FAU Launches Innovative Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certification Program

Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is proud to announce the launch of its Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Post-graduate Certificate Program. This cutting-edge program is designed to equip nurse practitioners (NPs) with specialized knowledge and skills in general dermatology, enabling them to provide optimal care for patients across all age groups.

Comprehensive Training for Nurse Practitioners

As licensed, independent clinicians, nurse practitioners focus on managing health conditions and preventing disease. With an increasing demand for specialized care in dermatology, FAU’s program aims to bridge the educational gap often faced by NPs.

Susan Bulfin, DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC, the program director, emphasized the importance of this certification by stating, “Most often, nurse practitioner educational preparation includes little dermatology education and training. Therefore, nurse practitioners who desire to specialize in dermatology are left to develop competencies through on-the-job training or in a rare fellowship program.”

Curriculum Highlights

The certificate program includes a blend of theoretical and practical training:

• Course Structure:

  • Dermatology Essentials (40 hours)
  • Dermatology Clinical I (40 hours)
  • Dermatology Clinical II (60 hours)

• Didactic Content:

  • 140 hours of online theoretical knowledge focusing on essential dermatology competencies as defined by national guidelines.

• Hands-On Workshops:

  • Held once a semester, these practical sessions will cover key skills such as skin exams, biopsies, and cryotherapy.
• Clinical Training:
  • A total of 480 clinical hours are required, and students will identify their clinical sites and preceptors, ensuring they receive top-notch mentorship from certified dermatology practitioners.

Preparing for Certification

After completing the program, graduates will be well-prepared to apply for the Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP) Examination, further elevating their qualifications in the field.

Admission Requirements

To join the program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum Master’s GPA of 3.0.
• Must be a licensed Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) in good standing.
• Current enrollment in a master’s nurse practitioner program from an accredited institution.
• Submission of two recommendation letters from healthcare colleagues or supervisors.

Important Program Details

• Program Start Date: January 9, 2021
• Completion Date: December 4, 2021
• Program Cost: $14,000
• Application Deadline: December 15, 2020

For further assistance and information, interested candidates can reach out at 561-297-1109, or email nurderm@health.fau.edu, or visit the FAU Nursing Dermatology Program page.

The Importance of Specialized Dermatology Care

Dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis, hair loss, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and skin cancer are prevalent in many populations. According to the CDC, basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common skin cancers, with a significant cure rate. However, melanoma presents a more serious risk and continues to be a leading cause of skin cancer deaths.

The Growing Role of Nurse Practitioners

Since the establishment of the nurse practitioner role in 1965, there has been a steady evolution towards advanced preparation, with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) increasingly becoming the standard for delivering high-quality care.

Safiya George, Ph.D., Dean of FAU’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, stated, “Nurse practitioners fill a critical role in healthcare, especially as our nation faces shortages in both primary care and specialty providers.”

This innovative Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Post-graduate Certificate Program represents FAU’s commitment to addressing gaps in healthcare access and maintaining the highest standards in patient care.

Additional Resources

• Learn more about Nurse Practitioners.
• Explore the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

For nurse practitioners looking to expand their skill set in dermatology, this program offers an exceptional opportunity to enhance their practice and meet the growing needs of patients.