LaTorya Armour achieved a major accomplishment in 2025, becoming a family nurse practitioner after nearly 20 years in healthcare. This professional milestone marked the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth, including earning a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) at South University’s online programs in 2024.
“Becoming a nurse practitioner gives me the ability to diagnose, treat, and manage care more independently while also allowing me to take on leadership roles within healthcare teams,” explains LaTorya.
Working Her Way Up in the Nursing Field
LaTorya began her career in 2006 as a Certified Nursing Assistant, developing a strong foundation in patient care and clinical skills. In 2012, she decided to further her education and career by becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. As she took on greater responsibilities, her passion for the field intensified. In 2019, she earned an associate degree in nursing and became a registered nurse. Fueled by a desire to keep learning and advancing, LaTorya earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2021. In 2024, she completed the MSN FNP at South University, adding another degree to her credentials.
“Each step of my journey has strengthened my skills and broadened my perspective on providing high-quality, compassionate care,” LaTorya says. “Looking ahead, my career goal is to continue expanding my knowledge and expertise. One of my key aspirations is to obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).”
LaTorya’s other professional accomplishments include a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, recognizing her exceptional clinical skills and compassionate patient care.
Balancing School and Work
LaTorya continued working in the field while attending school. With her busy life, it was essential that her MSN program had online classes. “I selected South University to pursue my MSN because of its strong reputation for providing a comprehensive and flexible curriculum that aligned with both my career goals and work schedule,” she shares.
Like all of our students, LaTorya leveraged the community around her to help her achieve her goals, from her clinical preceptors to her instructors and advisors. “The faculty and staff played a significant role in my success. Their support and guidance were valuable throughout my MSN journey,” she says. “The professors were not only knowledgeable but also deeply invested in my growth as a nurse, providing constructive feedback and fostering an environment of open communication.”
Providing Care as a Family Nurse Practitioner
As a Family Nurse Practitioner in a skilled nursing facility, LaTorya provides comprehensive medical care to residents with acute and chronic health conditions. She conducts physical assessments, diagnoses illness, develops and manages treatment plans, and prescribes medications. To deliver holistic care for her patients, she collaborates closely with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers.
“My education has had a significant impact on both my professional and personal life,” LaTorya says. “Earning my MSN from South University has equipped me with advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills, enabling me to take on more challenging roles and provide high-quality care to patients.”
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Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program.) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required in-person clinical, practicum, or externship. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared in 2025.
