Become a Nurse Practitioner (NP)Learn about the many opportunities for nurse practitioners. Nursing Education and CareersQUICK LINKS Nursing School Listings Find a Nursing School Nurse Education & Career Center Types of Nursing Programs What Is a Nurse Practitioner?A nurse practitioner is one of four categories of "Advance Practice Nurses." These nurses have received masters level detailed training beyond that required for RN licensure, and in a specific area of focus. NPs were originally designed as "physician extenders" to provide primary care to improve the health of children. But today's NP focuses more on holistic, preventive care tailored to individuals—a more skilled nursing approach—rather than just substituting for a physician. Nurse practitioners can order and interpret diagnostic and laboratory tests, and can prescribe medication in all 50 states. Find a nurse practitioner school to begin your rewarding nursing career today. How Do I Become a Nurse Practitioner?NP education builds on a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) and most programs are two years long—resulting in a Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN). Some schools have post-masters certificate programs which allow you to focus on a new specialty area after you already have a masters in a different area. Certification comes from passing a national certification exam offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners . Like Clinical Nurse Specialists, Nurse Practitioners may practice independently, or they may work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and for various health care agencies. However, while CNSs may function primarily as administrators, researchers, policy-makers, educators or consultants, most NPs function primarily as clinicians. NPs may diagnose and treat a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses and injuries, interpret lab results, counsel patients, develop treatment plans, and they may prescribe medication. Like CNS, NPs work within a defined area of specialization, many of which are listed below: Return to the Nursing School Education Resource Center.  Spotlight Schools Kaplan University - School of Nursing The flexibility and dynamic interaction of an online nursing education at Kaplan University allows for innovative web-based learning opportunities via message boards, online readings, academic exercises and web field trips. Learn more by clicking below. Select a Campus: Online  University of Phoenix The University of Phoenix offers a variety nursing programs to fit the needs of all students. The curriculum is built upon a foundation of biological, physical and social sciences which contribute to the science of nursing. Choose from a campus near you. Select a Campus: Online | Southern California, CA | Sacramento, CA | Phoenix, AZ | Colorado, CO | Atlanta, GA | Bay Area, CA | NWArkansas, AR | Hawaii, HI Walden University Realize your potential to make a lasting difference in nursing. At the Walden University School of Nursing, you'll advance your career on your terms. Request information today. Select a Campus: Online  |
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