How to become a nurse practitioner without a nursing degree

Whether you've already graduated with a Bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing or you're just starting out, you may want to consider becoming a Nurse Practitioner without a nursing degree. This article will explore the career options for nurses with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, how you can find a direct-entry nurse practitioner program, and the importance of a focus on pediatric primary care.

The concentration of study in pediatric primary care

Whether you have a bachelor's degree or a nursing degree, earning a concentration of study in pediatric primary care for nurse practitioners without a nursing degree can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to children and their families. These programs provide a solid foundation in advanced pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and advanced practice provider management.

If you already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you can complete the pediatric primary care concentration in about 2.5 years. However, you may choose to pursue a graduate degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). A graduate degree can help you develop more actionable knowledge and become more effective as a provider.

The Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program (PNP-PC) is a concentrated study program that prepares you for the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) certification exam in pediatric primary care. This concentration of study is designed to prepare you for a leadership role in the health care system, with emphasis on the diagnosis and management of chronic illness, health disparities, and health equity. You'll also develop the skills and expertise needed to become a consultant, advocate, and change agent.

Accredited nursing programs

Whether you are considering a career in nursing or just need a refresher course, there are several accredited nursing programs available to help you achieve your goal. These programs can be found in both online and on-campus formats.

Some online programs offer self-paced instructional videos, while others offer live instruction. In addition to providing a higher level of training, accredited online nursing programs ensure that students have the necessary preparation for their licensing examinations.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) has a website that explains how to locate accredited nursing programs. It also maintains a database of accredited nursing schools across the country.

Accredited nursing programs prepare nurses to take their licensing examinations, as well as a master evidence-based practice. They also provide students with a more secure job outlook.

Some online nursing programs allow students to complete their degrees in a shorter amount of time. Others require students to attend in-person days or weekends.

Direct-entry nurse practitioner programs

Those who do not hold a nursing degree can pursue a career as a Registered Nurse through direct-entry nurse practitioner programs. These programs are designed for non-nursing students and include accelerated delivery, part-time, and online options. Those who complete these programs are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensure examination and become Registered Nurses.

Students who earn a direct-entry MSN are trained in nursing theory, counseling, and health promotion. Some programs offer specializations in gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and nursing administration. These programs also prepare students to earn advanced practice nursing certifications, such as the Certified Clinical Nurse Leader (CCNL) certification.

Students can earn both a BSN and MSN at the same time with direct-entry programs. Some programs offer dual BSN-MSN degrees while others may award an MSN upon completion.

Direct entry programs may be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Some programs require letters of recommendation from academic institutions and from work experience.

Career opportunities for nurses with a non-nursing bachelor's degree

Whether you're just starting out or you've been in the industry for years, there are many career opportunities for nurses with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These non-nursing careers can help you make a difference in the world.

You can use your skills to improve the health of others and speak directly to clients who need help. This may be a perfect career for someone who loves to work with people and wants to make a difference.

Another great career for nurses is in risk management. This involves analyzing the root cause of critical errors and making recommendations for improvements to patient experience. These nurses train other staff on regulatory requirements, making sure that facilities follow accepted standards of practice.

Nurses can also pursue careers in community involvement. This bridges the gap between public health and nursing skills. This is a great way for nurses to make a positive impact in their communities.