Frequently Asked Questions
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Role of the Family Nurse Practitioner
Who can apply for the Allen College FNP Program
FNP employment
Choosing clinical preceptors
Nurse practitioner certification information
What is the role of the Family Nurse Practitioner?
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) has a broad scope of practice which includes ages birth to death. Graduates of Allen College FNP program are prepared to work in family practice clinics but may work in a variety of clinic settings. Regulations required for practice and prescriptive authority vary from state to state. National certification through examination by either the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) is required prior to state licensure. For further information regarding specific state requirements, please contact your state's Board of Nursing.
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Who can apply for the Allen College Family Nurse Practitioner Program?
Registered nurses with a bachelor's degree in nursing from a regionally accredited school may apply. (Students who hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing may also apply. They will be required to take undergraduate courses in statistics, nursing research and community health prior to enrollment in certain master's level courses in addition to holding an associate's degree in nursing). A minimum overall undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale is required. A minimum of 800 hours of clinical nursing experience as a registered nurse is required for enrollment in courses with a clinical/practicum requirement.
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Do FNPs have difficulty finding employment?
FNPs have generally found work in an advanced practice role within months of their certification. Willingness to work in rural or underserved areas or in specialty areas increases job opportunities. Students are apprised of area job opportunities on the Allen College website and many students have job offers prior to graduation.
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How are clinical preceptors chosen?
Clinical placement is under the direct supervision of the Clinical Coordinator, Nurse Practitioner track leads and course faculty. Students may provide input in the selection process by identifying potential preceptors. Students may also elect to participate in one of Allen College’s Dedicated Education Clinics (DECs).
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