Your career starts here! Explore your opportunities to engage with the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing.
Virtual Events
Learn about the Vanderbilt School of Nursing and the many programs we offer from the convenience of your
own home. Admissions staff and program faculty are available to answer questions about academic programs,
the application process and much more.
Join an admissions counselor for a 30-minute information session with key insights on admissions, financial aid and
scholarships. Enjoy a walking tour of Vanderbilt’s park-like campus, where a student guide shares details on academics
and social life.
Visit with Vanderbilt School of Nursing admissions officers at conferences across the U.S. Ask questions
and learn more about Vanderbilt School of Nursing’s academic opportunities, student life, financial aid and
scholarships, and Nashville.
Head to Nashville to see the School of Nursing in person! Learn about the admissions process, hear from
faculty who are clinical educators and mentors, interact with student panels, tour campus and see our
state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab!
Answer the questions below to find the VUSN program(s) that could be perfect for you:
What is your primary scope of interest?
Master of Nursing (Nursing Generalist)
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Infants/Newborns
What type of environment would you like to work in?
Clinic
What is your primary area of interest:
Pregnancy/Childbirth
Per these choices, you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings, including: OB-GYN clinics,
private OB-GYN practices, public health clinics, birthing centers, military bases, outpatient pediatric clinics, health
departments, preschools and elementary schools, private pediatric practices and community agencies.
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care PNPPC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide high-quality, compassionate care to children from birth to young adult, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care specialty is for you. You will provide evidence-based care in a variety of pediatric primary care settings. You will emphasize health care management, disease prevention and health promotion. You will play a key role in involving and educating family members to support the patient’s plan of care.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care certification exams offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPPC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPPC specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Family Care
Per these choices, you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings, including: OB-GYN Clinics,
private OB-GYN practices, public health clinics, birthing centers, military bases, outpatient pediatric clinics, health
departments, preschools and elementary schools, private pediatric practices, community agencies, ambulatory care
centers, medical offices, nurse-managed clinics, private practices, health departments, rural health clinics, work-site
based clinics, migrant clinics, Indian Health Services, and correctional facilities.
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care PNPPC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide high-quality, compassionate care to children from birth to young adult, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care specialty is for you. You will provide evidence-based care in a variety of pediatric primary care settings. You will emphasize health care management, disease prevention and health promotion. You will play a key role in involving and educating family members to support the patient’s plan of care.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care certification exams offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPPC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPPC specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Hospital
What is your primary area of interest:
Pregnancy/Childbirth
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Hospitals, OB-GYN Clinics, Private OB-GYN Practices, Public Health Clinics,
Birthing Centers, Military Bases, and Neonatal intensive care nurseries (Level III)
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only NNP
MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you have two years of current nursing experience with high-risk newborns (level III) and are ready to take the next step, the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program is for you. You will deliver comprehensive care to pre-term and full-term infants, some with life-threatening conditions and chronic illnesses. You will attend high-risk births and conduct neonatal resuscitation. You will also become an expert in neonatal care, managing patient care and working with parents and families during times of intense stress.
Graduates are prepared to take the neonatal nurse practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the NNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Neonatal Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Neonatal intensive care nurseries (Level III), Hospitals, OB-GYN Clinics, Private
OB-GYN Practices, Public Health Clinics, Birthing Centers and Military Bases
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only NNP
MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you have two years of current nursing experience with high-risk newborns (level III) and are ready to take the next step, the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program is for you. You will deliver comprehensive care to pre-term and full-term infants, some with life-threatening conditions and chronic illnesses. You will attend high-risk births and conduct neonatal resuscitation. You will also become an expert in neonatal care, managing patient care and working with parents and families during times of intense stress.
Graduates are prepared to take the neonatal nurse practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the NNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Emergency Room/Critical Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Critical Access Hospitals, Fast-track Emergency Departments, Main Emergency
Departments, Urgent Care Clinics, Neonatal intensive care nurseries (Level III)
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only NNP
MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you have two years of current nursing experience with high-risk newborns (level III) and are ready to take the next step, the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program is for you. You will deliver comprehensive care to pre-term and full-term infants, some with life-threatening conditions and chronic illnesses. You will attend high-risk births and conduct neonatal resuscitation. You will also become an expert in neonatal care, managing patient care and working with parents and families during times of intense stress.
Graduates are prepared to take the neonatal nurse practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the NNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Emergency Nurse Practitioner ENP
MSN Emergency Nurse Practitioner for FNPs/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced nurse who is ready to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and manage varying levels of acuity, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner specialty may be right for you. Building on a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) foundation, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares you for dual certification to practice in diverse emergency care settings.
All graduates of the ENP program are prepared to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP-C) certification exam offered by AANP-CB. Graduates who enter the program without FNP certification will also be prepared for the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam as well.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the ENP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The ENP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Emergency
What is your primary area of interest:
Pregnancy/Childbirth
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Critical Access Hospitals, Fast-track Emergency Departments, Main Emergency
Departments, Urgent Care Clinics, Pediatric Emergency Departments, Pediatric Hospitalist
Service, Pediatric Sedation Services, Pediatric Cardio-Vascular ICU, Pediatric Intensive
Care Units, Inpatient management for various Sub-Specialty Clinics (i.e., Cardiology,
Pulmonology, Nephrology, Hematology-Oncology and Trauma)
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Emergency Nurse Practitioner ENP
MSN Emergency Nurse Practitioner for FNPs/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced nurse who is ready to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and manage varying levels of acuity, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner specialty may be right for you. Building on a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) foundation, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares you for dual certification to practice in diverse emergency care settings.
All graduates of the ENP program are prepared to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP-C) certification exam offered by AANP-CB. Graduates who enter the program without FNP certification will also be prepared for the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam as well.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the ENP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The ENP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only PNPAC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced pediatric registered nurse and want to provide care to growing numbers of pediatric patients with chronic, acute, or critical illness, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care specialty is for you. You will provide family-centered, culturally competent care for patients up to age 21 and their families. You will handle complex monitoring and ongoing management of intensive therapies.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care certification exam offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPAC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPAC specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for RNs who live at a distance.
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Neonatal Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Neonatal intensive care nurseries (Level III), Pediatric Emergency Departments,
Pediatric Hospitalist Service, Pediatric Sedation Services, Pediatric Cardio-Vascular ICU,
Pediatric Intensive Care Units, Inpatient management for various Sub-Specialty Clinics
(i.e., Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology, Hematology-Oncology and Trauma)
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only NNP
MSN Neonatal Nurse Practitioner for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you have two years of current nursing experience with high-risk newborns (level III) and are ready to take the next step, the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner program is for you. You will deliver comprehensive care to pre-term and full-term infants, some with life-threatening conditions and chronic illnesses. You will attend high-risk births and conduct neonatal resuscitation. You will also become an expert in neonatal care, managing patient care and working with parents and families during times of intense stress.
Graduates are prepared to take the neonatal nurse practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the NNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only PNPAC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced pediatric registered nurse and want to provide care to growing numbers of pediatric patients with chronic, acute, or critical illness, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care specialty is for you. You will provide family-centered, culturally competent care for patients up to age 21 and their families. You will handle complex monitoring and ongoing management of intensive therapies.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care certification exam offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPAC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPAC specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for RNs who live at a distance.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Children
What type of environment would you like to work in?
Clinic
What is your primary area of interest:
Family Care
Per these choices, you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings, including: ambulatory care
centers, correctional facilities, global health clinics, health departments, Indian Health Services, medical offices,
migrant clinics, military sites, nurse-managed clinics, private practices, rural health clinics, work-site based
clinics, outpatient pediatric clinics, health departments, preschools and elementary schools, private pediatric
practices and community agencies
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care PNPPC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide high-quality, compassionate care to children from birth to young adult, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care specialty is for you. You will provide evidence-based care in a variety of pediatric primary care settings. You will emphasize health care management, disease prevention and health promotion. You will play a key role in involving and educating family members to support the patient’s plan of care.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care certification exams offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPPC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPPC specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Mental Health/Psychiatric Care
Per these choices, you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings, including: community mental health centers (urban and rural), correctional facilities, domestic violence shelters, home health agencies, in-patient psychiatric facilities, private psychiatric practices, psychopharmacology clinic, psychiatric consult services, residential substance abuse facilities, schools, state psychiatric facilities, urban nurse-managed clinic and Veterans Administration psychiatric facilities.
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) PMHNP
MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide holistic care to individuals, families, or groups with common, acute or chronic mental health problems, the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a good fit for you. You will use advanced clinical judgment and practice to assess, diagnose, plan, implement, intervene, manage and evaluate holistic care plans – including treatment with psychotropic medications; individual, group, and family psychotherapy; crisis intervention; case management and consultation.
Graduates are prepared to take the Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (across the lifespan) exam, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the PMHNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PMHNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for RNs. Students entering as non-RNs must complete entire program in Nashville.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Hospital/Emergency
What is your primary area of interest:
Emergency Room/Critical Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Community Agencies Caring for Technology-Dependent Children, Pediatric Emergency
Departments, Pediatric Hospitalist Service, Pediatric Sedation Services, Pediatric
Cardio-Vascular ICU, Pediatric Intensive Care Units, Inpatient management for various
Sub-Specialty Clinics (i.e., Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology, Hematology-Oncology and
Trauma), Critical Access Hospitals, Fast-track Emergency Departments, Main Emergency
Departments, Urgent Care Clinics
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only PNPAC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced pediatric registered nurse and want to provide care to growing numbers of pediatric patients with chronic, acute, or critical illness, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care specialty is for you. You will provide family-centered, culturally competent care for patients up to age 21 and their families. You will handle complex monitoring and ongoing management of intensive therapies.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care certification exam offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPAC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPAC specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for RNs who live at a distance.
Emergency Nurse Practitioner ENP
MSN Emergency Nurse Practitioner for FNPs/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced nurse who is ready to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and manage varying levels of acuity, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner specialty may be right for you. Building on a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) foundation, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares you for dual certification to practice in diverse emergency care settings.
All graduates of the ENP program are prepared to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP-C) certification exam offered by AANP-CB. Graduates who enter the program without FNP certification will also be prepared for the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam as well.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the ENP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The ENP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Youth
What type of environment would you like to work in?
Clinic
What is your primary area of interest:
Family Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Ambulatory Care Centers, Disease Prevention, Medical Offices, Nurse-Managed
Clinics, Private Practices, Health Departments, Rural Health Clinics, Work-site Based
Clinics, Migrant Clinics, Indian Health Services, Correctional Facilities, Outpatient
Pediatric Clinics, Health Departments, Preschools and Elementary Schools, Private Pediatric
Practices, Community Agencies, Ambulatory OB-GYN Clinics, Family Planning Clinics, Indian
Reservations, Prenatal Clinics, Private Practices, Uro-gynecology Practices, Women’s Health
Clinics
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care PNPPC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide high-quality, compassionate care to children from birth to young adult, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care specialty is for you. You will provide evidence-based care in a variety of pediatric primary care settings. You will emphasize health care management, disease prevention and health promotion. You will play a key role in involving and educating family members to support the patient’s plan of care.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care certification exams offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPPC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPPC specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of delivering primary health care to women from adolescence through childbearing and advanced years, the Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner (WHGRNP) program is for you. As a WHGRNP, you will provide gynecologic care, low- and high-risk pregnancy management, family planning, sexually transmitted infection diagnosis and treatment, and primary care to women. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation. Vanderbilt’s WHGRNP education is in compliance with guidelines jointly published by the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH) and Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner AGPCNP
MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Due to patient needs and a rapidly growing senior population in our country, there is a great need for primary care nurse practitioners. If you want opportunities to assess, diagnose and manage common acute and chronic health problems for patients from age 13 throughout their senior years, the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specialty is for you. You will deliver high-quality, cost-effective care, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion. A crucial part of your role will be teaching patients and their families about maintaining their health and preventing disease.
Graduates are prepared to take the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the AGPCNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The AGPCNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for RNs. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner WHGRNP/AGPCNP
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Dual Focus/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide care to men and women from adolescence throughout the lifespan, the dual certified Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse practitioner is for you. You will assess and treat acute and chronic adult health problems and meet the unique health care needs of women, including gynecologic health. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by The National Certification Corporation and the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
Additional Information:
Learn more about our WHGRNP/AGPCNP Dual Focus Specialty Click Here
View the WHGRNP/AGPCNP Dual Focus Specialty Educational Formats
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP/AGPCNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for students who live at a distance. Non-RNs must spend first 3 semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Obstetrics/Gynecologic Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Disease Prevention, Ambulatory Care Centers, Medical Offices, Nurse-Managed
Clinics, Private Practices, Health Departments, Rural Health Clinics, Migrant Clinics,
Indian Health Services, Correctional Facilities, Military Sites, Work-site Based Clinics,
Outpatient Pediatric Clinics, Health Departments, Private Pediatric Practices, Community
Agencies, OB-GYN Clinics, Private OB-GYN Practices, Prenatal Clinics, Private Practices,
Uro-gynecology Practices, Women’s Health Clinics
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care PNPPC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide high-quality, compassionate care to children from birth to young adult, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care specialty is for you. You will provide evidence-based care in a variety of pediatric primary care settings. You will emphasize health care management, disease prevention and health promotion. You will play a key role in involving and educating family members to support the patient’s plan of care.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care certification exams offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPPC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPPC specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of delivering primary health care to women from adolescence through childbearing and advanced years, the Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner (WHGRNP) program is for you. As a WHGRNP, you will provide gynecologic care, low- and high-risk pregnancy management, family planning, sexually transmitted infection diagnosis and treatment, and primary care to women. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation. Vanderbilt’s WHGRNP education is in compliance with guidelines jointly published by the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH) and Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Pregnancy/Childbirth
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Ambulatory Care Centers, Correctional Facilities, Global Health Clinics, Health
Departments, Indian Health Services, Medical Offices, Migrant Clinics, Military Sites,
Nurse-Managed Clinics, Private Practices, Rural Health Clinics, Work-site Based Clinics,
OB-GYN Clinics, Private OB-GYN Practices, Public Health Clinics, Birthing Centers, Military
Bases, Disease Prevention
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Mental Health/Psychiatric Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Community Mental Health Centers (urban and rural), Correctional Facilities,
Domestic Violence Shelters, Home Health Agencies, In-patient Psychiatric Facilities, Private
Psychiatric Practices, Psychopharmacology Clinic, Psychiatric Consult Services, Residential
Substance Abuse Facilities, Schools, State Psychiatric Facilities, Urban Nurse-Managed
Clinic, Veterans Administration Psychiatric Facilities
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) PMHNP
MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide holistic care to individuals, families, or groups with common, acute or chronic mental health problems, the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a good fit for you. You will use advanced clinical judgment and practice to assess, diagnose, plan, implement, intervene, manage and evaluate holistic care plans – including treatment with psychotropic medications; individual, group, and family psychotherapy; crisis intervention; case management and consultation.
Graduates are prepared to take the Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (across the lifespan) exam, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the PMHNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PMHNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for RNs. Students entering as non-RNs must complete entire program in Nashville.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Hospital/Emergency
What is your primary area of interest:
Emergency Room/Critical Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Community Agencies Caring for Technology-Dependent Children, Pediatric Emergency
Departments, Pediatric Hospitalist Service, Pediatric Sedation Services, Pediatric
Cardio-Vascular ICU, Pediatric Intensive Care Units, Inpatient management for various
Sub-Specialty Clinics (i.e., Cardiology, Pulmonology, Nephrology, Hematology-Oncology and
Trauma), Critical Access Hospitals, Fast-track Emergency Departments, Main Emergency
Departments, Urgent Care Clinics, Disease Prevention
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only PNPAC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care for experienced RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced pediatric registered nurse and want to provide care to growing numbers of pediatric patients with chronic, acute, or critical illness, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Acute Care specialty is for you. You will provide family-centered, culturally competent care for patients up to age 21 and their families. You will handle complex monitoring and ongoing management of intensive therapies.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Acute Care certification exam offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPAC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPAC specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for RNs who live at a distance.
Emergency Nurse Practitioner ENP
MSN Emergency Nurse Practitioner for FNPs/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced nurse who is ready to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and manage varying levels of acuity, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner specialty may be right for you. Building on a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) foundation, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares you for dual certification to practice in diverse emergency care settings.
All graduates of the ENP program are prepared to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP-C) certification exam offered by AANP-CB. Graduates who enter the program without FNP certification will also be prepared for the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam as well.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the ENP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The ENP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Adults/Seniors
What type of environment would you like to work in?
Clinic
What is your primary area of interest:
Geriatric Treatment
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Internal Medicine Offices, Ambulatory Care Centers, Community Clinics, Prisons,
Jails, Long-term Care Facilities, Specialty Clinics, University Student Health Centers,
Rehabilitation Centers, Acute care settings, sub-acute care units (step-down), highly
specialized clinics when out-patient management is appropriate, Home Health/Assisted
Living/Nursing Homes
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner AGACNP
MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of handling complex patient situations involving intricate therapies in a fast-paced setting, the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program (AGACNP) is for you. As an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, you will provide care to adults, including older adults, both in the hospital and in clinics. You will provide complex monitoring, order, and interpret diagnostic tests and develop complex treatment plans based on current evidence-based practice to stabilize each patient and maximize their overall health. Your focus will be on managing current and ongoing problems and prevent complications.
Graduates are prepared to take the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the AGACNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The AGACNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs. Students entering as non-RNs must complete entire program in Nashville.
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner AGPCNP
MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Due to patient needs and a rapidly growing senior population in our country, there is a great need for primary care nurse practitioners. If you want opportunities to assess, diagnose and manage common acute and chronic health problems for patients from age 13 throughout their senior years, the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specialty is for you. You will deliver high-quality, cost-effective care, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion. A crucial part of your role will be teaching patients and their families about maintaining their health and preventing disease.
Graduates are prepared to take the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the AGPCNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The AGPCNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for RNs. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of delivering primary health care to women from adolescence through childbearing and advanced years, the Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner (WHGRNP) program is for you. As a WHGRNP, you will provide gynecologic care, low- and high-risk pregnancy management, family planning, sexually transmitted infection diagnosis and treatment, and primary care to women. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation. Vanderbilt’s WHGRNP education is in compliance with guidelines jointly published by the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH) and Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Family Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Internal Medicine Offices, Ambulatory Care Centers, Community Clinics, Prisons,
Jails, Long-term Care Facilities, Specialty Clinics, University Student Health Centers,
Rehabilitation Centers, Medical Offices, Nurse-Managed Clinics, Private Practices, Health
Departments, Rural Health Clinics, Work-site Based Clinics, Migrant Clinics, Indian Health
Services, Correctional Facilities, Adult/Internal Medicine, Family Planning Clinics, Home
Health/Assisted Living/Nursing Homes, Indian Reservations, Planned Parenthood, Prenatal
Clinics, Private Practices, Infertility Clinics/Practices, Uro-gynecology Practices, Women’s
Health Clinics, Women’s Prisons
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner AGPCNP
MSN Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Due to patient needs and a rapidly growing senior population in our country, there is a great need for primary care nurse practitioners. If you want opportunities to assess, diagnose and manage common acute and chronic health problems for patients from age 13 throughout their senior years, the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specialty is for you. You will deliver high-quality, cost-effective care, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion. A crucial part of your role will be teaching patients and their families about maintaining their health and preventing disease.
Graduates are prepared to take the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the AGPCNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The AGPCNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for RNs. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner WHGRNP/AGPCNP
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Dual Focus/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide care to men and women from adolescence throughout the lifespan, the dual certified Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse practitioner is for you. You will assess and treat acute and chronic adult health problems and meet the unique health care needs of women, including gynecologic health. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by The National Certification Corporation and the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
Additional Information:
Learn more about our WHGRNP/AGPCNP Dual Focus Specialty Click Here
View the WHGRNP/AGPCNP Dual Focus Specialty Educational Formats
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP/AGPCNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for students who live at a distance. Non-RNs must spend first 3 semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Obstetrics/Gynecologic Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Adult/Internal Medicine, Ambulatory OB-GYN Clinics, Family Planning Clinics, Home
Health/Assisted Living/Nursing Homes, Indian Reservations, Planned Parenthood, Prenatal
Clinics, Private Practices, Infertility Clinics/Practices, Uro-gynecology Practices, Women’s
Health Clinics, Women’s Prisons, Ambulatory Care Centers, Medical Offices, Nurse-Managed
Clinics, Private Practices, Health Departments, Rural Health Clinics, Work-site Based
Clinics, Migrant Clinics, Indian Health Services, Correctional Facilities
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of delivering primary health care to women from adolescence through childbearing and advanced years, the Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner (WHGRNP) program is for you. As a WHGRNP, you will provide gynecologic care, low- and high-risk pregnancy management, family planning, sexually transmitted infection diagnosis and treatment, and primary care to women. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the National Certification Corporation. Vanderbilt’s WHGRNP education is in compliance with guidelines jointly published by the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH) and Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN).
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Family Nurse Practitioner FNP
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide comprehensive primary health care to patients throughout the lifespan, the Family Nurse Practice is right for you. You will treat individuals from infancy to adulthood with acute illnesses and chronic diseases. You will offer preventive health services, health education and disease management in the context of family and community.
Graduates are prepared to take the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The FNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner WHGRNP/AGPCNP
MSN Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Dual Focus/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide care to men and women from adolescence throughout the lifespan, the dual certified Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner/Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse practitioner is for you. You will assess and treat acute and chronic adult health problems and meet the unique health care needs of women, including gynecologic health. Your wide scope of practice will include health care management, disease prevention and health promotion.
Graduates are prepared to take the Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by The National Certification Corporation and the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner certification exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
Additional Information:
Learn more about our WHGRNP/AGPCNP Dual Focus Specialty Click Here
View the WHGRNP/AGPCNP Dual Focus Specialty Educational Formats
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the WHGRNP/AGPCNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The WHGRNP specialty is offered in modified distance (block) format for students who live at a distance. Non-RNs must spend first 3 semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Pregnancy/Childbirth
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: OB-GYN Clinics, Private OB-GYN Practices, Public Health Clinics, Birthing
Centers, Military Bases, Outpatient Pediatric Clinics, Health Departments, Preschools and
Elementary Schools, Private Pediatric Practices, Community Agencies
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nurse-Midwifery NM
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are interested in providing a full range of primary health care services to women from adolescence throughout their lifespan, Nurse-Midwifery is for you. The approach of a certified nurse-midwife is to meet the specific needs of women, offer a variety of options and minimize unnecessary intervention. You will be a skilled health professional emphasizing health promotion and disease prevention, providing preconception counseling, care during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecologic services, and peri- and post-menopausal care. Certified nurse-midwives also care for newborns through the first 28 days of life.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Nurse-Midwifery / Family Nurse Practitioner NM/FNP
MSN Nurse-Midwifery/Family Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Do you want to practice as a nurse-midwife who is also prepared as a family nurse practitioner to care for children and families, delivering comprehensive care to individuals from preconception through adulthood? This dual-focus specialty will prepare you and is especially popular among those choosing to work in rural or international locations.
Graduates are prepared to take the Nurse-Midwifery certification exam, offered by the American Midwifery Certification Board, and the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the NM/FNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NM/FNP specialty is offered in a hybrid format combining extensive on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement. Non-RNs spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care PNPPC
MSN Pediatric Nurse Practitioner — Primary Care/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide high-quality, compassionate care to children from birth to young adult, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care specialty is for you. You will provide evidence-based care in a variety of pediatric primary care settings. You will emphasize health care management, disease prevention and health promotion. You will play a key role in involving and educating family members to support the patient’s plan of care.
Graduates are prepared to take the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Primary Care certification exams offered by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the PNPPC Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PNPPC specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format. Non-RNs must spend the first three semesters (one calendar year) in Nashville for the PreSpecialty year.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Mental Health/Psychiatric Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Community Mental Health Centers (urban and rural), Correctional Facilities,
Domestic Violence Shelters, Home Health Agencies, In-patient Psychiatric Facilities, Private
Psychiatric Practices, Psychopharmacology Clinic, Psychiatric Consult Services, Residential
Substance Abuse Facilities, Schools, State Psychiatric Facilities, Urban Nurse-Managed
Clinic, Veterans Administration Psychiatric Facilities
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) PMHNP
MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you want to provide holistic care to individuals, families, or groups with common, acute or chronic mental health problems, the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a good fit for you. You will use advanced clinical judgment and practice to assess, diagnose, plan, implement, intervene, manage and evaluate holistic care plans – including treatment with psychotropic medications; individual, group, and family psychotherapy; crisis intervention; case management and consultation.
Graduates are prepared to take the Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (across the lifespan) exam, offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Officer, for more information about the PMHNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The PMHNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for RNs. Students entering as non-RNs must complete entire program in Nashville.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Hospital
What is your primary area of interest:
Geriatric Treatment
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Acute care and hospital settings such as intensive care (MICU, SICU), trauma
units, sub-acute care units (step-down), emergency care and highly specialized clinics when
out-patient management is appropriate, Ambulatory Medicine, Hospital Medicine,
Cardiovascular/Heart Failure, Critical Care/Pulmonary, Diabetes/Endocrinology,
Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Geriatric, Hematology/Oncology, Infectious Disease, Nephrology,
Neurology/Neurosurgery, Ortho/Trauma, Critical Care Teams, Rapid Response Teams, Shock
Teams, Burn Care Units, Cardiovascular Intensive Care Units, Medical Intensive Care Units,
Neurological Intensive Care Units, Surgical Intensive Care Units, Main Emergency Departments
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner AGACNP
MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of handling complex patient situations involving intricate therapies in a fast-paced setting, the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program (AGACNP) is for you. As an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, you will provide care to adults, including older adults, both in the hospital and in clinics. You will provide complex monitoring, order, and interpret diagnostic tests and develop complex treatment plans based on current evidence-based practice to stabilize each patient and maximize their overall health. Your focus will be on managing current and ongoing problems and prevent complications.
Graduates are prepared to take the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the AGACNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The AGACNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs. Students entering as non-RNs must complete entire program in Nashville.
Emergency Nurse Practitioner ENP
MSN Emergency Nurse Practitioner for FNPs/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced nurse who is ready to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and manage varying levels of acuity, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner specialty may be right for you. Building on a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) foundation, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares you for dual certification to practice in diverse emergency care settings.
All graduates of the ENP program are prepared to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP-C) certification exam offered by AANP-CB. Graduates who enter the program without FNP certification will also be prepared for the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam as well.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the ENP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The ENP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Emergency
What is your primary area of interest:
Emergency Room/Critical Care
Per these choices you would serve your patients in a variety of practice settings
including: Critical Access Hospitals, Fast-track Emergency Departments, Main Emergency
Departments, Acute care and hospital settings such as intensive care (MICU, SICU), trauma
units, sub-acute care units (step-down), Emergency care
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Emergency Nurse Practitioner ENP
MSN Emergency Nurse Practitioner for FNPs/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you are an experienced nurse who is ready to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and manage varying levels of acuity, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner specialty may be right for you. Building on a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) foundation, the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Specialty prepares you for dual certification to practice in diverse emergency care settings.
All graduates of the ENP program are prepared to take the Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP-C) certification exam offered by AANP-CB. Graduates who enter the program without FNP certification will also be prepared for the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam as well.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the ENP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The ENP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs.
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner AGACNP
MSN Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
If you like the idea of handling complex patient situations involving intricate therapies in a fast-paced setting, the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program (AGACNP) is for you. As an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, you will provide care to adults, including older adults, both in the hospital and in clinics. You will provide complex monitoring, order, and interpret diagnostic tests and develop complex treatment plans based on current evidence-based practice to stabilize each patient and maximize their overall health. Your focus will be on managing current and ongoing problems and prevent complications.
Graduates are prepared to take the Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner certification exams offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the AGACNP Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The AGACNP specialty is offered in a modified distance (block) format for all admitted RNs. Students entering as non-RNs must complete entire program in Nashville.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Nursing and Health Care Leadership/Information Technology
What is your primary area of interest?
Nursing and Health Care Leadership
Per these choices, you will be prepared to practice in a variety of settings, including: Nurse-managed clinics,
managed care firms, community-based clinics, ambulatory care centers, hospitals, data management firms, practice
management organizations and corporate organizations.
A sampling of job duties would include: define, implement, and maintain standards for quality patient care; develop,
manage, and evaluate work teams; implement processes and programs to achieve financial targets, and maintain fiscal
accountability; develop, performance counsel, and evaluate assigned staff; demonstrate collaborative problem-solving
abilities; and balance strategic, financial, operational, quality, and interpersonal responsibilities.
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nursing and Health Care Leadership for RNs only NHCL
MSN Nursing and Health Care Leadership for RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
The need for more sophisticated health care leadership to respond to the clinical, organizational, and fiscal challenges faced by America’s evolving health care industry is an absolute priority. Today’s health care leaders and executives require not only clinical experience and strong communication skills, but business acumen and knowledge of financial and human resource management, strategic leadership, applied quality improvement and patient safety, and organizational behavior. You will play an important role in the transformation of an ever-changing health care environment across multiple settings and specialties while building on your existing nursing knowledge, skills, and abilities to advance your nursing career in leadership.
Two years of RN work experience is preferred. Note: This dynamic program is only offered part time.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the NHCL Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NHCL specialty is offered in distance format. Part-time program only.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
Health Care Technology (Informatics)
Per these choices, you would perform duties, including: clinical analysts, health information technology (IT) project
managers, health system implementation specialists, IT system education and training specialists, data analysts and data
managers, health IT security and privacy specialists, academic educators, researchers, consultants, informatics
administrators/executives, identify, collect, process, and manage data and information to support nursing practice,
education, research and the expansion of nursing knowledge.
Options for PreSpecialty (No Nursing Background) or Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
Nursing Informatics for RNs only NI
MSN Nursing Informatics for RNs only/Post-Master’s Certificate also available
Specialty Overview:
Nurses use health care technology more than any other discipline. Ensuring the everyday technological tools used by nurses are designed to support workflow is essential for effective care delivery. Our program prepares graduates to join the nursing informatics workforce ready to embrace and solve today’s most challenging technology-related health care issues. Watch the video, VUSN Nursing Informatics 101: What is Informatics?" narrated by Senior Associate Dean for Informatics and Nursing Informatics Specialty Director Patricia Sengstack as she provides an overview of nursing informatics.
Two years of RN work experience is preferred. Note: Part-time program only
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the NI Specialty: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The NI specialty is offered in distance format. Part-time program only.
Option for Master of Nursing (No Nursing Background):
Master of Nursing MN
Master of Nursing
Specialty Overview:
The Master of Nursing program prepares highly motivated students to be registered nurses who deliver high-quality, comprehensive care in our changing health care environment. Students master the skills and knowledge required of registered nurses as well as introductory clinical teaching skills and advanced competency in interprofessional teamwork, nursing leadership and nursing informatics.
The integrated, clinically-focused, accelerated curriculum has a focus on health equity and health justice. It prepares graduates to provide holistic care for individuals of all ages, communities and populations while giving consideration to the socioeconomic, cultural, political, environmental and educational influences on health and well-being. As master’s prepared registered nurses, they are equipped to provide patient care in a variety of settings to a wide variety of patients.
The MN program equips graduates to take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse in just four semesters.
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the MN Program: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The MN curriculum is designed as a face-to-face curriculum in which students will learn together in a variety of settings. Students will need to live within daily commuting distance of the Vanderbilt campus.
DNP
What type of environment would you like to work in?
Clinical Practice
What is your primary area of interest:
DNP + Post-Master’s Certificate
We recommend you check out this program:
Advanced Clinical Practice Track ACPT
Advanced Clinical Practice Track
Specialty Overview:
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program, advanced clinical practice track, is for applicants who have completed an MSN degree in advanced clinical nursing practice. Advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) certification is required as either a nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, clinical nurse specialist or certified registered nurse anesthetist. The advanced clinical practice track prepares the APRN to become a leader bringing evidence-based knowledge to the practice arena, guide complex health care delivery and improve health care outcomes.
Additional Information:
Learn more about our Advanced Clinical Practice Track Click Here
View the Advanced Clinical Practice Track Curriculum Plan
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Counselor, for more information about the Advanced Clinical Practice Track: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The Advanced Clinical Practice Track is offered in a hybrid format combining on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement.
BSN to DNP
We recommend you check out these programs:
BSN to DNP: AGACNP BSNDNP-AGACNP
BSN to DNP: AGACNP
Program Overview:
The integrated BSN Entry to DNP: Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program prepares students to provide an advanced level of evidence-based care in acute and critical care settings. It emphasizes DNP skills such as the implementation and evaluation of evidence, systems-level thinking, care quality and safety, and the development of interventions that may improve outcomes of care. Students have the option of focusing their studies as intensivists.
RNs with a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree can earn the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in eight semesters and without first obtaining a master’s-level nursing degree.
The program is structured so that students complete AGACNP and core DNP coursework first, and then transition into DNP-specific practice courses.
RNs with at least two years’ experience are eligible for the distance learning format and do not need to relocate to Nashville. Applicants with less than two years RN work experience must complete the entire program of studies in Nashville. The intensivist focus requires residence in the greater Middle Tennessee area prior to the start of the AGACNP clinical sequence (Spring, Year 2).
Students will be eligible to take the AGACNP certification exam upon completion of specialty-specific course work and will be doctorally prepared nurse practitioners upon graduation.
Additional Information:
For more information about the BSN Entry to DNP: AGACNP Click Here
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Counselor, for more information about the BSN Entry to DNP: AGACNP: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The integrated BSN Entry to DNP FNP/ENP program focuses on preparing students to provide an advanced level of evidence-based care in emergency settings. In addition, the program emphasizes DNP skills such as the implementation and evaluation of evidence, systems-level thinking, care quality and safety, and the development of meaningful interventions that may improve outcomes of care for the selected patient population. The program advances students’ preparation to serve as leaders of multidisciplinary teams in emergency settings.
The BSN to DNP: FNP/ENP is our newest offering. Please check the webpage regularly for updates.
Additional Information:
For more information about the BSN Entry to DNP: FNP/ENP Click Here
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Counselor, for more information about the BSN Entry to DNP FNP/ENP: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
Nursing Practice
We recommend you check out this program:
Post-Master’s Certificates for MSNs PMC
Post-Master’s Certificates for MSNs
Program Overview:
Are you interested in an area that is not the specialization obtained for your MS, MSN, or DNP degree? Vanderbilt’s Post-Master’s Certificate programs offer opportunities for you to build upon your clinical skills and knowledge, allowing you to explore new professional directions. The post-master’s program provides an educational route to additional specialization in an area other than that obtained in your master’s or doctoral program. It is designed to strengthen or broaden the clinical or management capabilities of master’s-prepared nurses who are planning a role expansion or role change.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-master’s certificate programs are available in each of the following specialties:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Emergency Nurse Practitioner (FNP/ENP)
Emergency Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate for Family Nurse Practitioners
Family Nurse Practitioner
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Nurse-Midwifery
Nursing Education
Nursing and Health Care Leadership
Nursing Informatics
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)
Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner
Note: Determination of equivalency does not mean that VUSN transfer credit has been awarded. Equivalent courses will not appear on the VU transcript.
Additional Information:
For more information about the Post-Master’s Certificate Click Here
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the Post-Master’s Certificate for the AGACNP, AGPCNP, ENP/FNP, FNP, NI, NHCL, NNP and PMHNP specialties: Email | Call | Request Appointment
Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the Post-Master’s Certificate for NM, NM/FNP, PNPAC, PNPPC, WHGRNP and WHGRNP/AGPCNP specialties: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
Systems Practice
What is your primary area of interest:
Nursing Practice
We recommend you check out this program:
Advanced Systems Practice Track ASPT
Advanced Systems Practice Track
Specialty Overview:
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program with an emphasis on advanced systems practice equips the master’s-prepared nurse in systems practice to become a leader bringing evidence-based knowledge to the practice arena, guiding complex health care delivery and improving health care outcomes.
Additional Information:
Learn more about our Advanced Systems Practice Track Click Here
View the Advanced Systems Practice Track Curriculum Plan
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Counselor for more information about the Advanced Systems Practice Track: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The DNP Advanced Systems Practice track is offered in hybrid format, combining on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement.
DNP + Post-Master’s Certificate
We recommend you check out this program:
Post-Master’s Certificates for MSNs PMC
Post-Master’s Certificates for MSNs
Program Overview:
Are you interested in an area that is not the specialization obtained for your MS, MSN, or DNP degree? Vanderbilt’s Post-Master’s Certificate programs offer opportunities for you to build upon your clinical skills and knowledge, allowing you to explore new professional directions. The post-master’s program provides an educational route to additional specialization in an area other than that obtained in your master’s or doctoral program. It is designed to strengthen or broaden the clinical or management capabilities of master’s-prepared nurses who are planning a role expansion or role change.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Post-master’s certificate programs are available in each of the following specialties:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Emergency Nurse Practitioner (FNP/ENP)
Emergency Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate for Family Nurse Practitioners
Family Nurse Practitioner
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Nurse-Midwifery
Nursing Education
Nursing and Health Care Leadership
Nursing Informatics
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Acute Care
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care
Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)
Women’s Health/Gender-Related Nurse Practitioner
Note: Determination of equivalency does not mean that VUSN transfer credit has been awarded. Equivalent courses will not appear on the VU transcript.
Additional Information:
For more information about the Post-Master’s Certificate Click Here
Have questions and want to speak with Admissions? Please contact Sandy Church, Associate Director, for more information about the Post-Master’s Certificate for the AGACNP, AGPCNP, ENP/FNP, FNP, NI, NHCL, NNP and PMHNP specialties: Email | Call | Request Appointment
Please contact Cheryl Feldner, Associate Director, Admissions, for more information about the Post-Master’s Certificate for NM, NM/FNP, PNPAC, PNPPC, WHGRNP and WHGRNP/AGPCNP specialties: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
Executive Leadership
Options for Direct Entry (BSN Prepared):
DNP Executive Leadership Track DNP-ELT
DNP Executive Leadership Track
Specialty Overview:
The Doctor of Nursing Practice program with an emphasis on executive leadership prepares the expert leader to bring evidence-based knowledge into the practice arena, improve health care outcomes and strengthen the executive nurse leadership role in guiding complex care delivery.
Additional Information:
Learn more about our DNP Executive Leadership Track Click Here
View the DNP Executive Leadership Track Curriculum Plan
Have questions and want to speak with admissions? Please contact Lauren Watt, Senior Admissions Counselor for more information about the DNP Executive Leadership Track: Email | Call | Book an Appointment
The DNP Executive Leadership track is offered in hybrid format, combining on-campus time with local and distance clinical placement.
PhD
What is your primary area of interest?
Research
We recommend you check out this program:
PhD in Nursing Science Program PhD
PhD in Nursing Science Program
Program Overview:
This program prepares diverse scholars for research and academic careers in public or private sectors of health care. Graduates conduct and disseminate research that responds to regional, national and international priorities. PhD faculty represent diverse backgrounds and are committed to preparing nurse scholars who can lead in extending the body of nursing knowledge. Vanderbilt provides an inclusive, collegial and supportive environment with close faculty interaction. The atmosphere is unique and stimulating, and includes rich mentoring experiences. Course work is delivered using both face-to-face and technology driven instruction with limited on-campus visits.
PhD in Nursing Science student tuition is fully funded, covering up to four years of required didactic and research coursework. Additionally, admitted students receive annual stipends, for the same period, while enrolled in the PhD in Nursing Science program.
Graduates of the VUSN PhD program conduct and disseminate research that responds to regional, national and international priorities. If you do not have a degree from an English-speaking university, you must submit a report of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Have questions and want more information? Please contact Heidi Bates, Program Manager, for more information about the PhD Program: Email | Call
The PhD in Nursing Science is offered in hybrid format, combining periodic on-campus time with online classes and coursework.
Faculty
We recommend you check out this program:
PhD in Nursing Science Program PhD
PhD in Nursing Science Program
Program Overview:
This program prepares diverse scholars for research and academic careers in public or private sectors of health care. Graduates conduct and disseminate research that responds to regional, national and international priorities. PhD faculty represent diverse backgrounds and are committed to preparing nurse scholars who can lead in extending the body of nursing knowledge. Vanderbilt provides an inclusive, collegial and supportive environment with close faculty interaction. The atmosphere is unique and stimulating, and includes rich mentoring experiences. Course work is delivered using both face-to-face and technology driven instruction with limited on-campus visits.
PhD in Nursing Science student tuition is fully funded, covering up to four years of required didactic and research coursework. Additionally, admitted students receive annual stipends, for the same period, while enrolled in the PhD in Nursing Science program.
Graduates of the VUSN PhD program conduct and disseminate research that responds to regional, national and international priorities. If you do not have a degree from an English-speaking university, you must submit a report of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Note: Post-Master’s Certificate
students are not eligible for an internal scholarship.
Admissions Criteria
As you prepare your application to Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, the Admissions Staff are available to answer questions
you may have. Please contact us at: VUSN-Admissions@vanderbilt.edu.
Please visit our academic programs for specific information regarding your admission to Vanderbilt, including
entry options, admission requirements, application procedures, course descriptions and a host of other details.
Our Admissions Office will be glad to assist and guide you in making Vanderbilt School of Nursing the right
decision for your career.
click the photo cards below to view the VUSN Admissions contacts here to help you:
Sandy Church Associate Director, Admissions
Contact Person for:
Adult-Gerontology Acute Care
Emergency Nurse Practitioner
Family Nurse Practitioner
FNP/ENP
Master of Nursing
Nursing and Health Care & Leadership
Nursing Informatics
Contact Person for:
Nurse-Midwifery
Nurse-Midwifery/FNP
Pediatric NP - Acute Care
Pediatric NP - Primary Care
Women’s Health/Gender Related NP
Women’s Health/Gender Related / Adult Gerontology PC Dual
The Broadview at Vanderbilt, a unique, collaborative student living option designed specifically for the graduate and professional student community at Vanderbilt.
Located just steps from Vanderbilt University campus and in the heart of midtown Nashville, you’ll find brand new studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as over 6,500 SF of collaboration and study lounges, an on-site coffee shop, grocery store, fitness & wellness center, and more.
Each apartment space comes with upscale features and finishes, including a fully-equipped kitchen with modern finishes, wood-style flooring, in-unit washer/dryer, and more. Find a floor plan that works for your lifestyle and virtually tour units now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly asked general and admissions questions and answers
VUSN offers everything you need to become a successful advanced practice nurse or doctorally prepared nurse. We
foster advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty and staff.
As a VUSN student, you will have access to a variety of student-led organizations and groups that offer opportunities for networking, professional development, and community engagement. These groups are designed to foster a sense of belonging and provide a supportive community for students from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of interests. Whether you are interested in a particular area of nursing, want to get involved in service projects, or simply want to connect with other students who share your passions, there is a student group for you at VUSN."
From serving as home to the nation’s largest Kurdish population to being named America’s
friendliest city for three years in a row, Nashville is a metropolitan place that proudly exudes all of
the charm and hospitality one expects from a Southern capital. But don’t take our word for it: Watch as
our Vanderbilt Owen colleagues and neighbors share their views on our bustling city.
Why Our Students Love Nashville
Hear from Vanderbilt University students on why they think Nashville is such an amazing part of their
college experience:
What’s the big deal with Nashville?
What do you call a city full of neighbors? We call it home. watch this video to learn more:
Destination Nashville
From live music to the city’s best cultural destinations to fun for families, Nashville is a
wonderful place to explore:
Our School of Nursing is a place where a variety of practice specialties, entry options, clinical experiences,
degree programs, research initiatives, and people with many ideas, perspectives, and background create the
learning environment.
The intensives provided a lifelong mentorship connection with peers
colleagues and faculty." — DNP student comment
High-quality programs for every interest. Stellar faculty who also practice in their fields. Clinical
experiences second to none. Active engagement with world-renowned experts and health care resources.
Research and scholarly activity that are leading the nursing discipline forward with evidence-based
education and patient care.
It’s no wonder Vanderbilt University School of Nursing is ranked as the #6 graduate school of nursing for its MSN and #13 for its DNP, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Yes I want to know more about Vanderbilt's MN, MSN, DNP and PhD
programs.
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ACCREDITATION
Vanderbilt’s MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate programs are
accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org). Vanderbilt’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program is
fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and meets recommendations of the
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) and the National
Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). Vanderbilt University is a participating institution in
the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). North
Carolina is a member of SARA, and Vanderbilt is approved to offer programs and courses, such as the MSN, PMC,
DNP and PhD programs, that are in compliance with SARA policies and
standards. For a complete listing of VUSN’s accreditation information and contacts please Click Here.
