Nazareth University in Rochester, New York, recently launched a new master of science degree for women’s health nurse practitioners.
Geared toward registered nurses holding a bachelor of science in nursing degree, Nazareth’s new hybrid graduate program combines online coursework with in-person sessions to train nurses to diagnose, treat, and educate patients through a holistic approach to women’s health. The degree can be completed in 21 months, and students benefit from community-engaged clinical placements with local health systems and underserved populations.
“Women’s health nurse practitioners are in high demand due to physician shortages, rising maternal morbidity, and the need for expanded access to specialized health care,” said Maureen Finney, president of Nazareth University. “This new hybrid master’s program gives momentum to Nazareth’s highly regarded College of Interprofessional Health and Human Services, expanding its offerings that already include graduate programs in physician assistant studies, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, social work, art therapy, and music therapy, as well as our bachelor of science degree in nursing programs — all with strong outcomes.”
Leigh Quenasse, program director, added, “Women’s health nurse practitioners help guide patients through some of the most important moments of their lives — from routine health screenings to life-changing diagnoses, pregnancies, losses, transitions, and everything in between. We know most of our students will be working nurses with full lives, so the WHNP program at Nazareth is primarily online and asynchronous, allowing students to engage with coursework on a schedule that works for them while still receiving strong faculty support and meaningful clinical preparation.”