This program is designed for nurses seeking to become an advanced practice nurse as a neonatal nurse practitioner. Graduate courses in application of theory to advanced practice, application of evidence to advanced practice, advanced pathophysiology, advanced health assessment provide a foundation for this specialty.
The program features individually designed plans of study for nurses seeking to become neonatal nurse practitioners. Advanced neonatal nursing theory and clinical courses focus on the development of a framework for developmentally supportive, family centered, culturally appropriate, advanced nursing practice with infants, children and families.
We continue to offer this program in a hybrid-online format! Approximately one third of the curriculum in each course is delivered in a traditional classroom setting, and two thirds is completed in a web-based format. Several different modalities are used to enhance the student’s learning, including multimedia presentations, asynchronous discussion boards and live chats. Travel to campus is required only 2 – 3 times per semester for 3 – 4 day sessions (depending on the courses being taught) where student encounters concentrated lab and interactive case-based seminar experiences.
Focused clinical experiences are arranged with preceptors and administrators in the student’s local healthcare setting. Rural health and experiences with disadvantaged and multi-cultural populations are encouraged.
program of study
Nurse Practitioner
The neonatal nurse practitioner role includes emphasis on genetics, embryology, and the extra skills needed to practice in a critical care environment. Courses focus on the needs of the high risk infant and family. Developmental assessment of the infant and family and smooth transition of the high risk infant to the primary care setting are emphasized.
At the completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Certification Corporation (NCC) exam for national certification.
Nurse Educator
Graduate students who wish to take education courses to prepare for nurse educator roles may do so by completing the Nurse Educator Certificate course work in addition to their specialty course work.
Contact the Graduate Academic Advisor
