Wright State University Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

What to Expect from Wright State University Online Nurse Practitioner Programs

Admission Requirements: Admission to Wright State University’s online nurse practitioner programs varies slightly between master’s and post-master’s certificate programs but shares many of the same foundational criteria. GRE scores are not required for admission.

For the MSN programs, applicants must hold a BSN from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants are required to possess an unencumbered nursing license and demonstrate professional nursing experience, with the FNP program requiring at least two years of full-time, post-BSN nursing experience, and the PMHNP program requiring at least one year of full-time or two years of part-time experience in psychiatric nursing practice. Each program requires applicants to submit two professional references, a meaningful clinical experience essay, a brief statement of professional goals, a current resume or CV, and official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. A background check through BCII and the FBI is mandatory. International applicants must hold a current US nursing license and provide proof of English language proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Pearson PTE.

The post-master’s certificate programs require applicants to hold a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree from a CCNE-accredited program. Applicants must possess an active, unencumbered RN license in the state where clinical experiences will occur, complete a clear OBI/FBI background check, and provide a professional resume, official master’s degree transcripts, and two recommendation letters. The FNP certificate program also requires completion of advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and advanced health assessment courses with a grade of C or higher before admission.

State Restrictions: Wright State University is an NC-SARA participant and is authorized to provide distance education in approved states. Students outside of Ohio should inquire with the College of Health, Education, and Human Services through Wright State University, as well as their state Board of Nursing, to determine licensure requirements and out-of-state distance learning eligibility.

Study Plan: Designed to accommodate working professionals, the Wright State University online NP programs offer well-structured study plans. Each program combines online coursework with essential hands-on clinical experiences. Start dates for the programs land in the spring, summer, and fall. The MSN programs can be completed in approximately two years, while the post-master’s certificate can be completed in about one year if all prerequisites have been met.

The MSN-FNP program consists of 49 credits and 616 clinical hours. While coursework is online, students are required to visit campus one to two times per semester for hands-on skills training and objective standardized clinical exams. The MSN-PMHNP concentration includes 46 total credits and 560 clinical hours. Classes are online except for a two-day on-campus physical assessment course and on-campus sessions during the three practicum courses. Clinical placements are arranged in the student’s geographic area.

For those pursuing post-master’s certificates, the FNP certificate program involves completing 17 credits. The PNP-PC certificate totals 18 credits and 560 clinical hours.

MSN Curriculum: The MSN-FNP curriculum comprises 49 credits that include core courses such as role development and leadership; health policy, politics, and issues; and nursing research and evidence for practice. Supporting courses include introduction to biostatistics for evidence-based practice in health sciences or statistics and research; theoretical foundations for nursing practice; information technology in health care; advanced pathophysiology across the lifespan for advanced nursing practice; applied pharmacology and therapeutics for advanced practice across the lifespan; advanced health assessment across the life span; population health; advanced family nursing; primary health care of women, children, and adolescents; and primary care of adults. The program also includes an FNP practicum to provide essential clinical experience.

The MSN-PMHNP curriculum consists of 46 credits, divided into 24 credits of graduate nursing coursework and 22 credits specifically focused on psychiatric mental health nursing. Core nursing courses include role development and leadership; health policy, politics, and issues; and nursing research and evidence for practice. Supporting courses include introduction to biostatistics for evidence-based practice in health sciences; advanced pathophysiology across the lifespan for advanced nursing practice; applied pharmacology and therapeutics for advanced practice across the lifespan; advanced health assessment across the life span; and population health. Additionally, students complete a three-part PMHNP practicum series.

Post-Master’s Certificate Curriculum: The FNP post-master’s certificate curriculum requires 17 credits. Courses include primary health care of women, children, and adolescents; primary health care of adults; and a family nurse practitioner practicum.

The PNP-PC post-master’s certificate curriculum includes 18 credits and 560 clinical hours. Courses include health promotion & management of pediatric minor illnesses & injuries; chronic care for pediatric nurse practitioners; and practicum for primary care pediatric nurse practitioners.

Online Experience: Course content may include online lectures, videos, web conferencing, discussion boards, assignments, assessments, and more. Wright State University utilizes the Pilot learning management system (LMS). Students communicate with instructors through email, discussion boards, and during online office hours, as well as during campus visits. Students have access to various services, including technical support, career counseling, academic advising, library and bookstore services, and disability services.

On-Site Requirements: The MSN-FNP program requires students to visit campus one to two times per semester for hands-on skills training and OSCEs. The MSN-PMHNP concentration requires students to come to campus for a two-day on-campus physical assessment course and on-campus sessions during the three practicum courses. In addition, students complete clinical preceptorships locally.