New Mexico Highlands University Online MSN-FNP 

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New Mexico Highlands University offers an online master of science in nursing with a family nurse practitioner (MSN-FNP) specialization designed for working registered nurses. The program prepares nurses to provide patient-centered, comprehensive care to various populations across the human lifespan.

The curriculum includes online coursework and hands-on learning via three practicums and a residency. Students may further specialize their skills by completing an optional cognate concentration. Pursuit of the cognate concentration necessitates completing nine additional credit hours. Students looking to focus their careers in rural health care will also find this program well-suited to their educational needs. 

Upon graduation, students can seek state licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and take the national certification exam to become a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC). Students who enter without a BSN can pursue an accelerated program option.

Throughout their studies, MSN-FNP students develop both advanced theoretical knowledge and clinical decision-making and practice skills. Key learning outcomes include:

  • Integrating theoretical and evidence-based knowledge to promote health, prevent disease, and manage existing health conditions
  • Applying leadership and communication skills as well as clinical training to promote and provide care that is culturally sensitive, safe, skilled, affordable, and accessible
  • Analyzing data to improve health outcomes
  • Assembling evidence to enhance health outcomes as well as health management for both individual patients and families
  • Using advanced healthcare information systems and technologies to promote and enhance individual and population health
  • Advocating for health care policies and delivery systems that provide effective, equitable, and accessible care
  • Implementing best care practices

As an FNP, graduates can expect to fulfill a variety of duties including diagnosis and treatment of illness, prescribing medication, analyzing test results, developing treatment plans and more. Skills in critical thinking and problem solving are vital to success as an FNP. FNPs can work in a variety of settings including primary care clinics, hospitals, outpatient centers, schools, and more.

New Mexico Highlands University’s MSN-FNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

New Mexico Highlands University Online FNP Program
MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner Visit Site

What to Expect from the NMHU Online MSN-FNP Program

Admission Requirements: To be eligible for New Mexico Highlands University’s online MSN-family nurse practitioner (FNP) program, applicants must possess a bachelor of science degree (BSN) from an accredited college or university and have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA, a current, unencumbered state RN license or be NCLEX eligible, and prerequisite course experience in statistics.

A complete application package includes an online application, a current resume or CV, three references, official copies of all college transcripts, and a two-page professional essay in APA format. No GRE exam is required to be considered for admission.

State Restrictions: New Mexico Highlands University accepts applicants from other states and abroad. Out-of-state and foreign applicants must check with the university and their respective state or local licensure board to ensure the program meets local licensure requirements. New Mexico Highlands University accepts up to six hours of graduate transfer credits for this degree program.

International applicants must meet a variety of requirements. Such applicants must submit a statement of career and educational goals, two letters of recommendation from faculty, and an official transcript evaluation directly mailed from World Education Services (WES) to New Mexico Highlands University. In addition, they must satisfactorily demonstrate English language proficiency as well as complete the qualifying exam of the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools.

Study Plan: New Mexico Highlands University’s online MSN-FNP program is designed with working professionals in mind. Depending on the pace of study, students can usually complete the program within two to three years. The program only offers admission once per year. In addition to online coursework, students must complete three practicums and a residency to graduate.

Upon graduation, students may seek state licensure as an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or take the national certification exam to become a board-certified family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC).

MSN-FNP Curriculum: This program consists of essential courses designed especially for future FNPs. Courses include advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment, evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary health care delivery, primary care of adults, pharmacotherapeutics, and more. Students complete a minimum of 49 credits. A total of eight credits are awarded for completion of the clinical practicum series. Students complete a total of 360 clock hours to fulfill this requirement. As previously noted, students seeking to develop skills in specialty care may complete a cognate concentration. This concentration requires an additional nine credit hours for 58 credits.

Online Experience: New Mexico Highlands University offers the FNP program using an online learning delivery model. This setup allows FNP students the flexibility they need to develop and integrate new knowledge and skills while concurrently maintaining their existing nursing careers.

On-Site Requirements: Though the MSN-FNP program at New Mexico Highlands University is primarily online, students will typically complete their clinical practicum requirements close to their home location.

Paying for the NMHU Online MSN-FNP Program

New Mexico Highlands University is committed to providing affordable academic programs so everyone seeking a higher education can obtain one. The university’s programs are regularly recognized for their affordability and value. University staff work with students to explore all options for paying for school. 

New Mexico Highlands University offers competitive tuition rates, a generous transfer credit policy, and scholarships like the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship. Students may also secure loan support from multiple sources. In addition, military students qualify for in-state tuition rates and varied grants and scholarships. Students should contact the New Mexico Highlands University Financial Aid Office to learn about available options.

New Mexico Highlands University

Provide quality care to diverse populations as an NMHU-prepared FNP, and complete an additional 9-credit cognate to further specialize the degree (optional). Finish the program in as little as two years.

APRN Programs

MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner

Campus Address

1005 Diamond Street
Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701

New Mexico Highlands University – MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Essentials

Degree Level

MSN – Master of Science in Nursing

Specialization

FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner

Program Start Dates

1 – Fall

100% Online?

No

Campus Visits Required

3

Credits Needed to Graduate

49

Clinical Hours Needed to Graduate

675

Program Accreditation

CCNE Candidate

Program Admissions

Level of Education Required?

BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing

GRE or GMAT Required?

No GRE required

GPA Required?

3.0 or higher

State Restrictions? (Will Not Accept From…)

CA

Program Tuition

Credit Hours

49

Average Cost Per Credit (state resident)

$625.00

Estimated Total Tuition (state resident)

$30,625.00

Average Cost Per Credit (non-resident)

$625.00

Estimated Total Tuition (non-resident)

$30,625.00

Tuition is calculated based on credits, at the published tuition rate. Rates may change, so please check here for the latest tuition information. For programs with variable tuition rates, we use the rates for part-time students. “Resident” and “non-resident” refer to the student’s school-recognized state residency status. Tuition number represents the cost of tuition for the entire program, not per semester or year. Estimated total tuition does not include additional fees.

Bernd Geels

Bernd Geels

Writer

Bernd Geels is a Berlin, Germany-based freelance writer and artist. He holds an undergraduate degree in atmospheric science and two graduate degrees. He completed his most recent graduate degree in international environmental studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in 2011. He is interested in healthcare, climate change, marine conservation, indigenous science, and refugee issues. You can reach him directly at [email protected].