Program Overview

Introduction to the Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) certificate program is designed for registered nurses who already hold a master's degree in nursing. This program provides the opportunity for nurses to gain additional specialization through a sequence of master-level courses that qualify candidates to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification examination (ANCC and/or AANP).

Program Overview

The FNP certificate program requires 18-27 credits and includes a sequence of master-level courses. Consideration will be given to the transfer of core courses (advanced health assessment, advanced pathophysiology, and advanced pharmacology) that have been taken elsewhere. The program requires 660 clinical hours at precepted clinical sites, including practice in pediatrics, women's health, and internal medicine/family practice.

Program Structure

• The program can be completed in 1-2 years, depending on whether coursework for the "3 P's" Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Pharmacology, and Advanced Physical/Health Assessment are transferred in from prior studies.
• All courses are offered fully online, one day per week on Tuesdays.
• No thesis or special project is required.

Admission Requirements

Entrance Requirements

• MSN from an accredited Nursing school
• Current active, non-restricted RN License
• All Program applicants are required to have an active, unrestricted RN license in the State of Connecticut and hold a bachelor's degree or master's degree in nursing prior to the time of application.

Application Deadlines

• October 1st for admission into the spring semester
• February 15th for admission into the fall semester
• Incomplete applications after October 15th (for Spring entry) or March 1st (for Fall entry) will not be considered.

Course of Study

Course Titles and Credits

• NUR521 Advanced Pathophysiology* (3 credits)
• NUR524 Advanced Pharmacology* (3 credits)
• NUR526 Advanced Health Assessment* (3 credits)
• NUR534 Role of the Family Nurse Practitioner I (6 credits)
• NUR535 Role of the Family Nurse Practitioner II (6 credits)
• NUR536 Role of the Family Nurse Practitioner III (6 credits) * These courses can be transferred from prior studies so long as they were taught at an NP level. Requests for transfer of credits will be reviewed by the program director upon acceptance to the program.

Program Requirements

• Candidates must comply with the School of Nursing requirements by providing and maintaining current health records, CPR certification, and active CT RN license.
• Students are encouraged to seek out their own placement for clinical practice, but the clinical coordination office provides robust support to students during this process.