I've been applying to entry-MSN programs for this fall, and I recently received an acceptance to a program with an FNP track. Family/primary care/women's health were what attracted me to nursing in the first place, so it seems like it would be a good fit. The only problem is, FNP is the only NP track this entry program has, and seeing as how I have no background in nursing, I really want to make sure I know what I'm getting myself into. I'm hoping experienced nurses can answer a few questions I have regarding the FNP role. :)
- What are the job prospects for an FNP? What is it like for new grads particularly?
- Is it a satisfying career?
- Is it flexible? Say I wanted to transition into Peds or Women's Health- would I be able to do that, or would I have to go back to school/take another exam? If so, how much more schooling would be required?
- What is the average starting salary, and how high can it go? How does it compare to other NP specialties? I'm not going into nursing for the money, but I also want to make sure I'll be able to pay off my hefty loans without extreme difficulty, and not be in debt the rest of my life.
Overall, I just really want to learn more about the realities of the FNP career. Any insight is greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Thanks so much for all your insightful comments about the BC Master's Entry program. I've read a number of your posts over the past several months and found them to be extremely helpful. I'm starting the program next fall and was wondering if you might be able to write a bit about the day-to-day schedule. I'm sure it varies a great deal semester-to-semester but I was just hoping to get a sense of what to expect first semester, i.e. are there certain days when we'll typically be in class from 8am-5pm, etc?
I was also wondering about taking the NCLEX over the summer between our first and second years. Was there some flexibility in choosing that date (so long as it's before second year starts), or does everyone take it at the same time?
First month-Health Assessment 5 days a week (August). First semester-classes 3 days, clinical 1 day, 1 day off. Second semester-classes 3 days, clinicals 1 or 2 days. Summer-synthesis (practicum) 20 hours a week for 6 weeks plus one class. You have the month of August off. Most people tried to take NCLEX by the end of July so we could be totally free for August. Year 2-classes 1 full day and 1 evening, and clinicals the rest of the week. Class days are usually 8-5, but are longer in Year 2 cause they try to leave most days open for clinicals. I think my 2nd year I was there Mondays from 8A-8P.
nic27
15 Posts
Hi BCgradnurse,
Thanks so much for all your insightful comments about the BC Master's Entry program. I've read a number of your posts over the past several months and found them to be extremely helpful. I'm starting the program next fall and was wondering if you might be able to write a bit about the day-to-day schedule. I'm sure it varies a great deal semester-to-semester but I was just hoping to get a sense of what to expect first semester, i.e. are there certain days when we'll typically be in class from 8am-5pm, etc?
I was also wondering about taking the NCLEX over the summer between our first and second years. Was there some flexibility in choosing that date (so long as it's before second year starts), or does everyone take it at the same time?
Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks so much!
Also,