A Post-Master’s Certificate (PMC) is an academic program designed for registered nurses who already hold a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and want to build additional expertise in a new or advanced practice nursing specialty. Rather than completing another full degree, students in PMC programs focus only on the specialty-specific coursework and clinical experiences needed for board certification or advanced role readiness.
These programs are often pursued by working nurses seeking to expand their career options, pursue licensure in a new population focus, or transition into leadership or education roles.
What Does a PMC Program Include?
PMC programs are structured around the specialty area being pursued. Though shorter than a full master’s program, they typically include:
- Specialty-specific didactic coursework (e.g., advanced pharmacology, physical assessment, pathophysiology within a given role or population focus)
- Supervised clinical experiences (to develop and demonstrate competency in the new area)
- Role preparation for certification (aligned with national credentialing exam standards, such as those set by or )
Program length and credit hour requirements vary depending on the specialty and individual academic background.
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs Offered at WCU
¹ú²úÖ÷²¥ offers the following Post-Master’s Certificate programs online designed for MSN-prepared nurses looking to expand their scope of practice or pivot into a new role:
- AGACNP – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- AGPCNP – Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- FNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Leader
- PMHNP – Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
°Â°ä±«â€™s post-master’s certification APRN tracks are accredited by the (CCNE).
Nursing PMC FAQs
Who is a PMC program for?
PMC programs are designed for licensed RNs who already hold a master’s degree in nursing and are looking to add a new specialization without pursuing another full graduate degree.
Is clinical experience required in a PMC program?
Yes. Most PMC programs include direct clinical hours specific to the new specialty, even for nurses who already have prior experience.
Will a PMC program prepare me for board certification?
°Â°ä±«â€™s PMC programs are designed to align with the academic and clinical requirements needed to sit for relevant national certification exams (such as ANCC or AANP), depending on the chosen specialty.
Can I complete a PMC program online?
WCU offers its Post-Master’s Certificate programs in a flexible online format with required clinical placements and select on-site intensives, depending on the specialization.
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