Strategies to Enhance Success Among Dual Specialty Advance Practice Nursing Programs

In response to APRN Consensus model revisions, graduate nursing programs may elect to expand offerings to include dual specialty advance practice nursing options which more widely prepare graduates across population and practice areas. Such programs offer increased market value to graduates within a condensed timeframe compared to traditional post-masters options, allowing for greater career flexibility and overall costs savings. However, challenges such as scheduling conflicts and delay in certification and employment until final degree completion are also inherent in dual programs.  Based on previous success, these authors offer both faculty and student focused strategies to enhance success for dual specialty advance practice nursing programs based on experiences from a dual AG-ACNP/FNP program and a CNM/FNP program.