 Post-Masters FNP Program FAQs - Prerequisites
Do I need to have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree to apply?
You must have an earned MSN to apply for the Post-Masters's FNP program. A master's in a nurse-related field is not acceptable.
Do I need to be a Registered Nurse (RN) to apply?
Yes. You will be asked to submit proof of your licensure at the time of application. You must also have a minimum of one year full time work experience as a registered nurse.
Can I transfer some of my previous graduate coursework to waive out of some of the courses in the program?
If the courses are determined to be of equivalent content and are focused on the NP role and not on the RN role, then previous graduate courses of similar content can be used to challenge any of Western University's College of Graduate Nursing courses. There is a challenge policy that is outlined in the student academic policy handbook that is to be followed for this process.
Do you require any standardized tests prior to application?
No. We do not require any standardized tests (i.e GRE or MCAT) prior to application.
Can I talk to a counselor about my prerequisite coursework?
Yes. Contact the admissions office by phone at (909) 469-5335 or by e-mail to ask a question.
What should I do if my GPA is not at least 3.0?
If you do not meet the required minimum GPA of 3.0 (GPA is calculated on the last 60 units completed, and an overall GPA of graduate and undergraduate courses), then include in your personal statement an explanation for your low GPA. We will review your personal statement and possibly interview you by phone or in person. Occasionally, we do admit students with a GPA below 3.0 on a probationary status for the first semester. Also, we may recommend retaking courses with low grades to improve your GPA.
What computer skills will I need?
Students need word processing skills for typing papers, discussions and written clinical cases. Students must also be familiar with using e-mail. Some student presentations will be done using Microsoft Power Point. While new students do not need this skill on admission, applicants will benefit from familiarizing themselves with this computer program.
Since the computer skills required to navigate and complete our curriculum are not difficult, beginners do very well with some focused skill training. We recommend that applicants find a personal computer mentor, or complete the basic software tutorials prior to beginning the program. All students will need an Internet Service Provider (ISP) prior to registration and will be given a Western University e-mail account during registration. |
© 2008 Western University of Health Sciences. All Rights Reserved | 309 E. Second St. Pomona, CA 91766-1854 | (909) 623-6116