CCNE Accredited
Application deadline
Credits and costs
Assist Patients Across All Age Demographics
Provide preventative patient care across the lifespan and treat acute and chronic health problems.
Offer a wide range of family-focused health care services to patients of all ages.
Direct and deliver high-quality, cost-effective care for diverse populations.
Design and evaluate new models of care based on the integration of theoretical and empirical knowledge from nursing and related disciplines.
Shape health policy and health care systems in the local, regional, state, national, and international forums.
Online Lifespan Nurse Practitioner Courses
Online Lifespan Nurse Practitioner Courses
As a student in this advanced practice nursing program, you will study health promotion and illness prevention as well as the advanced health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of acute and chronic health problems with individual, age-related, family, and special-population considerations.
The course work will focus on the epidemiological, cultural, ethical, and economic factors related to families and individuals in the context of health promotion, disease prevention, treatment options, and quality improvement processes. You’ll also focus on developing clinical skills that empower patients to maintain their health throughout their lives.
To earn this post-master's certificate, you will need to successfully complete a minimum of 22 credits. Additional course work may be required, based on an evaluation of transcripts and prior courses completed.
Required Courses
- 3credits
This is a comprehensive professional practice course in which students learn the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role focused on common acute/episodic health problems in caring for individuals and families across the lifespan.
- 3credits
This is a comprehensive professional practice course in which students learn the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role focused on the identification and management of complex and/or chronic health problems in caring for individuals and families across the lifespan.
- 2credits
This is a comprehensive practicum in which students implement the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role through application of theoretical knowledge and psychomotor skills taught in all prior courses.
- 3credits
This is a comprehensive practicum in which students implement the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role through application of theoretical knowledge and psychomotor skills taught in all prior courses.
- 5credits
This is a comprehensive practicum in which students implement the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role through application of theoretical knowledge and psychomotor skills taught in all prior courses.
- 2credits
Nurse Practitioner role with children and their families to promote health, prevent illness, and manage acute or chronic health problems. NURS 875 provides instruction in the Nurse Practitioner role with children and their families to promote health, plan anticipatory guidance, conduct health screenings, prevent illness, and manage primary care health problems.
- 1credit
This is a comprehensive practicum in which students implement the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role with the pediatric population through application of theoretical knowledge and psychomotor skills taught in all prior courses.
- 3credits
This is a comprehensive didactic and simulation experience in which students implement the Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner (F/INP) role through application of theoretical knowledge and psychomotor skills.
Advanced Practice Core Courses
Additional course work may be required. Any or all of these additional courses may be waived based on the certificate program chair’s evaluation of transcripts and prior courses completed.
- 3credits
Current conceptual and theoretical models in nursing, including relationship to practice and research in development of nursing science.
- 3credits
Advanced nursing assessment and diagnosis of physical, psychosocial, and developmental health for adults and families across the adult age spectrum.
- 1credit
Advanced nursing assessment and diagnosis of physical, psychosocial, and development health for individuals and families across the pediatric age spectrum.
- 3credits
Integration of advanced physiology, genetics, and pathophysiology as related to specific disease entities and alterations in functioning.
- 3credits
Pharmacologic therapies in advanced nursing practice.
- 3credits
Examines the relationship of nursing theories to the development of nursing science, as well as current scientific advances that guide nursing practice and research.
Course Availability
If you're ready to see when your courses will be offered, visit our public LionPATH course search (opens in new window) to start planning ahead.
Start or Advance Your Career
Start or Advance Your Career
You can use the knowledge gained from this program and the support of Penn State career resources to pursue careers in a variety of fields, depending on your goals.
The demand for skilled nurse practitioners to assist patients across all age demographics is sharply on the rise. This online family nurse practitioner certificate can prepare you to meet this demand and enjoy a rewarding career as an FNP.
Career Services to Set You Up for Success
From the day you're accepted as a student, you can access resources and tools provided by Penn State World Campus Career Services to further your career. These resources are beneficial whether you're searching for a job or advancing in an established career.
- Opportunities to connect with employers
- Career counselor/coach support
- Occupation and salary information
- Internships
- Graduate school resources
Ready to Learn More?
Get the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education. Request information on this program and other programs of interest by completing this form.
Ready to take the next step toward your Penn State graduate certificate?
Costs and Financial Aid
Costs and Financial Aid
Learn about this program's tuition, fees, scholarship opportunities, grants, payment options, and military benefits.
Costs and Financial Aid
Graduate Tuition
Graduate tuition is calculated based on the number of credits for which you register. Tuition is due shortly after each semester begins and rates are assessed every semester of enrollment.
2024–25 Academic Year Rates
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | Cost |
|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $1,027 per credit |
| 12 or more | $12,325 per semester |
2025–26 Academic Year Rates
| How many credits do you plan to take per semester? | Cost |
|---|---|
| 11 or fewer | $1,037 per credit |
| 12 or more | $12,448 per semester |
Paying for Your Certificate
Students pursuing a certificate are considered "nondegree," a status that is not eligible for federal student aid, including the Federal Direct Stafford Loan program. A private alternative loan may be an option to consider.
Additionally, Penn State offers many ways to pay for your education, including an installment plan and third-party payments. Penn State World Campus also offers an Employer Reimbursement and Tuition Deferment Plan. Learn more about the options for paying for your education.
Students pursuing a degree and meeting all other eligibility requirements may qualify for financial aid.
Military Benefits
Military service members, veterans, and their spouses or dependents should explore these potential military education benefits and financial aid opportunities, as well.
Additional Cost of Attendance Details
To view the detailed list of cost of attendance elements:
- visit the Tuition Information site
- click the plus sign to expand the table
- select a semester from the World Campus row
Technical Requirements
Review the technical requirements for this program.
A Head Start toward a Doctoral Degree
A Head Start toward a Doctoral Degree
Not only can this program help create opportunities in your career, it can also give you a solid head start toward a Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Practitioner (DNP–NP) degree.
Degree Program Related to This Certificate
All the required credits in this graduate certificate can be applied toward the following doctoral degree program, if you apply and are granted admission:
Prepare to provide direct care through an expanded nursing role in this online nurse practitioner doctoral degree program, available exclusively to nurses licensed to practice professional nursing in Pennsylvania. Choose from options specific to family, adult/gerontology, and mental health patients.
Learn more about the Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse PractitionerWho Should Apply?
This certificate is designed for nurses who are licensed to practice nursing in Pennsylvania, have already earned a graduate degree in nursing, and want to expand their scope of practice to patients across the lifespan and prepare for certification as a family nurse practitioner.
College of Nursing Accreditation
College of Nursing Accreditation
The Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
The following programs at The Pennsylvania State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
- baccalaureate degree program in nursing
- master’s degree program in nursing
- Doctor of Nursing Practice program
- post-graduate APRN certificate programs
Further information can be found at www.ccneaccreditation.org.
The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing has been designated a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing in recognition of the college’s work creating and sustaining environments that promote the pedagogical expertise of the faculty.
Set Your Own Pace
Set Your Own Pace
Whether you are looking to finish your program as quickly as possible or balance your studies with your busy life, Penn State World Campus can help you achieve your education goals. This certificate can be earned part-time or full-time.
Your academic adviser can help you develop your plans for completing your course work as quickly as your schedule will allow.
Convenient Online Format
This program's convenient online format gives you the flexibility you need to study around your busy schedule. You can skip the lengthy commute without sacrificing the quality of your education and prepare yourself for more rewarding career opportunities without leaving your home.
A Trusted Leader in Online Education
Penn State has a history of more than 100 years of distance education, and World Campus has been a leader in online learning for more than two decades. Our online learning environment offers the same quality education that our students experience on campus.
How to Apply to Penn State
How to Apply to Penn State
Apply by June 30 to start August 25
Application Instructions
Deadlines and Important Dates
Complete your application and submit all required materials by the appropriate deadline. Your deadline will depend on the semester you plan to start your courses.
Fall Deadline
Apply by June 30 to start August 25Spring Deadline
Apply by October 1 to start January 12Summer Deadline
Apply by March 1, 2026, to start May 18, 2026
Steps to Apply
Applicants must hold a graduate degree in nursing from a from an ACEN– or CCNE–accredited institution that is also a U.S. regionally accredited institution or a postsecondary degree in nursing that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution.
Applicants to Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner Graduate Certificate program must also be nurses licensed to practice professional nursing in the state of Pennsylvania.
In addition, undergraduate chemistry and statistics are required.
GPA — It is recommended that you have a grade-point average of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) for the baccalaureate degree with a B or better in all science and nursing courses.
You will need to upload the following items as part of your application:
Official transcripts from each institution attended, regardless of the number of credits or semesters completed. Transcripts not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. If you are a Penn State alum, you do not need to request transcripts for credits earned at Penn State but must list Penn State as part of your academic history.
Test Scores — GRE or GMAT scores are NOT required for admission.
English Proficiency — The language of instruction at Penn State is English. With some exceptions, international applicants must take and submit scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum test scores and exceptions are found in the English Proficiency section on the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School's "Requirements for Graduate Admission" page. Visit the TOEFL website for testing information. Penn State's institutional code is 2660.
Please note that for entrance into a Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing graduate-level program, the minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 580 for the paper-based test, or a total score of 80 with a 25 on the speaking section for the internet-based test (iBT). The minimum composite score for the IELTS is 7.0.
References (2) — You will need to initiate the process through the online application by entering names and email addresses of two references. Upon submission of your application, an email will be sent to each reference requesting they complete a brief online recommendation regarding your commitment for success in an online program. Please inform all recommenders they must submit the form in order for your application to be complete.
References should be obtained from academic and professional perspectives. If you completed college-level courses over the past five years, an academic reference is required. Other references should be from a nursing supervisor, preferably holding a degree higher than yours.
To begin the online application, you will need a Penn State account.
Create a New Penn State Account
If you have any problems during this process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].
Please note: Former Penn State students may not need to complete the admissions application or create a new Penn State account. Please visit our Returning Students page for instructions.
You can begin your online application at any time. Your progress within the online application system will be saved as you go, allowing you to return at any point as you gather additional information and required materials.
- Choose Enrollment Type: "Certificate Admission"
- Choose "WORLD CAMPUS" as the campus
Checking Your Status
You can check the status of your application by using the same login information established for the online application form.5. Complete the application.
Admissions Help
If you have questions about the admissions process, contact an admissions counselor at [email protected].
Contact Us
Contact Us
Have questions or want more information? We're happy to talk.
To learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Family/Individual Across the Lifespan Nurse Practitioner, offered in partnership with the Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, please contact:
World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]
Cody Hoffman
Student Enrollment Recruiter
Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing
Phone: 814-865-0865
[email protected]
To learn more about additional, highly respected nursing programs from Penn State, visit the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing website.
Learn from the Best
Learn from the Best
This graduate certificate is offered through Penn State World Campus in collaboration with the highly respected Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. Our courses are taught by distinguished faculty who have special training and experience teaching in an online environment.
Our devoted team of graduate faculty and staff are dedicated to student success and provide individualized mentorship and guidance throughout the program, working to ensure students graduate prepared to deliver expert clinical care and improve health outcomes.
Faculty
Dr. Barbara Birriel, Ph.D., ACNP-BC, FCCM
- DegreePh.D., Penn State
- DegreePost-grad certificate ACNP, University of Pennsylvania
- DegreeMSN, Thomas Jefferson University
- DegreeBSN, Bloomsbury State College (University)
Dr. Barbara Birriel is an assistant research professor and an acute care nurse practitioner. Her research interests include ethics for the practitioner, palliative care, and family caregiving experiences in heart failure patients.
Kristen Bransby, CRNP, CPNP-PC
- DegreeDNP, University of Maryland
- DegreeMSN, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Primary Care Track, Drexel University
- DegreeB.S., Nursing, Penn State
Dr. Kristen Brandsby, associate teaching professor, is a doctoral-prepared pediatric nurse practitioner and pediatric mental health specialist who teaches the pediatric course work in the family nurse practitioner track and mentors and facilitates learning for the DNP students. Her practice interests include adolescents, pediatric mental health, health policy, and concussions.
Sandra Halbruner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC
- DegreeDNP, Wilkes University
- DegreeM.S., Penn State
- DegreeBSN, Johns Hopkins University
- DegreeB.S., Franklin & Marshall College
Dr. Sandra Halbruner is an assistant teaching professor for the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing. She has more than 21 years of experience in the field of medicine. Her research interests include active learning techniques in the multi-site or online classroom.
Sharilee Hrabovsky, D.Ed.
- DegreeD.Ed., Adult Education, Penn State
- DegreePost-master’s certification, Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Widener University
- DegreeMSN, Villanova University
- DegreeBSN, Thomas Jefferson University
Dr. Sharilee Hrabovsky is an assistant research professor with the College of Nursing. She teaches online courses in the graduate school. She has been a practicing nurse for the last 36 years, 23 of them as a nurse practitioner, and has presented on tobacco use, treatment, and regulation research for the last eight years. She is a nationally certified tobacco treatment specialist and has worked with hundreds of tobacco users through clinical trials or direct patient care in their quest to reduce or quit tobacco use.
Susan Leight, Ed.D., ARPN-BC, NP-C, ANP-BC, FAANP, FAAN
- DegreePostdoctoral Fellow, University of Pennsylvania
- DegreeResearch Fellow, University of Pennsylvania
- DegreeEd.D., West Virginia University
- DegreeMSN, West Virginia University
- DegreeBSN, State University of New York at Buffalo
Dr. Susan Leight is the director of the NP programs, the WE Lead program, and innovation at the College of Nursing. Dr Leight’s research interests include vulnerable populations, focusing on rural health and women’s health. She also spends time in Central America providing care for the underserved.
Paul Logan, PH.D., CRNP, ACNP-BC
- DegreePh.D., Penn State
- DegreeMSN, University of Pennsylvania
- DegreeBSN, Messiah College
Dr. Paul Logan is an assistant research professor for the College of Nursing. His research interests include outcomes, quality, and value in health care, particularly the quality of care provided by nurse practitioners. His clinical interests include acute care, critical care, and cardiovascular disease.
Brandi Peachey, DNP, FNP-BC, RN
- DegreeDNP, Penn State
- DegreeBSN, West Virginia University
Dr. Brandi Peachey is an assistant teaching professor in both the graduate and undergraduate programs. She is an FNP who practices in pediatrics. Dr. Peachey’s interests include adolescent substance abuse and screening techniques.
Nicole Peterson, DNP, A/GPCNP-BC, CRNP, RN
- DegreeDNP, University of Iowa
- DegreeMSN, University of Iowa
- DegreeBSN, University of Iowa
Dr. Nicole Peterson is an assistant teaching professor and emeritus associate professor of instruction at the University of Iowa. She has been an adult and gerontological primary care nurse practitioner since 2008, with clinical practice experience in long-term care, community care, home care, and primary care. This includes providing geriatric and primary care to the Meskwaki Nation community (Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa and their employees). She has teaching experience in undergraduate and graduate nursing, including master’s and doctorate levels, as well as serving as a geriatric nurse practitioner.
Beth Ann White, DNP, CRNP-BC, RN
- DegreeDNP, Penn State
- DegreeM.S. and Adult Nurse Practitioner, Penn State
- DegreeB.S., Nursing, Penn State
- DegreeRN, Diploma, Geisinger School of Nursing
Dr. Beth Ann White is the coordinator for the FNP program and is an associate teaching professor in the College of Nursing. She has worked as a case manager, disease manager, and regional manager for the Medical Home project, along with her continued practice as an adult nurse practitioner. Her research interest includes improved oral care in long-term care.
Sheilah Yohn, DNP, AGNP-BC, RN
DegreeDNP, Wilkes UniversityDr. Sheilah Yohn is an assistant teaching professor. She is a practicing NP in a family care setting. Dr. Yohn’s interests are in providing care to the underserved.