Nurse Practitioner Education

If you're thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner, you're in good company. Many nurses who are ready to take their career up to the next level decide to pursue their nurse practitioner education. Let's take a look at what nurse education in practice actually looks like so you know what to expect as you begin your nurse practitioner education program.

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If you're searching to learn more about nursing education near me and the path to become a nurse practitioner, you'll first need to earn your RN license. An RN, or registered nurse, must have at least an associate's degree in nursing, and must pass the NCLEX-RN. This exam is difficult, and ensures that you're fully prepared to provide excellent patient care.

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After you earn your RN, you'll need to apply to a master's of science in nursing, or MSN, program. An MSN allows you to become a nurse practitioner. Some programs allow you to learn your bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) and MSN within the same program, while others require that you earn your bachelor's degree before applying to their MSN program. Many MSN programs require that applicants have at least a year of experience practicing as a registered nurse.

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During your MSN program, you'll choose a specialty area in which you'd like to practice nursing. You'll be exposed to several different areas of nursing throughout the course of your education, allowing you to figure out which one makes the most sense for your interests. Common specialties include family care, geriatric care, pediatrics, acute care, and psychiatric/ mental health nursing. As a part of your MSN program, you'll be required to complete clinical hours. Going through your clinical hours is a great way to learn more about which specialty options make the most sense for your interests.

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You may also choose to begin a DNP, or doctor of nursing practice, program. While a DNP currently isn't required to become a nurse practitioner, experts in healthcare trends suggest that this may become a requirement in the future.

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While going through your educational requirements is a large part of becoming a nurse practitioner, you'll also need to go through testing to meet state-specific requirements for licensure as a nurse practitioner. A quality MSN program will fully prepare you to take your licensing exam. You may choose to take practice tests to help you feel well-prepared for your exam. After you earn your licensure as a nurse practitioner, you'll also need to stay on top of your continuing education requirements that allow you to maintain your license. It's likely that your workplace will provide some of these hours, but you'll have to search out some educational opportunities on your own.

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When you're searching to get your nurse practitioner education, you're ready to take your nursing career to the next level. Whether you're searching for nursing education near me or you're interested in online nurse practitioner education programs, becoming a nurse practitioner is an exciting step for any nurse. There are many options for nurse practitioners when it comes to a career path, and it's important to consider whether you want a nurse education in practice or in providing education to other nurses. No matter what your nursing education goals, R.E.A.L. Nurse Educate is here to help you get the skills that you need to move your career forward. Reach out to R.E.A.L. Nurse Educate to learn more about nurse education in practice today so you can begin the path to becoming a nurse practitioner.