.
Must-Know Highlights For Potential Students
• The University of Minnesota School of Nursing is one of the oldest, most respected nursing schools in the U.S. The School of Nursing offered the first university-based nursing program in the country, and it continues to set a standard of excellence in advanced nursing practice. The school’s legacy of offering high-quality nursing education is just one reason you can feel confident in choosing the University of Minnesota to pursue your WHNP certification!• Because nursing and healthcare are ever-changing, I encourage prospective students to look for programs that exemplify growth and progress. When you choose the University of Minnesota to earn your degree, you are not only choosing a well-established program but one that is also forward-thinking with proven leaders to guide your academic journey. The WHNP program at the University of Minnesota is led by faculty who are shaping the future of nursing through policy advocacy, clinical innovation, and groundbreaking research.
• From adolescence through menopause and beyond, women face a unique constellation of physical, emotional, and social health challenges. Unfortunately, all too often, women’s health needs are underserved, misunderstood, or marginalized. As a nurse, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of compassionate, informed, and equitable care. This is especially true in the realm of women’s healthcare. If you want to make a difference in women’s health, pursuing the Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at the University of Minnesota is not just a logical next step in your career. It is a deeply personal commitment to becoming a provider who can meet women’s health needs with skill, empathy, and advocacy.
• Finding the right nursing program is crucial for your success. As a nurse educator, I recommend checking out program rankings. Look for reputable sources. For instance, the University of Minnesota is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as having one of the best DNP programs in the country. The school is known for its distinguished faculty, rigorous curriculum, and commitment to nursing education. No wonder it ranked in our list of the top WHNP programs in Minnesota!
HOW MUCH DO WHNP GRADUATES MAKE IN MINNESOTA?
WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF WHNP PROGRAMS IN MINNESOTA EXPECT?
| Hourly | $46.60 |
| Weekly | $1,864 |
| Monthly | $8,080 |
| Annual | $96,930 |
HOW MUCH CAN GRADUATES OF WHNP PROGRAMS IN MINNESOTA EARN WITH EXPERIENCE?
| Level of Experience | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Entry-Level | $46.60 | $1,864 | $8,080 | $96,930 |
| 1-4 Years of Experience | $52.73 | $2,109 | $9,140 | $109,670 |
| 5-9 Years of Experience | $62.24 | $2,490 | $10,790 | $129,460 |
| 10-19 Years of Experience | $69.32 | $2,773 | $12,020 | $144,180 |
| 20 Years or More Experience | $82.83 | $3,313 | $14,360 | $172,290 |
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE WHNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA?
| Hourly | $63.34 |
| Weekly | $2,534 |
| Monthly | $10,980 |
| Annual | $131,750 |
HOW MUCH DO WHNPS EARN IN THE VARIOUS METROS OF MINNESOTA?
| Metro | Hourly | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
| Duluth | $70.35 | $2,814 | $12,190 | $146,330 |
| Mankato-North Mankato | $64.69 | $2,588 | $11,210 | $134,550 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington | $62.42 | $2,497 | $10,820 | $129,840 |
| Rochester | $61.34 | $2,454 | $10,630 | $127,590 |
| St. Cloud | $58.45 | $2,338 | $10,130 | $121,570 |
WHNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. OTHER SALARIES
WHNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. WHNP SALARY IN THE NATION
| Average Minnesota WHNP Annual Salary | Average National WHNP Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| $131,750 | $125,390 | +$6,360 | +5.07% |
WHNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. WHNP SALARIES IN OTHER STATES
| State | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| California | $157,640 | -$25,890 | -16.42% |
| Nevada | $145,080 | -$13,330 | -9.19% |
| Washington | $141,890 | -$10,140 | -7.15% |
| New Jersey | $141,530 | -$9,780 | -6.91% |
| Oregon | $141,450 | -$9,700 | -6.86% |
| Massachusetts | $140,540 | -$8,790 | -6.25% |
| New York | $139,380 | -$7,630 | -5.47% |
| Connecticut | $133,680 | -$1,930 | -1.44% |
| New Mexico | $133,470 | -$1,720 | -1.29% |
| Minnesota | $131,750 | $0 | 0.00% |
| District of Columbia | $131,600 | +$150 | +0.11% |
| Rhode Island | $130,240 | +$1,510 | +1.16% |
| Hawaii | $129,410 | +$2,340 | +1.81% |
| Arizona | $129,360 | +$2,390 | +1.85% |
| Delaware | $127,950 | +$3,800 | +2.97% |
| Iowa | $127,660 | +$4,090 | +3.20% |
| New Hampshire | $127,590 | +$4,160 | +3.26% |
| Texas | $126,870 | +$4,880 | +3.85% |
| Wisconsin | $125,230 | +$6,520 | +5.21% |
| Maryland | $124,900 | +$6,850 | +5.48% |
| Utah | $124,740 | +$7,010 | +5.62% |
| North Dakota | $124,680 | +$7,070 | +5.67% |
| Pennsylvania | $124,380 | +$7,370 | +5.93% |
| Illinois | $123,840 | +$7,910 | +6.39% |
| Alaska | $123,130 | +$8,620 | +7.00% |
| Vermont | $123,060 | +$8,690 | +7.06% |
| Montana | $121,630 | +$10,120 | +8.32% |
| Idaho | $121,550 | +$10,200 | +8.39% |
| Oklahoma | $121,330 | +$10,420 | +8.59% |
| Wyoming | $120,580 | +$11,170 | +9.26% |
| Indiana | $120,340 | +$11,410 | +9.48% |
| Maine | $119,970 | +$11,780 | +9.82% |
| Ohio | $119,910 | +$11,840 | +9.87% |
| Colorado | $119,050 | +$12,700 | +10.67% |
| Nebraska | $118,740 | +$13,010 | +10.96% |
| North Carolina | $118,660 | +$13,090 | +11.03% |
| Georgia | $118,230 | +$13,520 | +11.44% |
| South Dakota | $118,060 | +$13,690 | +11.60% |
| Virginia | $117,950 | +$13,800 | +11.70% |
| Michigan | $117,770 | +$13,980 | +11.87% |
| Florida | $116,820 | +$14,930 | +12.78% |
| Kansas | $116,390 | +$15,360 | +13.20% |
| Louisiana | $115,810 | +$15,940 | +13.76% |
| Mississippi | $114,660 | +$17,090 | +14.90% |
| South Carolina | $114,120 | +$17,630 | +15.45% |
| Missouri | $113,860 | +$17,890 | +15.71% |
| West Virginia | $110,710 | +$21,040 | +19.00% |
| Arkansas | $110,670 | +$21,080 | +19.05% |
| Kentucky | $107,710 | +$24,040 | +22.32% |
| Alabama | $107,370 | +$24,380 | +22.71% |
| Tennessee | $101,220 | +$30,530 | +30.16% |
WHNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. OTHER NURSE SALARIES IN MINNESOTA
| Type of Nurse | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Nurse Anesthetist | $221,650 | -$89,900 | -40.56% |
| Women's Health Nurse Practitioner | $131,750 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Nurse Midwife | $121,860 | +$9,890 | +8.12% |
| Registered Nurse | $94,830 | +$36,920 | +38.93% |
| Nursing Instructor and Teacher, Post-secondary | $84,730 | +$47,020 | +55.49% |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse | $58,870 | +$72,880 | +123.80% |
| Nursing Assistant | $42,960 | +$88,790 | +206.68% |
WHNP SALARY IN MINNESOTA VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN MINNESOTA
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary | Difference | |
| Number | % | ||
| Podiatrist | $229,120 | -$97,370 | -42.50% |
| Dentist | $211,100 | -$79,350 | -37.59% |
| Pharmacist | $143,210 | -$11,460 | -8.00% |
| Optometrist | $138,010 | -$6,260 | -4.54% |
| Physician Assistant | $134,870 | -$3,120 | -2.31% |
| Women's Health Nurse Practitioner | $131,750 | $0 | 0.00% |
| Veterinarian | $110,120 | +$21,630 | +19.64% |
| Audiologist | $97,950 | +$33,800 | +34.51% |
| Physical Therapist | $97,860 | +$33,890 | +34.63% |
| Dental Hygienist | $90,140 | +$41,610 | +46.16% |
| Radiation Therapist | $89,820 | +$41,930 | +46.68% |
| Occupational Therapist | $85,840 | +$45,910 | +53.48% |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | $83,990 | +$47,760 | +56.86% |
| Chiropractor | $82,840 | +$48,910 | +59.04% |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED
1. Who Accredits WHNP Programs In Minnesota?
| S.No. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) |
| 2 | Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) |
2. How Many Accredited WHNP Schools Are There In Minnesota?
| 1 |
3. On Average, How Much Does A Women’s Health NP Make Per Hour In Minnesota?
| $63.34 |
4. On Average, How Much Does A Women’s Health NP Make Per Week In Minnesota?
| $2,534 |
5. On Average, How Much Does A Women’s Health NP Make Per Month In Minnesota?
| $10,980 |
6. On Average, How Much Does A Women’s Health NP Make Per Year In Minnesota?
| $131,750 |
7. What Is The Job Outlook For WHNPs In Minnesota?
| 10-Year Job Outlook (2020-2030) |
| +43.81% |
Darby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA
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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