Are you a registered nurse (RN) looking for the next step in your career? A nursing student thinking about their long-term plan? If so, then becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) might be just what you’re looking for! It’s a great way to kick-start your nursing career and level up your skills.
If you have some questions about what the path to becoming an APRN looks like, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we get is, “How long does it take to become an advanced practice registered nurse?” and “Where do APRNs work, and what does a typical day look like?”
We’ll fill you in with some crucial details on all that shortly, so you can get a better sense of what the future may hold. But in case you’re new to all this, let’s begin with a bit of background information. Just what is an APRN anyway, and what exactly do they do?
Let’s take a closer look… 👀
What is an APRN?
An APRN is a registered nurse that has completed advanced training and education, often receiving either a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
Examples of jobs APRNs have include nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, and nurse anesthetists. Typically, APRNs diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of conditions and illnesses.
How do you become an APRN?
Sounds cool, but how long does it take to become an APRN?
The short answer is between two and five years (on average). But there are a few things to consider when it comes to the timeline.
Let’s have a look at each factor that can impact how long it’ll take.
1. You need to be a registered nurse.
First off, in order to become an APRN, you already need to be a registered nurse. So try not to get ahead of yourself if you’re still waiting to take the NCLEX. However, once you become a registered nurse, you can start looking at your options. Most APRN programs are going to require some level of nursing experience first, but it’s never too early to start dreaming about it! 🤔💭
2. It depends on the degree/schedule you want.
Once you’re a registered nurse, how long does it take to become an APRN? Well, the length of schooling is going to depend on a number of factors. For example, do you plan to be a part-time or full-time student? If you plan to do part-time, it might take you four years to complete versus two years if you chose the full-time route.
And will you pursue an MSN or DNP program? That can certainly affect the length of time!
3. The specialty you choose can be a factor too.
Another thing to consider is what you’re going to specialize in. For example, do you want to become a nurse practitioner that specializes in pediatrics? The more you want to specialize in something, the longer it’ll take.
So the bottom line is, you can bet on it taking between 2 and 5 years to become an APRN. Keep in mind, that assumes you’re already a registered nurse. And the specific amount of time it takes depends on the degree/schedule you want and the specialty you choose.
Where can I work as an APRN?
Becoming an APRN can open a lot of doors for you! You can work in a wide range of workplaces such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and even from home (telehealth 💻). Where you’re going to work is often determined by what specialty you want to pursue.
The specialty you choose will also determine what a normal work day might look like. For example, the day-to-day of a nurse midwife is going to be VERY different from that of a family nurse practitioner.
This is why experience as a registered nurse is so important. You want to make sure the specialty you pick is something you’re actually interested in. I also highly recommend shadowing an APRN of your choice to see what their day is like and if you can envision yourself in that role.
What are the pros and cons of becoming an APRN?
So, let’s get down to business. Does it make sense for you to do it? What are the pros and cons of becoming an APRN?
I’d say they’re as follows:
Pros: Furthering your education and expertise, more leadership opportunities, better pay, and increased autonomy
Cons: More time for school, greater financial investment, and increased workload/ job responsibilities
No matter what you decide, your future is bright. 🌞
As you can see, there are always pros and cons to major life decisions! Hopefully, now that we’ve answered common questions like “How long does it take to become an APRN?” and “Where do APRNs work?” you have a better sense of what to expect.
Whether or not you decide that becoming an APRN is in your future, the world is your oyster. That’s one of my favorite things about being a nurse. The options are endless!
If you need help passing the NCLEX first, we’re here for you!
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And for even more (free!) content to help you through your nursing journey, check out these other posts on the blog:
