The School of Nursing offers a curriculum leading to the degree of Master
of Science in Nursing. 
9th ranked program in Family Nurse PractitionerThe
program of study prepares students for roles in advanced nursing practice. The
program requires research, professional and clinical cores, and a selected advanced
practice area. Applicants are admitted for either full-time or part-time study
and can begin in fall.
The advanced practice curriculum in the Family Nurse practitioner Program prepares nurses as family nurse practitioners (FNPs) for community-oriented primary care. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for national certification examinations and to apply for approval to practice as FNPs in North Carolina.
FNPs provide comprehensive health promotion services to ambulatory clients; evaluate presenting problems at the client's initial contact with the primary care system; and provide continuing care to clients with acute and stable chronic illnesses. In addition to clinical practice, other themes emphasized throughout the primary care courses include: an epidemiological approach to clinical problems; holism and caring; family and community systems; appropriate use of technology; cost effectiveness; collaboration; consultation and the referral process; theoretical frameworks; and the research base for primary care practice.
Clinical practice sites are generally located in central NC, but they may extend across the state and require travel. A variety of settings are utilized: family practices; health maintenance organizations; student health services; occupational health clinics; home health services; rural clinics; and child, adolescent, adult and geriatric sites.
Each student's program is individualized to the student's interests and needs through clinical placements, papers, presentations, and elective courses. Full-time students can complete the program in four semesters and one intervening summer practicum. Part-time students usually complete the program in six semesters and one intervening summer term.
MSN students with an interest in community oriented primary care or global health will have opportunities to focus their study in areas of special interest such as vulnerable populations or health disparities through clinical placements, elective courses, and the Master's Paper. Additionally, students may choose from a wider variety of electives outside the School of Nursing, in the many different departments and schools at Carolina. Students are encouraged to talk with their advisors about their interests in special areas for developing an individualized plan of study.
School of Nursing
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Carrington Hall, CB #7460
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7460
For general information on the School of Nursing and application materials, contact:
Office of Admissions and Student Services
(919) 966-4260
nursing@unc.edu
