FNP Program...scam or worthwhile?

allnurses Guide · Oct 19, 2016

Simmons is a long standing, very reputable program. One thing to consider-what do you do about clinicals? Do you have to find your own preceptors or do they have contacts in all 50 states?

rnkaytee · Oct 19, 2016

Simmons is accepted by Washington state for out of state programs with clinicals in the state so you're okay there.

http://www.doh.wa.gov/portals/1/documents/pubs/669338.pdf

aprnKate · Oct 19, 2016

It's good that you are asking all these questions about an investment in your future. The answer is yes, FNP new grads with Masters degree are hire-able... otherwise, i wouldn't put my husband through school right now for it because that would just waste time and money

OB-nurse2013, BSN, RN · Oct 19, 2016

I am in an fnp program and have many friends that are fnp. It's a very versatile degree, and definitely not a waste of time.

allnurses Guide · Oct 20, 2016

Simmons is a fantastic program and they do secure clinical placements.

EKUGRAD, BSN, MSN, RN, CNS · Oct 22, 2016

If you are going for your doctorate, you will be required to master the English language sometime before draping the hood with your academic regalia.

BirkieGirl · Oct 26, 2016

You definitely need to do some research before you just jump into any program. Simmons is very long standing and reputable. Being a "DNP" is not a career, the DNP is the degree, and you are STILL a NP just like the "MSN" graduates with a Master's degree. In many areas of the country, including the Midwest, DNP graduates are no more hire-able or desired than the MSN graduates, the MSN graduates are not LESS desired or hire-able, nor does having a DNP get you any more money. This will probably change down the road, and already has in other areas of the country (just not mine). Further, you will find a tough time being admitted to any DNP program for providers unless you already have the MSN-FNP.

Skippingtowork · Nov 1, 2016

nnm,,

sweetmissdixie · Nov 21, 2016

I recently completed my FNP program (MSN) and am continuing with the companion DNP starting January 2017. I don't know anything about Simmons but here are some things to consider when choosing a graduate program:

1. Most programs require at least 1 year of experience as an RN. If the program doesn't, I would still recommend you work as an RN for at least a year. You will learn and practice critical thinking, leadership skills, interpersonal communication, time management, and so on - all very important for the foundation of an advanced practice degree. You will learn important professional skills that you just do not get while in nursing school, which will benefit you later when pursuing an advanced degree.

2. As someone else pointed out, most programs require you to obtain the MSN first and then continue with the DNP. Which is fine - this will enable you to begin working and gaining experience as an APRN while you are working toward your doctorate.

3. Most NPs are prepared at the Master's level and this is an acceptable degree for the vast majority of NP positions you will come across. The DNP will be helpful if you decide to teach or take on administrative roles but it does not expand your scope of practice; therefore, most employers do not offer higher salaries for DNPs. If you are truly interested in this degree, I'd highly recommend you research the purpose of the DNP and its roots in quality improvement and translating evidence-based research into improved population and system-wide outcomes. There are several short books available on the topic. American Association of Colleges of Nursing | DNP Fact Sheet also has some quick info.

4. Again, as someone else mentioned, many online programs require you to find your own preceptors. This was true of my program and was incredibly difficult and daunting. My program had very specific preceptor requirements (e.g., no more than 20% of hours with a physician, could only use NPs - no CNSs, PAs, etc. Could not do clinicals in specialty areas, primary care only) that posed a significant barrier to finding preceptors, so I would look into this before committing to a program to make sure it is feasible. I ended up having to drive 2 hours to a clinical site to complete my requirements.

5. What is your end goal? Understanding this and the degrees/programs for which you are applying is the best way to avoid wasting valuable time or money. Really develop an understanding of the role of the NP in general. As an APRN, you will be transitioning from the RN role to the provider role, which have different functions in practice. Develop an understanding of what the different NP degrees offer - as an FNP, you will be expected to learn to care for patients across the age continuum - from newborn to geriatrics. If you are truly only interested in geriatrics, there are specialty programs designed for geriatric NPs and this would likely be a better fit for you. Again, it all depends on your end goal and what you want to DO. Not the title, but how you want to be practicing every day and who you want to care for.

I hope some of this was helpful. Congratulations on your imminent graduation and good luck on the NCLEX! :up:

db2xs · Nov 24, 2016

YFurther, you will find a tough time being admitted to any DNP program for providers unless you already have the MSN-FNP.

BirkieGirl, there are post-BSN to DNP programs.