How do I become a nurse practitioner?

Below is the pathway to becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP): 

• STEP 1: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing. 
• STEP 2: Pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and receive an RN license. 
• STEP 3: Enroll in a graduate NP program. 
• STEP 4: Pass a National NP Certification Board Exam and obtain NP licensure. 

For more information, download the Pathway to Becoming an NP or read this helpful article on The Path to Becoming a Nurse Practitioner.

All NPs must complete a master's or doctoral degree program and have advanced clinical training beyond their initial professional registered nurse (RN) preparation. Didactic and clinical courses prepare nurses with specialized knowledge and clinical competency to practice in primary care, acute care and long-term health care settings.

What sets NPs apart from other health care providers is their unique emphasis on the health and well-being of the whole person. With a focus on health promotion, disease prevention and health education and counseling, NPs guide patients in making smarter health and lifestyle choices, which in turn can lower patients' out-of-pocket costs.