This course will investigate the role of the nurse practitioner from a historical perspective with implications to current practice requirements. The nurse practitioner student will investigate the history of their specialty nurse practice, the regulations that apply to their specialty nurse practice, their role as a leader and advocate. A synthesis of this information that incorporates evidence based practice initiatives will occur. Special emphasis on ethical and cultural diversity and considerations about age variations, cultural variations, religious variations, health promotion and diversity across the lifespan will assist nurse practitioner students in developing their practice own practice philosophy.