The Master of Science in Nursing: Nurse Practitioner Program is a practice-oriented, theory-based degree that prepares graduates to be autonomous practitioners, leaders, role models, and educators in primary health care. The focus of the Nurse Practitioner Program is on rural primary care practice that encompasses care for individuals, families, groups, and communities across all life stages. Nurse Practitioners are health professionals who have achieved advanced nursing practice competencies at the graduate level of nursing education. Nurse Practitioners, who are regulated by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives, provide health care services from a holistic nursing perspective, integrated with the autonomous diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illness, including ordering diagnostic tests and prescribing medications.

The Master of Science in Nursing Program (Thesis or Project) leads to an advanced nursing practice degree that focuses on preparing graduates across a range of areas and specialties to act as autonomous practitioners. In addition, this program aims to prepare graduates as interprofessional collaborators, nurse researchers, leaders, educators, change agents, and role models. Graduates of this program work in a variety of health care settings as clinical nurse specialists, educators, administrators, and researchers, and work with diverse populations across all age groups.