DNP FNP Student learning

Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner Online Program

At Samuel Merritt University, our MSN-FNP program is crafted to enable nurses to thrive in these dynamic times, endowing them with the essential skills, knowledge, and insight to profoundly impact patient lives and the wider healthcare community. Samuel Merritt University is now offering $10,000 scholarships to all first-time, full-time or part-time MSN-FNP applicants. See Scholarship expandable tab below for additional details. 

Format

  • Online

Program Duration

  • Full-Time: 20 months (5 semesters), Part-Time: 24 months (6 semesters)

Upcoming Deadlines

Fall Application

Spring Application

Summer Application

A New Chapter in Advanced Nursing Practice

In a healthcare landscape that is continuously evolving, the significance of MSN-FNPs is increasingly vital. As healthcare faces challenges such as an aging population, rising chronic diseases, and the need for accessible, high-quality care, MSN-FNPs are instrumental in navigating this transformation. Their comprehensive training equips them to address these challenges effectively, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare. MSN-FNPs blend clinical expertise with a nuanced understanding of patient and healthcare system needs, positioning them to drive innovative care models and offer patient-centered solutions critical in today's health environment. At Samuel Merritt University, our MSN-FNP program is crafted to enable nurses to thrive in these dynamic times, endowing them with the essential skills, knowledge, and insight to profoundly impact patient lives and the wider healthcare community. 

The Expanding Role and Impact of FNPs 

Community Health Champions: FNPs are increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in enhancing community health, particularly in addressing healthcare needs in underserved and rural areas, where they often serve as primary care providers. Samuel Merritt University’s MSN FNP students serve patients in these community settings.   

Leaders in Preventative Care: With their comprehensive training, FNPs play a crucial role in disease prevention and health promotion, helping to reduce long-term healthcare costs through effective patient education and lifestyle counseling. 

What we look for:

  • A diverse cohort of professionals who are dedicated to serving in urban, rural, and multicultural settings where health-care service scarcity is a major issue
  • An interest in working with underserved populations
  • Compassion
  • Interpersonal/interprofessional communication
  • Teamwork
  • Critical thinking
  • Responsibility

Featured Events

Program Requirements & Info

Admission to online MSN FNP program is competitive. Applicants are considered for admission based upon the following criteria:

  • Must be an unencumbered RN (registered nurse) with a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) in an SMU approved state. 

  • RNs who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing may still apply and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis 

  • A minimum of a 3.0 GPA in BSN and/or Bachelor coursework is recommended, but not required.  A GPA less than 3.0 will require a letter of explanation.  

  • Prior RN experience is preferred, but not required.   

  • Proficiency in English (both spoken and written) is mandatory for success in the program 

  • If you are an international student, you may be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination. You must achieve a minimum score of 100 on the internet-based TOEFL. 

Samuel Merritt University Alumni students are invited to apply using the Alumni Application Academic Year 2023-2024. If you have questions regarding this application contact Rudy Torres, Assistant Dean of Admissions, rtorres@samuelmerritt.edu.

  Alumni Application

If you don't have an active SMU Email Account, please complete the PDF form with attachments and send directly to rtorres1@samuelmerritt.edu.

Alumni Application PDF

NursingCAS
You can apply to SMU through the Central Application Service for Nursing Schools (NursingCAS). With your application you will also need to submit:

  • Official transcripts from other educational institutions

  • Two letters of reference

Application Deadlines
We offer three start dates per year for the online MSN FNP. Application deadlines for each term are as follows:

  • Summer term – Apply by March 1
  • Fall term – July 1
  • Spring term – November 1


Where You Can Study With Us
Our online program is approved for nurses licensed and residing in:

  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Nevada
  • Ohio
  • Texas*
  • Virginia

*Samuel Merritt University (SMU) is not regulated in Texas under Chapter 178 of the Texas Education Code; the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) approves and regulates SMU’s programs in California where the University is physically located and where it has legal authorization to operate; SMU’s student grievance policy, process, and procedures can be found on page 146 of the Student Handbook.

Due to clinical and state compliance requirements, authorization for offering this online program is being sought on a state by state basis. If the state you reside in is not on the previous list, it means authorization is not yet in place. Check back periodically for state approvals.

Take Advantage of our Advance Your Practice $10,000 Scholarship

Enroll and receive $10,000 toward your Online MSN FNP.

This scholarship was created to help support nurses that are interested in advancing their practice and careers. Students who enroll in the Online MSN FNP or DNP FNP program will be awarded this $10,000 scholarship.

The Advance Your Practice Scholarship is available to full-time students in the Online MSN-FNP programs. The scholarship is awarded evenly across each term of the program rather than as a lump sum.

To apply to our MSN FNP program, you must be a registered nurse with an unencumbered license. You must be licensed in and a resident of one of the following states:

  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Illinois
  • Nevada
  • Ohio
  • Texas
  • Virginia

You must also hold a baccalaureate degree in nursing from a regionally accredited college or university (or foreign equivalent). RNs who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing may still apply and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. In addition, you must provide:

  • A completed application form and pay the $70 application fee
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  • Evidence of recent clinical practice experience as a registered nurse
  • A goal statement that describes your academic and career goals
  • Two letters of reference that address your clinical capabilities and aptitude for the program
  • Complete a criminal background check and, if required, a drug test
  • If you are an international student, you may be required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination. You must achieve a minimum score of 100 on the internet-based TOEFL.

You must also have access to a personal computer and basic computer skills in order to access and navigate the university’s course management system, Canvas.

Application Fees
Application fees are payable to Nursing’s Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS). Samuel Merritt University does not charge an additional admission fee.

Non-Refundable Deposits and Fees
Students offered admission pay a non-refundable tuition deposit of $350 to secure their seat in the class.

Application fees and tuition deposits are non-refundable, whether or not the student withdraws in the first week of the term.

Tuition Calculator
There is a tuition calculator that provides a detailed summary of annual tuition, all fees for the program, and a cost estimator for the entire program.

Tuition Calculator

Your nursing education at Samuel Merritt University is an important and valuable investment in your future.  Not only will you have the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career in health care, but Samuel Merritt University graduates have a loan default rate of less than one percent.  This means that students who borrowed to attend Samuel Merritt University have found employment in their chosen field that allows them to pay off their loans. 

Samuel Merritt University is proud to offer a variety of ways to assist in funding your education including scholarships and student loans. The first step in applying for financial aid at SMU is to submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

SMU offers scholarships and an assortment of resources for funding opportunities outside of the program. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of financial need. A limited number are awarded for academic merit. Scholarships for Nurses include:

  • Sharon Clark Diaz
  • Employee Campaign
  • Marshall Steele, Jr.
  • Hitchcock Heydman
  • Henry & Bernice Bigge
  • Faculty Scholarship
  • Alumni Scholarship
  • Elks of the Year
  • William Breslin
Take Advantage of our Advance Your Practice $10,000 Scholarship

Enroll in MSN-FNP program and receive a $10,000 scholarship. This scholarship was created to help support nurses that are interested in advancing their practice and careers. The Advance Your Practice Scholarship is available to full-time students in the Online MSN-FNP and is awarded evenly across each term.

In addition to the cost of tuition, books and fees, financial aid can also cover other indirect educational costs, so the total cost of attendance includes:

  • Books and Supplies
  • Room and Board
  • Personal Expenses
  • Other fees as determined by program/college

Once you receive your financial aid package, check this budget against your actual living expenses and we can make necessary adjustments to meet your needs.

Detailed information about financial aid, budgeting, total cost and application processes are available on the webpage.

https://www.samuelmerritt.edu/admissions/affording-smu/financial-aid-and-scholarships

We realize that the financial aid process can be difficult and overwhelming.  We are here to help.  Financial Aid staff can assist with budgeting, understanding your awards and understanding the process.  The SMU staff is committed to each and every prospective student and enrolled student.  We have an open door policy and are available via phone or email.

finaid@samuelmerritt.edu or 510-879-9200

Sequential Course Curriculum     Course Descriptions

Curriculum, Courses, and Clinicals

The MSN FNP with online coursework and clinicals in your community consists of 49 units, available in a full-time (20 months) and part-time (24 months) formats.

The program combines interdisciplinary core courses, specialty courses, and hands-on experience. Course content aligns with the highest national standards, including those established by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

Clinical Experience

In addition to online coursework, you will complete three semesters of precepted clinical practicum hours. You are also required to attend two on-campus intensives at the Sacramento campus.

You will work with our clinical coordinator to secure appropriate practicum and internship sites in your community. You’ll also have access to our network of qualified clinical preceptors (MDs, DO, NPs, PAs, Midwife’s).

Graduation and Employment Rates

Please refer to the university's Student Success Measures webpage for graduation rates, employment rates, and additional success indicators. 

These frequently asked questions are general to the degree options to become an FNP, not specific to Samuel Merritt University.

How does the DNP curriculum differ from the MSN curriculum to prepare me for practice as an FNP?

The curriculum for a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in FNP differ in their focus and depth of study. 

MSN-FNP Curriculum: This program is centered around developing the necessary nursing skills to become a nurse practitioner. It covers essential patient care topics like physical assessments, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and care of acute and chronic conditions, emphasizing the enhancement of clinical skills for advanced practice roles. 

DNP-FNP Curriculum: The DNP-FNP goes beyond the clinical skillset. It incorporates elements of policy, leadership, and pragmatic healthcare change, focusing on the broader healthcare system and the integration of technological innovations. This approach is designed to prepare graduates for roles that involve not just clinical expertise but also administrative and leadership responsibilities within the healthcare sector. 

Essentially, while both MSN and DNP prepare students for FNP roles, the DNP offers a more expansive education, equipping graduates for higher-level positions that include aspects of healthcare management, policy, and education, in addition to clinical practice.  

What are my options to become an FNP if I already have my MSN?

An RN with an MSN degree who ultimately wants to obtain a DNP FNP can: 

  • Enroll in the DNP FNP Program 

  • Enroll in the FNP certificate program that will seamlessly and automatically transition into the post-Master’s DNP program. 

 

What are my options to become an FNP if I am an RN with a BSN degree?

As an RN with a BSN degree, you can choose an MSN or a DNP degree path to become an FNP.

 

What are my options to become an FNP if I am an RN with an Associate degree?

You can complete an RN-to-BSN program (SMU RN to BSN Program) and then enter either an MSN or DNP program to become an FNP.  If you are an ADN with a non-nursing undergraduate degree and many years of practice you may be able to provide evidence of how you meet the AACN BSN Essentials through your work, scholarship, community service, and approach to care of the patient in all settings.  This approval is based on specific requirements of each university’s School of Nursing.

Are there any differences in practice opportunities or scope of practice for an MSN-prepared FNP compared with a DNP-prepared FNP? Are there changes known or under consideration in the future?

Yes, there are differences in practice opportunities and scope of practice for MSN-prepared versus DNP-prepared Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs). While both can function as primary care providers, DNP-prepared FNPs often have expanded opportunities in leadership, policy, education, and healthcare administration due to their higher level of education. The DNP curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership, skills that are increasingly in demand in complex healthcare systems. 

Currently, there is a movement within the nursing profession towards elevating the educational requirements for advanced practice nurses to the doctoral level. Organizations like the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties support the transition to the DNP as the entry-level degree for nurse practitioners by 2025. This shift could further differentiate the roles and opportunities available to MSN and DNP-prepared FNPs in the future 

 

Are salaries different for FNPs based on the degree?

This depends on the employer.  For example, if you are an RN seeking advancement in your position to expand your professional capabilities, your employer will recognize your advanced degree as preferential thus an increase in income.  If a DNP FNP and a MSN FNP are new graduates from programs they most likely will be paid the same.

 

Does payment from Medicare, Medicaid/Medi-Cal, or private insurers differ based on the degree?

Not at this time. 

Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100, Alameda, CA 94501; 510.748.9001.

The master's degree program in nursing at Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC., 20001.

Master's Accreditation
Initial Accreditation Date: April 21, 2001
Most Recent Accreditation Date: November 2, 2020
Accreditation Term Expires: June 30, 2031
Last On-Site Evaluation: November 2020
Next On-Site Evaluation: Fall 2030

Master of Science in Nursing– Family Nurse Practitioner Program Technical Standards

The mission of Samuel Merritt University is to produce highly skilled and compassionate family nurse practitioners (FNP). Students are expected to develop a robust healthcare knowledge base and requisite clinical skills, with the ability to appropriately apply knowledge and skills, effectively interpret information, and contribute to patient-centered decisions across a broad spectrum of clinical situations in all settings. The following technical standards, in conjunction with the academic standards, are requirements for admission, promotion, and graduation. The term “candidate” refers to candidates for admission to the FNP Program as well as current FNP students who are candidates for retention, promotion, or graduation.

These requirements may be achieved with or without reasonable accommodations, the cost of which will be borne by the institution. These standards should not serve as a deterrent to any candidate with disabilities who desires to pursue FNP education. Candidates with disabilities bring unique perspectives which contribute to the diversity of the student population and will create a diverse health care workforce of culturally competent practitioners who can meet the needs of their patients. Candidates with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Disability Resource Center immediately to begin a confidential conversation about possible accommodations necessary to meet these standards. Fulfillment of the technical standards for graduation from the FNP Program does not guarantee that a graduate will be able to fulfill the technical requirements of any specific clinical position.

Technical Standards

Observational Skills

A candidate must acquire information as presented through demonstrations and experiences in foundational sciences. In addition, a candidate must be able to evaluate a patient accurately and assess relevant health, behavioral and medical information.  Candidates must be able to obtain and interpret information through comprehensive assessment of patients, correctly interpret diagnostic representations of patient physiologic data, and accurately evaluate patient conditions and responses. 

Communication Skills

Candidates must exhibit interpersonal skills to enable effective caregiving of patients, including the ability to communicate effectively with all members of a multidisciplinary health care team, patients, and their families in person and in writing. Candidates must be able to clearly and accurately record information in English and accurately interpret verbal and non-verbal communication.

Patient Care Skills

Candidates must perform physical examinations and diagnostic maneuvers. A candidate should be able to perform or direct basic laboratory tests (urinalysis, wet mount, etc), diagnostic and therapeutic procedures (venipuncture, placement of catheters and tubes, lumbar puncture, suturing, etc), and interpret electrocardiograms and imaging studies.  A candidate must be able to provide or direct general care and emergency treatment for patients, and respond to emergency situations in a timely manner; examples of emergency treatments reasonably required of a family nurse practitioner include, but are not limited to, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, administration of intravenous medications, application of pressure to arrest bleeding, opening obstructed airways, and performance of obstetrical maneuvers.  Candidates must meet applicable safety standards for the environment and follow universal precaution procedures.

Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative, and Cognitive Skills

Candidates must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including but not limited to, classroom instruction; laboratory; small group, team and collaborative activities; individual study; preparation and presentation of reports; and use of computer technology.  A candidate must effectively interpret, assimilate and understand the complex information required to function within the FNP curriculum including, but not limited to, the ability to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures; effectively participate in individual, small group, and lecture learning modalities in the classroom, clinical and community settings; learn, participate, collaborate and contribute as a part of a team; synthesize information both in person and via remote technology; interpret causal connections and make accurate, fact-based conclusions based on available data and information; formulate a hypothesis, investigate the potential answers and outcomes; and reach appropriate and accurate conclusions. A candidate must be able to find sources of knowledge and acquire the knowledge through various modalities, and possess the ability to be a life-long learner. 

Behavioral Attributes, Social Skills and Professional Expectations

A candidate must be able to exercise good judgment, promptly complete all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients, and develop mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients. The skills required to do so include the ability to effectively handle and manage heavy workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, to display flexibility, and to learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of patients. Candidates are expected to exhibit professionalism, personal accountability, compassion, integrity, concern for others, and interpersonal skills including the ability to accept and apply feedback and to respect boundaries and care for all individuals in a respectful and effective manner regardless of gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected status. Candidates should understand, and function within, the legal and ethical aspects of the practice of medicine, and maintain and display ethical and moral behaviors commensurate with the role of a family nurse practitioner in all interactions with patients, faculty, staff, students and the public. Interest and motivation throughout the educational processes are expected of all candidates.

Faculty

Tal Sraboyants

Tal Sraboyants

DNP, FNP-C, PHN, CHFN Program Co-Director, Family Nurse Practitioner Assistant Professor
Catherine Tanner

Catherine Tanner

MSN, FNP-C Interim Co-Director of the FNP Program
Shelitha Campbell. Update 2023

Shelitha R. Campbell

DNP, FNP-BC Co-Director of the FNP Program
Nikki Love

Nikki Love

DNP, FNP-BC Assistant Director

SMU Perspectives