Nurse practitioner (NP) programs in Missouri prepare you for specialty roles in which you provide care to the state's most vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and people with mental health conditions.
Explore this guide on what to look for in a nursing school, the top nursing programs in Missouri for NPs, and how to get started in this advanced and rewarding nursing career.
Explore the Best Missouri Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best NP programs in Missouri, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This list was developed in 2021.
Steps to Become a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri
Nurse practitioner programs in Missouri prepare students for careers as primary health care providers (similar to the role of a physician). Before enrolling in NP school, applicants must choose a specialty (i.e., family practice, pediatric care, women's health, geriatric health, acute care, or mental health).
The road to becoming an NP in Missouri can take up to 6-8 years and includes:
- Completing an RN program and earning an undergraduate nursing degree
- Working as an RN for at least one year
- Completing an NP program and earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) or doctor of nursing practice (DNP)
- Obtaining an NP license
While program length may be longer or shorter depending on degree program and specialty, NP programs take about 2-4 years to complete.
Why Is NP Program Accreditation Important?
Choosing an accredited nursing program in Missouri is important because it increases the likelihood graduates will be adequately prepared for an RN or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) role. Nursing school accreditation proves a nursing program meets specific educational standards established by accrediting bodies, such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the .
Accredited NP schools in Missouri undergo rigorous evaluations to ensure graduates have a high chance of meeting specialty role competencies and passing the NP state board exam. Accreditation also makes candidates eligible for financial aid and gives them the ability to transfer course credits to other accredited schools.
All Missouri NP programs in our rankings are accredited.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Nurse Practitioner Programs in Missouri
