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 Post-Masters FNP Program FAQs - GeneralIn addition to the following general questions about WesternU's Post-Masters Family Nurse Practitioner program, questions that are frequently asked about prerequisites, the application and interview process, and the curriculum can be found by selecting the menu options on the left.
Why Western University?
Western University's College of Graduate Nursing was the first in the country to offer an MSN and FNP program online. Since the college started as a web-based program, all aspects of the program are fully synchronized to support a web-based instructional style. Our faculty members are experienced leaders in the field of advanced practice nursing, nursing education and nursing research. Our program offers the same rigorous curriculum as any traditional nursing degree program. The College of Graduate Nursing received full professional accreditation from the Committee Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) in October 2006. Western University offers a full range of degree programs in the medical and allied health sciences and is fully accredited.
What are the benefits of learning in a web-based program?
There are many advantages to a web-based program. First, it allows the master's-prepared nurse to complete an advanced degree while living and working in his/her own community. This offers the student a great degree of flexibility in scheduling written coursework around job, personal, and family commitments. Second, the one-on-one nature of web-based class discussion groups allows the nursing faculty to get to know students better than in a more traditional classroom group format. Finally, Western University's program is designed with the adult learner in mind. Students find the course content to be more relevant to their needs, since they are actively involved in shaping their educational experience.
Am I ready for distance education?
Take a self-assessment testto help determine if distance education is right for you!
What if I haven't been in school for a long time?
Many of our students have not been in school for a long time. We find that adults do very well with our learning model as it is designed for the working professional who has typically been out of school for a while.
If I live out of state can I attend?
Yes. The program is ideal for people living in distant or remote areas. Air travel is convenient to the Ontario International Airport, which is 15 minutes from campus. Many area hotels offer shuttle service to the campus. After orientation, many students make acquaintances and share hotel expenses. Distant students enrolled in clinical programs are required to periodically extend their seminar weekends to work with clinical faculty.
Do you give preference to California residents?
No. We are a private institution and do not have to meet certain resident enrollment standards.
Is tuition the same for in-state and out-of-state residents?
Yes. Tuition costs are the same for all students within the same program.
What financial aid or scholarships are available?
Most students are eligible for student loans. There are also some other financing options for your graduate nursing degree. For details, please click here to visit our financial aid site.
Can I work and attend graduate school at the same time?
Yes. You are encouraged to continue working in your RN role. However, this is a rigorous program and students are encouraged to work part time if possible. Students who work full time have been successful in our program, but they need to have a strong support system (at work and at home) and extremely good organizational skills.
After I graduate do I have to take a standardized exam before beginning to practice?
No, not for practice in most states. However, we strongly recommend taking the National Certification Exam due to limited reimbursements of NPs who are not Nationally Certified.
What is the pass rate on the National Certification Exam?
All our graduates who have taken the exam have passed!
How can I learn more about your graduate nursing programs?
There are a number of ways to learn more about us. You've taken the first step by coming to our website! For further information or to request an application packet, please contact admissions at (909) 469-5335 or click here to contact us by e-mail. For specific program or clinical questions, please contact the MSN/FNP Director Dr. Diana Lithgow by email at dlithgow@westernu.edu.
Do you have any information sessions on campus?
We do not offer information sessions for the Post-Master's FNP program. For your convenience, information about the Post-Master's FNP program has been captured in this Powerpoint presentation which will provide information including career trends, program options and design, curriculum and the admissions process. If you have any further questions, please contact Diana Lithgow, PhD, FNP-C, MSN by email at dlithgow@westernu.edu. | |
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