How to Become a Nurse Practitioner
| 4 Min Read
Medical science is advancing fast, and as more people gain access to healthcare, the demand for more primary care providers, especially nurse practitioners, grows.
Regarded as having the highest professional level of clinical expertise in nursing, nurse practitioners are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to individuals, families and communities. Nurse practitioners manage acute episodes of illness and chronic conditions through advanced practice knowledge and skills including diagnosing, developing treatment plans and evaluating outcomes.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 3.3 million registered nurses (RNs) and 292,500 nurse practitioners working in the United States in 2023. The need for nurse practitioners is projected to grow 46% through 2033, creating 135,500 positions.
Once you’ve completed the first step in achieving your long-term career goals by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), it’s time to explore the nursing pathways that are available to you and learn how to become a nurse practitioner.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse Practitioner After Earning a BSN?
Along with how to become a nurse practitioner, another common topic on the minds of many RNs seeking career advancement is the length of time required for career advancement.
How long it takes to become a nurse practitioner after earning a BSN depends on your career goals and, ultimately, the pathway you choose to qualify for these roles. For instance, you can complete a Master of Science in Nursing – Advanced Practice Nurse (APRN) program to become an NP in two to three years.
Earning an MSN in Advanced Practice Nursing provides the knowledge, hands-on clinical experience and credential needed for professional practice opportunities. Of course, this is just one pathway to nurse practitioner roles — let’s walk through pathways for RNs to consider, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs.
How to Become a Nurse Practitioner
Earn a Master of Science in Nursing in Advanced Practice Nursing
Earning an MSN in Advanced Practice Nursing provides the knowledge, hands-on clinical experience and credential needed for professional practice opportunities. Of course, this is just one pathway to nurse practitioner roles — let’s walk through pathways for RNs to consider, including Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs.
By choosing an MSN degree program with a specific concentration, you’ll graduate with the qualifications to become an APRN in a specialty area. Some commonly pursued positions by APRNs with this degree include:
| Nursing Role | Average Annual Salary (Payscale) |
|---|---|
| Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) | $107,373 |
| Nurse Educator | $86,301 |
| Clinical Nurse Leader | $91,900 |
While some MSN programs in CT admit RNs with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing, a BSN degree and clinical nursing experience are required to become a nurse practitioner.
Earn a Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Family nurse practitioners have the qualifications and clinical experience to provide primary care to patients throughout their lifespan and treat and manage diverse health issues and conditions. MSN-FNP programs deliver extensive knowledge and clinical learning opportunities for a rewarding career as a primary care provider.
According to PayScale, the average annual salary for family nurse practitioners is $107,373. While many family nurse practitioners provide their services through their own private practice, they also work in other health facilities, including:
- State, local and private hospitals
- Outpatient care centers
- Private offices of physicians
- Academic medical centers
- Independent NP practices
- Telehealth services
Earn a Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Completing an MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides nurses with the professional skills needed to care for the mental and emotional needs of patients in a variety of health care settings. These programs often encourage NPs to support social justice and champion the common good, enabling graduates to support positive change in their communities.
According to Payscale, the average salary for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners is $124,000. Because PMHNP roles require certification, it’s vital to select a program that prepares you for the certification exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.
Choosing the Path That’s Right for You
If you’re interested in advancing your nursing career, choose Sacred Heart University. Through an exclusive online learning platform, our MSN program includes Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializations designed to transform your skills and prepare you for the certification exams required for your desired career path. You’ll learn from committed educators with years of clinical experience while completing online courses that offer flexibility for balancing your academic and professional responsibilities.
We offer these specializations through our online MSN and RN to MSN programs. To discuss each option with one of our program managers, request information or call 877-791-7181.