Waldenheim

I am an FNP. I received my MSN from a traditional program ten years ago. It was difficult to work during the program due to the program layout but I knew what I was getting into. Fast-forward ten years. I wanted to go back for my PMHNP certification. I found a program in North Texas that was supposed to be online - only had to go the campus three times during the program. What they failed to tell us was that were only allowed to complete the clinical portion of the program Monday-Friday, 8-5. This information did not come to light till it was too late to drop the semester. Also there was no support in arranging clinical experiences (no list of potential preceptors). We were very much on our own. Even for seasoned NPs, starting a new field of study places you in the novice role. NP programs should make all efforts to fully disclose requirements before registration and to have systems in place that foster success. My advice would be to be sure that they present you with a very clear layout of the clinical requirements, when clinicals are allowed, what kind of agreements are needed and a potential list of preceptors before you start the program. Most importantly, talk to people who have completed the program but you will want to do this away from the campus. Alumni are not always free to speak their minds when they talk to you on campus.

Congratulations on being accepted to the advanced practice program. Family practice has several benefits in that you will have the flexibility to work in many different settings and with all age groups. You are very correct - any masters or doctorate level program worth its salt is going to kick your butt. As to the isolation of the program, that will depend on how the program is structured. Are you required to go out to the university site once a semester or ever? Speaking from personal experience as some one who completed the MSN and DNP ten years apart. The degree of isolation that you are likely to experience will depend on the group dynamics of the individuals you start class with and you. It is possible to be very close to people that you meet only once. If you have the option of attending any NP association meetings in your area (most allow students) do so this will offer you another avenue for support.

I have my nursing education certification, and an MSN with FNP certification. I have taught as full-time faculty in an RN program. Which I absolutely loved. Yes, we did have a set schedule and missing both lecture and clinical days was greatly frowned upon. Since giving up full-time teaching to practice I have held adjunct faculty positions as a clinical instructor. Again the schedule is set for the semester and the instructors are not expected to miss days anymore than the students are. Currently, I precept students in my clinical practice setting. I do not get paid for precepting but there is more flexibility in the schedule. I get to determine when I am available to precept. As a full-time clinician, I like precepting better than working as adjunct faculty. After reading your post it sounds like you would be better served to precept at this time. You are not likely to be paid for this but in the future should decide to consider an adjunct clinical instructor position you would already have your foot in the door.