This Post-Master’s certificate program is designed for nurses who have already earned a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and wish to gain the specific coursework and practical experience needed to become a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). The program prepares graduates to provide primary care health services to a wide range of patient populations.
Graduates of this program are prepared to sit for national certification exams and obtain California FNP licensure, opening doors to advanced practice roles in primary care settings.
Foreign-educated nurses will have their transcripts officially evaluated for admission consideration. Virtual interviews are a required part of the application process.
There is a $250 intent-to-enroll fee that applies towards tuition. An additional MSN Nursing lab fee of $120 applies to specific courses (NRS 525). Certificate programs do not typically qualify for federal financial aid, but monthly payment plans may be available.
Applicants must possess a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from regionally accredited universities. A minimum overall GPA of 2.5 and a 3.0 in the last sixty semester units are also required. Additionally, a current RN license is mandatory.
The program is 21 months long, requiring 22-31 units of coursework and 540 practicum hours. All coursework is delivered online in an asynchronous, weekly format, with required hands-on practicum experiences.
Students pay $725 per credit unit, regardless of California residency status. There is also a $250 intent-to-enroll fee that applies towards tuition and a $120 MSN Nursing lab fee for specific courses.
International applicants should apply through the Cal State Apply portal between December 1 and March 31 for summer intake. Required documents include official transcripts (with evaluation for foreign credentials), an RN license, two letters of recommendation, a resume/CV, and a personal statement. A virtual interview is also part of the admission process.