March 21, 2024

Nurse.org Names Wheeling’s FNP Program Second Best in West Virginia

WHEELING, W.Va., March 21 – Wheeling University’s Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program has been named one of the top master’s level curriculums in West Virginia by Nurse.org.

According to the Nurse.org site, Wheeling University’s program is the second best, with just West Virginia University receiving a higher ranking. Nurse.org ranked the best master’s level programs to assist nurses who are trying to find a program that fits their educational needs.

Jill Emery, director of Nursing Programs at Wheeling, noted that each institution’s nurse practitioner program has its own special features. “What sets Wheeling’s program a part from many is its fully online format. The online format allows students from across the country the ability to enroll and to earn a degree. The online format offers who are working flexibility, so they can create a plan that best fits into their schedules.”

Dr. Karen Fahey, a nursing instructor who works directly with FNP students, explained that many FNP programs offer online instruction, while many other programs require students to come to campus while they are taking courses.

Both Emery and Fahey explain Wheeling’s nurse practitioner programs gives students autonomy –allowing them to take courses on a full- or part-time basis. Each student has up to seven years to complete a degree. This flexible format allow the students to set their own pace.

Cost per credit hour for Wheeling’s MSN program is $550, while the average cost nationwide is $950. Emery said students can take as little as one class per semester. 

“Being ranked as one of the top three programs in West Virginia means the students are satisfied with our program and the graduates are successful in pursuing careers as a family nurse practitioner. Our current students and graduates speak highly of the program, and they are our best recruiters,” Fahey said.

The MSN-FNP track prepares nurses for the advanced practice family nurse practitioner role and national certification. The track integrates concepts from nursing, science, and family practice to give the experienced nurse the advanced in-depth body of knowledge necessary to practice in the expanded registered nurse role as a provider of primary health care.

To learn more about Wheeling University’s Master of Science in Nursing programs, contact kfahey@wheeling.edu or call the Admissions Office at 1-800-873-7665.