The Best Missouri Online Nurse Practitioner Programs and Requirements

Aspiring nurse practitioners (NPs) in Missouri have a clear path ahead of them, filled with opportunities for advanced practice, competitive salaries, and a growing job market.
To help guide prospective NPs, this article outlines the steps to becoming a nurse practitioner in Missouri, discusses popular nurse practitioner specializations, and reviews the state’s nurse practitioner programs and licensing requirements.

Top Nurse Practitioner Programs in Missouri

When considering how to become a nurse practitioner in Missouri, it’s essential to choose the right educational path. Nurse practitioner programs in Missouri provide advanced training in various healthcare specialties. These programs typically offer Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, which prepare students to take on roles like conducting physical exams, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and providing healthcare education to patients.

Missouri is home to some of the best NP schools, such as the University of Missouri, St. Louis University, and Missouri State University, which offer top nurse practitioner programs in Missouri. These programs focus on providing advanced knowledge in healthcare, patient assessment, and specialized care across a range of clinical settings.

Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri

1. Complete the Required Education

To become an NP, individuals must complete a master’s or doctoral nursing program. These programs include both classroom education and practical fieldwork, which helps prepare graduates for clinical responsibilities.

2. Obtain RN Licensure

Before advancing to NP programs, candidates must hold a valid Registered Nurse (RN) license. To earn this, individuals must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).

3. Gain Experience

Aspiring nurse practitioners in Missouri must have several years of experience working as an RN in their chosen specialty before applying to NP programs. The clinical experience helps build essential skills in patient care, communication, and teamwork.

4. Apply for NP Certification

After completing an advanced nursing program, candidates must apply for national certification from recognized organizations, such as the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). This certification demonstrates proficiency in a specific NP specialty.

5. State Recognition and Licensure

Once certified, nurse practitioners must apply for licensure in Missouri. This involves submitting proof of education, certification, and clinical hours to the Missouri State Board of Nursing for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) recognition.

Nurse Practitioner Salaries and Career Outlook in Missouri

The NP salary in Missouri is competitive, reflecting the high demand for healthcare professionals in the state. On average, NPs in Missouri earn an annual salary of $106,870, which is nearly double the average salary of Registered Nurses (RNs) in the state. However, salaries may vary based on location, specialty, and experience. Areas such as Kansas City offer salaries that align with national averages, while rural areas may offer slightly lower wages.

Missouri’s nurse practitioner job outlook is positive, with a projected growth rate of 29.7% for NPs between 2019 and 2029, outpacing the national growth rate of 28.2%. This growth is fueled by the increasing demand for primary and specialized healthcare providers, especially in underserved and rural areas.

In-Demand Nursing Specialties in Missouri

Nurse practitioners in Missouri have the opportunity to specialize in various fields of healthcare. Some of the most popular NP specialties in Missouri include:

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) provide comprehensive care across the lifespan, from pediatric to geriatric patients. FNPs can diagnose, treat, and manage various health conditions, offering a broad range of services, including preventative care, physical exams, and health screenings.

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP)

Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioners specialize in care for adults, including elderly populations. This specialty may include both primary care and acute care settings, focusing on managing chronic conditions, complex health issues, and preventive healthcare for older adults.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP)

Pediatric Nurse Practitioners focus on providing care to infants, children, and adolescents. They often work in pediatric practices, hospitals, or clinics, diagnosing and treating various childhood diseases and conditions.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) specialize in mental health and psychiatric care. They work with patients suffering from mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia, providing assessments, therapy, and medication management.

Nurse Practitioner Licensing in Missouri

Becoming a licensed nurse practitioner in Missouri requires meeting several criteria, including completing an advanced nursing degree, obtaining national certification, and receiving state licensure.

Missouri APRN Certification Requirements

To practice as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Missouri, candidates must meet the state’s APRN certification requirements. This includes completing an accredited advanced nursing program and passing national certification exams in a specific NP specialty. APRNs in Missouri must also maintain certification and engage in continuing education to stay current in their field.

Controlled Substance Prescriptive Authority

NPs in Missouri who wish to prescribe controlled substances must apply for prescriptive authority. This involves completing additional coursework, fieldwork, and obtaining federal and state registration numbers.

Popular NP Specializations in Missouri

Several NP specializations are highly sought after in Missouri due to the increasing healthcare needs of the population:

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

FNPs are in high demand across Missouri, providing primary care services to patients of all ages. They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking healthcare and play a key role in managing chronic illnesses and promoting wellness.

Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)

AGACNPs specialize in the acute care of adult patients, particularly those with complex or severe conditions that require hospitalization. This specialization offers opportunities in hospital settings and emergency care.

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are essential in addressing the growing need for mental health services. With the increasing focus on mental health care, PMHNPs play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals with mental health disorders.

	Registered Nurse	Nurse Practitioner
Missouri Mean Salary	$65,900	$106,870
U.S. Median Salary	$75,330	$117,670
Missouri Job Growth	16.2%	29.7%
U.S. Job Growth	12.1%	28.2%

Location	Salary	Employment
Fayetteville – Springdale – Rogers, Arkansas – Missouri	$117,700	350
Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas	$110,650	2,910
St. Louis, Missouri – Illinois	$105,360	2,790
St. Joseph, Missouri – Kansas	$124,010	150
Joplin, Missouri	$105,720	150

The Best Missouri Online Nurse Practitioner Programs and School Info

1. University of Missouri – Columbia
Location: Columbia, MO
Website: https://nursing.missouri.edu
The University of Missouri – Columbia offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program for aspiring Nurse Practitioners. This program is designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles through evidence-based learning, leadership training, and clinical expertise. Students can choose from specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and follows a flexible online format, with on-campus intensives required for certain portions of the program. Graduates are prepared to sit for certification exams in their chosen specialization. The program typically takes about 3-4 years to complete, depending on whether students attend full-time or part-time.

Campus: Columbia, MO
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $800 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36-48 months
Online Available: Yes (with on-campus requirements)
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP)

2. Maryville University
Location: St. Louis, MO
Website: https://www.maryville.edu
Maryville University offers a highly flexible and fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with Nurse Practitioner tracks. Students can choose from specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The MSN program includes core courses in advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and advanced health assessment, followed by clinical hours in the chosen NP field.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and provides students with the necessary skills to pass certification exams upon graduation. Maryville also offers a post-master’s certificate for those already holding an MSN degree but wishing to specialize further. Students can complete the MSN program in 2-3 years, depending on enrollment status.

Campus: St. Louis, MO
Type: Private, Non-Profit
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP)

3. Logan University
Location: Chesterfield, MO
Website: https://www.logan.edu
Logan University offers a unique online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a focus on primary care. The DNP program is designed for registered nurses who already hold an MSN and wish to advance their practice to the highest clinical and leadership levels. Students can specialize in areas such as Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.

This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and offers an innovative online learning format with minimal campus visits. Logan University emphasizes leadership in clinical practice, with a focus on improving healthcare outcomes and patient care delivery. The DNP program can typically be completed in 3 years.

Campus: Chesterfield, MO
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $950 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: Yes (with on-campus requirements)
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP)

4. Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College
Location: St. Louis, MO
Website: https://www.barnesjewishcollege.edu
Goldfarb School of Nursing offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Nurse Practitioner track in Family Nursing. The program combines online coursework with clinical practicum experiences designed to develop advanced nursing skills in primary care settings. The school’s focus is on patient-centered care, leadership, and evidence-based practice.

The MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and prepares graduates for certification through national NP boards. Clinical placements are arranged locally to accommodate Missouri residents. The program can be completed in 2-3 years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment.

Campus: St. Louis, MO
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $850 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner

5. University of Missouri – Kansas City

Location: Kansas City, MO
Website: https://www.umkc.edu
The University of Missouri – Kansas City (UMKC) offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program for aspiring Nurse Practitioners. The program features concentrations such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP). UMKC’s online program combines flexible online learning with clinical placements in the student’s local area, providing a balanced approach to education.

UMKC’s MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and prepares students for national certification exams after graduation. The program is designed to be completed in 2-3 years for full-time students, with opportunities for part-time enrollment.

Campus: Kansas City, MO
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $600 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP)

6. Walden University
Location: Online (Missouri residents)
Website: https://www.waldenu.edu
Walden University offers a fully online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with several Nurse Practitioner tracks, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The program is designed for working nurses who wish to advance their education and career while maintaining flexibility through online coursework.

Walden University’s MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and includes a clinical practicum component that can be completed in the student’s local area. Graduates are eligible to take national certification exams in their chosen specialty. The program can be completed in about 2-3 years.

Campus: Online
Type: Private, For-Profit
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $800 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP, PMHNP)

7. Saint Louis University
Location: St. Louis, MO
Website: https://www.slu.edu
Saint Louis University (SLU) offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Nurse Practitioner focus. Students can choose from specializations such as Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, or Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. The DNP program at SLU emphasizes leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills in a wide variety of healthcare settings.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and can be completed in 3 years for full-time students. SLU’s DNP program integrates rigorous academic coursework with clinical practicum experiences to ensure that graduates are prepared to lead in advanced practice roles.

Campus: St. Louis, MO
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $1,100 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: Yes (with on-campus components)
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP, PNP)

8. University of Phoenix
Location: Online (Missouri residents)
Website: https://www.phoenix.edu
The University of Phoenix offers an online MSN program with a Nurse Practitioner track for students interested in becoming advanced practice nurses. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals by offering flexible, online coursework combined with real-world clinical experiences. Students can specialize in Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and prepares graduates to sit for certification exams in their respective specialties. The MSN program at the University of Phoenix can be completed in about 2-3 years, depending on the student’s pace.

Campus: Online
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $670 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-36 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP)

9. University of Saint Mary
Location: Leavenworth, KS (serving Missouri residents)
Website: https://www.stmary.edu
The University of Saint Mary offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a Nurse Practitioner concentration in Family Nursing. This program is designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles through a curriculum focused on clinical decision-making, healthcare leadership, and patient care management.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and includes online coursework paired with local clinical placements. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for certification exams in their chosen NP specialty. The MSN program can be completed in about 2 years, with both full-time and part-time options.

Campus: Leavenworth, KS
Type: Private
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $900 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24-30 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

10. Missouri State University
Location: Springfield, MO
Website: https://www.missouristate.edu
Missouri State University offers an online MSN program with Nurse Practitioner options, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner tracks. The program is designed to provide advanced clinical skills and leadership abilities, preparing graduates for a variety of healthcare settings.

The MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and includes both online coursework and hands-on clinical practicum experiences. Students can complete the program in approximately 2 years, and the curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for certification exams in their specialty area.

Campus: Springfield, MO
Type: Public
Accreditation: CCNE
Tuition: Approx. $500 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
Online Available: Yes
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing
Programs: Nurse Practitioner (FNP, AGNP)

Maryville University of Saint Louis

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Maryville University was founded in 1872 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart. With an enrollment exceeding 10,000 students from nearly 60 countries, including approximately 6,000 online learners, Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The institution offers a 47-credit online Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner program, covering policy, leadership, and pharmacotherapeutics through asynchronous courses. Clinical experiences totaling 745 hours are an integral part of the curriculum, preparing graduates to provide holistic care to patients of all ages. Maryville University also provides an online doctorate with a family nurse practitioner specialization.

• Campus: St. Louis, Missouri
• Type: Private
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
• Tuition: $813/credit
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license and 12 months of relevant experience; recommendations; resume or CV; essay
• Minimum Time Commitment: Four semesters
• On-Campus Requirements: No
• Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
• School Site: Tuition | Financial aid

Cox College

Established in 1907 as Burge Deaconess Training School for Nurses with only three learners, Cox College, situated in Springfield, Missouri, now enrolls around 900 students. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Cox College’s Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program consists of 42 credits, covering nurse practitioner roles, ethical field concerns, and pharmacology through eight- and 16-week classes. The curriculum also includes 660 hours of clinical experience, offering care to children, women, adults, and the elderly. Graduates are eligible to sit for family nurse practitioner certification examinations.

– Campus: Springfield, Missouri
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing
– Tuition: $600/credit
– Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA preferred; RN license; CV; two recommendation letters; essay
– Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
– School Site: Tuition | Financial aid

Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences

Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences, located in Kansas City, has been training qualified nurses since the 1800s. The student body includes high school students, higher education learners, and professionals seeking career advancement. The College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

The Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program at the College spans 49 credits, encompassing courses in informatics, policy, and healthcare research. The program mandates 600 clinical hours and two days of on-campus attendance. Candidates may transfer up to 12 credits into the program and must earn a minimum grade of “B” in all MSN-FNP classes.

– Campus: Kansas City, Missouri
– Type: Private
– Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
– Tuition: $603/credit
– Admission Requirements: Bachelor or Master of Science in Nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA; nursing license
– Minimum Time Commitment: Six semesters
– On-Campus Requirements: Yes
– Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Family Practitioner
– School Site: Tuition | Financial aid

University of Missouri – Kansas City

UMKC, established in 1933 with an initial enrollment of 260 learners, has grown to serve over 16,000 students, including representation from more than 85 countries. A public institution, UMKC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The School of Nursing and Health Sciences offers a Master of Science in Nursing program with a family nurse practitioner track. Learners complete 47 credits covering health assessment, pharmacology, and diagnostic reasoning, along with clinical institutes that mandate on-campus visits. The program may prepare learners for certification exams through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

• Campus: Kansas City, Missouri
• Type: Public
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
• Tuition: $600/credit for resident and graduate metro students; $900/credit for Midwest exchange; $1,142 for nonresident students
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; minimum 3.2 GPA; nursing license; interview; prerequisite coursework in statistics and health assessment
• On-Campus Requirements: Yes
• Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
• School Site: Tuition | Financial aid

University of Central Missouri

Founded in 1871, UCM in Warrensburg, Missouri, serves over 12,000 learners, with 97% of alumni working or entering other programs within six months of graduation. The university holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

The university’s Master of Science in Nursing program offers a concentration in family nurse practitioner concepts. Degree candidates complete 44 credits, taking classes in leadership, policy, and pharmacology. The program culminates in a capstone experience consisting of clinical hours. Candidates may study on a part- or full-time basis, and all learners must earn a minimum grade of “C” in each course to continue the program without interruption.

• Campus: Warrensburg, Missouri
• Type: Public
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
• Tuition: $365.90/credit
• Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s in Nursing; minimum 3.0 GPA; RN license and 12 months of experience
• On-Campus Requirements: No
• Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
• School Site: Tuition | Financial aid

Conclusion

Becoming a nurse practitioner in Missouri offers excellent career prospects, a variety of specialized fields, and competitive salaries. Aspiring NPs should follow the outlined steps to complete the necessary education, gain certification, and obtain licensure. By choosing the right nurse practitioner programs in Missouri, and considering the various NP specialties available, individuals can embark on a fulfilling career path with numerous opportunities for advancement and professional growth.

For those considering this path, it’s also essential to stay informed about the licensing requirements, job outlook, and salary expectations in Missouri to make informed decisions about their careers.