FNP Schools
FNP Master’s Programs in Norfolk, Virginia
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Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner in Norfolk, Virginia
If you’re considering a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) in Norfolk, Virginia, you’re embarking on a rewarding path that combines advanced clinical skills with compassionate patient care. An FNP is a type of advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who provides comprehensive healthcare services to individuals and families across the lifespan. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming an FNP, including education paths, certification, and employment opportunities in Norfolk.
About Norfolk
Norfolk, Virginia, is a historic and bustling city located in the heart of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. Known for its rich maritime heritage, Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base and a thriving arts scene. The city offers a blend of urban and coastal living, with attractions like the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Norfolk Botanical Garden. For more information about Norfolk, visit the official city website.
FNP Programs in Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk offers several options for those looking to pursue FNP programs. Here are three local schools that provide accredited Family Nurse Practitioner programs:
- Old Dominion University (ODU)
- Located in the Larchmont-Edgewater neighborhood, ODU offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and focuses on evidence-based practice and leadership.
- ODU FNP Program
- Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS)
- Situated in the Ghent district, EVMS provides an MSN program with a focus on primary care for families. The curriculum includes both theoretical and clinical components designed to prepare students for national certification.
- EVMS Nursing Programs
- Norfolk State University (NSU)
- NSU, located in the Ballentine Place neighborhood, offers a comprehensive MSN program that prepares students for advanced practice roles, including Family Nurse Practitioner. The program emphasizes community health and preventive care.
- NSU Nursing Programs
FNP Employment Opportunities in Norfolk
Norfolk boasts a variety of healthcare facilities where FNPs can find employment opportunities. Here are some major employers in the area:
- Sentara Norfolk General Hospital
- Located in the Medical Center neighborhood, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a leading healthcare facility offering a wide range of services. It is known for its cardiac care and trauma services.
- Sentara Careers
- Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD)
- Situated in the Ghent area, CHKD is the only freestanding children’s hospital in Virginia, providing specialized pediatric care.
- CHKD Careers
- Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center
- Located in the North Ghent neighborhood, Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center offers comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care and surgical services.
- Bon Secours Careers
Prerequisites for FNP Programs
To enroll in an FNP program, candidates typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Education: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited institution.
– Experience: Minimum of one year of clinical experience as a registered nurse (RN).
– Exams: Successful completion of entrance exams such as the GRE, if required.
– Background Check: A clear criminal background check and proof of immunizations.
FNP Certification Requirements in Virginia
In Virginia, FNPs must meet specific certification requirements:
– Graduate Degree: Complete an MSN or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program from an accredited institution.
– RN License: Hold a valid Virginia RN license. Licensure by endorsement is available for out-of-state RNs.
– National Certification: Obtain certification through the ANCC or AANP.
– Application: Apply for FNP licensure through the Virginia Department of Health Professions. Virginia Board of Nursing
Licensure Requirements
Virginia requires FNPs to:
– Apply for Licensure: Submit an application with proof of national certification and pay the required fee.
– Prescriptive Authority: Fulfill additional requirements for prescriptive authority, such as pharmacology coursework or practice hours.
Licensure Reciprocity
Virginia participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing FNPs to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses. This provides flexibility for those considering relocation or multi-state practice.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Norfolk, Virginia, is a fulfilling journey that offers numerous opportunities for professional growth and impact. Contact a local school today to learn more about their FNP programs and take the first step toward your future in advanced nursing practice.
For more information on the job outlook for Nurse Practitioners, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.