Step 1: Spring 2026
Graduation!
- 42 didactic credits, 14 clinical credits, and 630 clinical hours
Step 2: Summer 2026
Pass the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) FNP board certification exam and obtain the credentials: FNP-BC
- Eligibility to apply:
- pay a fee of $395
- 500 clinical hours
- Received an advanced degree from an accredited FNP program with a masters degree
- The program must have content in health promotion/disease prevention and include content in Differential Diagnosis and Disease Management, including the use and prescription of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions.
- Completed courses in advanced physical and health assessment, advanced pathophysiology and advanced pharmacology.
(American Nurses Association, 2023)
Register with the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) for provisional prescriptive authority through the Colorado Board of Nursing:
- pay a fee of $150
- Send paper transcripts for proof of completion of FNP program
- Active RN license
- Active national certification for APRN
(Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, 2023)
Step 5: Fall 2027
Gain full prescriptive authority
- Complete 750 hours of clinical hours of mentorship
Step 3: Summer/Fall 2026
Begin applying for FNP positions!
Step 4: Fall 2026 and Winter 2027
Start new position as a FNP