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Become a Family Nurse Practitioner

Take Charge of Your Career

Preceptor Matching Service
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Prepare for Your FNP Career in Less Than Three Years

Next Start Date |  January 09

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Program Details

Complete in: 8 Semesters
Next Start Date:  January 09
Accreditation: CCNE
Preceptor Matching Support

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MSN FNP Program

Earn your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) while you work

As a family nurse practitioner, you’ll care for your community at a whole new level - helping individuals and their families with preventive and primary care at every stage of life. And with 100% online coursework and two immersion events, you’ll have the flexibility you need to earn your FNP degree while still working.

  • Join a strong network of family nurse practitioners - Chamberlain has the largest FNP population in the U.S.
  • Sit for the national board certification exam with confidence. The Overall Pass Rate for the FNP Exam for the 2019-2021 Calendar Years is 90.5% for Chamberlain’s FNP master’s degree and graduate certificate programs. 
  • Benefit from individualized support at every step of your MSN FNP journey, including preceptor matching services
  • Attend a CCNE accredited MSN FNP program at a nursing school that has more than 130 years of history educating nurses

Prepare to be a Confident Family Nurse Practitioner

A hands-on MSN FNP program designed by working nurses, for working nurses

Gain the skills you need to practice with confidence, in a career-focused program that translates theory into practice. After you learn the fundamentals of advanced practice nursing, you’ll hone your skills alongside an experienced care provider in your area during the practicum experience.

Courses focus on topics including population health, pharmacology, physical assessment and leadership.

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Curriculum

With 100% online coursework, you’ll have the flexibility you need and faculty who provide individualized support. Take courses that integrate theory with practical application, as you gain perspective from classmates from diverse professional and personal backgrounds in online discussions.

Practicum

You will gain hands-on experience assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of conditions, in diverse patient populations from birth through end of life, in your practicum experience. Working alongside care providers in your area, you’ll also develop skills in health promotion and illness prevention. View the practicum handbook.

Licensure Exam Preparation

After earning your FNP degree, you’ll sit for a national board certification exam to become licensed as a family nurse practitioner. Preparation for this exam is integrated into the curriculum, including an intensive, in-person review that covers strategies and tips for the exam.

In 2019, Chamberlain graduates had a combined ANCC and AANP pass rate of 90.5% - higher than the national average.

Population Health, Epidemiology, & Statistical Principles
This course introduces students to advanced practice competencies related to population health, epidemiology, and statistical principles.

Students explore, analyze, apply, and evaluate biostatistics for evidence-based practice and population-based care. Topics include the use and application of epidemiology and statistics for the delivery and monitoring of aggregate populations.

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Advanced Pathophysiology

The student explores, analyzes, applies, and evaluates the normal and abnormal human responses to selected pathophysiologic mechanisms and conditions.

Advanced Pharmacology Fundamentals
This course expands knowledge of pharmacological principles specific to the role of the APN.

Students explore, analyze, apply, and evaluate commonly used drugs for the treatment of chronic diseases and self-limiting acute conditions.

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Advanced Pharmacology for Care of the Family
Students build expanded knowledge of pharmacology across the lifespan, applying foundational principles from previous courses.

Specific issues will be addressed including the effects of culture, ethnicity, age, pregnancy, gender and funding on pharmacologic management. Legal and ethical aspects of prescribing will be addressed.

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Advanced Physical Assessment
This course expands the knowledge and skills of health assessment principles necessary to perform a thorough health assessment.

The student will develop assessment techniques related to history and physical examination of clients across the lifespan, including psychiatric-mental health and related supportive assessments. Students will explore, analyze, apply, and evaluate these principles in the classroom and laboratory.

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Leadership and Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse
This course introduces students to the role development of today’s advanced practice nurse (APN) leader in society and healthcare organization systems from the perspective of primary and acute care.

Students will explore, analyze, apply, and evaluate diverse aspects of ethical and legal decision-making standards specific to APN scope of practice. Topics include the standards and regulations governing the practice of APNs in diverse settings. The course emphasizes strategies and processes that foster implementation of visionary leadership, diffusion of innovation, and change within an organization and explores social, political, legal, legislative, regulatory, and organizational factors that influence healthcare. Principles of leadership are emphasized including ethics, negotiation, motivating others, acting as an advocate, problem-solving, managing diversity, interprofessional collaboration and multi-agency partnerships, quality improvement and safety, and organizational behavior.

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Differential Diagnosis and Primary Care
This FNP program course will provide students with content regarding formulating differential diagnoses of individuals within the primary care setting, along with an introduction to critical diagnostic skills to cultivate evidence-based behaviors.

An emphasis will be placed on processing client information in a logical, progressive manner and formulating differential diagnoses for individuals across the lifespan. The course will include 125 hours of supervised clinical practicum in primary care.

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Primary Care of the Maturing and Aged Family
This course continues to expand the knowledge of health-assessment principles specific to the role of the FNP, with a focus on the common health problems and healthcare needs of the middle-aged and older adult and family.

The student will explore, analyze, apply, and evaluate chronic health conditions frequently encountered in the primary care of older adults. Students will further develop their skills related to patient education, protocol development, follow-up, and referral through a clinical practicum experience in a precepted primary-care setting.

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Primary Care of the Childbearing and Childrearing Family Practicum
This online FNP program course continues to expand the knowledge of health assessment principles specific to the role of the FNP, with a focus on the healthcare needs of women and families throughout reproductive and childrearing years.

Students will further develop their skills related to health promotion, prevention of illness, diagnosis, and management of health problems commonly experienced. Care strategies will include patient education, protocol development, follow-up, and referral through a clinical practicum experience in a precepted primary care setting.

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Advanced Clinical Diagnosis and Practice across the Lifespan Practicum
This course continues to expand the theoretical and practical knowledge of diagnostic principles specific to the role of the FNP, for the healthcare needs of individuals of all ages.

Students will further develop their skills related to health promotion, prevention of illness, diagnosis, and management of complex acute and chronic conditions, including behavioral health. Care strategies will include patient education, protocol development, follow-up, and referral through a clinical practicum experience in a precepted advanced practice setting.

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FNP Capstone Practicum and Intensive

Students synthesize all elements of clinical management skills and knowledge and continue to analyze, apply, and evaluate diverse aspects of patient assessment and care.

This precepted clinical practicum is with an approved provider in an advanced practice setting. Focus topics include clinical management skills, case studies, chart reviews, and practice critique, with a capstone project evidencing increasing complex clinical management skills. An on-ground intensive review session occurs during this MSN FNP course.
Get Live Board Certification Exam Review
At the end of our Capstone course you will get an intense board review session to help prepare you to be successful on your Nurse Practitioner Board Certification Exam. During the 2.5-day intensive experience, you’ll attend a live comprehensive board review session in the Chicago area for culminating

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Let us help you find the right MSN track for you.
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Request information to connect with an admissions representative.

FNP Preceptor Matching Service

Dedicated support to identify FNP practicum sites

Once you enroll, you’ll start working with a dedicated team to help identify your practicum sites and preceptors. They will provide resources throughout the process, including coaching sessions and tips on how to approach a potential site.

If you run into challenges in securing a preceptor, the team will conduct a search within 100 miles of your home, and provide you with the preceptor’s contact information so you can secure their commitment.

Learn How to Qualify for Preceptor Matching

You may be eligible* if you meet the following requirements:

  1. You have participated in at least two coaching calls with the Practicum Coordination Team
  2. You can document at least five sites that have denied your practicum requests
  3. You submit your case to a Practicum Coordinator no later than three sessions before the start of the practicum course

*This service is for post-licensure nursing degree and certificate program students only, specifically RN to BSN Online Degree Completion Option, Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP), Graduate Certificate in Family Nurse Practitioner (GC-FNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

fnp with baby and mom
Restituto Velarde

Ask a Student

What was your experience like with the preceptor matching service?

“The matching service is really, really helpful. It decreases the stress and anxiety, and I had a really good experience with the preceptor I matched with.”

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Restituto V.

‘20 Graduate, MSN FNP

Questions about the MSN FNP Immersion Experience?

The Immersion Event takes place during the family nurse practitioner program course NR-509: Advanced Physical Assessment. Request information to learn more about the immersion event. 

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Perfect Hands-On Clinical Skills at Immersion Event

Prepare for your FNP program practicum and connect with faculty and classmates

Our Immersion Event allows you to practice your clinical assessment skills and gain real-time feedback from instructors before you’re treating human patients in your practicum experience. During the event, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Observe, practice and be evaluated on clinical assessment skills
  • Grow relationships with your professors and fellow students
  • Feel confident in your clinical competence as you enter the practicum experience

On Saturday, you will learn new skills - everything from how to assess for prostate abnormalities, what to look for in an orthopedic assessment or how to evaluate a skin rash. You’ll also practice head-to-toe assessments and gain feedback before your evaluation by MSN FNP program faculty on Sunday.

The Immersion Weekend, which takes place during the family nurse practitioner program course NR-509: Advanced Physical Assessment, is held outside of Chicago in St. Charles, Illinois. 

Gaelle M

Ask a Student

How would you describe your immersion experience?

“I got to put faces to names of my online classmates and get more comfortable with advanced practice skills. Can’t wait to get started with clinical rotations next year!”

Gaelle M.  

‘18 Graduate, MSN FNP

MSN FNP Program Admission Requirements

How do I get started?

Fast-track your career as a family nurse practitioner

Expand your practice (or even start your own) by earning an MSN-FNP in less than 3 years.

Learn and earn with flexible scheduling

Log in anytime with our 100% online FNP,  meaning you never miss a day of work.

Get support finding a preceptor

You’re matched with a dedicated team to help you secure clinical sites and preceptors.

Make the most of your budget

See how our admission representatives can help you access special rates and maximize value.

With six start times per year, you can apply for the family nurse practitioner program today. Our next session starts  January 09 - request information here.

For your FNP program application, you should have:

  • A bachelor’s degree in nursing or higher, and a current, unrestricted RN license, issued in the U.S. or from a jurisdiction of the NCSBN
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with an undergraduate GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 will be considered for provisional acceptance into the MSN FNP program.

FNP students are required to provide a background and fingerprint check prior to starting.

MSN FNP Admission FAQ

Can I transfer credits into the online FNP program?

Up to six semester hours may be eligible for transfer into Chamberlain’s MSN FNP program. Transfer credits may only fulfill core course requirements and are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Learn more in our transfer guide.

How long is Chamberlain’s FNP program?

You can earn your MSN FNP degree in less than three years, or eight semesters, of full-time study, taking two courses per semester for three semesters each year. Some students choose to space out the program requirements and take longer to complete their studies. 

How do I find a FNP preceptor?

Once you complete the application process for FNP school, your admission representative will provide you with information on how to identify a potential practicum site and preceptor. You will also be matched with a dedicated team to support you in securing your practicum site and preceptor.

Partner Tuition Rates

Your employer, community college or association may have an educational partnership with Chamberlain. Explore if you’re eligible for exclusive savings for our online FNP program through one of hundreds of partnerships.

Alumni Rates

Additional savings for Chamberlain Grads! Now save 20% off your MSN-NP Degree.  Earning your MSN-NP is closer than you think, save 20% on tuition, for a total savings of over $5,900 – and, no application fees ever for alumni so you have nothing to lose, and everything to gain! 
 

Scholarships

Explore Chamberlain and external scholarships here, including our Become Extraordinary Grant, which provides up to 15% in tuition savings.

FNP Program Tuition

Explore your financial options for  FNP school

Attending an MSN FNP program is a significant investment in your future, and we’re here to help guide you in creating a financial plan that will help you achieve this very important goal. More than 90% of Chamberlain students receive some form of financial assistance.

View the total program cost, and a breakdown of the tuition and expenses.

Check out our Net Price Calculator for an estimate of federal and institutional aid, or contact admissions, who can help you find a plan that fits your budget.

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What is an FNP?

Are you an RN and love your job, but also feel ready to expand as a medical professional? There are many reasons to consider becoming FNP. But, what is a Family Nurse Practitioner? The family nurse practitioner’s scope of practice is quite diverse, allowing for career mobility, specialization in a specific patient demographic, and practice in a variety of clinical settings.

An Accredited FNP Program

View Chamberlain’s accreditation and state authorizations

Chamberlain has university accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and master’s degree program in nursing accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).† Chamberlain continuously earns new approvals from respected agencies across the nation.

Chamberlain University confers online degrees from its Main Campus in Addison, IL.

For a complete list, check out our authorizations or view our approvals in your state. 

 

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Distinguished Accreditations

Chamberlain University College of Nursing was named a Center of Excellence™ in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing for promoting the pedagogical expertise of faculty. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About FNP School

What is an FNP?

An FNP stands for family nurse practitioner. Family nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who focus on comprehensive healthcare for families across all ages, body systems and diseases. Read more.

What does a family nurse practitioner do?

Family nurse practitioners deliver a range of acute, chronic and preventive healthcare services. In addition to diagnosing and treating illness, FNPs perform routine checkups, health-risk assessments, administer immunizations and screening tests. They offer personalized counseling on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and education in the prevention of illness.

What is an MSN FNP?

An MSN FNP stands for Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner. This degree program prepares you for a career as an FNP.

How do you become a FNP?

Once you complete the coursework and clinical hours required to earn an FNP degree, you will sign up for board exams through the American Association of Nursing Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Upon passing this exam and meeting all of your state’s licensing requirements, you will be a family nurse practitioner.

Can you become an FNP online?

In Chamberlain’s online FNP program, 100% of coursework is completed online. This online coursework is complemented by two in-person weekends, as well as your on-site practicum experience.