Master of Science in Nursing - PMHNP
Program Overview
The curriculum for the M.S. in Nursing is based on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing; in addition, the Nurse Practitioner concentrations align with the National Task Force on Quality Nurse Practitioner Education and The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Competencies. The Nurse Practitioner concentration prepares experienced baccalaureate nurses for the complexities of providing primary or mental health care in today’s contemporary rural care environments (but will not exclude urban populations) with a broad understanding of the discipline of nursing and the expended role of the NP.
Blended program delivery format:
Students will complete the vast majority of coursework online in synchronous and asynchronous formats (90-95% of total coursework). There will be limited on-campus immersion requirements for students that vary by course. Once a student enters their specialty NP courses, they can expect to come to campus an average of twice per semester. All students will be required to attend a mandatory on-campus orientation prior to their first semester of courses aimed to arm all students with tools necessary for success in the program.
Two flexible options for students:
Students have a full time and part time progression option. Full time students can complete the program in 7 consecutive semesters (including summer). Part time students can complete the program in 13 consecutive semesters (including summer). Programs start each Fall.
Target student demographic and rural focus:
FSU invites seasoned, experienced registered nurses (RNs) who live and work in rural, medically underserved areas to apply for this program. The goal is that these students will remain in their rural, medically underserved communities providing a higher level of care that is so desperately needed. Special needs of rural health populations will be an explicit focus woven through the tapestry of both concentrations. But, you need not live/work in a rural area to apply to the program.
Practicum courses:
PMHNP students will complete 630 clinical practicum hours throughout the program in a variety of settings. The required practicums will be completed in the student’s local community, unless there are no local sites that meet eligibility criteria. Students will identify practicum sites of interest through a formalized process facilitated by the Clinical Placement Coordinator. The Clinical Placement Coordinator will work closely with the faculty member (course instructor) and the legal department at Frostburg State University to ensure that an affiliation agreement is finalized prior to the practicum experience that is mutually agreeable to both parties. The Clinical Placement Coordinator will also verify that all preceptors meet accreditation and programmatic standards.
Tuition & cost:
Currently under review by both Frostburg State University and the University System of Maryland. When costs are approved, information will be available on the Graduate Programs website.
How do I apply?
Review the minimum admission criteria, as all of the documents indicated will need to be included with your electronic application. Additional information can be found here. Once you are ready to apply, click the “Apply Online” link. For assistance in this process, contact Graduate Services at 301-687-7053 or via email at gradservices@frostburg.edu.
Who do I contact for additional information about the PMHNP Concentration?
Ms. Audra Houser at ajhouser@frostburg.edu.
APRN Federal Regulation:
Frostburg State University’s Department of Nursing Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) specialties and programs are approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing, and graduates of those programs are eligible for APRN certification in their specialties in Maryland. Frostburg State University’s Department of Nursing has not sought approval of its APRN specialties and programs in any other US jurisdiction. However, APRN licensure may be available to graduates through the state’s licensure by endorsement process. Frostburg State University’s Department of Nursing has not been denied approval of its APRN education program(s) by any board of nursing.