Rivier University Online Nurse Practitioner Programs – FNP, PMHNP
- MSN – Family NP (bridge for RNs with non-nursing bachelor's)
- MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
- MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner (RN-to-MSN)
- MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health NP (bridge for RNs with non-nursing bachelor's)
- MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health NP (RN-to-MSN)
- MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Post-Master's Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner
- Post-Master's Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
“The goal is not to complete the program in the shortest time possible, but to thoroughly absorb all the content and program information to best improve individual and population outcomes.”
Tracy Hardy, DNP, Associate Professor of Practice, Rivier University
Rivier University’s College of Nursing offers an online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program with an ADN bridge and non-nursing bachelor’s option. In addition, Post-Master’s Certificates are offered in FNP and PMHNP specializations. Students complete coursework online and come to campus for three immersions. Practicums are also completed at approved facilities local to the student.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the need for nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives will increase 26 percent by 2028. The average increase across all occupations is 5 percent, which shows a burgeoning need for nurse practitioners in the healthcare arena.
Both family nurse practitioners (FNPs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) serve populations across the lifespan from childhood to old age, collaborating with care teams, to improve patient health care.
FNPs are able to assess, evaluate, diagnose and treat common and chronic health conditions. The FNP focuses on preventive medicine and healthcare education to improve the quality of life for patients and their families. FNPs may work in hospitals, primary care clinics, community health facilities, government agencies, long-term care facilities, and other family practice settings. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the family nurse practitioner certification exam.
PMHNPs are able to assess, evaluate, diagnose and treat mental illness and issues. Working with healthcare teams, PMHNPs provide treatment plans for patients suffering from mental health and addiction issues. This may include counseling, therapy, treatment programs, and medications. PMHNPs may work in schools, treatment centers, hospitals, counseling firms, and other mental health organizations. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certification exam.
Rivier University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). The online MSN and certificate programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Rivier University is located in Nashua, New Hampshire.
Meet the Expert: Tracy Hardy DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Dr. Tracy Hardy has over 30 years of nursing experience, with a background in internal medicine and college health as an APRN. Since 2009, she has served as an educator in the graduate nursing program at Rivier University. She also acts as the medical director of Rivier University Student Health Services.
A dedicated member of the Rivier community, Dr. Hardy has supported long-term connections with nursing students and participated in faculty-led mission trips for students. In recent years, she has presented extensively at local, state, regional, and national levels, sharing her expertise on topics such as firefighter occupational cancer risk and telehealth. She currently serves as a member-at-large with the NHNPA board of directors.
In 2022, Dr. Hardy’s DNP research was published in the Journal of Cancer Education. Her manuscript, titled “Firefighter Occupational Cancer Risk: Starting the Conversation,” addresses the critical health risks facing firefighters.
NPSchools.com: What do you wish the public understood about nurse practitioner programs in New Hampshire?
Dr. Hardy: Students who are enrolled in nurse practitioner (NP) programs are often registered nurses who structure their time to be able to advance to a higher level of practice, while continuing to work as registered nurses. Nurses who complete advanced practice programs are prepared to practice at a higher level, using the highest level of evidence we have to improve patient outcomes. Many programs are offered online for students across the nation while maintaining a quality, rigorous education.
Nurse practitioner students are required to complete 500 to 750 clinical hours before the end of their program. Those hours further expand on the nursing experience the students have before they enter the program. There are many different tracks to choose from: family, acute care, psychiatric, pediatric, geriatric, and they all prepare graduates to diagnose and prescribe.
NP programs in NH prepare NP students to enter a workforce that affords them independent practice authority here in the state of NH.
NPSchools.com: What advice would you give to aspiring nurse practitioner program students?
Dr. Hardy: The goal is not to complete the program in the shortest time possible, but to thoroughly absorb all the content and program information to best improve individual and population outcomes. Passing the certification exam may be the first step, but improving patient outcomes is a lifelong process.
Students should ensure the timing of their program is right because NP programs are rigorous. Time management skills, discipline, and flexible schedules are keys to success, but know that self-care during such an intense program is also key. Take some time to get a few years of nursing experience before entering an NP program. It will really help you develop the critical thinking piece that is essential to the advanced nursing role.
There are many different specialty areas to choose from. Be sure you choose the path you are most passionate about. If you are passionate about nursing but feel you don’t have what it takes, you are wrong! If you knew everything coming into an NP program, then we wouldn’t need NP educators.
If you are willing to put the effort into your work, the faculty will meet you where you are and help you get where you need to be.
What to Expect from the Rivier University Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
General Graduate Nursing Admissions Requirements: Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in previous coursework and hold a current, unencumbered RN license. Application materials include a statement of purpose outlining the student’s goals, two letters of recommendation, a resume or CV, and a course of study choice form. No GMAT or GRE is required.
- Specific Program Requirements:
- BSN to MSN Entry: Students must hold a BSN degree from an accredited institution and have completed undergraduate statistics.
- RN to MSN Entry: Students must hold an associate’s degree from an accredited institution, have completed undergraduate statistics, document two years of full-time RN work experience, and complete a professional portfolio that documents mastery of bachelor’s degree competencies.
- Non-nursing Bachelor’s Entry: Students must hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, have completed undergraduate statistics, and document two years of full-time RN work experience.
State Restrictions: While Rivier University accepts students from most states into their MSN programs, applicants outside of New Hampshire should check with their state Board of Nursing to make sure they are eligible to study with Rivier University and to be aware of the practicum requirements in their state while attending an out-of-state university. At this time Rivier University is unable to accept students from Alabama, California, Iowa, Louisiana, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and Wyoming. In addition, the following states have limiting criteria and students should call the Program Director for more information: Colorado, New York, and South Dakota.
Study Plan: The Rivier University online MSN and certificate courses are delivered in 7-week and 14-week formats, with most lasting 14 weeks. The MSN program takes three to five years to complete. The certificate programs vary in length depending on the courses needed to earn the certificate. They can be completed in three to six semesters. Start dates are offered every 7 weeks. Students complete courses online as well as clinicals local to the student. In addition, campus immersions are held three times throughout the programs.
MSN – FNP Curriculum: The online MSN – FNP program comprises a minimum of 43 credits plus 600 clinical hours. Courses may include Advanced Pathophysiology; Advanced Health Assessment; Advanced Role of the Nurse; Advanced Pharmacology; Quality Healthcare Improvement; Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare; Advanced Health Policy; Biostatistics for the Health Sciences; Research Capstone Advisement; Advanced Family Nursing Theory I-II; and Family Nurse Practitioner Practicum I-III and Seminar.
In addition, ADN and non-nursing bachelor’s students complete Leadership and Management in Health Care and Community and Public Health Nursing. These programs comprise 49 credits each.
MSN – PMHNP Curriculum: The online MSN – FNP program comprises a minimum of 40 credits plus 600 clinical hours. Courses may include Advanced Pathophysiology; Psychopharmacology; Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Theory I-II; Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practicum and Seminar I-III; Advanced Health Assessment; Advanced Role of the Nurse; Advanced Pharmacology; Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare; Research Capstone Advisement; Advanced Health Policy; and Biostatistics for the Health Sciences.
In addition, ADN and non-nursing bachelor’s students complete Leadership and Management in Health Care and Community and Public Health Nursing. These programs comprise 46 credits each.
Post-Master’s Certificate Curriculum: The Post-Master’s Certificates comprise 19 to 43 credits depending on prior education. Typically, those who already hold an MSN will not need to complete all 43 credits. A Gap analysis will show which courses need to be completed.
Online Experience: Rivier University utilizes Canvas as its online Learning Management System (LMS). The Rivier nursing programs focus on active learning and individualized attention. Tools utilized may include online lectures, document sharing, discussion boards, online chat, and phone and email interaction. An Online Learning Orientation presentation is offered as a free course through Rivier to help acquaint students with the online learning environment. In addition, Rivier offers a Canvas orientation self-paced tutorial. Students have access to personal advising to reach their academic and career goals. Tutoring services are offered through the Academic Support Center. In addition, online students have access to the online bookstore, the Career Development Center, the Counseling and Wellness Center, disability services, 24/7 technical support, and library services.
On-Site Requirements: Rivier FNP students are required to come to the Nashua, New Hampshire campus for a 1-week immersion and two 2-day immersions throughout the program. PMHNP students come to campus for three weekend residencies. These take place all day on Saturday and Sunday. All other coursework is online and practicums are completed local to the student.
Paying for the Rivier University Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
Rivier University charges $680 per credit plus fees for the online MSN and certificate nursing courses and $1,061 per credit for graduate nursing clinical courses. Prospective students should contact Rivier’s Department of Nursing and Health Professionals for full and updated tuition costs as tuition may change from year to year.
Rivier University offers federal Stafford loans and Graduate PLUS Loans according to the FAFSA. Nursing students may inquire with their employers to see if they qualify for a tuition reimbursement program. Rivier University students may also seek other opportunities for funding including outside scholarships and grants.
Rivier University offers start dates every 7 weeks for its FNP and PMHNP programs, plus no GRE requirement and reasonable tuition rates.
MSN – Family NP (bridge for RNs with non-nursing bachelor's)
MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner (RN-to-MSN)
MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health NP (bridge for RNs with non-nursing bachelor's)
MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health NP (RN-to-MSN)
MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master's Certificate – Family Nurse Practitioner
Post-Master's Certificate – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
420 South Main St.
Nashua, New Hampshire 03060
Program Essentials
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
49
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
Bachelor's (Non-Nursing) – Non-Nursing Bachelor's Degree
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA, WY
Program Tuition
49
$832.98
$40,816.02
$832.98
$40,816.02
Program Essentials
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
43
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA, WY
Program Tuition
43
$847.23
$36,430.89
$847.23
$36,430.89
Program Essentials
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
49
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
ADN – Associate Degree in Nursing
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA, WY
Program Tuition
49
$832.98
$40,816.02
$832.98
$40,816.02
Program Essentials
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
PMHNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
46
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
Bachelor's (Non-Nursing) – Non-Nursing Bachelor's Degree
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA, WY
Program Tuition
46
$831.17
$38,233.82
$831.17
$38,233.82
Program Essentials
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
PMHNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
46
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
ADN – Associate Degree in Nursing
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA, WY
Program Tuition
46
$831.17
$38,233.82
$831.17
$38,233.82
Program Essentials
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
PMHNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
40
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA, WY
Program Tuition
40
$847.10
$33,884.00
$847.10
$33,884.00
Program Essentials
Post-Master Certificate – Post-Graduate (Post-MSN) Nursing Certificate
FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
43
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA
Program Tuition
43
$847.23
$36,430.89
$847.23
$36,430.89
Program Essentials
Post-Master Certificate – Post-Graduate (Post-MSN) Nursing Certificate
PMHNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Every 7 weeks
No
3
43
600
ACEN – Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Program Admissions
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
No GRE Required
3.0 or higher
AL, CA, CO, IA, LA, NY, OR, SD, TN, WA
Program Tuition
43
$838.58
$36,058.94
$838.58
$36,058.94
Tuition is calculated based on credits, at the published tuition rate. Rates may change, so please check here for the latest tuition information. For programs with variable tuition rates, we use the rates for part-time students. “Resident” and “non-resident” refer to the student’s school-recognized state residency status. Tuition number represents the cost of tuition for the entire program, not per semester or year. Estimated total tuition does not include additional fees.
Sara Navratil
WriterSara Navratil is a freelance writer and a Certified Canfield Success Principles Trainer. She’s the owner of Sara Liza Life, a company dedicated to helping people rewrite their lives. She enjoys researching and writing about healthcare-related topics, including information on online NP programs. When not working she likes to read, bake, and spend time with her family.