nurse with a patient in an exam room

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

Take Charge of Your Career

Program Details

Completion: 
As few as 3 years

Next Start Date: 
July 07

Accreditation: 
CCNE

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"Practicum Commitment - Chamberlain University 1889"
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Prepare for Your FNP Career in Less Than Three Years

Designed by working nurses for working nurses, our MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program helps you develop comprehensive nursing competencies to provide primary care for patients of all ages by integrating theory with simulations and clinical practice. 

Join a Strong Network

Chamberlain has the largest FNP program in the U.S.

Virtual Simulations 

Prepare for your practicum and real-world challenges with immersive virtual patient care simulations. 

Accredited Program

Prepare confidently for national board certification with collaborative sessions, exclusive resources and expert-led reviews. 

Dedicated Practicum Support

Chamberlain’s Practicum Commitment® helps ensure you successfully secure any needed practicum sites/preceptor to complete your degree.

The Family Nurse Practitioner specialization prepares you for roles in areas including1:
  • Pediatric primary care 
  • Family practice 
  • Internal medicine 
  • Women’s health 
  • College health
  • Health departments
  • Retail clinics

1Some careers may require several years of experience in addition to educational credentials. 

Family Nurse Practitioner Overview 

Complete your degree and prepare for real-world family care in less than three years. 

Overview: Develop skills to provide comprehensive care for patients from birth to end of life in a variety of healthcare settings.  

What You’ll Learn: Starting with core MSN courses, our curriculum advances through theory, simulation and clinical experiences.

What You’ll Do: Prepare confidently for national board certification in this career-focused specialization that seamlessly translates theory into practice.

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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. 

Certification Exam Preparation

After earning your FNP degree, you’ll sit for a national board certification exam to become certified 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. 

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 your 625*-hour practicum across five courses. 

If you need help finding an appropriate preceptor, our dedicated Experiential Learning team can provide personalized coaching to assist you. 

*As of March 1, 2025, all Nurse Practitioner students that are a resident of Kansas must take at least 750 hours of practicum in each clinical specialization. 

Family Nurse Practitioner Courses 

The Family Nurse Practitioner specialization consists of six MSN-NP core courses and nine FNP specialization courses. 

See full curriculum. 

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Specialization Courses

NR-507: Advanced Pathophysiology (3 credits)

In this course, the student encounters advanced content in pathophysiology and human physiologic responses across the lifespan. The student explores, analyzes, applies and evaluates the normal and abnormal human responses to selected pathophysiologic mechanisms and conditions. 

NR-566: Advanced Pharmacology for Care of the Family (3 credits)

In this course, the student builds expanded knowledge of pharmacology across the lifespan, applying foundational principles from previous courses. Specific issues across the lifespan 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. 

NR-511: Differential Diagnosis and Primary Care Practicum (C=125) (3 credits)

This course will provide students with the fundamental knowledge needed to formulate a differential diagnosis 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. 

NR-565: Advanced Pharmacology Fundamentals (3 credits)

In this course, the student focuses on mastering pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacogenomics, fundamental pharmacology and therapeutics, covering broad categories of agents used to treat common conditions encountered by the advanced practice nurse. Emphasis is placed on the decision-making process utilized to prescribe and monitor pharmacotherapeutics for the treatment of acute and chronic diseases appropriate to the patient’s situation safely and effectively. 

NR-509: Advanced Physical Assessment (L=25) 1 (3 credits)

This course expands the knowledge of health assessment principles specific to the role of the APN. The student will develop assessment techniques related to history and physical examination of clients across the lifespan, including psychiatric-mental health and related supportive assessment. Student will explore, analyze, apply and evaluate these principles in the classroom setting. This course includes approximately 25 hours of lab practicing physical assessment skills using both a virtual and on-ground learning environment. A remote hands-on physical examination check off will also occur in the course. The student will submit a video recording to complete this assignment. Additionally, an immersion skills lab will occur in this course. The student is responsible for completing and certifying at least 25 hours practicing physical assessment skills in the course. The remote physical examination check-off and the immersion lab are graded as pass/fail and are not factored into the course GPA. Students must pass each of these in order to pass the course and progress in the program. If either are failed the course grade will revert to a failing grade (F). 

NR-601: Primary Care of the Maturing and Aged Family Practicum (C=125) (3 credits)

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. 

NR-602: Primary Care of the Childbearing and Childrearing Family Practicum (C=125) (3 credits)

This 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. 

NR-667: FNP Capstone Practicum and Intensive (C=125) 2 (3 credits)

The student will synthesize all elements of clinical management skills and knowledge and continue to analyze, apply and evaluate diverse aspects of patient assessment and healthcare intervention. This precepted clinical practicum will be 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 product evidencing increasing complex clinical management skills. At the end of this course, the student will be prepared for entry into clinical practice providing primary healthcare across the life span after first passing the national certification for the family nurse practitioner. An on ground intensive review session occurs during this course. 

NR-603: Advanced Clinical Diagnosis and Practice Across the Lifespan Practicum (C=125) (3 credits)

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. 

L=Lab hours 
C=Clinical hours (direct patient care)

1As part of this course, students will attend an on-ground immersion weekend. The purpose of the immersion is to provide students with an opportunity to interact with professors and fellow students as well as to observe, participate and be evaluated on clinical assessment skills. The immersion weekend allows faculty to assess each student’s clinical competency before entering clinical rotations.

2As part of this course, students will attend an on-ground intensive review weekend that focuses on final student preparation for advanced practice. 

doctor with a patient in an exam room

Did You Know?
The three-year pass rate (factoring in all known attempts) for the FNP exam for the 2021–2023 calendar years is 84.54% for Chamberlain’s FNP master’s degree and graduate certificate programs. 

"Practicum Commitment - Chamberlain University 1889"

Chamberlain Practicum Commitment® 

Dedicated support when you need it most. 

The Practicum Commitment® is designed to ensure that you receive the essential practicum experiences needed on your path to completing your FNP degree. To help prepare you for Family Nurse Practitioner practicum courses, you will be paired with our Experiential Learning team, who will provide resources throughout the process, including coaching sessions and tips on how to approach a potential site. We are committed to helping you successfully secure any needed practicum sites/preceptor to complete your degree.

Practicum Commitment® supports you with:

  • Comprehensive practicum readiness tools  
  • A streamlined contracting procedure for sites, preceptors and Chamberlain University
  • A dedicated team of academic support advisors available for student assistance 

See full Practicum Commitment®.

Learn more about our Practicum Commitment®. 

Practicum Commitment® Support Qualifications

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

  1. Request assistance at least three sessions (approximately six months) prior to starting each practicum course for which you are requesting support 
  2. You can document at least three sites that have denied your practicum requests
  3. Complete any professional preparation tasks (if applicable) as assigned by an Experiential Learning Specialist (ELS) or other member of the Clinical Operations team. 
     

*This service is for students in post-licensure nursing programs, graduate certificate programs and College of Health Professions. The Practicum Commitment excludes pre-licensure programs, BSN online, and Master of Physician Assistant.. If the preceptor, mentor and/or field instructor you are submitting for Chamberlain University’s review and approval was found using a student-arranged third-party preceptor matching service, please be advised that Chamberlain University will not reimburse any fees you may have incurred.

Let us help you find the right MSN specialization for you

Still have questions? 
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Request information to connect with an Enrollment Representative.

“While I was at Chamberlain, the knowledge that I gained in my master’s program, I was able to use to help my hospital achieve a certification in COPD and pneumonia from The Joint Commission.”
Bonny Dieter, MSN ’13, RN-BSN ’12
Chamberlain’s Immersion Skills Event

Hands-On. Confidence-Boosting.

Practice in person. Learn from experts. Build clinical skills for your NP journey at Chamberlain’s immersion events.

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Perfect Hands-On Clinical Skills at FNP 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. 

Admission Requirements

FNP online program students are required to provide a background and fingerprint check prior to starting. Our Enrollment team can get you started on a transcript evaluation so you’ll know exactly what will transfer in before making your enrollment decision. 

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FNP Online Program Admission Requirements 

How do I get started? 

For your FNP program application, you should have:

  • A degree in nursing at the bachelor’s level or higher from an accredited institution
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • A current active and unrestricted RN license in the U.S. or in a jurisdiction that is an associate member of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Your RN license must be valid for the state in which you plan to complete your practicum.

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.

General guidelines for transfer credits include:

  • A maximum of six semester hours may be accepted toward your MSN degree.
  • For the nurse practitioner specializations, transfer credits will only be accepted for the core courses.
  • Core coursework must have been completed within the past seven years for transfer.
  • A grade of B or higher is required for transfer credits.

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 the FNP program, your Enrollment 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. 

What if I don’t meet the minimum GPA requirement?

If your cumulative GPA falls below our requirements — in the range of 2.5 to 2.99 — you may still be considered for provisional acceptance into the online MSN Family Nurse Practitioner program. Upon being provisionally accepted to the FNP program, you will need to complete an NP placement assessment to determine course placement. There is no charge for the NP assessment.

  • Students earning a 70% or greater on the NP assessment will be placed in NR-581NP (new students) or their first NP course.
  • Students earning less than 70% on the NP assessment will be required to successfully complete NR-545: Pharmacology, Physical Assessment, and Pathophysiology at the current tuition rate.

Speak with our Enrollment team for more information.  

Want to know more? We’re here to help. 

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Financial Aid Options

View our financial aid page for great options to help you cover the cost of tuition.  

View Financial Aid Options

Tuition & Expenses 

Attending a FNP online 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.

Trying to save money? Here are some great options to help you cover the cost of tuition:

  • Grants and Scholarships 
    View graduate and external scholarship opportunities.
  • Special Tuition Rates 
    Chamberlain University offers special tuition rates to 11,000+ partner locations across the U.S.
  • Tuition Savings for Chamberlain Grads 
    Earning your MSN is closer than you think. Chamberlain alumni are eligible to save 20% on tuition. 

View tuition and expenses information for the MSN degree program. 

Many Ways to Save 

Explore a wide range of financial aid available to Chamberlain students. 

Become Extraordinary Grant 

The Become Extraordinary Grant offers 15% tuition savings for MSN students who qualify.  

Become Extraordinary Grant

DAISY Honoree Scholarship  

Every DAISY Award recipient is eligible to receive tuition savings of 5%. 

DAISY Honoree Scholarship

Military Rates 

Special rates are reserved for members of our nation’s military community and their spouses. 

Resources for Military

How to Apply 

If you are interested in attending our MSN program, we are here to help. We are committed to providing you a seamless and enjoyable experience, and we understand your busy lifestyle. 

Apply Now
Speak with our Enrollment Reps. 

Our Enrollment team is here to support you and will help determine which specialization fits your goals, walk you through the application process and answer your questions.  
Start or complete your application.  

Applications can be submitted online. Your Enrollment representative will help you through the process. To apply over the phone or get help with your online application, call 630‐317‐9310. 
Complete your admission steps. 

Your Enrollment Representative will guide you through completing your registration documents and steps.  
Register for courses! 

Following acceptance and completion of your registration documents, you will register for courses and start once the session begins. 

An Accredited FNP Program

View Chamberlain’s accreditation and state authorizations

Chamberlain University accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.com  an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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

Practicum option availability varies by state/location. Chamberlain reserves the right to update information as it becomes available. For a complete list, and to learn more, check out our authorizations or view our approvals in your state. 

 

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Family Nurse Practitioner FAQ

What is an FNP?

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 about family nurse practitioners. 

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 and health-risk assessments and administer immunizations and screening tests. They offer personalized counseling on maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well as education on the prevention of illness. Read more about the FNP program. 

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. 

What can you do with an MSN FNP?

Graduates of the Chamberlain University Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program’s Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization can sit for the FNP national certification exam from either the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP). After successfully passing the exam, they will then be eligible for state licensure.  

FNPs work in a leadership position in a healthcare team, though in some states they practice collaboratively with a medical doctor. They normally perform many tasks RNs cannot, including diagnosing disease, ordering tests and prescribing medications. 

How do you become an 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 Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Upon passing the 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.  

Can an FNP become a PMHNP?

Yes. A family nurse practitioner can become a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner through a graduate certificate program like the one offered at Chamberlain University. Chamberlain’s Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program provides a pathway to career change or enhancement for nurses who already hold a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. 

Looking for something else?

Explore our related programs.

Online PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online AGNP Program

Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN)

BSN Degree Program