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Online Family Nurse Practitioner MSN Program

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Degree Overview

Earn Your MSN Online and Pursue Becoming an FNP

MSN Family Nurse Practioner graduation
2021 South University Online MSN-FNP Graduation

At South University’s online programs our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner degree program is built to prepare you to deliver primary care for individuals and families. Family nurse practitioners are a vital part of communities and healthcare systems, known for building relationships and providing care across the lifespan.

By enrolling in the online* MSN with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner degree program, you can learn the skills needed to further your nursing career. The program focuses on preparing students for caring for patients, regardless of their age by promoting positive health behaviors and preventative care. In addition, the courses can help with clinical judgement, critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities.

South University’s MSN with a Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner program meets the Core Competencies for Family Nurse Practitioners outlined by the National Organization for Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) and includes key attributes from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Master’s Essentials. After successful completion of the program, the graduate is eligible to sit for the examinations** through national certifying bodies (American Nurses Credentialing Center [ANCC]; American Association of Nurse Practitioners [AANP]).

Graduates will be required to sit for the national certification exam and obtain professional licensure in the state where the graduate plans to see employment. Please see the Professional Licensure Disclosure in the South University Academic Catalog for the determinations if our program meets the professional licensure requirements in your state of residence.

South University does not guarantee students will pass the certification exam. South University does not guarantee employment or salary.

*Fully online programs can have a ground clinical or practicum experience.

**South University does not guarantee third-party certification/licensure. Outside agencies control the requirements for taking and passing certification/licensing exams and are subject to change without notice to South University.

Clinical Hours

750 hrs

Required clinical hours to complete this degree program.

Per credit hour

$660

for the MSN degree program.

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). 

Admission Requirements

Procedure for Admission to Master of Science in Nursing Programs

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The criteria to determine admission to the Master of Science in Nursing degree program include:

  • Completion of the application for admission
  • A bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
  • A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better on a 4.0 scale.
  • Submission of official transcripts from every college or university attended within 5 weeks of the class start date (refer to Conditional Acceptance).
  • A valid and unencumbered license as a Registered Nurse in all US states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments and clinical rotations, for entry and maintenance of admission to the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet their state/territory requirement for nursing licensure).

For additional admissions information please see the admissions section here.

Course Requirements

Master of Science in Nursing (Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner): 62 Credits
Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner: 42 Credits
Note(s):

*If the student receives a failing grade in NSG6021, the student must enroll in and successfully pass the following four (4) credit course: NSG6023 Nurse Practitioner Enhancement.

*If the student is unsuccessful in NSG6998 please refer to Program Progression Policy for Family Nurse Practitioner and Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Students

Students are required to complete a minimum of 750 hours in the five supervised clinical practicum courses that are designed to provide the opportunity for skill development and practice in the Family Nurse Practitioner role.

Outcomes

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The Master of Science in Nursing degree program (MSN) is designed to develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of registered nurses. It is also designed for those nurses who want to pursue advanced positions in today's challenging healthcare environment. The program, based on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Master's Essentials, blends nursing theory with advanced practice concepts that prepare students to work within a healthcare organization or educational setting.

All applicants to the MSN program must hold a valid and unencumbered license as a registered nurse in all US states or territory in which the student is licensed, including the state in which the student completes all assignments for the program. (Note that military, federal, and foreign educated nurses must meet this state requirement for nursing licensure). An unencumbered license(s) must be maintained throughout the program. Additionally, all applicants must successfully complete a criminal background check and a drug screening. Clinical affiliation agencies may require additional personal testing.

Graduates will be required to sit for the national certification exam and obtain professional licensure in the state where the graduate plans to seek employment. Please see the Professional Licensure Disclosure in the South University Academic Catalog for the determinations if our program meets the professional licensure requirements in your state of residence.

The program consists of five core courses and courses in an area of specialization in education, administration, informatics, and various nurse practitioner programs. Program includes practica and experiences in areas of specialization.

Courses may be waived if the individual's master's transcript indicates that s/he has successfully completed the required course or its equivalent. Waivers and exceptions will be determined on the written request of individual students through a transcript analysis as determined by the Program Director, Chair, or College Dean.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will:

  1. Synthesize current scientific research, theories, and concepts from nursing and other disciplines for application in advanced nursing roles.
  2. Collaborates directly with other healthcare professionals using various resources and technologies in various aspects of the advanced nursing leadership role.
  3. Model a professional leadership role to formulate comprehensive plans of action for ongoing contributions to healthcare systems improvement.
  4. Formulate a plan for ongoing contributions to improvement of healthcare delivery and development of health policy in a cost-effective manner.
  5. Demonstrate ethical and legal standards of practice in the decision-making process to assist with delivery of quality care associated with a specialty area of advanced nursing practice.

Master of Science in Nursing (Specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner)

Offered at Online Programs and Tampa.

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) degree program is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for the current and evolving primary healthcare system. The South University College of Nursing program focuses on advanced health sciences knowledge and skills to prepare advanced clinicians to deliver leading edge, community-based primary healthcare to individuals and families across the lifespan. The program places a strong emphasis on health promotion as well as the development of positive health behaviors for clients at different developmental and age stages. FNP students share select course content with fellow students in the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) programs where appropriate. This structure exposes students to a variety of expert specialty faculty and supports development of inter-specialty relationships in client management.

The South University program is designed to prepare graduates to provide the full range of primary care services to individuals during the ante- partum period, infancy, childhood and adolescence through the adult lifespan. Competencies include provision of preventive care to children and adults as well as the diagnosis and management of common acute and chronic health problems. In addition to direct patient care, students also participate in clinical translational efforts, education, and policy activities relevant to advanced practice nursing and diverse population healthcare issues. National certification is available upon program completion through the national certifying bodies (ANCC; AANPCP).

Graduates will be required to sit for the national certification exam and obtain professional licensure in the state where the graduate plans to seek employment. Please see the Professional Licensure Disclosure in the South University Academic Catalog for the determinations if our program meets the professional licensure requirements in your state of residence.

The South University College of Nursing Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner degree program meets the Core Competencies for Family Nurse Practitioners outlined by the National Organization for Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). Upon graduation and entry into practice, family nurse practitioners are proficient in the following areas:

  1. Providing health promotion, health protection, disease prevention, and treatment.
  2. Assessing health status.
  3. Diagnosing health status.
  4. Creating a plan of care and implementation of treatment.
  5. Ensuring a professional, collegial, and collaborative approach to care.
  6. Serving as a teacher and coach to patients.
  7. Committing to advancing the profession.
  8. Assisting patients in managing and negotiating the healthcare delivery system.
  9. Monitoring and ensuring high quality healthcare practice.
  10. Demonstrating cultural competence

The plan of study and required courses for the Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner degree program includes the Master's Core requirements (20 credits) with the addition of the following clinical course requirements (42 credits):

Specialization Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will:

  1. Formulate and document for various differential and presumptive diagnoses in patients across the lifespan with meticulous detail, so coders and billers can apply the correct codes for appropriate reimbursement.
  2. Develop plans of care based on theories of development, assessment findings, and best-practices to provide holistic, patient-centered care across the lifespan.
  3. Collaborate with interprofessional associates to provide culturally competent, and sensitive patient-centered care for individuals and families across the lifespan.

Online Classroom

Haven’t experienced online learning before or wondering what it’s like to earn your degree online at South University? While the mode of learning is different from the traditional classroom experience with added convenience and flexibility, we hold the same high standards of academic excellence in the online classroom. 

South University’s online programs combine a curriculum designed for student outcomes and a classroom designed for flexibility and engagement. Our online classroom learning platform, Brightspace, provides you with a host of features to enhance your learning experience, including:

  • Advanced media content
  • Personalized navigation
  • Simplified online learning atmosphere
  • Access to digital books
  • Emailing and instant messaging options

We provide more than just an online classroom, bringing a range of campus experiences and services online. In addition, the online classroom is accessible on the go via mobile devices and with tools like the Pulse App. Pulse helps you stay connected and on track with your course by providing a number of features such as course calendars, readings and assignments, feedback and grades, and announcements.

Read more about online requirements here. 

Comments and Concerns

All Fields Are Required

The purpose of this form is to provide a process for the general public to submit comments, concerns, or complaints regarding their interaction with the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, Post Graduate Certificate, or Doctor of Nursing Practice program. A record of all complaints will be maintained and secured by campus administration. If you are a South University student, please submit your comments, concerns, or complaints according to the process outlined in the University Catalog or programmatic handbook. Please contact your Program Director or Academic Counselor if you need additional guidance.

To file an anonymous complaint, please submit the comment, concern, or complaint in a written letter or via email directly to the campus.

Authorization for South University to contact you to collect additional factual information regarding your comment, concern, or complaint

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*Clinical, practicum, and externship requirements exist in certain programs and require field experiences. Learning formats may not be flexible.

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success stories

Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

We're committed to helping our graduates make impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our nursing alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our graduates have to say.

Michela Mazard
Michela Lambert Mazard Grad Alumni
Class of ‘11 and ‘16
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“I wanted an education that would prepare me to build relationships and treat patients and families throughout their lifespan with interaction among their physical, emotional, and mental systems. I chose South University because I was confident that I would receive a well-rounded education that ensures I am armed with the skill set I need to provide the best care possible. Read more

Emily Han 2015
Emily Han Grad Alumni
Class of '15
Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“By allowing me to continue working during school and applying new knowledge, as well as creating my own preceptor experiences in an area of interest, I was able to carve my way to a successful business and many great, relevant connections. I love that my degree and knowledge have helped me see the limitless opportunity we have as nurses. The freedom and excitement of my new career is something that I never could have imagined, but I look forward to innovating and paving the way for others to do the same.”

Scott Wood 2017
Scott Wood Grad Alumni
Class of '17
Post Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner-South University, Online Programs

“The program was very demanding and required me to be proficient in the area of study before graduating, he says. "Also, the program mixed classroom learning with clinical experiences that reinforced the materials presented in a ‘real-world’ setting."”

Caroline Abanukam 2015
Caroline Abanukam Grad Alumni
Class of '15
Master of Science in Nursing-South University, Online Programs

“As an older student, mother, grandmother and wife, it was important to find the institutional culture of the university. I quickly learned the teachers take time to work with students individually. Academic support is readily available with vast and up-to-date online resources.”

Aleksandra Avakova
Aleksandra Avakova Grad Alumni
Class of ’23
South University’s Online Program: Master of Science in Nursing with specialization in Nurse Educator

“I feel incredibly grateful that the education I received at South University opened so many opportunities for me. I can make a real impact on the future of nursing and be able to train and guide a new generation of nurses along this beautiful journey!”