The Northwest Nazarene University Department of Nursing announced a new Master of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN FNP) program is accepting candidates for a first cohort beginning in August. 

The new program will be offered in a low-residency format — online with four one-week campus residencies. This will allow nurses to experience hands-on training and to develop relationships with faculty and classmates. The program will also allow nurses to balance personal and family commitments while continuing to serve in their home communities. 

The university endeavors to provide high-quality, accessible degrees that help meet the demands for primary care providers in rural communities. Family nurse practitioners can practice independently and serve patients across their life spans, making this program particularly ideal for those interested in serving in small communities. 

“I am thrilled to be a part of the next chapter in NNU’s tradition of providing quality nurses in each nurse’s home community," said Bethany Mello, program director. "The MSN FNP program will uphold the mission of NNU with its goal to transform the undergraduate nurse into the advanced practice nurse who will become the next creative and redemptive agent in our world by providing primary care in a health care system in desperate need of primary care providers.”

The program is currently in the process of seeking provisional approval from the Idaho Board of Nursing — a process that cannot be completed for full approval until the first class graduates. The program is also seeking accreditation through the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which cannot be initiated until 90 days prior to the first cohort admitted to the program. NNU’s other MSNs, in leadership and education; the registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, and the undergraduate Bachelor of Science in nursing are all fully accredited by the commission and fully approved by the Idaho Board of Nursing.  

Tracks are available for both bachelor’s and associate degree holding RNs. Applications will be considered for acceptance now through August 1 for the initial fall 2016 start. Visit nnu.edu/fnp or call 208-467-8107 to apply. 

--Northwest Nazarene University