For any currently certified nurse, this program presents some unique aspects.
1. It strives to build a community that will last beyond the curriculum
2. An emphasis on rural and under privileged areas of service
3. An emphasis on helping nurses and mid-wives learn the business (entrepreneurial) aspects of healthcare.
These are important distinctives especially as the developing world and health care changes.
I am currently studying at the Frontier School of Midwifery & Family Nursing, working to obtain a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) specialization. The advanced-practice programs through Frontier are offered in a distance-learning format, which provides nurses with an opportunity to further their education when they are unable to commute to a campus. Living on an island and needing to continue regular employment, distance-based learning has provided me with the opportunity to continue growing as a nursing professional.
I consider distance-based learning a great gift because it has provided me with feasible means in which to achieve my goals; however, I have learned that along with the benefit of greater flexibility come many hardships. As many students, graduates and faculty would concur, these programs in essence are often more difficult and demanding than a traditional nursing program. To be successful in such programs, one must already possess solid clinical skills, be a highly motivated learner, and be confident in knowing when it is necessary to seek faculty guidance or support. The program’s rigorous study is necessary in order to ensure the keen abilities and skills of its graduates, and essentially better prepare them for their futures in nursing.
I know several Frontier graduates and all have said they value the excellent curriculum offered at Frontier, and likewise, all have felt very prepared to enter practice after graduation.
If you are willing to put forth the time and sincere effort, want a program with a rich history and excellent curriculum, and have a desire to become a nurse-midwife or nurse practitioner, this program is perfect for you.
