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Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing

Expand your knowledge and skills in the nursing profession

Navigating the complex modern health care environment requires a solid understanding of the latest in research theory, proven best practices, and a commitment to succeed through personal and professional accomplishment. With this mindset, Norwich empowers leadership in nursing with online Post-Master's Certificates that deepen your knowledge in specialty practice areas.

Norwich offers its Post-Master’s APRN Certificates in three tracks:

  • Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)

These online certificates can expand your capabilities in providing expert care in niche areas within a larger patient population.

Our experienced faculty of nursing professionals help you explore the latest in research theory and proven methodologies to elevate your skills to function as a nurse practitioner with a profound depth of knowledge in your chosen practice area. Through completion of a curricular courses and a clinical placement, graduates from a certificate program are prepared for the following certification exams:

  • The Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner board certification exam, administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
  • The Family Nurse Practitioner national certification board exam, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
  • The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certification exam, administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center

Professional Licensure Disclosure
The Post-Master’s Certificates in Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner are designed to prepare students for advanced practice in specialty practice areas. The requirements for professional licensure or certification vary by state. Norwich University has made determinations regarding the ability of the certificates to meet the educational requirements for state licensure. Please review our Professional Licensure Disclosure. 

Quick Info

4
Starts Per Year

Choose when to begin your studies

15
Students

Maximum numbers of students per class

18
Credit Hours

Total Credit Hours

Why Norwich

Founded in 1819, Norwich University serves students with varied work schedules and lifestyles.

Complete an online degree program, certificate, or professional development offerings at your convenience via our virtual learning platform.

Connect with Norwich’s exceptional faculty and students from across the country and around the world.

Accreditation & Recognition

logo, new england commission of higher education

Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).

logo, commission on collegiate nursing education

The master's degree program in nursing and post-graduate APRN certificate program at Norwich University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org). 

 

 


Scholarship Opportunities

Norwich University offers a range of opportunities to help you lower your overall tuition costs. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about your options. Please note that scholarships are not additive. In addition to scholarships, students may also be eligible for discounts if their organization partners with Norwich University.

Discover Scholarships

Norwich University Online students may be eligible for scholarships and we encourage all potential students to visit our scholarships page here.

Help us learn more about your experience and see if you qualify for a Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing.

Curriculum

Core Curriculum

The curriculum model adopted by our Post-Master’s Certificates in Nursing program aligns with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing master’s-level education preparation standards — including the Master’s Essentials. The program curriculum also aligns with the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties Nurse Practitioner Core Competencies.

If you have not completed courses in advanced pharmacology, advanced physical assessment, and advanced pathophysiology in the past five years, you will as part of your certificate program with Norwich.

Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

AGACNPs provide a variety of medical services including the monitoring of complex health issues and development of treatment plans for adults and gerontology patients facing acute or chronic illnesses. They also work to prevent future medical events and provide healthy living advice.

Program courses in this specialty will prepare you for this field:

  • Advanced Pharmacology – Population Focus: Adult and Geriatric
    NR591 2 credit hours

    This course builds on principles of advanced pharmacology and provides a comprehensive overview of major drug classifications in relation to adult and geriatric populations. The effects of selected medications on pathophysiology with geriatric considerations are examined.  The student explores clinical decision making, evidence-based prescribing and safety, dose-response, side effects/drug interactions, and use of medication in the overall plan of care for populations across the lifespan, with an emphasis on preventive and health promotion and chronic disease management considerations.

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care I
    NR621 2 credit hours

    This course examines evidence-based practice in adult acute/critical and chronic health care settings. It emphasizes the integration of theory, assessment, diagnosis and advanced therapeutics for adults and frail elders in high acuity patient settings.

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care Clinical I
    NR622 2 credit hours

    This course includes an intense clinical experience to build the ACNP-AG expertise. A minimum of 165 clinical hours in an adult acute/critical and/or chronic health care setting, providing care to an adult/geriatric population. Preceptors may include practitioners and adult and adult-geriatric nurse practitioners or other physicians practicing in the health care setting.

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care II
    NR623 2 credit hours

    A continuation of Adult Geriatric Acute Care I, this course examines evidence-based practice in adult acute/critical and chronic health care settings. It emphasizes the integration of theory, assessment, diagnosis and advanced therapeutics for adults and frail elders in high acuity patient settings.

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care Clinical II
    NR624 2 credit hours

    This course includes an intense clinical experience to build the ACNP-AG expertise. A minimum of 165 clinical hours in an adult acute/critical and/or chronic health care setting, providing care to an adult/geriatric population. Preceptors may include practitioners and adult and adult-geriatric nurse practitioners or other physicians practicing in the health care setting.

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care III
    NR625 2 credit hours

    This course builds upon Acute Care II and examines evidence-based practice in adult acute/critical and chronic health care settings. It emphasizes the integration of theory, assessment, diagnosis and advanced therapeutics for adults and frail elders in high acuity patient settings. A focus on the management of acute and chronic health problems will be analyzed.

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care Clinical III
    NR626 2 credit hours

    This course includes an intense clinical experience to build the AGPCNP expertise. A minimum of 165 clinical hours in an adult acute/critical and/or chronic health care setting, providing care to an adult/geriatric population. 

  • Adult Geriatric Acute Care IV
    NR627 2 credit hours

    A continuation of Adult Geriatric Acute Care III this course examines evidence-based practice in adult acute/critical and chronic health care settings. It emphasizes the integration of theory, assessment, diagnosis and advanced therapeutics for adults and frail elders in high acuity patient settings. A focus on the management of acute and chronic health problems will be analyzed.

  • Adult Geriatric and Acute Care Clinical IV
    NR628 2 credit hours

    This course includes an intense clinical experience to build the AGPCNP expertise. A minimum of 165 clinical hours in an adult acute/critical and/or chronic health care setting, providing care to an adult/geriatric population. Preceptors may include adult or family nurse practitioners or other physicians practicing in the health care setting.

Family Nurse Practitioner

FNPs perform a variety of medical exams, order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, develop treatment plans, maintain patient records, and more for patients across the lifespan.

Program courses in this specialty will prepare you for this field:

  • Advanced Pharmacology – Population Focus: Family
    NR590 2 credit hours

    This course builds on principles of advanced pharmacology and provides a comprehensive overview of major drug classifications in relation to children and families. The effects of selected medications on pathophysiology with considerations of age are examined. The student explores clinical decision making, evidence-based prescribing and safety, dose response, side effects/drug interactions, and use of medication in the overall plan of care for populations across the lifespan, with an emphasis on preventive and health promotion and chronic disease management considerations.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner I (Adult and Geriatric)
    NR611 2 credit hours

    This course, level one of two-levels, examines essential competencies necessary to provide primary health care to patients and families of diverse populations with a focus on the adult and geriatric age groups. An emphasis on understanding the development and cultural needs of patients across the lifespan in a primary health setting are emphasized.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Clinical I
    NR612 2 credit hours

    This FNP clinical experience advances the student’s proficiency in comprehensive health evaluation across the lifespan within the context of family, community, and culture. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. 

  • Family Nurse Practitioner II (Adult and Geriatric)
    NR613 2 credit hours

    A continuation of Family Nurse Practitioner I, this course examines essential competencies necessary to provide primary health care to patients and families of diverse populations with a focus on the adult and geriatric age groups. An emphasis on understanding the development and cultural needs of patients across the lifespan in a primary health setting are emphasized.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Clinical II
    NR614 2 credit hours

    The FNP clinical experience advances the student’s proficiency in comprehensive health evaluation across the lifespan within the context of family, community, and culture. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. 

  • Family Nurse Practitioner III (Women and Children)
    NR615 2 credit hours

    This course, level two of two-levels, examines essential competencies necessary to provide primary health care to patients and families of diverse populations with a focus on the care of women and children. An emphasis on understanding the development and cultural needs of patients across the lifespan in a primary health setting are emphasized.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Clinical III
    NR616 2 credit hours

    The FNP Clinical Experience builds upon FNP clinical experience and advances the student’s proficiency in comprehensive health evaluation across the lifespan within the context of family, community, and culture. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. 

  • Family Nurse Practitioner IV (Women and Children)
    NR617 2 credit hours

    This course, a continuation of Family Nurse Practitioner III, examines essential competencies necessary to provide primary health care to patients and families of diverse populations focusing on the care of women and children. An emphasis on understanding the development and cultural needs of patients across the lifespan in a primary health setting are emphasized.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Clinical IV
    NR618 2 credit hours

    The FNP Clinical Experience builds upon FNP III clinical experience and advances the student’s proficiency in comprehensive health evaluation across the lifespan within the context of family, community, and culture. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required.  

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

PMHNPs assess, diagnose, and treat patients’ mental health needs. Many PMHNPs can provide therapy, and some prescribe medications, for patients who have mental health disorders, substance use issues, and traumas. They oversee case management, coordinate care, and make referrals if necessary.

Program courses in this specialty will prepare you for this field:

  • Advanced Pharmacology – Population Focus: Mental Health
    NR592 2 credit hours

    This course builds on principles of advanced pharmacology and provides a comprehensive overview of major drug classifications in relation to mental health diagnoses and treatment across the lifespan. The effects of selected medications on pathophysiology and psychopathology are examined.  The student explores clinical decision making, evidence-based prescribing and safety, dose response, side effects/drug interactions, and use of medication in the overall plan of care for populations with mental health problems.

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I
    NR631 2 credit hours

    This course examines the theory of individual, family and group therapy techniques applicable across the lifespan, cross-cultural and problem-focused. The course further examines a selection of evidence-based theories of individual, group and family psychotherapy. The course studies the major presentations of mental illness, clinical theory, and the use of the DSM IV-R in diagnosing and treatment decisions for clients across the life span. Emphasis is placed on assessment of pathology in mental health, history taking, mental status evaluation, differential diagnosis, documentation of care, and evaluation of the treatment of psychiatric mental health care to clients across the lifespan. Legal and ethical considerations of therapy are considered.

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical I
    NR632 2 credit hours

    This course provides the foundational intensive clinical experience in the psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) role. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. Preceptors will guide and direct the PMHNP students as they apply evidence-based practice concepts and develop expertise in assessing, diagnosing and developing treatment plans in the mental health care of families and individuals across the lifespan. 

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner II
    NR633 2 credit hours

    A continuation of Psychiatric and Mental Health NP I, this course examines the theory of individual, family and group therapy techniques applicable across the lifespan, cross-cultural and problem-focused. The course further examines a selection of evidence-based theories of individual, group and family psychotherapy. The course studies the major presentations of mental illness, clinical theory, and the use of the DSM IV-R in diagnosing and treatment decisions for clients across the life span. Emphasis is placed on assessment of pathology in mental health, history taking, mental status evaluation, differential diagnosis, documentation of care, and evaluation of the treatment of psychiatric mental health care to clients across the lifespan. Legal and ethical considerations of therapy are considered.

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical II
    NR634 2 credit hours

    This course continues the foundational intensive clinical experience in the psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) role. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. Preceptors will guide and direct the PMHNP students as they apply evidence-based practice concepts and develop expertise in assessing, diagnosing and developing treatment plans in the mental health care of families and individuals across the lifespan. 

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner III
    NR635 2 credit hours

    This course examines the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) role in health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis and management in psychiatric practice with diverse populations across the lifespan. Physiologic systems and psychiatric disorders are examined. Emphasis is placed on differentiating signs and symptoms for diagnosis and treatment and examines the effect of the illness on the family.

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical III
    NR636 2 credit hours

    This course provides an advanced intensive clinical experience in the psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) role. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. Preceptors will guide and direct the PMHNP students as they apply evidence-based practice concepts and achieve greater Independence and expertise in assessing, diagnosing, treating and managing mental health care for families and individuals across the lifespan. 

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner IV
    NR637 2 credit hours

    A continuation of Psychiatric and Mental Health NP III, this course examines the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) role in health promotion, disease prevention, diagnosis and management in psychiatric practice with diverse populations across the lifespan. Physiologic systems and psychiatric disorders are examined. Emphasis is placed on differentiating signs and symptoms for diagnosis and treatment and examines the effect of the illness on the family.

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical IV
    NR638 2 credit hours

    This course provides an advanced intensive clinical experience in the psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) role. A minimum of 165 clinical hours are required. Preceptors will guide and direct the PMHNP students as they apply evidence-based practice concepts and achieve greater Independence and expertise in assessing, diagnosing, treating and managing mental health care for families and individuals across the lifespan. 


Admissions

At a Glance

  • No GMAT or GRE required
  • Graduate GPA of 3.0 or better required

Admissions Requirements »

Prerequisites for Admission

To qualify for admission into our online Post-Master's Certificate program, you must:

  • Hold a current, unencumbered RN license in your state of practice
  • Hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree from a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) nationally accredited program with a GPA of 3.0 or better required.
  • Have completed the following (3 P) courses within the last five years:
  1. Advanced Pharmacology
  2. Advanced Health Assessment (Lifespan required)
  3. Advanced Pathophysiology (Lifespan required)
  • If English is not your first language, proof of English language proficiency is required. This can be demonstrated in one of three ways:
  1. TOEFL - a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (Internet-based test) is required.*
  2. IELTS – a minimum composite score of 6.5 is required.*
  3. The applicant holds a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a college/university/institution in which the primary language of instruction was English.

Please Note:  All eligibility requirements are expected to be met unless noted in specific articulation agreements or memoranda of understanding (MOUs).

Application Process

You will be required to submit the following items:

  • Online admissions application
  • Resume
  • One letter of recommendation from a nurse leader/manager or supervisor that can attest to your readiness for all graduate-level work
  1. The letter of recommendation should be submitted on professional letterhead
  2. An additional letter of recommendation may be requested by the Program Director during the application review process
  • A personal statement of your professional goals
  • Official transcript(s)

Additional Guidelines for the 3 Ps and Certificate Students:

  • For any uncompleted, partial (I.e. not covering the Lifespan), or lapsed courses (I.e. taken more than 5 years ago) you will need to complete the course(se) as a pre-requisite, unless you are actively practicing as a Nurse Practitioner and have a current Board certification (ANCC or AANP)
     
  • If the student has an MSN in Nursing Education or Healthcare/Nursing Leadership this will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as Norwich will have to evaluate the credits and content of the 3 Ps and they must be within 5 years. Norwich will need to review the syllabi from the school where the course was completed. Note: It helps the review process when students include the syllabi for the completed 3 Ps along with other application documents.
     
  • If the student is not practicing, but has maintained their certification and licensing, then they will most likely not need to repeat the Advanced Pharmacology or Pathophysiology course, however they will need to retake the Advanced Health Assessment course. Note: This may be on a case-by-case situation.

Contact an admissions advisor for assistance:

Phone: 1-877.348.8153

Email: info@online.norwich.edu

Next Start Date

Monday, September 4, 2023

Application Deadline

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Contact Admissions

Mon - Fri: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST

 

Call: 1-877-348-8153
Email: info@online.norwich.edu

Non-Discrimination Statement

Norwich University, in compliance with Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, or physical handicap in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.


Tuition & Fees

Term tuition varies based on the number of credits taken. Total tuition is based on a full-credit load per term.

*Tuition may differ based on semesters enrolled and number of transfer credits. First semester is comprised of two courses and subsequent semesters are four courses.

2022-23 Tuition and Fee Schedule - Certificates

Rate Per Credit
Term
Tuition
Additional Expenses Total
$825
$1,800 - $3,200 *
  • Technology - $350/term
  • Library - $75/term
  • Clinical fee - $600
$16,975*

Careers & Outcomes

As health organizations work toward early detection and treatment of diseases and mental health issues through solutions-based therapy and long-term treatment options, the demand for clinical knowledge and expertise continues to rise — along with the potential benefits for highly skilled nurse practitioners. In fact, the average salary for a nurse practitioner is approximately $117,670, with possible increases based on years of experience, geographic location, and chosen specialty. *


Along with a higher salary, additional credentials, and increased professional respect, program graduates can experience career mobility, increased autonomy, and greater flexibility in the workplace. Due to the highly-specialized nature of your chosen field, nurse practitioners are well positioned to pursue fulfilling and secure roles that are highly sought by health care organizations including:

  • Hospitals
  • The U.S. Armed Forces and Veterans Administration
  • Urgent care facilities
  • State- or locally-operated health departments
  • Colleges/universities
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturers
  • Nursing and rehabilitation centers
  • Privately-operated doctor’s offices

* U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics


Faculty & Staff

Our online Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing is led by a dedicated faculty who are subject matter experts in a variety of advanced nursing fields. Through their scholarly insight and practical, real-world experience, you’ll learn methods for safe and effective assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation in caring for individuals and groups while collaborating with other professionals.

Staff members offer additional support with choosing classes, financial aid and other issues from day one to graduation. Each faculty member is committed to helping you achieve your academic, professional, and personal goals. Our in-house instructional design team works hand-in-hand with program faculty and staff to ensure an efficient and interactive online learning experience for each course.

Academic Director

Wood potrait
Jessica  Wood

Jessica Wood, DNP, WHNP-BC, RNC-OB is a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner and licensed registered nurse, and has been teaching at the Norwich University School of Nursing since 2008.  Although she has experience as a critical care nurse, a kidney transplant nurse, and emergency room nurse, the majority of her career has been dedicated to labor, delivery, postpartum, newborn care, and women's health.  As a passionate leader for nursing, Dr. Wood has expanded her expertise to include many leadership and nursing education roles in her 20+ years in nursing.  She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of New Hampshire, a Master of Science in Health Systems Leadership from Norwich University, a post-Master's certificate as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner from Duke University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Duke University.

Jessica's most recent work was for a well-known non-profit organization providing care to women throughout northern New England.  Additionally, she has led nursing students to impoverished areas of Nicaragua and continues to practice as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner in New England.  She is a native Vermonter and loves biking, skiing, hiking, and paddleboarding.  

Meet Jessica »

Program Staff

portrait
Janice F. Hansen, RN, MSN, MA
Program Coordinator

Make a Difference

The health care industry relies on nurses with leadership skills, compassion, and expertise. Our Online Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing seek to mold future nursing leaders within-depth knowledge in in-demand specialties. The program allows master’s-level nurses who seek career enhancement and mobility to develop the necessary supplemental knowledge and skills in a specific area of expertise. With guidance from our experienced faculty, you’ll develop the essential skills to explore professional growth and pursue career advancement or enhancement as a highly specialized nurse practitioner.


Coursework builds upon your knowledge and understanding of industry best practices, giving you the confidence to engage in frontline medicine with greater competence, clarity, accuracy, and efficiency. In this capacity, you can make a larger impact in your community by performing more effectively as a Nurse Practitioner, while exploring career advancement that aligns with your professional goals and interests.


Resources

 


Course Exams

Course assessments may include implementation of automated examination monitoring software. View Norwich's Notice Regarding the Use of Examination Monitoring Software