Nurses with an MSN can choose to specialize as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Their responsibilities include conducting physical exams, making assessments and diagnoses, and managing medicines.
An online MSN-FNP program can help you advance your nursing career while working full-time. Consider a highly-ranked program like Wilkes University that offers national certification exam preparation and clinical placement support.
Choosing a Program
When you decide to pursue an advanced nursing degree, there are a few factors you need to take into consideration. The first is which degree program will best suit your career goals. Do you want to take on a management role in nursing, focusing on policy and ensuring quality healthcare systems? Or do you prefer working directly with patients, providing empathetic and compassionate care?
Choosing the right program for your needs can be the difference between completing the FNP certification and dropping out of school. When selecting a program, look for one that offers flexible class schedules and online courses to fit your busy lifestyle.
For example, MSN-FNP programs like William Paterson University provide a convenient online learning environment with onsite learning intensives. This helps students stay focused on their education and allows them to meet with an academic coach for personalized support throughout the program. Additionally, they can complete the program full-time or part-time to accommodate their busy lives.
Preparing for the Coursework
As a graduate nursing student, you must prepare for the demanding coursework. Your coursework will depend on your specialization, but many NP programs include core courses in advanced health assessment, nursing research and theory, and healthcare policy.
Then, depending on your NP specialty, you’ll take additional courses in areas like pain management, adult gerontology, psychiatric/mental health, primary care, and more. You’ll also complete clinical rotations in different healthcare settings to gain hands-on practical experience.
Those looking to become an FNP can choose from multiple online MSN to FNP bridge pathways. This program offers the flexibility to study remotely and provides all the academic tools and support you need to succeed in your educational journey. You’ll be ready to provide high-quality, patient-centered healthcare when you graduate. This is a great way to advance your career.
Finding a Placement
RNs interested in expanding their nursing roles can do so through an MSN FNP program. Nurses gain the skills and knowledge to provide family-focused care during this post-graduate certificate program.
During the MSN FNP program, students complete clinical practicums in healthcare settings relevant to their areas of expertise. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and nursing homes. The program also requires a capstone or thesis project that showcases the nursing skills learned throughout the degree.
The MSN FNP program at Herzing offers full and part-time tracks, allowing students to fit coursework into their busy schedules. The university also provides academic coaches for students who need extra study support. In addition, the school works with students to find clinical sites that align with their education and career goals. These include working with high-risk populations, addressing cultural diversity, and more. Some top programs have an entire clinical coordination team that finds placements for its students.
Taking the Exam
Many aspiring nurse practitioners choose to complete an RN-to-MSN bridge program, which combines two degrees in an accelerated timeframe. This type of degree prepares RNs to become nurse practitioners and can also help them take one of the national certification exams to gain licensure in their state.
Regardless of your pathway, you will likely take courses in nursing research and advanced clinical care. For example, the FNP curriculum covers pharmacology, pathophysiology, and physical assessments. You will also take classes focusing on specific family health issues, including adult gerontology, geriatrics, pediatrics, and women’s healthcare.
During your clinical rotations, you will be immersed in the day-to-day operations of an FNP practice. You will learn to collect a patient’s medical history, diagnose, and provide flu shots or antibiotic treatments. You may even be able to assist with surgery and other advanced procedures. These experiences will help you gain the skills and confidence to pursue your future career goals.
