(1) Applicants for recognition in the advanced practice registered nurse areas of certified nurse-midwife, nurse practitioner and certified registered nurse anesthetist shall possess the following educational and certification qualifications:

(a) For original recognition after June 30, 1995, a master's degree from an accredited nursing education program, or a certificate from an accredited post master's program as defined in (1) (b) , which prepares the registered nurse for the APRN recognition sought; and, individual certification from a board-approved certifying body. APRNs who completed an accredited APRN program and obtained national certification prior to June 30, 1995, may be recognized in Montana;

(b) Successful completion of a post-basic professional nursing education program in the advanced practice registered nurse area of specialty with the minimum length of one academic year consisting of at least 250 hours of didactic instruction and 400 hours under a preceptor; and, individual certification from a board-approved certifying body for those recognized prior to July 1, 1995.

(2) Applicants for recognition as a CNS shall possess a master's degree in nursing from an accredited nursing education program which prepares the nurse for a CNS practice, and individual certification from a board-approved certifying body.

(3) Applicants for recognition as a psychiatric CNS shall possess a master's degree in nursing from an accredited nursing education program which prepares the nurse for a psychiatric CNS practice. If the psychiatric CNS plans to utilize medical diagnosis and treatment, proof of education related to medical diagnosing, treating and managing psychiatric clients shall be provided. This education must integrate pharmacology and clinical practice.

(4) For approval in a subspecialty practice setting, the licensee shall submit documentation of, or a plan for, achievement of competency in the subspecialty area.

(5) Applicants for recognition in any APRN area are subject to the provisions of 37-8-441 , MCA.