Master of Science in Nursing:Family Nurse Practitioner

Henry Predolin College of Health Sciences

We encourage students to submit their graduate application and admission materials by the application deadline. Applications submitted after the priority deadline may still be considered for the upcoming start date, but if not, they will be reviewed for the next session.

We’re pleased to offer six entry points throughout the academic year, giving new students flexibility in starting their journey.

To be considered for admissions, MSN—FNP program, applicants must submit the following:

1. Completed graduate application.
2. Evidence of a baccalaureate or more advanced degree in nursing from a nationally accredited nursing program, with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for regular admission status. The cumulative grade point average is calculated based on the highest degree held at the time of application.
3. Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, sent directly to Edgewood University Graduate Admissions.
4. Two letters of recommendation from nursing supervisors and/or colleagues who can speak about the applicant’s potential for success in graduate-level coursework.
5. A written statement, no more than 500 words, addressing the applicant’s interest in admission to Edgewood University’s MSN program and describing past educational and professional experiences that will foster your growth and success in this program.
6. An active license as a registered professional nurse.

Prior to beginning clinical coursework, students must also meet program health and background check requirements (see related FAQs for specific details).

Yes. Applicants who earned their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Edgewood University are eligible for guaranteed admission into the MSN—FNP program if they:

• Graduated with a BSN within the past three years
• Achieved a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on their BSN
• Hold an active registered nurse license.

Applicants who meet these requirements must submit an application to initiate the process. Once received, qualifying applicants will be admitted directly into the MSN—FNP program, and the remaining admission requirements will be waived.

Applicants who do not meet these requirements must complete the full admissions process to be considered.

The MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program prepares graduates to provide high-quality, evidence-based, patient-centered primary care across the lifespan. The program is committed to ensuring students achieve competency in advanced clinical and diagnostic reasoning, safe prescribing, interprofessional collaboration, quality improvement, and systems-based practice, consistent with the AACN 2021 Essentials and National Organization of NP Faculties (NONPF) competencies. Through diverse and rigorous clinical experiences, evidence-based scholarship, and simulation-based learning, graduates are prepared for national certification and entry into APRN practice. The program promotes leadership development, ethical practice, and health equity, equipping graduates to address social determinants of health and improve outcomes in diverse populations. Ongoing evaluation of student performance, certification outcomes, clinical placement quality, and curriculum alignment ensures continuous program improvement, sustainability, and excellence in graduate nursing education.

Earning a graduate degree is a significant investment in your future, reflecting your commitment to lifelong learning and professional excellence. Our MSN—FNP program is designed to provide exceptional value through expert faculty, hands-on clinical experiences, and career-ready outcomes. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our Tuition & Fees webpage.

Yes. The School of Nursing and all clinical agencies affiliated with Edgewood University require that every student and faculty member complete a background check through the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Justice. Students must submit Background Information Disclosure forms prior to beginning any Nursing Practicum or Advanced Practice Clinical courses. Please note that background checks are completed at the student’s expense.

Yes. Before entering the Nursing Practicum or Advanced Practice Clinical courses, students must provide documentation showing they meet the health requirements of the agency where their clinical experience will take place.

Yes. Students may complete clinical rotations in other states, provided the Program Director holds licensure in that state and the program has the required state authorization.

While our clinical network is strongest in Wisconsin, our dedicated Clinical Placement Coordinator works closely with students throughout the placement process. For those located outside of Wisconsin, we value your local knowledge and professional connections, which help us identify high-quality clinical sites within your geographic region. Together, we secure placements that align with program standards and your professional goals.

Yes. While the MSN—FNP program is delivered primarily online with asynchronous coursework, students have several opportunities to enhance hands-on learning and faculty engagement. Participation in on-campus experiences is encouraged by not required.

• Clinical Bootcamp (1 day)

Strongly encouraged prior to beginning clinical rotations, this immersive experience reinforces physical assessment skills, clarifies clinical expectations, and builds confidence before entering practice settings.

• Suturing & Splinting Workshops (Offered twice per year)

Hands-on procedural workshops designed to strengthen technical skill development.

• Faculty-Led Simulation Experiences

Scheduled directly with faculty and conducted either remotely or on campus, depending on the student’s location.

• Open Lab Sessions

Available during foundational courses, allowing students to refine hands-on examination skills in preparation for the head-to-toe final assessment.

Nurses who already hold a master’s degree in nursing can pursue a Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate. The number of credits required ranges from 12-24 depending on your current Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) certification.

Yes. In addition to the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program, Edgewood University offers a full suite of MSN programs designed to fit a variety of career goals and practice areas. Download the MSN Fact Sheet (PDF) to explore programs, courses, and degree requirements.

While the MSN—FNP program does not include a traditional capstone project, students complete a comprehensive scholarly presentation as a culminating experience. During this final presentation, students conduct an in-depth review of a selected condition, integrate current evidence, and present a real clinical case from their practice experiences to demonstrate diagnostic reasoning and foundational clinical knowledge.