by To start the majority of NP programs, you will have to hold a registered nurse license, but it isn’t always the case.
The programs that don’t require students to have RN licenses are convenient for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field, wishing to start a career as advance-practice nurses.
The programs are created that students can earn an RN license first and then earn their NP license.
Prerequisites and Previous Course Requirements
Each school can set the list of required prerequisite courses that students need to complete before admission.
Before you start the application process, you should research more about admission requirements for the program of your choice.
The majority of programs needs their students to complete the following prerequisites:
- Application forms
- Submit all official transcripts of the previous education
- Submit at least one letter of recommendation
- Submit the personal goal statement
Additionally, only students who have completed, Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, and Nutrition can be admitted.
Curriculum
The direct-entry NP programs can have different curriculums and can have specialized curriculums for specific nursing fields.
To earn an RN license, students need to complete the educational requirements and successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
There are schools that allow you to earn BSN at the same time.
Also, some schools require their students to gain working experience as an RN, but before you start any application, you need to be sure that you are 100% sure that you understand the admission requirements.
The courses that you have to complete to earn an MSN degree might include Advanced pharmacology/pathophysiology/health assessment, Concepts in advanced-practice nursing, Research, Community health.
After these general education courses are done, each student may pick the specialization track focused on a certain population, such as Adult/Gerontology, Pediatrics, Women’s Health, Psychiatry.
Also, don’t forget that each specialization trach requires a certain number of supervised clinical hours to get your APRN license.
Duration and Fees
Every school set their own fees and required credits for program completion.
Also, your previous education will determine your eligibility for programs, and therefore the duration and the costs.
The credit range is between 48 and 128 credits is common for graduation, and you expect the program to last between two and four years.
The curriculums vary and you should find the one that fits your needs and expectation.
For example, Oakland’s Samuel Merritt University has an entry-level MSN program and a Family Nurse Practitioner specialization.
It will take you ten semesters to complete the entire program.
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