BSN with Masters in a different field...do I need an MSN to become an FNP?

Published

I am a late bloomer who returned to nursing school as a second career. I have a Masters in Public and International Affairs and want to eventually become a Family Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Midwife. I was wondering if there are any programs that allow one to pursue a post-master's certificate even if the first masters is not in nursing?

Thanks for your help.

Maria

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I can't swear to this, but I doubt it very much. The point of post-Master's certificates is that you're not required to repeat the core content of an MSN program. With a Master's in another field, you haven't previously completed the MSN core courses, as you would have if the first Master's was an MSN.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Elkpark is correct.

To be qualified to sit for the ANCC or AANP certification programs, you need to demonstrate that your NP program has covered either the AACN's MSN Essentials or the DNP Essentials. According to my reading of certification requirements you will need to enter either a BSN-to-MSN program, or a BSN-DNP program if you want to be an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN).

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Agree with the above.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thanks everyone. I figured that much...maybe if I'd graduated with a CNL (second-degree Masters in Nursing) I'd be able to do a certificate program only. Guess I'm going to be in school for a looong time ;-) Still, I think most employers are looking for someone who has completed a 2 year advanced MSN degree OR comes in with years of experience and a clin. spec in any area of nursing as opposed to someone w/ a CNL who only gets a certificate.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion