About Nurse Practitioner Education Programs
A nurse practitioner takes care of patients in hospitals and other health care facilities. Typically, her or her duties include recording and examining a patient's background, performing physical exams, ordering diagnostic tests and prescribing physical therapy. However, before an individual can perform these tasks in a health care setting, he or she must attend a nurse practitioner education program. These education programs help them gain professional certification and further enhance their skills.
Education Requirements
The education requirements of a nurse practitioner (NP) differs depending on the specialized fields. A nurse practitioner can train for a variety of specializations such as pediatrics, family, adults, geriatrics, women's health, neonatal, acute and occupational health.
Master of Science Degree Program
A Master of Science in nursing degree program provides the necessary professional skills for an individual to work as a nurse practitioner. A typical program offers courses such as health promotion, pharmacology, pathophysiology and nursing theories. These programs can take two to three years to complete. Students who graduate from a Master of Science in nursing program are eligible to seek certification.
Doctor of Nursing Degree Program
A doctoral degree in nursing is not necessary to practice as a nurse practitioner; however, it does have its benefits. A doctoral degree program further develops a nurse practitioner's skills with advanced training and opens additional career opportunities such as teachers in nursing. A typical doctoral degree program offers courses such as leadership, behavior complexity, population health and capstone project.
License
The proper accredited education program must be completed before becoming registered. All nurse practitioners must obtain a license as a registered nurse by obtaining a license from the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). The NCLEX-RN must be passed to ensure a nurse practitioner has the necessary training to work in a health field.