Here are the top five significant tips for becoming nurse practitioner:

Step 1: Acquire a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)

Since it is necessary to get a master’s degree in order to become a nurse practitioner, you first need to earn a bachelor’s degree. A BSN program generally takes 4 years to complete. You might take courses in chemistry, biology, psychology, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, nutrition, health assessment and nursing. Key part of your education involves acquiring clinical experience in several hospital departments, like psychiatry, maternity, surgery and pediatrics. You might also be given chances to engage in research.

Step 2: Get a Nursing License

A license is needed to work as an RN in USA. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) manages the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Each state board of nursing directs the eligibility requirements to test for licensure.

Step 3: Attain an Experience Working as an RN

The degree of Master Programs typically needs applicants to have completed at least 1 year of clinical nursing experience prior to admission. The kind of experience required can differ based on your specialty interest.

Step 4: Need a Degree of Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

While enrolled in the program of MSN, you spend time in classrooms as well as clinical settings. You can select from several specialties, involving acute care, pediatrics, family practice and geriatrics. You might take courses in physical assessment, writing, pharmacology, pathophysiology and ethics. You also take courses and acquire clinical experience in your place of specialization.

Step 5: Consider Acquiring Board Certification in Your Specialty

After receiving your master’s degree, you might earn board certification in your specialty. Two agencies that give board certification for nurse practitioners are the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Certification is basically valid for a period of 5 years. Continuing education and retesting are generally needed for certification renewal.