To work as a nurse practitioner, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree in nursing;
• graduate from a nurse practitioner degree program;
• be licensed as a registered nurse; and
• be certified as a nurse practitioner.

Education after high school

Most nurse practitioners begin by earning a bachelor's degree in nursing. Then they spend another few years earning a graduate degree. Some graduate programs for nurse practitioners take one to two years to complete. You learn diagnostic and general health assessment skills. You can also focus in a particular area.

There is a growing national movement to require all NPs to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. DNP programs require three to four years study beyond a bachelor's degree in nursing.

Work Experience

Working as a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse provides good experience for this occupation. Volunteering at a clinic or hospital is also helpful.

On-the-job training

A significant part of studying to become a nurse practitioner is spending time in clinical settings. During this period you work with patients directly.

Military training

Some branches of the military offer training in nursing specialties to people who are already licensed as a registered nurse. Training lasts 14 to 27 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.