BSN to FNP: What Application Materials Do I Need for Graduate School?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for highly qualified nurses, like nurse practitioners, will rise by 31% over the next 8 years. This rise in demand means that those with specialized skills should have access to exciting and well-paying positions.
A master’s degree builds on the knowledge you gained while earning your BSN (Bachelors of Science in Nursing). Successful completion of a master’s degree program will qualify you to work as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). These sought-after medical professionals get to serve their patients’ needs more directly. FNPs are able to diagnose patient conditions and illnesses, create treatment plans, and prescribe medications.
Navigating the MSN program application process can be intimidating. These steps will help you get organized and prepared for meeting the requirements of an MSN program.
Virginia State Requirements
Virginia state law requires all nurse practitioners to meet these criteria before practicing legally.
- License from the Virginia State Board of Nursing
- License from the Virginia State Board of Medicine
- Current state RN license
- Proof of graduating from a nurse practitioner degree program
- Verification of specialty certification
Your BSN qualifies you for an RN license. To gain the credentials needed to apply for licensure by the Boards of Nursing and Medicine, applicants must graduate from an approved program that teaches the core skills of a nurse practitioner. Some of these skills include:
- Ability to analyze data and compare that data to their existing knowledge to diagnose patient conditions.
- Demonstrate leadership methods that encourage improved quality of care in a cost-effective manner.
- Evaluate statistics, patient care data, and current medical laws to synthesize a high-quality healthcare process.
- Apply investigative knowledge to their practical experience to recognize and address patterns in public health.
- Use available technology to increase patient education, facilitate implementation of health care strategies, and manage records.
The curriculum in an MSN program is challenging. However, your hard work could pay off in the end.
Applying to an MSN Program
Like all nursing education programs, MSN degrees courses are competitive. Use these tips to make the process smoother and increase your chances of being accepted.
- Make sure your RN license is up-to-date. If you hold a license from another state, request hard copies of your documents from that state’s nursing board.
- Get your BSN transcripts. The admissions counselors will need them to ensure you have all the necessary credits to qualify for the program.
- Check the state Boards of Nursing and Medicine. Review the list of requirements for approved MSN programs. Make sure any program you choose fits those requirements.
- Read the instructions on the application thoroughly before filling it out. Make sure you have all the documents, signatures, and necessary fees included before submitting.
- Update your resume. Your experience, specialty, or goals may be the deciding factor in your application acceptance.
- Ask for letters of recommendation from co-workers, supervisors, and even patients.
- Keep copies of certificates, forms, or any other documentation you submit. Scan them onto your computer to make it easy to send them digitally.
- Write down details from any phone calls or interviews that may be important in your application process. Print out any emails you receive. Keep them, along with your document copies, in a dedicated folder for safety and organization.
Are you interested in becoming a family nurse practitioner? If you want to earn your Master of Science in Nursing, ECPI University offers this program at an accelerated pace. For more information on this exciting degree, connect with a helpful ECPI University admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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Gainful Employment Information – Master of Science in Nursing
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