Most Affordable Online RN to FNP Programs

Cheapest RN to FNP Online Programs | 2024 Edition

Cheapest Rankings Methodology

Our 2024 rankings of the most affordable Online RN to MSN-FNP programs in the USA only include degrees that are less than $50,000 in total tuition. Here’s how we crunched the numbers.

• Tuition Quote: Cost calculations are based on the online tuition rate. If a school had different in-state and out-of-state rates, we used the out-of-state rate. We also took into account variations in pricing. Graduate credits are usually more expensive than undergraduate credits. FNP programs will often be charged at a higher rate than MSN programs in indirect care (e.g. Nursing Leadership). And FNP clinical courses may cost more than non-clinical courses. We considered it all.
• Additional Fees: However, we didn’t include per semester fees or one-off fees (e.g. graduation fee) in our price quote. So you’ll need to factor those into your budget. Keep in mind that per semester fees will vary depending on whether you choose a short, full-time plan of study or a longer, part-time plan of study. There may also be fees for specific FNP courses.
• Campus Intensives: The MSN portion of an Online FNP program will typically contain mandatory campus visits (e.g. short weekend intensives). You’ll often see intensives cropping up in courses like Advanced Health Assessment. Ask the program coordinator for details on what’s required—you’ll need to budget for time away from work and travel expenses.

There wasn’t a great deal of movement in our rankings from last year. Franklin University remains at the #1 spot. And few schools swapped places due to slight price decreases and increases. But we would like to highlight the 2024 newcomer. Appearing at #15, East Tennessee State University is an excellent choice for RNs interested in rural primary care.

Note: If you’d like even more choice, have a look at our Directory of RN to MSN FNP Programs. It lists on-site, hybrid, and online FNP programs in every state. Plus there’s an FNP guide with details on certification requirements, job & salary resources, and more.

How to Use Our Program Rankings

To get our Cheapest RN to FNP rankings down to a manageable shortlist, skim through the bullet points and decision sections within each school profile.

• BSN Included (or Not): You don’t need a BSN in order to qualify for national FNP certification & state licensure. But you may want one for employment purposes. Remember, too, that some schools will allow you to exit with a BSN if you’d like to postpone your MSN or you change your mind about an APRN specialty.
• State Authorization: Follow the link in the profiles and check with your State Board of Nursing before you commit to any Online RN to MSN in Family Nurse Practitioner. You need to be sure that: a) the school offers the online degree in your area; and b) your State Board will accept your out-of-state degree for licensure.
• Associate Degree or Diploma vs. Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree: Check to see if you have the right degree to apply. Some RN to MSN programs are aimed at associate degree or diploma holders; some are only open to RNs with a non-nursing baccalaureate (e.g. BA or BS). A few schools offer options for both types of candidates.
• MSN FNP Curriculum: Because of national certification requirements, Online MSN FNP programs have the same core curriculum. You won’t find much variation in the mandatory coursework and clinical practicums! But there will still be choice. We’ve highlighted unusual FNP topics (e.g. rural nursing) or intriguing MSN projects in the profiles. The university catalog will also contain descriptions of each course.
• Type of University: All schools in our rankings are regionally accredited and CCNE- or ACEN-accredited. But not all of them are non-profit. If you’re considering a for-profit university, do your homework. Talk to recent alumni, read reviews, and consult with your mentors. Accredited for-profits will prepare you for FNP certification exams, but they don’t always look great on a résumé.

Note: Searching for extra ways to save money? Check out our guide on How to Pay for Nursing School and the advice section within the Cheapest Online RN to MSN Programs. We have tips on scholarships, tuition discounts, loan forgiveness programs, and more.