What Does a Nurse Practitioner Do?
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who provide a wide range of healthcare services — often serving as a patient's primary care provider. They examine patients, diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and develop treatment plans.
NPs work in a variety of settings including primary care clinics, hospitals, urgent care centers, schools, and private practices. Many specialize in areas such as family medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, women's health, or psychiatry. In most states, nurse practitioners have full practice authority, meaning they can operate independently without physician oversight.
The median annual wage for nurse practitioners is $132,050, with typical entry-level education of a Master's degree.
Education & Requirements
Complete a four-year BSN program at an accredited college or university. Some pathways allow RNs with associate degrees to bridge to a BSN through RN-to-BSN programs.
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed registered nurse. Most NP programs require one to two years of clinical nursing experience before admission.
Enroll in an accredited NP program in your chosen specialty. Programs typically take two to three years. Typical entry-level education required: Master's degree.
Pass a national certification exam through the AANP or ANCC, specific to your specialty.
Each state has its own licensing requirements for advanced practice registered nurses.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for nurse practitioners is exceptionally strong. Employment is projected to grow +35% through 2034 — more than ten times the average for all occupations — with approximately 32,700 job openings projected annually.
NPs are increasingly filling gaps in healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved communities. The median annual wage is $132,050.
Where to Study
We’ve identified 8 schools offering programs related to this career, including online options.
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