Missouri

Missouri has several options for RNs seeking online graduate programs in the family nurse practitioner (FNP) specialization. Four universities offer an online master of science in nursing (MSN) in the FNP specialty area for registered nurses (RNs) with bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN) degrees: Saint Louis University, Graceland University, the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), and Maryville University.

Post-master’s certificate programs are available at Saint Louis, Graceland, and Maryville for APRNs wishing to add the FNP concentration to their licensure. Doctoral programs are administered by Maryville University (BSN-to-DNP), UMKC (BSN- or MSN-to-DNP), and Saint Louis University (BSN- or MSN-to-DNP). In addition to its other program offerings, Graceland University has an RN-to-MSN track for registered nurses with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees (RN-to-MSN or “ADN bridge”).

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has accredited all of these online programs. None of them require the GRE for admission.

FNPs are prepared to provide primary care in diverse healthcare settings through specialized online coursework and hands-on clinical practice. All programs require one or more campus visits except Maryville University’s MSN and DNP programs, which are 100 percent online.

To learn more about Missouri-based online FNP programs, as well as licensing requirements for nurse practitioners in the state, see the information below.

Program Information: Online FNP Programs in Missouri

The FNP program at Saint Louis University focuses on quality relationships with patients, in addition to the education and management of services targeted toward optimal health outcomes. Online coursework, clinical hours, and campus visits make up these programs. MSN and certificate students must complete two on-campus visits, while DNP students must attend four. Students take part in orientation, skill-development, and assessment activities during these campus residencies. Full- and part-time study plans are available for all of the FNP pathways offered at SLU. A minimum GPA of 3.2 is demanded of applicants to the master’s and post-master’s certificate programs; DNP candidates must have a 3.5 GPA or higher.

The MSN in FNP is one of six NP specialty areas offered at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Described as a hybrid program, the FNP combines online learning, on-campus residencies, and clinical practice. Students attend on-campus residencies during clinical coursework. Though courses are delivered online, some may require scheduled class times, for which students are notified ahead of time. As a culminating experience, students have the option of choosing a thesis or an advanced research course based on their career goals and areas of interest. A BSN-to-DNP in FNP is also available through UMKC.

Maryville University prepares FNPs to deliver holistic healthcare to adults and children in primary care settings. MU has four FNP tracks: an MSN, a BSN-to-DNP, a post-master’s certificate, and a DNP-NP. All programs are 100 percent online. The online learning platform is available 24/7 for individuals who need flexibility with scheduling study time and coursework completion. Clinical practicums may be completed in students’ local communities and are paired with clinical inquiry courses that provide students with the opportunity to conduct research relevant to their experiences and learning.

Graceland University offers three programs for aspiring FNPs, depending on their previous education. BSN-holders can enroll in the more traditional MSN program, while those with an associate degree (ADN) can register for the RN-to-MSN program where they obtain both a BSN and MSN. The third option is a post-graduate certificate for those who already have an MSN degree. The 47-credit BSN-to-MSN and the 103-credit ADN-to-MSN tracks both feature online coursework, clinical experience, and a two-day campus visit. The certificate program can be completed entirely online. FNP course topics include advanced practice nursing in primary care, primary care of families: pediatrics and adults, roles and issues for advanced practice nurses, and advanced pathophysiology. Graceland’s FNP programs are available to residents in all states except Kentucky, Maryland, New York, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

FNP Licensing Requirements in Missouri

Becoming licensed as an advanced practice registered nurse in the state of Missouri is relatively simple in contrast to the process for APRN licensure in other states. To do so, candidates must submit the following documents to the Missouri State Board of Licensing Office:

• A completed, signed and notarized application
• A completed authorization to release confidential information (to be used to request information from applicants’ certifying entity)
• Validation of current Missouri RN certification (or other compact registered nurse license) and date of expiration
• A $150.00 non-refundable application fee payable by personal check or money order.

A note on prescriptive authority: APRNs licensed as family nurse practitioners in Missouri must have a collaborative agreement with a physician if performing delegated medical acts. With such a document, FNPs have automatic prescriptive authority. Collaborative agreements, however, do not need to be submitted to the nursing board.