Family Nurse Practitioner
The Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner is a 16-month, full-time program designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced practice in primary care settings. The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive, evidence-based care across the lifespan, integrating core nursing science with clinical skills, health policy, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Students gain the ability to assess, diagnose, and manage common and complex health conditions for individuals and families in various community-based environments, including clinics, schools, and outpatient centers.
Throughout the program, students engage in intensive didactic learning alongside hands-on clinical experiences under the supervision of experienced preceptors. The focus is on holistic, patient-centered care that supports wellness, disease prevention, and chronic disease management. The program not only fosters clinical competence but also leadership, communication, and advocacy skills essential for navigating today’s complex healthcare systems. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to sit for national certification exams and take on autonomous roles as primary care providers in a wide range of settings.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Family Nurse Practitioner
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 16 months
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 April 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Nursing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
- Advanced Pathophysiology
- Primary Care Management I
- Advanced Health Assessment
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Semester 2
- Primary Care Management II
- Advanced Pharmacology
- Family Systems and Culturally Responsive Care
- Clinical Practicum I
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are eligible to become certified Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs) and are well-equipped to work in a variety of settings, including primary care clinics, family practices, urgent care centers, schools, community health organizations, and telehealth services. As demand for accessible, high-quality healthcare continues to rise, FNPs play a crucial role in preventive care, chronic disease management, pediatric and geriatric services, and health education. Many also take on leadership roles within interdisciplinary healthcare teams or choose to practice independently in states with full practice authority. The program’s clinical rigor ensures that graduates enter the workforce confident and competent in delivering person-centered care that meets the evolving needs of individuals and families across all life stages.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent fit for nurses seeking to advance their scope of practice and make a meaningful difference in patient care. The accelerated structure combines intensive clinical training, rigorous academic coursework, and interprofessional collaboration, allowing students to develop both depth and breadth in their clinical skills within a short period. With a strong emphasis on holistic and culturally competent care, students are trained to address health disparities and improve outcomes for underserved communities. Graduating from this program means stepping into a role where you are not only a caregiver but also a leader, educator, and advocate in the healthcare system—ready to deliver impactful, lifelong care across diverse populations.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
