Frequently Asked Questions

Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)

• Is the program completely online?

  FSU offers a blended program that requires some on-campus attendance. About 90–95% of coursework is online, including lectures, didactic content, and supervision. There are labs attached to two classes (total of four on-campus visits) plus a one-day summer orientation. On-campus requirements are scheduled well in advance.

• How many clinical hours do I have to complete?

  Students complete 765 practicum hours with preceptors in office settings. Full-time students average 19 hours/week in their final summer semester, while part-time students average 9 hours/week in their final spring semester.

• Do I have to find my own preceptors?

  Students assist with locating appropriate clinical sites and preceptors. The Clinical Placement Coordinator and faculty work with students to secure suitable experiences. Detailed instructions are provided during the on-campus orientation.

• How long is the program?

  Full-time students complete the program in six consecutive semesters, including summers. Part-time students complete it in ten consecutive semesters, including summers.

• Can I take courses out of order?

  Courses must be taken in the scheduled order. Each course is offered once per year, following a standard progression plan for full- and part-time students.

• Can I take summers off?

  No. Deviations from the curriculum may delay graduation and require authorization. Only extraordinary circumstances allow for leaves of absence with a set return date.

• Is the coursework self-paced?

  Courses have due dates and deadlines. You may work ahead to some extent but cannot fall behind.

• Are there set class times?

  Most content is asynchronous online. Synchronous sessions may occur for discussions, case presentations, and supervision, scheduled in advance.

• Is the program accredited?

  The baccalaureate and master’s degrees in nursing at FSU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

• Do you accept students every semester?

  No. Each cohort begins every fall.

• Future plans regarding master’s vs. doctoral NP programs?

  While the DNP is becoming the entry-level NP degree nationally, FSU currently offers the NP program at the master’s level. FSU is planning for a future DNP program with a grant-funded initiative.

• Who can I contact with additional questions?

  Contact Jill Buterbaugh, FNP coordinator, via email at jsbuterbaugh@frostburg.edu (preferred) or phone at 301-687-3330.