Thinking of Becoming a Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners are among the fastest-growing healthcare professions in the country, with 45% projected job growth. Over 355K+ NPs practice across the U.S., earning an average of $121,610 with the authority to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications.
What Does a Nurse Practitioner Do?
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary and specialty healthcare services, including diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and managing patient care. NPs practice in primary care, specialty clinics, hospitals, urgent care centers, and private practices. In many states, NPs have full practice authority to work independently without physician oversight.
Diagnosis & Treatment
- Diagnose acute and chronic conditions
- Prescribe medications
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests
- Develop and manage treatment plans
Patient Management
- Manage chronic disease (diabetes, HTN)
- Perform physical examinations
- Provide preventive care and screenings
- Counsel patients on lifestyle changes
Specialty Practice
- Family practice (FNP)
- Psychiatric mental health (PMHNP)
- Pediatrics (PNP)
- Adult-gerontology (AGNP)
Is Becoming an NP Right for You?
You Might Thrive If You...
- Want diagnostic and prescriptive authority
- Enjoy complex clinical decision-making
- Are committed to lifelong learning and evidence-based practice
- Want greater autonomy and leadership in patient care
- Value the nursing model's holistic, patient-centered approach
Things to Consider
- Requires MSN or DNP (6-8 years of total education)
- Must already hold an active RN license
- Graduate programs are competitive with rigorous clinical hours
- Malpractice liability and professional insurance costs
- Practice authority varies by state (full, reduced, or restricted)
How to Become a Nurse Practitioner
Earn a BSN and RN License
Complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse. This is the foundation for all advanced practice roles.
Gain Clinical Experience
Most NP programs recommend 1-2 years of RN clinical experience. Many programs require it. Experience in your desired specialty strengthens your application.
Complete an MSN or DNP Program
Earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from an accredited program. Choose your specialty focus: FNP, PMHNP, PNP, AGNP, or WHNP.
Pass a National Certification Exam
Take and pass a certification exam from ANCC or AANPCB in your specialty area. Certification is required for state licensure as an NP.
Obtain State APRN Licensure
Apply to your state board of nursing for APRN licensure. Requirements include your RN license, graduate degree, national certification, and any state-specific credentials.
Salary & Career Outlook
Nurse Practitioners are one of the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 45% growth through 2034, far outpacing the average for all occupations. NPs command strong salaries that vary by specialty and location.
Explore Related Careers
Registered Nurse (RN)
The prerequisite career. RNs earn $81,220 avg and provide the foundation for NP practice.
Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Another APRN role focused on women's health and childbirth with $114,210 avg salary.
Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
The highest-paid APRN role at $203,090 avg, specializing in anesthesia care.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Get detailed APRN licensing requirements for your state or read our comprehensive guide to becoming a Nurse Practitioner.