How to become a nurse practitioner (NP)
From RN to NP: graduate school, board certification, and how practice rules differ by state.
Start as an RN
NP programs expect an active RN licence and, in most cases, a BSN. Many programs want a year or two of RN experience too.
Graduate school
You’ll earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in a population focus: family (FNP), adult-gerontology, pediatrics, women’s health, or psychiatric-mental health (PMHNP).
Board certification and licence
After graduating, you sit a national certification exam (for example through AANP or ANCC), then apply to your state for an APRN licence.
State practice rules
Some states let NPs practise independently (“full practice”); others require a collaborating or supervising physician. It affects where you can work and whether you can open your own practice.
Pay
The national median NP salary is $129,210 a year. Psychiatric and telehealth NP roles are among the most in-demand right now.
General information, not legal or licensing advice. Requirements change; your state board of nursing has the final word. Pay figures: BLS OEWS May 2024 national medians.