University of Charleston

University of Charleston

Online Master’s Degree Nursing Program Enrolling Now

The University of Charleston is offering a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree designed to prepare graduates for becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).

The program will be offered online with just one on-campus residency required. The curriculum is 42 credit hours, and UC is currently enrolling new students.

The program director for the new degree is Dr. Betty M.L. Beimel, Ph.D., CRNP, FNP-C, CNE. She brings academic experience in traditional and online formats from more than five educational institutions. Most recently, she was a Visiting Professor for the RN to BSN program at Chamberlain University College of Nursing & Public Health.

“We are excited to offer University of Charleston’s first graduate nursing degree,” said Beimel. “The program is online, and we are starting our first cohort in the spring of this year followed by a second cohort this fall. Family nurse practitioners care for patients of all ages in a variety of settings and there is a high demand for FNP’s across the nation.”

The University of Charleston has offered nursing programs since 1964. It currently offers an Associate Degree of Nursing at both its Beckley and Charleston campuses, as well as a traditional bachelor’s degree in nursing and an online RN to BSN degree.

“Dr. Beimel is an experienced nurse educator with a proven track record of successfully leading the development of high quality, online Family Nurse Practitioner programs,” said University of Charleston Provost Dr. Kim Spiezio. “Her leadership will make a great contribution to UC’s continuing commitment to address the workforce and health care needs of West Virginia by offering innovative programs in the health sciences for students of all ages.”

Family Nurse practitioners may practice in various healthcare settings and specialize in the type of care provided. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, West Virginia employs Family Nurse Practitioners at 2.5 – 3.5 times the national rate.

 

More information can be found at https://www.ucwv.edu/academics/majors-degrees/master-of-science-in-nursing/.