How to Become a Nurse Practitioner Without a College Degree

In order to pursue both degrees simultaneously, however, patients should enroll in the same institution and take all coursework there.

How can I become a nurse in US can be done through an online course. A large number of aspiring nurses are considering how to become nurse practitioners (NP). Unlike other nursing positions, being a NP involves much more than working in a doctor’s office. The National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) estimates that by the year 2021, there will be a shortage of NP’s because the aging US population is expected to grow by nearly a full percent.

Nurses who wish to become NP have several specializations to choose from within the healthcare industry. Most commonly, nurses choose to specialize in one of six areas of nursing. Specializations are listed in order of increasing priority. Students who wish to become certified nurse anesthetists (A) should review these sections for more information on advanced coursework, including fees and time periods required.

These resources also address professional expectations and salary for specialist nurses, as well as comparing various specializations to other nursing positions. Within areas of medical care, nurses can specialize by focusing on one particular specialty such as pediatrics, family practice, or women’s health. There are many benefits to leaning towards a specialty of choice, including becoming familiar with the most up-to-date treatment techniques. Many healthcare institutions require passing an NCLEX-RN exam to achieve a RN license, so getting a master’s degree in nursing credentials can help prospective students secure their chance at becoming a doctor.

Becoming a nurse practitioner involves earning either a doctorate or RN degree. To be eligible for a doctorate degree, students must complete a minimum of 48 months of course work at an accredited nursing institute, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and pass a board exam. Students will also need to complete three years of prerequisites, pursue a specialization, and complete a clinical internship in order to complete the program. On the other hand, an RN degree requires just four years of graduate school, as well as a year of supervised clinical practice in an approved facility.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner Without a College Degree

RNs may also choose to take shorter courses to increase their credits, while pursuing a doctorate. The American Academy of Nurse Practitioner, or AANP, accredits RN programs in the United States. Nurse practitioners can pursue both a doctorate and an RN degree online. In order to pursue both degrees simultaneously, however, patients should enroll in the same institution and take all coursework there. However, keep in mind that the quality of the course is crucial.

Make sure that you opt for a program that helps you learn the basic skills before moving forward to more detailed and challenging areas. Projected growth for the nursing workforce in the next decade is quite encouraging. However, it is important for prospective students to understand that these projected growth rates are only projected if more people start pursuing online programs and complete them. For that reason, it is important for future students to make sure that they enroll in accredited courses and to research each institution thoroughly before applying.
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