Steps to becoming a Nurse Practitioner
Get Certified to work as a Nurse Practitioner
Pursue an undergraduate degree
Build Experience
- Attend an accredited college or university.
- Earn an associates degree in nursing,at minimum. A nurse practitioner should also pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.
After earning a master's degree and passing the state licensing exam, take the certification examination given by organizations like the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
- Seek entry-level work in a clinic or a hospital setting to get registered nursing experience
- This serves as a stepping-stone to a higer-level career
Obtain a graduate degree
- Master's degree programs in nursing are highly regarded because most healthcare professions prefer it as a minimum educational requirement.
- Takes two years to complete a masters program in nursing
High School Diploma
Apply for Nursing License
- Must complete 4 years of high school and earn enough credits to graduate.
- My goal is to eventually receive an Advanced High School diploma.
- In order to become a registered nurse you must complete and pass National Council Licensure Examination for nursing.
- Most places require you to pass the exam and obtain a license before beginning as a nurse or nurse practitioner