In This Guide
● FNP vs. AGPCNP at a Glance
● What Does a Family Nurse Practitioner Do?
● What Does an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Do?
● The Main Difference Between an FNP and an AGPCNP
● How to Become an FNP or AGPCNP
● Deciding Which Educational Path Fits Your Needs
● Frequently Asked Questions

Family nurse practitioners (FNPs) and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners (AGPCNPs) are both advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). This means that they possess at least a master’s degree in nursing (MSN) and have undergone advanced clinical training. Both are well-equipped to deliver primary care, and both are qualified to serve specific patient populations.

So how do you decide between them? An FNP is trained to care for patients of all ages, including children, while an AGPCNP cares for patients from adolescence through older adulthood. Use the comparison below to see how the two roles line up, then read on for the differences that matter most as you choose your path.

FNP vs. AGPCNP at a Glance

Bottom line: an AGPCNP can care for the same adolescent, adult, and older adult patients that an FNP sees. The main difference is that FNPs are also trained to care for children.

What Does a Family Nurse Practitioner Do?

FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who are qualified to provide comprehensive care to patients across their entire lifespan, from infancy to end-of-life. FNPs generally serve as the first point of contact for patients who are seeking healthcare services, treating individuals and families throughout their lives.

Dedicated to enhancing the wellness of their patients, FNPs focus on preventative care and holistic health approaches. As such, they do not work in acute care—medical treatment provided for short-term illnesses, injuries, or medical conditions that require immediate attention.

FNP’s work across , a few of the most common are listed below.

• Family practice clinics
• Specialty clinics
• Urgent Care
• Emergency departments (ED)
• Hospital clinics and chronic care units
• Retail clinics
• Palliative care settings
• Long-term care facilities
• House calls and home care companies

What Does an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Do?

AGPCNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat patients ranging from adolescents (starting at the age of 13) through older adulthood to end of life. Dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of their patients, AGPCNPs focus on preventative care and holistic health approaches.

They may also support patients transitioning between care settings, which often involves
educating patients and caregivers on how to best maintain and/or monitor the patient’s health.

AGPCNP’s work in various environments, including:

• Clinics
• Hospitals/Urgent care
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Long-term care including homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, etc.
• Outpatient care centers
• Medical and physician offices

The Main Difference Between an FNP and an AGPCNP

The clearest difference between the two roles is the age range each is trained to treat. An FNP cares for patients of every age, from newborns and children to older adults. An AGPCNP cares for patients from about age 13 through older adulthood, so their training doesn’t include pediatric care. Everything else: the primary-care focus, the emphasis on prevention and whole-person health, and the many settings where you can practice, looks very similar. If you want the option to care for children and families, the FNP path is a good fit. If you’d rather focus on teens, adults, and the aging population, the AGPCNP path is a strong match.

What is the Process of Becoming an FNP vs. AGPCNP?

The process of becoming an FNP or AGPCNP is similar although the content of the national certification examination will vary. To become certified, both prospective FNPs and AGPCNPs typically follow these three steps:

Step 1: Become a Registered Nurse

To become a registered nurse (RN), you must complete an accredited nursing program (Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)) and successfully pass the to obtain your license.

It’s important to note that all states require prospective RNs to hold a minimum of an ADN to qualify for their license. However, a growing number of states now require a BSN.

In states where a BSN is not required, registered nurses with an ADN are recommended to
enhance their qualifications to meet specific employer requirements by enrolling in an RN to
BSN program.

Step 2: Earn National Certification

In addition to holding an active RN license, you must become nationally certified as a FNP or
AGPCNP through an examination process via the or the .

To qualify for either examination, you must submit an application. Both the ANCC and AANP require you to submit the following to determine your eligibility:

• Proof of a current RN license
• Proof of completion of an accredited FNP or AGPCNP education program, including all supervised clinical practice hours
• Relevant transcripts
• An application fee

After successfully passing the exam, your national nurse practitioner certification will be valid for five years; however, to maintain certification, you must follow the renewal process detailed on the ANCC or AANP site.

Step 3: Apply for State Licensure

Following your RN licensure and your national certification as an FNP or AGPCNP, you must become licensed in the specific state where you plan to practice. As licensure requirements differ by state, it’s important to understand the requirements outlined by your state’s .

The application process for most state licensure requires a minimum of:

• Proof of a current RN license
• Proof of national FNP or AGPCNP certification
• Proof of the completion of an accredited FNP or AGPCNP program, including all supervised clinical practice hours
• An application fee

Deciding Which Educational Path Fits Your Needs

Although the general process of becoming a FNP or AGPCNP is similar, the specific coursework varies.

FNP programs typically offer a comprehensive range of pediatric courses, preparing practitioners to care for patients from infancy through the end-of-life. In contrast, AGPCNP programs focus on adolescent to adult care, generally excluding pediatric courses from their curriculum. Visit ���Ҵ�ý’s catalog to learn more about and .

Once you’ve decided on the right fit for you, consider applying to an accredited nursing program that not only meets your state’s criteria to become an FNP or AGPCNP, but also aligns with your professional goals.

���Ҵ�ý Helps Support Students Through Their Educational Journey

No matter which path you choose, preparing to become an FNP or AGPCNP can be a meaningful step toward a rewarding career in advanced practice nursing. Both roles offer the chance to make a real difference in the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

���Ҵ�ý’s online FNP specialization is available through the following programs:

• RN to MSN – FNP
• MSN – FNP
• Post-Master’s Certificate – FNP

The online AGPCNP specialization is available through the following programs:

• RN to MSN – AGPCNP
• MSN – AGPCNP
• Post-Master’s Certificate – AGPCNP

Visit one of the program pages above and submit a request for additional information to begin planning for a rewarding career

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an FNP and an AGPCNP?

The main difference is the age range each nurse practitioner is trained to treat. A family nurse practitioner (FNP) provides primary care to patients of all ages, including infants and children. An adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP) cares for patients from about age 13 through older adulthood, so pediatric care isn’t part of the role. Both are APRNs who hold an MSN, focus on preventative and holistic primary care, and practice in similar settings.

Can an AGPCNP care for children?

No. AGPCNPs are trained to care for patients from adolescence (around age 13) through older adulthood to end-of-life, so they don’t provide pediatric care. If you want to care for children and families across the full lifespan, the FNP specialization is the better fit. An AGPCNP can care for the same adolescent, adult, and older adult patients as an FNP; the difference is simply the pediatric population.

Do FNPs and AGPCNPs need the same degree and certification?

Both roles require at least a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and an active RN license, and both earn national certification through the ANCC or the AANP. The difference between the two roles is the exam that you will sit for: the FNP certification exam or the AGPCNP certification exam, depending on your specialization. Coursework differs, too, since FNP programs include pediatric primary care and AGPCNP programs focus on adolescent-to-adult care.

How do you become an FNP or AGPCNP?

You’ll follow three main steps. First, become a registered nurse by completing an accredited ADN or BSN program and passing the NCLEX. Next, earn an MSN with an FNP or AGPCNP specialization and pass the national certification exam through the ANCC or AANP. Finally, apply for licensure in the state where you plan to practice, since requirements vary by state. Many working nurses complete this path through an online MSN so they can keep working while they study.

What online FNP and AGPCNP programs does ���Ҵ�ý offer? ���Ҵ�ý offers both specializations fully online. You can pursue the FNP specialization through the RN to MSN – FNP, MSN – FNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate – FNP programs. You can pursue the AGPCNP specialization through the RN to MSN – AGPCNP, MSN – AGPCNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate – AGPCNP programs

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In This Guide

• What Does a Family Nurse Practitioner Do?
• Where Do Family Nurse Practitioners Work?
• Studying to Become an FNP Nurse
• How to Choose an FNP Program
• Frequently Asked Questions

All About FNPs, What They Do, Where They Practice, and How to Become One

A family nurse practitioner is exactly what it sounds like: an NP trained to practice family nursing. They provide comprehensive care across the spectrum of patient populations in a wide range of conditions, from preventative to chronic. FNPs assess, diagnose, and treat with a focus on health promotion, disease prevention, chronic disease management, urgent-emergency care, mental health care, long-term, hospice, and palliative care. The role of the FNP also extends into non-clinical settings such as administration, research, and teaching.

FNPs are also classified as advanced practice nurse practitioners (APNPs) and must be certified as such. There are two recognized certification exams. One is administered by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and certifies you as an FNP-C for clinical practice. The second is administered through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and is concentrated on research and academia, for an FNP-BC.1

What Does a Family Nurse Practitioner Do?

As an FNP, you’re responsible for delivering primary care across a range of age populations, providing preventative care and education, as well as assessing and treating acute and chronic conditions that fall within the purview of primary care. Many families opt for an FNP as their PCP, instead of an MD, since FNPs can perform the same primary care treatments.

Depending on your placement, can include:

• Routine physical examinations
• Assessing illness or injury, both chronic and acute
• Ordering and performing diagnostics
• Developing treatment plans
• Prescribing medications, including controlled substances
• Maintaining patient records
• Collaborating in care with specialists
• Patient education and wellness promotion

Where Do Family Nurse Practitioners Work?

FNPs practice in many types of different healthcare facilities, from large healthcare systems to their own private practice offices (in the nurse practitioners to have independent practices). These , but are not limited to:

• Family practices
• Internal medicine clinics
• Pediatric offices
• Specialty clinics
• Public health offices
• Emergency rooms
• Urgent care centers
• Home care
• Rehabilitation centers
• Long-term care centers
• Palliative and hospice care facilities
• Universities and colleges

Studying to Become an FNP Nurse

Becoming a family nurse practitioner requires an advanced degree that builds on an RN or BSN nursing degree. An accredited nursing school or university MSN-FNP program will offer a rigorous healthcare-focused curriculum of MSN core coursework and family nursing studies that may include such as:

• Policy, Organization and Finance
• Ethics in Healthcare
• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology
• Adult and Geriatric Primary Care
• Women’s Health Primary Care
• Pediatric Primary Care
• Care Coordination
• Advanced Physical Assessment and Lab
• Advanced Pharmacology
• Research Utilization
• Advanced Healthcare Residency

Once you complete a Master of Science in Nursing to practice as a family nurse, you’ll need to pass two nursing licensure exams:

• The NCLEX-RN Exam
• An APNP Certification Exam ()

As an FNP, you also have the option to pursue certifications in subspecialties such as cardiology, dermatology, or oncology to further advance your bona fides and focus your practice.

Because many MSN (or beyond) candidates are already working nurses, many institutions are offering online study and flexible scheduling to allow for degree advancement while the student is practicing. It’s also possible for nurses to pursue an FNP education through an online Post-Master’s Certificate program.

How to Choose an FNP Program

Once you’re ready to pursue the FNP role, the program you choose shapes how you’ll study, how you’ll complete your clinical hours, and how well the experience fits your life as a working nurse. Here are the factors to weigh when comparing accredited MSN–FNP and post-master’s certificate programs.

• Accreditation. Start with a school and program that holds recognized accreditation, which signals the education meets established academic and clinical standards and keeps you eligible for national certification. ���Ҵ�ý is institutionally accredited, and its nursing programs hold their own accreditations and approvals.
• An entry point that matches your education. The right route depends on where you’re starting. If you’re a licensed RN without a BSN, an RN to MSN – FNP track builds the bridge for you. If you already hold a BSN, the MSN – FNP track is the direct route, and if you already have a master’s in nursing, a Post-Master’s Certificate – FNP lets you add the specialization.
• Clinical placement support. National FNP certification requires at least 500 faculty-supervised, direct patient care clinical hours. Look for a program that builds those hours into the curriculum and offers clinical placement support so you can complete them locally.
• Online flexibility for working nurses. Many FNP students keep working while they study. An online MSN format helps you align study time with your schedule and complete coursework from where you live.
• Curriculum depth. Review the coursework before you apply. A strong FNP curriculum covers advanced pharmacology, advanced physical assessment, and primary care across the lifespan. This includes pediatric, women’s health, and adult and geriatric care, so you receive instruction in the full scope of family practice.
• Cost and financial aid. Factor tuition into your decision, and ask each school what support is available. At ���Ҵ�ý, financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify. Explore your options through ���Ҵ�ý’s financial aid resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a family nurse practitioner (FNP)?

A family nurse practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse trained to provide primary care to patients of all ages, from infants to older adults. FNPs assess, diagnose, and treat both acute and chronic conditions, with a focus on health promotion and disease prevention. Many families choose an FNP as their primary care provider.

What does a family nurse practitioner do?

FNPs deliver primary care across the lifespan. Day-to-day, that can include routine physical exams, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, developing treatment plans, prescribing medications and educating patients about their health. Depending on the state and setting, an FNP may also work in administration, research or teaching.

How do you become a family nurse practitioner?

Becoming an FNP starts with an active RN license and a BSN, followed by a graduate nursing degree focused on FNP. Most often, this would be an MSN with an FNP specialization, a post-master’s certificate, or a Doctor of Nursing Practice. After you complete an accredited program, you take a national FNP certification exam through the AANP or ANCC.

How long does it take to become a family nurse practitioner?

The full path generally takes about six to eight years, including your undergraduate education. An MSN usually takes about two years, a post-master’s certificate one to two years, and a DNP three to four years. If you’re already an RN with a BSN, an RN to MSN – FNP track can help you reach your goal sooner.

What’s the difference between FNP-C and FNP-BC certification?

Both credentials certify you as a family nurse practitioner; however, they are issued by different organizations. awards the FNP-C certification, which focuses on clinical practice. awards the FNP-BC, which also incorporates research and academia. You choose the exam that fits your practice goals.

Can you earn your FNP specialization online?

Yes. At ���Ҵ�ý, you can pursue an FNP specialization online through the RN to MSN, MSN, and post-master’s certificate programs. An online format helps you align study time with your schedule as a working nurse, and you complete your required clinical hours locally with placement support.

How many clinical hours does an FNP program require?

National FNP certification requires at least 500 faculty-supervised, direct patient care clinical hours. Accredited graduate FNP programs build these hours into the curriculum, so you complete them as part of your education rather than arranging them on your own afterward.

How is an FNP different from other nurse practitioner specialties?

An FNP is trained to care for patients across the entire lifespan, from children to older adults. Other NP specialties focus on specific populations; for example, adult-gerontology NPs care for patients from adolescence through older adulthood, and psychiatric-mental health NPs focus on mental health care. If you’re weighing your options, comparing FNP and adult-gerontology primary care roles, or taking the which NP career path fits your personality quiz is a good place to start.

For more helpful articles about the field of nursing, keep following our blog. You may also want to read how to become a nurse practitioner and 7 reasons to become a family nurse practitioner.

Citations:

1

2 Dunn, A. (2024, May 30). Nurse Practitioner Subspecialty Certification Guide: 7 Options for NPs. NurseJournal.org.

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Ready to commit to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program? Whether you’ve always wanted to be a registered nurse (RN) or are changing careers, earning your BSN is the first step toward your goal.

Choosing which BSN to enroll in is a major decision. ���Ҵ�ý–Texas is proud to offer a BSN program that’s been recognized for excellence: #1 among its Best Colleges for Nursing in America for 2026 and #1 among its Best College for Nursing in Texas for 2026.

In this article, we look at what you can expect if you enroll as a BSN student at ���Ҵ�ý–Texas.

What the ���Ҵ�ý–Texas BSN Program Is Designed to Do

The ���Ҵ�ý–Texas BSN program is an entry-level degree designed to prepare students for initial licensure as an RN. The BSN curriculum consists of 120 credits of coursework that builds in complexity as you move forward in the program. It blends lecture-style classes, hands-on patient care training in our advanced simulation labs, and real-world clinical rotations in a variety of healthcare settings.

After completing the program, you should:

• Understand health science concepts (e.g. pathology, microbiology, human development, etc.) that underpin patient care
• Have a high-level understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, management of healthcare organizations, and nursing leadership and administration
• Have direct clinical experience with a range of patient populations and healthcare settings
• Understand how nurses collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide patient care
• Be able to provide compassionate, clinically sound care to patients from a variety of backgrounds
• Be prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses® (NCLEX-RN®)

The ���Ҵ�ý–Texas BSN is also structured in an accelerated format: you can complete your degree in as few as 39 months, instead of the usual 48-month timeline for a bachelor’s degree elsewhere.

What Are the Admission Requirements, and What Is It Like to Apply?

The ���Ҵ�ý–Texas BSN program is open to high school graduates and career-changers alike. No prior college or healthcare experience is required to apply, though we will consider any college credits you may have for transfer.

The essential requirements for admission to the BSN are:

• Proof of high school graduation (or equivalent, such as a GED)
• Proof of one of the following standardized test results:
  • SAT: score of 835 or higher
  • ACT: 16 or higher
  • TEAS: 52 or higher
• Anyone without test results from SAT, ACT or TEAS will need to take the Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) exam and achieve a minimum composite score of 76
  • ���Ҵ�ý–Texas only accepts HESI scores taken within three years of your application date

Before you begin clinical trainings, there are some additional requirements. These include:

• A completed background check, drug screening, and health clearance
• Proof of required immunizations
• Current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR) certification
• Proof of health insurance coverage

What the ���Ҵ�ý–Texas Simulation Labs Are Like

Nursing is a hands-on, high-responsibility profession. ���Ҵ�ý–Texas gives students a safe space where they can practice patient care skills and learn to collaborate with other professionals: the simulation lab. Our sim labs are accredited by the in the areas of teaching and education.

In our labs, you’ll work through different patient encounter scenarios with our high-fidelity manikins. These are specialized healthcare education tools that can mimic many human body functions, from having elevated blood pressure to experiencing seizures and even giving birth.

You’ll interact with manikins in realistic hospital settings that use genuine medical equipment like IVs, defibrillators, and medication dispensers. Scenarios cover everything from routine care to emergencies. Instructors monitor your scenarios from nearby observation rooms, providing real-time feedback. Each scenario ends with a debrief that reviews what went well and where you can improve.

You learn more than technical skill in your sim labs. You also:

• Sharpen your clinical and critical reasoning skills
• Gain familiarity with hospital setups and equipment
• Develop your ability to function under pressure
• Learn to communicate with patients and colleagues alike
• Build confidence in your abilities

The goal is for you to leave the sim lab knowing that you’re ready for the next step: clinical rotations.

How Clinical Practicums Work

Clinical practicums take you out of the sim lab and into real healthcare settings across the Dallas metroplex. In your clinicals, you’ll apply what you’ve learned in class and during sim labs to actual, supervised patient care.

Clinical practicums are a bridge between the controlled sim lab environment and the reality of professional nursing. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside experienced nurses and other care providers while you practice your skills with real patients. You’ll complete multiple clinical practicums at a variety of facilities. The ���Ҵ�ý–Texas Clinical Placements team will help you by finding sites, arranging for a preceptor (an experienced nurse to supervise you), streamlining approvals, and helping guide you through how to track your experience.

Preparing for the NCLEX-RN Exam

Once you’ve passed your classes and completed your clinicals, one final milestone remains on your journey to becoming an RN: the NCLEX–RN. Fortunately, as a ���Ҵ�ý–Texas student, you’ll have been preparing for the NCLEX from early in your program. We build structured review and preparation into the curriculum.

We also provide plenty of resources in the months leading up to your exam. These include:

• NCLEX advisors
• Study guides
• No-cost tutoring
• Test prep bootcamps

By the time you arrive at your testing center, you’ll have a solid understanding of what topics the NCLEX covers and the types of questions you’ll encounter on the exam.

Career Services: Support for Your Job Search

Support for your success doesn’t stop when you graduate from the ���Ҵ�ý–Texas BSN program. As a graduate, you’ll have access to the Career Services team for every step of your job search. Career Services provides support with:

• Career planning
• Locating open positions
• Resume reviews
• Application assistance
• Interview preparation

Whether you’re drawn to hospitals, ambulatory care, nursing and residential care facilities, or a specialized area such as critical care or neonatal nursing, the Career Services team can help you find a role that fits your long-term goals.

Continuing Your Education Beyond the BSN

For many nurses, a BSN is just the beginning. Advancing in the profession requires additional education and training. ���Ҵ�ý offers several online graduate programs in nursing that can open the door to specialized practice or advanced leadership skills.

���Ҵ�ý’s online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program features six different specialization tracks:

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Leader

In the MSN, you’ll benefit from the same personal attention and clinical placement support we provide to BSN students.

���Ҵ�ý also offers online graduate degrees in other areas that may suit your professional goals, including a Master of Health Administration, Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Public Health.

Take the First Step Toward Your BSN

The BSN program at WCU-Texas could be the start of a meaningful career in nursing. To learn more about the program or begin the admissions process, reach out to WCU-Texas’s admissions team or request an information session today.

���Ҵ�ý Distance education programs are delivered out of the California and Texas campuses and may not be available to residents in all states.

Practice Experience is required in order to graduate from the RN to BSN, RN to MSN, MSN, DNP degree and Post-Master’s Certificate Programs.

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When you’re ready to advance into a role as a nurse practitioner (NP), it’s not always as simple as deciding where you want to work or what type of care you want to provide. Taking your personal strengths, interests, and motivations into account can help you choose the right NP career path for you.

In this article, we’ll show you how certain personality traits align with different NP roles to help you consider which path might be best for you.

You Enjoy Variety and Thrive on Building Relationships

Some nurse practitioners enjoy working with all types of patients, from infants to young adults to older people. If you want to provide a broad scope of care, focus on NP career paths where you can support patients throughout different life stages.

A specialization in primary care may be ideal if you:

• Enjoy variety in the patients you see and in your day-to-day work
• Excel at communicating with different types of people
• Feel comfortable addressing a wide spectrum of health needs, from preventive care to chronic conditions

You may also prefer this career path if you value building long-term relationships with your patients. NPs in primary care specialties often support patients across their lifetimes. With continued care, you have the opportunity to gain patients’ trust and improve their quality of life.

NP Tracks to Consider

If this sounds like you, consider one of these NP tracks:

• AGPCNP: An adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner (AGPCNP) provides comprehensive care to all adults, ranging from young adults to seniors.
• FNP: A family nurse practitioner (FNP) diagnoses, treats, and manages care for patients of all ages, including infants, children, and adults.

Both of these specialties will give you the opportunity to build and maintain relationships with your patients.

You Make Decisions Confidently and Stay Calm Under Pressure

Do you feel confident taking charge and making decisions under pressure? You may do well in an acute care specialty, where you can support patients with serious medical conditions, such as heart failure.

This NP career path may appeal to you if you:

• Enjoy problem solving and developing treatment plans for complex health needs
• Stay calm, focused, and in control, even in high-pressure situations
• Make decisions quickly by relying on your knowledge, skills, and instincts

In this type of NP specialty, you can use your unique strengths to diagnose and treat patients with acute care needs. While you may only see your patients for a short time, it’s a good path to consider if you want to improve health outcomes and deliver essential care.

NP Track to Consider

Find yourself nodding your head at the description above? Consider specializing as an adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP). These nurse practitioners work with patients from young adulthood to old age, providing short-term care for serious or chronic conditions.

This track aligns well with many of your natural nursing personality traits, such as your ability to remain calm under pressure. AGACNPs often work in critical or intensive care settings, where you can use your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills to deliver life-saving care.

You’re Compassionate and Interested in Human Behavior

If you pride yourself on delivering compassionate care with an excellent bedside manner, you may be interested in an NP role focused on mental health. In this specialty, you can use your empathy to connect with patients and improve their overall well-being.

This NP career path may be the right fit if you:

• Know how to listen to patients and gain their trust
• Feel comfortable communicating with people about sensitive topics
• Have a genuine interest in human behavior and how mental health contributes to people’s quality of life

If you specialize in this area, you’ll work to build relationships with people who have mental health needs, such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Using your compassion and communication skills, you can help patients navigate these challenges and make a difference in their lives.

NP Track to Consider

A career as a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) will allow you to provide comprehensive mental health care, including psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and medication management. As a PMHNP, you can expect to develop meaningful relationships with your patients as you help them develop coping strategies and manage challenges in their day-to-day lives.

You’re a Strategic Thinker With a Leadership Mindset

Not every NP career path involves working directly with patients. If you’re ready to expand your nursing career beyond the bedside, you may enjoy working in a strategic management or leadership position.

This path may be your calling if you:

• Enjoy using your critical-thinking and analytical skills to make decisions based on logic
• Communicate effectively with other nurses, doctors, and healthcare team members
• Feel comfortable leading teams and guiding others on best practices

In a leadership role, you can use these personality traits to inform decisions within healthcare systems. Working in this specialty requires a unique blend of , including clinical expertise, strategic thinking, and collaboration.

NP Track to Consider

If you enjoy overseeing teams and supervising healthcare initiatives, consider a career as a nurse leader. These professionals use their communication and leadership skills to support healthcare teams and make improvements. It can be a fulfilling career path, especially if you’re ready to transition from hands-on patient care into a role where you can influence healthcare systems.

You Enjoy Teaching Others and Want to Give Back

Do you often find yourself acting as a mentor for younger or less experienced nurses? You may thrive in an NP career path focused on education, which will allow you to shape the next generation of nurses.

This specialty may be a good fit if you:

• Enjoy sharing your knowledge with other nurses and team members
• Feel confident explaining difficult or complex topics in understandable terms
• Find purpose or satisfaction in helping others succeed

A career in education centers on preparing future nurses for their careers through teaching, curriculum design, and assessments. You can use your strengths to educate and inspire students to provide exceptional nursing care.

NP Track to Consider

If you feel motivated by mentoring others, it’s worth exploring a career path as a nurse educator. In this role, you’ll instruct new or aspiring nurses on clinical care, ethical standards, and best practices. Your natural abilities can go a long way in helping you guide the future of the nursing profession.

Start Your NP Career Path at ���Ҵ�ý

Choosing an NP career path isn’t easy, but reflecting on your interests and personality traits can help you explore different areas that align with your strengths. When you know your personal qualities as a nurse practitioner, you can decide where you may feel most fulfilled.

���Ҵ�ý is here to support your career goals, whether your personality makes you a good fit for adult-gerontology practice, family care, or nursing education. We offer six specialization tracks through our online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program to help you prepare for your next career move. With flexible learning models and multiple paces available, you can choose the program that works best for your personality and career goals.

Ready to get started on your NP career path? Reach out today to schedule an information session! 

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If you’ve been thinking about starting your nursing journey — or continuing it — summer is the perfect season to make that leap. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or a working nurse looking to expand your credentials, enrolling in a summer nursing program can help you move forward faster without waiting until fall to begin.

With flexible schedules and online learning options designed for working students, a summer start lets you keep your momentum going while staying focused on what matters.

Plus, if you’re not sure where to begin, you don’t have to worry. ���Ҵ�ý offers nursing programs accredited by the that are built to support your experience level, career goals, and busy schedule.

Why Should You Enroll in a Summer Nursing Program?

Summer might not be the traditional time to start school, but that’s exactly what makes it such a smart move. While others are taking a break, you could be gaining clinical experience, earning credentials, and getting one step closer to your vocation — all without waiting for the next term.

Here’s why starting in the summer can work in your favor:

• Get ahead faster: Summer starts mean accelerated learning. Rather than getting stuck on a nursing waitlist, you can start working toward your degree right away.
• More flexible scheduling: Some programs offer flexible pacing so you can begin when it works best for you.
• Online convenience: If you’re going the online route, summer can be even more ideal. With 24/7 access to lectures, coursework, and faculty support, your learning fits around you.
• Make an impact sooner: The earlier you begin, the sooner you can complete clinicals and enter the workforce. Whether you’re aiming for your first nursing job or planning for career advancement, getting started now puts you closer to where you want to be.

What Is the Most Common Summer Nursing Program for High Schoolers?

If you’re a high school senior or recent graduate looking to break into the world of nursing, summer is a great time to explore hands-on learning opportunities designed just for you. In fact, you might even come across nursing programs for high school students, like camps or college immersion experiences that give you a preview of what’s ahead.

These experiences can be a great way to confirm your interest in nursing before committing to a degree program. Once you’re ready to take that next step into college-level training, one degree option tends to take the lead:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

If you’re planning a career in nursing long-term or want to eventually move into advanced practice or leadership roles, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing could be a great fit. You’ll receive a broader education than an Associate Degree in Nursing, with courses that cover everything from public health to nursing research.

Starting your BSN in the summer lets you jump into core nursing classes early, which could help you graduate sooner. What’s more, if your schedule is already packed, some campuses offer flexible options, such as a Working Professional pace or an Evening & Weekend format, so you can move forward without having to make any compromises.

What Are the Most Common Summer Nursing Programs for RNs?

Already have your RN license but looking to move up? Summer nursing programs aren’t just for first-time students. They can be a great way to level up your credentials without putting your career on pause. You can generally start with a BSN or move straight into a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

RN to BSN

If you’ve earned your ADN and want to continue growing in your career, an RN to BSN program gives you the opportunity to build on what you already know. You’ll explore courses in leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, all while working toward your bachelor’s degree.

With many schools like ���Ҵ�ý offering 100% online coursework and flexible pacing, you can balance your education with your current responsibilities and complete your degree on a schedule that works for you.

RN to MSN

An RN to MSN program allows you to go straight from your associate degree to graduate-level nursing courses — no need to earn a separate BSN first.

This path means you build on your experience as a registered nurse while working toward your master’s degree. The RN to MSN program at ���Ҵ�ý offers six different specializations, so you can focus on the area of nursing that fits your career goals.

Master of Science in Nursing

If you currently hold a BSN, a Master of Science in Nursing can help you advance your healthcare career. ���Ҵ�ý’s MSN program is CCNE-accredited and combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences to help you grow your skills and expand your impact in nursing. You can earn your MSN or choose to further your education with a Post-Master’s Certificate.

Post-Master’s Certificates

Have you already earned a graduate degree in nursing? A Post-Master’s Certificate gives you the chance to focus your expertise in a specific area. These programs are typically short, targeted, and designed to expand your qualifications without requiring a full second degree.

Take a look at the post-master’s nursing certificates offered at ���Ҵ�ý:

• Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Leader
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

How To Choose a Nursing Program

Choosing the right summer nursing program starts with knowing where you stand and where you want to go. However, you need to be honest about what matters most to you, such as your goals, schedule, and learning style.

Before you decide on a program, ask yourself:

• Do you need online flexibility, or do you prefer learning exclusively in person?
• Would an accelerated pace or weekends and evening classes help you stay on track?
• Are you managing other responsibilities like work or family that might impact your schedule?

Once you’ve thought about your priorities, make sure you determine if the nursing program you pick is accredited. An accredited program means you’re getting a quality education that meets industry standards, and it’s often required for licensure, certification, and future job opportunities.

Take the First Step: Enroll in a Summer Nursing Program at ���Ҵ�ý

Ready to take the next step in your nursing journey? This summer is a great time to begin. No matter if you’re beginning with an ADN, BSN, returning for an RN to BSN, RN to MSN, or a Post-Master’s Certificate, summer nursing programs are built to fit your life.

At ���Ҵ�ý, you can choose from multiple nursing pathways with summer start dates. Whether you’re learning via online classes or on campus, you’ll have access to experienced faculty, hands-on training, and a support system focused on helping you succeed.

Your summer start could be the beginning of something big — schedule an information session at ���Ҵ�ý today.

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Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are registered nurses (RNs) who’ve undergone a minimum of a master’s-level education and specialized clinical training. Their scope of practice extends beyond that of an entry-level nurse or RN without a master’s degree in nursing (MSN).

Because the healthcare field is broad, it can be difficult to pinpoint which APRN specialty best fits you. If you’re looking to learn how to launch your NP career, selecting the right specialty is a decision that can shape the trajectory of your career and directly influence the communities you serve.

Whether you’re passionate about mental health, caring for older adults, or eager to provide comprehensive family care, this guide is designed to help you navigate the diverse range of APRN specialties.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your APRN Specialty

Selecting a specialty involves considering your personal interests, skills, and career aspirations. Taking the time now to properly align your goals will ease the transition into a specialized role. No matter which nurse practitioner specialties you’re exploring — whether it’s adult-gerontology primary care, psychiatric mental-health care, or something else — it’s worthwhile to consider the following factors.

Which Population You’d Like to Assist

As you evaluate your prospective nursing specialty, start by reflecting on the experiences that have shaped you as you pursue this career path. Have you felt a strong connection or sense of fulfillment when working with a specific patient population? Reflecting on what’s inspired you throughout your nursing journey can help guide you toward a population that aligns with your passions.

Whether you’re inclined towards caring for adolescents and adult patients or supporting the mental health of your community, you can choose a nursing specialty that positions you to make a difference in the lives of these populations.

Before selecting your specialization, it’s important to ensure that you understand the nuances that differentiate certain roles. For instance, while family nurse practitioners (FNP) and pediatric nurse practitioners (PNP) may seem one in the same, their roles diverge according to the populations they serve.

Where You Want to Work

Once you’ve identified a patient population (or populations) you’d like to serve, it’s a good idea to determine where you could see yourself thriving. Healthcare workers can be found across a . A few of these settings include:

• Academic/educational institutions
• Community health clinics
• Home health
• Hospice care
• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Private practices
• Psychiatric clinics
• Urgent care centers

Certain NP specialties are more relevant to certain environments. For example, family nurse practitioners and adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners typically work in settings like community health clinics or private practices where they can develop relationships with individuals and families across their lifespans. On the other hand psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners can provide 1:1 support and/or assist patients in psychiatric clinics or outpatient mental health centers.

Your Unique Skills and Interests

Assess your clinical expertise, communication skills, and specialized training to identify your strengths. Whether you excel in high-pressure settings or building lasting patient relationships, understanding your abilities can guide you toward a specialty that leverages your potential.

Your personal interests are equally important in selecting the right specialty. For example, a passion for mental health may lead you to become a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, while an interest in complex disease management could make an adult-gerontology acute care role a good fit.

Examples of APRN Specialties

As the healthcare landscape advances, so do the opportunities for nurse practitioners. To give you a sense of the wide variety of options available, here are some nurse practitioner specialties:

• Adult-Gerontology Specializations:
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP):  AGACNPs focus on managing critically ill patients within intensive care settings. They provide continuous patient monitoring, emergency interventions, and post-surgical care to ensure optimal patient outcomes in high-stress environments.
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP): AGPCNPs focus on comprehensive health assessments, disease prevention, and patient education to promote the overall well-being of adolescents and adults of all ages. These professionals provide specialized services such as chronic disease management, acute health issue resolution, and holistic patient care to support continuous and comprehensive healthcare across the adult lifespan.

• Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP): FNPs offer comprehensive care for patients of all ages, emphasizing preventive care and health education. They conduct routine check-ups, administer immunizations, and take holistic healthcare approaches.
• Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP): While similar to AGNPs and FNPs, PNPs specialize in providing care specifically to the pediatric patient population.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): PMHNPs specialize in conducting comprehensive mental health assessments, diagnosing psychiatric disorders, and providing effective treatments. They offer services that include psychotherapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and mental health education to promote the psychological well-being and overall mental health of their patients.
• Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP): WHNPs concentrate on reproductive health, gynecological issues, and overall wellness for women. These professionals offer specialized services such as prenatal care, family planning, menopause management, and treatment of gynecological disorders to support women throughout their lifespan.

Find Your Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Specialty at ���Ҵ�ý

Wherever you are in your educational journey, ���Ҵ�ý is here to help support you. Our RN to MSN programs, MSN programs, and Post-Master’s Certificate programs offer flexibility through online coursework so you can develop a schedule that works best for your needs.

Whether you’re interested in adult-gerontology, family care, or psychiatric-mental health care, you can work to build a strong foundation that helps equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in healthcare.

Discover your APRN specialty at ���Ҵ�ý and toward advancing your education.

The post Which APRN Specialty Is Right for Me? appeared first on ���Ҵ�ý.

���Ҵ�ý alumna Nune Stepanyan is a three-time ���Ҵ�ý graduate who dedicated herself to her education to achieve her dreams of becoming an entrepreneur in the healthcare field.

Dr. Stepanyan graduated from ���Ҵ�ý with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2016, a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2019, and Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2021. She is currently the owner of in Los Angeles, California and is a nursing instructor at ���Ҵ�ý.

Learn more about Dr. Stepanyan’s journey in this Q&A.

���Ҵ�ý: How has ���Ҵ�ý helped you get to where you are today in your career?

Dr. Stepanyan: When I started my journey with ���Ҵ�ý in 2014, my cohort consisted of a large majority of adult learners in their mid-to-late 20s. Most of us were on our second or even third career paths, feeling lost, apprehensive, and doubtful. ���Ҵ�ý restored my faith in myself. ���Ҵ�ý gave me the tools and network I needed to succeed not only in nursing but all aspects of the healthcare industry, which I exuberantly explored over the past seven years since completing my first program with ���Ҵ�ý.

���Ҵ�ý: What path did you take to attain your career as a female business owner?

Dr. Stepanyan:  It may be old-fashioned and cliché, but my parents always told me that education is one thing no one can take away from you and that always stuck with me. Education has always been a big part of my life ever since I can remember. From tutoring students to [being a] college professor, clinical educator in the ER, to finally international aesthetic injector/trainer.

I chose the path to obtain multiple advanced degrees to get me to where I am today. ���Ҵ�ý is where I obtained my bachelor’s, master’s, FNP, and doctoral degrees, and without the backing of this solid education I received, I’m not sure I would be the successful female entrepreneur I am today.

���Ҵ�ý: Tell me more about your business.

Dr. Stepanyan: The Stepanyan Clinic is a place where EVERYONE is welcome to experience the luxuries of aesthetic medicine. We build customized treatment plans for every individual and believe in restoring confidence and empowering our patients to be the best versions of themselves. We specialize in neurotoxins such as Botox, Dysport, Juveau, and Daxxify, as well as dermal fillers for the natural enhancement of facial volume loss.

We also curate skin laser procedures, along with radiofrequency technology, to aid in what I call “pro-aging treatments.” Above all, we are a clinic comprised of a team of professionals who care, empathize, and value our patient’s goals and needs.

���Ҵ�ý: What has been the coolest part about your job so far?

Dr. Stepanyan: The coolest part of my job has been and will always be the impact I have on my patients’ day-to-day lives. The uplifting empowerment and confidence I can give women (and men) on a daily basis will never cease to amaze me.

���Ҵ�ý: Why is it important to you to hire ���Ҵ�ý graduates?

Dr. Stepanyan: As a ���Ҵ�ý alumnus, I know exactly what type of person it takes to complete this program. Our alumni are strong, intelligent, and resilient. These are the types of nurses and overall human beings we need in the healthcare industry, regardless of the specialty.

���Ҵ�ý: How does your job connect back to your coursework at ���Ҵ�ý?

Dr. Stepanyan: ���Ҵ�ý prepared me to be ready for the unexpected. In the ER, you never know what is going to walk through those doors. There were times when I didn’t think I was going to be able to complete the program, but I found myself pushing through, and that is exactly the type of grit it takes to make it in the healthcare industry both as a clinical practitioner and a business owner.

���Ҵ�ý: Were there any classes or professors that influenced where you are today?

Dr. Stepanyan: I believe Dr. Khan, who would refer to us nursing students as “angels,” is himself a walking angel on Earth. Instead of belittling and using his power and authority to scare students about what awaited us in the real world, Dr. Khan empowered us with his wealth of knowledge and gave us the confidence to become intelligent critical thinkers.

���Ҵ�ý: What advice do you have for students who want to follow in your path?

Dr. Stepanyan: Never, ever give up! Good things in life don’t come easy, and easy things aren’t always good. There will be times when you will take financial losses or personal losses, but when you are living/chasing your dreams, those losses won’t hold you back, and the wins will taste exponentially better.

���Ҵ�ý: Tell us about your experience as an instructor for ���Ҵ�ý.

Dr. Stepanyan: This was one of my favorite jobs I ever had. My students have a special place in my heart because I got to witness firsthand people from all walks of life, ages, and experiences completing a program together. We went from the hospital setting to virtual learning, and let me tell you, the students really pulled it together during one of the toughest times the world has ever seen. It was truly inspiring.

���Ҵ�ý: Tell us about your involvement with the Alumni Association.

Dr. Stepanyan: The Alumni Association has expanded my network in a plethora of ways. I will never forget the very first event. It was pouring rain the night before my NCLEX exam, and we met at Arnie Morton’s in Burbank. That night, I met fellow alumni I have built lifelong relationships with. Every subsequent event has been better than the next. It is so important to celebrate our alumni’s accomplishments, provide scholarships for current and future alumni, and build a network as powerful as other top private institutions in the nation!

Visit our Alumni page to learn about the ���Ҵ�ý Alumni Association and opportunities for connecting with other ���Ҵ�ý graduates.

The post ���Ҵ�ý Alumni Q&A: Nune Stepanyan, DNP ’21, MSN-FNP ’19, BSN ’16 appeared first on ���Ҵ�ý.

Sally V. has never worked in a hospital setting. Instead, for the past seven years, she worked at a community clinic, calling public health her “true calling.”

“My passion is community health,” Sally said. “I love establishing relationships with patients and their families.”

Sally might be the first medical professional in her family, but she said she wanted to be a nurse from the time she was young. She was drawn to the expansive nature of nursing, which was also a major draw for her to come to ���Ҵ�ý. She chose ���Ҵ�ý after discovering its cohort-styled learning.

“I chose ���Ҵ�ý because everyone was geared towards the same goal. I loved that it was a family. It’s the same group of people you stick with the whole journey. You develop bonds and help each other go through it.”

Sally V.

Sally graduated from WCU-Ontario with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014. Now, she encourages others, telling them that they can pursue a nursing degree no matter what obstacles stand in their way.

“I didn’t know anyone in healthcare. I was a single mom also working almost full-time, over 30 hours a week,” Sally said. “If you want it and you’re motivated and believe in yourself… you’ll make it happen.”

Sally leaned on her mother, who she said supported and cheered her on. At the same time, she balanced life as a single mom to her son, Anthony. She recalled that the flexible class schedules meant she was not on campus every day of the week. She also found her professors were experiencing similar responsibilities.

“You did get to develop a relationship with your professor, who was also a nurse and most of the time also a parent,” she said. “They were always available to provide more assistance.”

After completing an online Master of Public Health program in 2018, Sally began her Master of Science in Nursing program at ���Ҵ�ý.

“I submitted my final project on Sunday, and I started the Master of Science in Nursing program on Monday,” she said. “It just happened the terms lined up like that. Everyone was like, ‘You’re crazy,’ but once I get my mind set on something, I go for it.”

Sally was inspired to continue in her education after working alongside a practicing physician at the community care clinic. She said the experience made her realize that she wanted to provide that level of care to her own patients.

“I wanted to be the provider where the patients say, ‘Sally takes care of me and wants me to be healthy and is always there when I have questions,’” she said. “In community health, there are so many barriers: homelessness, poverty, drug use, lack of transportation. I decided I wanted to be a provider, so I enrolled and just finished the Family Nurse Practitioner program in May of 2021.”

Sally said her cohort was there for each other, whether through Zoom study sessions, quizzing one another, or sharing flashcards. After finishing the program and passing their boards, Sally remembered how everyone celebrated getting through that challenging final year together.

“I felt so proud of these people I have only seen once,” she said. “Even though we’re hundreds, if not thousands, of miles apart, it was important to make it through together, to get to this point as a cohort, not just as individuals.”

The close, family-oriented cohort is a major reason why Sally advocates for others to consider attending ���Ҵ�ý.

“I’ve heard from other people that their nursing experience wasn’t as good. They didn’t develop those relationships like I did,” Sally said. “Not every school is the perfect fit for everyone, but this is why I chose West Coast and why I support and advocate for it.”

Now, Sally helps to foster that same bond with her own students. She became a nursing instructor at American Career College in January 2022.

As the president of the Ontario Alumni Chapter, Sally remains highly involved in her alma mater. Her best advice to anyone interested in nursing is to start today.

“Life never stops. It is always full of surprises,” she said. “You can’t wait. When people finally do the program they say, ‘I should have done this earlier and shouldn’t have made so many excuses for myself.’”

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“My sister calls me ‘Half Dozen,’” Marianne shared. “By the time I’m done with school I’ll have half a dozen degrees.”

While working in the corporate sector, Marianne said she remembered watching her sister return from her nursing shifts at the hospital and wishing she could pursue a similar path. “I would tell her, ‘I just love medicine. It would be so cool to be in medicine.’”

Her sister recommended Marianne volunteer at a clinical care extender program. Marianne thrived during her nearly 300 hours spent serving her community.

“There is a huge value to being in your community and getting exposed to so many things,” Marianne said. “Sometimes it’s the encouraging words you give a person working at a soup kitchen it was a good reminder for me to say, in spite of everything, I am so fortunate.”

Although Marianne realized her passion for community healthcare, life obstacles stood in her way of pursuing a formal nursing education. Marianne said it was another few years before her sister pushed her to consider nursing again.

After her sister suggested ���Ҵ�ý, Marianne enrolled and graduated last year from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. She called her ���Ҵ�ý experience amazing and life-changing for her. She referenced the many available resources and quality education her professors provided.

“I looked into a lot of different programs and then I looked into West Coast and honestly, I can say with confidence, this program brought me this far,” Marianne said. “I felt every confidence I was going to do well not just because of me but the students they shaped us to be. They showed us how to succeed.”

One unique aspect to the program Marianne mentioned was the emphasis on self-care. As a single mom, Marianne said that was an area in which she struggled.

“They really encourage self-care,” Marianne said. “You adopt those methodologies. Here’s how you prepare to succeed I don’t know if other students realize the depth of that and understand how you can get burnt out if you don’t schedule self-care.”

These methodologies included scheduling time with family, getting enough sleep and effectively studying and balancing assignments. She also said she found great value in her mentors within the program. One such mentor was Julie France, the former director of nursing at WCU-Orange County.

She explained that it was France who encouraged her to return to ���Ҵ�ý to teach. Today, Marianne has her own group of mentees and said she enjoys giving her time connecting with fellow nursing students. Marianne said she was inspired during her own experience as a new nursing student and that she strives to give back to her own alma mater any way she can. She noted the ���Ҵ�ý mindset is one in which nurses uplift one another rather than tear each other down.

Marianne described the ���Ҵ�ý call to action as a culture of change.

“It’s a community of nursing professionals coming together to inspire and motivate,” she said.

Marianne said she finds her value in being part of this change and inspiring young nurses to support one another.

“It’s more than being in the profession for the money,” Marianne said. “That won’t sustain you during those tough shifts. You have to be in it because you want to help.” It’s all about knowing the kind of impact you can make on someone else’s life, she said.

“I circle back to the impact all these people and resources had on me,” she said. “Without them, I probably would not have succeeded in the program.”

���Ҵ�ý is one place Marianne said she found that kindness, support and encouragement.

“It was every West Coast instructor, every act of kindness, encouragement and piece of feedback telling me ‘You’re going to be fine. Don’t be intimidated,’” she said. “That, to me, was what really made the biggest difference. They gave me the resources needed to succeed. I implemented them and they encouraged me every step of the way.”

Today, Marianne continues her involvement as a ���Ҵ�ý alumna and current student in ���Ҵ�ý’s Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner program. She said that it was her experience at ���Ҵ�ý that made her want to return.

“I don’t know what other people can say about their experience but for me it was something that makes me keep wanting to come back. I keep speaking to students and supporting and being part of that change,” she said. “My son always says he’s extremely proud of me.”

Marianne said it is her mission to continue being part of the ���Ҵ�ý culture.

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Working toward becoming an FNP might be a natural progression to many practicing registered nurses. For those wondering if this is the right move for their career, read more to understand the reasons why registered nurses aspire to be Family Nurse Practitioners.

Reasons to Become a Family Nurse Practitioner

Greater Autonomy and Responsibility

Family Nurse Practitioners have a few duties that overlap with the duties of registered nurses; such as, examining patients, monitoring patient health, maintaining health records, etc. However, the duties of an FNP go beyond this as they can make a medical diagnosis, develop comprehensive health plans for patients, monitor chronic health conditions and supervise healthcare teams.

Since FNPs generally offer more in-depth and comprehensive care, they can assume greater healthcare management roles.

Prescription Authority

FNPs have greater autonomy when it comes to prescription authority. Currently 22 states and the District of Columbia allow full practice, which means nurse practitioners have similar prescriptive authority compared to physicians. In 16 states, there is reduced practice, where nurse practitioners can prescribe as long as they are in collaborative agreement with the physician, along with staying within the limitations of the medications they are allowed to prescribe. According to a survey by AANP, most nurse practitioners hold some form of prescriptive privileges, which includes controlled substances, in all 50 states and D.C.

Better Career stability

Jobs in healthcare are projected to grow around 36% From 2016 to 2026. With such a high demand, healthcare organizations and hospitals are keen to retain highly qualified family nurse practitioners. This offers greater stability (financial and professional) and growth opportunities in career.

Work While You Learn

Some colleges offer family nurse practitioner courses online. This means that registered nurse practitioners can continue working while studying to be FNPs. This ensures that a registered nurse does not have to take a break to pursue higher education.

���Ҵ�ý (���Ҵ�ý) offers an online MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner program. The University is institutionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). ���Ҵ�ý’s online nursing education programs are programmatically accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE.)

Maintain Connections with Patients

Many registered nurses prefer and thrive in the connection with patients that their profession offers. As they obtain higher positions, many nurses lose out on that patient-connection. However, as FNPs, nurses continue to work closely with patients and physicians.

Leadership Roles

Many healthcare settings require FNPs. Apart From independent practice, family nurse practitioners can also look forward to increased leadership opportunities. Extended fields like patient education, research, and academia, and policy advocacy have seen a rising need for qualified healthcare professionals like FNPs to help their causes.

Family nurse practitioners can work actively in developing patient education programs, conduct medical research and have a say in healthcare policy matters. Qualified family nurse practitioners are also essential in academic roles like program administrators and mentoring.

Greater Fulfilment

A Family Nurse Practitioner is able to work across the entire spectrum of patients and assumes a greater responsibility in terms of patient care. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners,  87.1% of NPs are certified in an area of primary care, and 72.6% of all NPs deliver primary care. This means that most FNPs have a chance at having a greater impact on health communities. As many FNP’s have prescriptive authority, they offer healthcare services which are cost-effective and can be utilized by a larger percentage of the population.

Apart From these core reasons described above, a career as a Family Nurse Practitioner could make a difference in the lives of people.

���Ҵ�ý cannot guarantee employment.

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