After examining why to become a nurse practitioner, another consideration is how to pursue the career. The path to becoming a nurse practitioner includes these steps:
- Earning a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree. Students can pursue a BSN as their first postsecondary degree or after receiving another bachelor’s degree or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
- Passing the National Council Licensure Exam. Receiving a passing score on the NCLEX is generally a requirement for state registered nurse (RN) licensing.
- Obtaining an RN license. State licensing typically requires either a BSN or an ADN, in addition to a passing score on the NCLEX, although specific requirements vary.
- Selecting an area of focus. Nurses should select a population to be the focus of their nurse practitioner practice, to inform their plans for graduate studies.
- Completing a graduate nursing program. An MSN is often the minimum degree requirement for state nurse practitioner licensing.
- Passing a national nurse practitioner certification exam. Exam options vary according to the area of specialization, from certification programs such as the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Program (AANPCP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
- Pursuing a nurse practitioner license. States provide licensing for nurse practitioners.
Advance Your Nursing Career With an MSN
Becoming a nurse practitioner can bring opportunities to fill unmet healthcare needs in a growing profession with the potential for high earnings. If you’re ready to pursue an MSN to help you advance to a high-level role like a nurse practitioner, explore the Duquesne University online MSN program.
Duquesne’s online MSN program focuses on the knowledge and skills that are critical in advanced nursing roles, preparing you for your specialization in nursing care and for leadership roles in the field. The program also features the convenience and flexibility of online coursework and access to academic tools and support personnel to help you along your journey.
Discover how Duquesne’s online MSN program can help you advance your nursing career.