Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) courses begin?

Core courses for the FNP track began on May 17, 2011.

How many students will be selected for the FNP track?

Approximately 30 students are selected to each FNP cohort.

What certification examination will I take when I complete the program?

Students may sit for either certification exam upon graduation: AACN or AANP.

Will any of the courses be offered online?

Some courses will be “hybrid-online.”  This means there will be classes held on campus and classes held via a synchronous or asynchronous teaching method on the computer.  Some testing is online and some testing is on site.

Where will I complete my clinical coursework for the FNP?

Students may complete precepted clinicals in the area where they live; we may provide preceptors, but will encourage students to partner with a qualified health professional.

What funding is available to support me through my coursework?

Tuition for the FNP specialty can be found on the College of Nursing web site tuition page.  FNP student pay the MSN tuition rate.  At this time, minimal financial/scholarship support is offered by the College of Nursing. 

Will the coursework in the FNP track prepare me for further education, such as Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)?

Upon completion of the FNP track, graduates will meet the requirements associated with most DNP or PhD programs.  Graduate statistics and research are included in the curriculum plan for the FNP.  An epidemiology course may be necessary for some DNP programs who do not include the coursework in the DNP curriculum plan.  FNP student coursework include writing papers and utilizing APA as a reference for writing.

Why is an applicant required to have one year of work experience?

The advanced practice skills expected of an FNP require a nurse to have practiced independently for a period of time to gain confidence in assessment techniques and provision of care.  The College chose a minimum of one year experience to satisfy this expectation.

What work environment does the FNP prepare me for upon graduation and certification?

Certified FNP graduates will serve as health care providers and will be eligible to work in the primary care settings caring for the adult, pediatric, and/or family client.  The work environment may be in a private practice setting, clinic, emergency department or any setting where primary care is delivered.