MSN Dual Pediatric/Family Nurse Practitioner

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is built upon the baccalaureate degree with an upper-division focus in nursing. The program emphasizes research, theory, and practice. The dual- track Pediatric and Family Nurse Practitioner program prepares nurses for an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) role in primary healthcare. As an APRN, nurse practitioners assess patients, order and interpret diagnostic tests, formulate diagnoses, and initiate and manage treatment plans including prescribing medications. APRNs provide skilled clinical services and bring a comprehensive perspective to healthcare. This includes health promotion, disease prevention, and health education while guiding patients to make informed health and lifestyle choices.  The FNP track prepares graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage acute and chronic health care needs of individuals at all ages. The PNP track provides nurses with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to provide primary pediatric care to infants, children, and adolescents as well as individuals and families across the lifespan. Students are prepared to assume leadership in the health supervision of children and their families to promote their growth, development, and well-being as well as providing quality health promotion, disease prevention, maintenance, restoration, and rehabilitation services to both culturally and medically under-served individuals and families across the lifespan. Students gain skills in advanced health assessment, clinical decision-making, and case management necessary to practice in public and private clinics, community health centers, retail health care, schools and student health centers.  Students also gain expertise in the management of common pediatric and adult health problems including both acute and chronic conditions.

Graduates are eligible to sit for certification as a:

• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care (CPNP) through the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB).

• Family Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified (FNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), or

• Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified (FNP-C) through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB)