Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for BSN Holders
Elevate your nursing practice and become a Family Nurse Practitioner
Advance your nursing career with the Master of Science in Nursing at Simmons University. In two years, you can build on your experience as a Registered Nurse (RN) and prepare for advanced practice roles as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
Through a rigorous, hands-on curriculum, you will develop the skills to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care in high-demand areas like primary care. You’ll develop leadership skills to advocate for patients and communities, run interprofessional teams, and contribute to healthcare research.
Simmons graduates consistently perform well above the national average on certification exams, reflecting the strength of your preparation.
Not sure which nursing program is right for you? Compare your options and find the best fit for your goals.
What will you learn in the MSN program?
Simmons University’s Master of Science in Nursing program prepares you to become Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs). We focus on this area because the current and future US population is in great need of qualified advanced practice nurses to fill gaps in the primary care setting, where there is a critical national shortage.
In this MSN program, you will:
- Learn from experts, including educators, clinicians, and researchers, who are invested in your success.
- Gain clinical experience in Boston’s renowned Longwood Medical Area and have access to more than 850 clinical sites, including leading institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
- Benefit from a supportive academic environment designed to foster your professional growth and prepare you for advanced nursing practice.
Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner allows you to increase your earning potential in a rapidly growing field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 52.4% increase between 2019 and 2029. You’ll also find accomplishment and satisfaction as you expand your scope of practice in a career consistently ranked among the best in healthcare.
What can you do with a master’s degree in Nursing?
Upon graduation from Simmons’ MSN program, you’ll be ready to excel on the Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam. You can pursue roles in primary healthcare, community care, private practice, or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs.
Simmons MSN Highlights
Nursing Simulation Center
Our 11,000 square foot Nursing Simulation Center will help you gain real-world experience in a controlled clinical setting, allowing you the opportunity to get comfortable with your nursing skills before being expected to perform them off-site.
850+
Clinical Training Sites
Boston-based students have access to more than 850 clinical training sites, including world-class hospitals like Massachusetts General, Brigham and Women’s, Boston Children’s, VA Boston Healthcare System, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
94%
AACC certification exam
On the ANCC certification exam, Family Nurse Practitioner graduates scored 94%, 13 points above the 81% national average in 2025.
95%
AANP FNP Certification Exam Score
Simmons Direct Entry MSN graduates scored an impressive 95% on the AANP Family Nurse Practitioner Certification exam — 12 points above the 83% national average in 2024.
Our Faculty
Naila Russell
Associate Professor of Practice, Chair of Graduate Nursing Programs, and Alumni Endowed Chair
Sarah Volkman
Professor