In between registered nurses and doctors are a number of higher-level nursing positions that broaden the scope and responsibilities of a nurse. From nurse managers to educators to practitioners, there are plenty of opportunities for advancement for nurses with the right experience and education.
But that's the important part - having the right experiences and education to advance. So if you're a registered nurse who wants to move forward in your career, you can find out how to become a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) below.
What is a Family Nurse Practitioner?
First, let's start with what an FNP is and the duties you'll have working as one.
A Family Nurse Practitioner is a registered nurse with practitioner certification that provides primary care to patients of all ages. An FNP is able to deal with a wide range of body system issues and diseases, primarily operating in the same capacity as a primary care physician.
When you go to a doctor, you'll often see an FNP first, and if they can complete your visit without the doctor having to step in, you might not actually see a doctor during your visit.
But this doesn't mean you aren't seeing a highly skilled, qualified individual. FNPs have extensive education and need to pass multiple nursing certification and licensure exams in order to practice.
Here are the steps that you'll have to go through to become a Family Nurse Practitioner regardless of where you live in the United States:
Step 1: Obtaining Your Registered Nursing License
First and foremost, every Family Nurse Practitioner needs to be a registered nurse (RN) first.
In order to become an RN, you need to complete an accredited associate or diploma program for nursing. Once the program is completed, you need to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
With all of this completed, you can apply for licensure in the state you intend to practice nursing in. State requirements for licensure can differ - some states require proof of good moral character, some require English proficiency, and others criminal background checks - but licensure is valid in most states once acquired.
Maintaining Your RN License and Gaining Work Experience
RN licenses need to be renewed every two years, and renewal is dependent on the license holder proving continued competency. This can be done by completing a state-specified number of work hours in a nursing position.
Because FNPs need to also be licensed RNs, you need to maintain your RN license.
Work experience is also highly recommended and sometimes required for aspiring FNPs in addition to a current, unrestricted RN license, so you may have to work as an RN before continuing your FNP journey.
Step 2: Completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program
While RNs only need to complete an associate program for their licensure, they can also complete a bachelor's program to gain more experience and education.
To become a Family Nurse Practitioner, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required because FNPs also need to complete a graduate nursing program before pursuing further certification.
As a registered nurse with prior education, you can opt for an RN to BSN program that takes less time. Acceptance into an RN to BSN program requires completed prerequisite courses, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and an active, unrestricted RN license at minimum.
Once you've completed your BSN program, it's time to apply for and complete a graduate nursing program.
Step 3: Completing a Graduate Nursing Program
For a student who aspires to become a Family Nurse Practitioner, there are two degree options: a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
Most opt for an MSN, and many universities offer master's nursing programs with nurse practitioner specializations.
Admission requirements for MSN programs differ depending on the college offering the program, but at minimum applicants need to have an accredited BSN with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and an active, unrestricted RN license for the state they're attending the program in.
Other admission requirements can include personal statements, background checks, and letters of recommendation from previous instructors.
After you've completed your MSN program, you can apply for your FNP credential.
Step 4: Passing a Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Exam
Family Nurse Practitioner certification exams are offered by two different organizations: the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
Which certification exam you take doesn't change your future opportunities or give you a better chance of passing, so choose the exam that you feel most prepared for or that is most readily available.
Your exam is scored immediately after it's completed, so you'll know the same day you take it if you've passed.
For those that pass, your last step is to apply to become a state-certified FNP.
Additional Steps for Specific States
Requirements for state-recognized FNP certifications differ by state. Aside from standard requirements like a proficiency in English, passed exams, and disclosure of criminal history, some states will have additional requirements for anyone applying for licensure.
Make sure to check your state's licensure requirements before starting your journey to become a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Find a Degree Program to Further Your Nursing Career Today
Now that you know how to become a Family Nurse Practitioner, you can start your journey toward an advanced nursing career today with the help of Best Accredited Colleges. Whether you're just starting out as a nurse or want to advance in a decades-long career, you can learn everything you need through higher education.
