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.
