How to Become an APRN
Written by:
University of Tulsa
• Sep 14, 2023
The AAMC projects a shortage of as many as 86,000 physicians nationwide by 2036. This shortage has far-reaching implications for patient access to health care, particularly in underserved areas.
In light of this, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) have emerged as increasingly indispensable members of the health care workforce, bridging gaps in care and ensuring that patients receive the attention they deserve. APRNs can step in and provide primary care services, diagnose and treat common illnesses, and assist patients in planning their treatments due to their advanced education, specialized training, and expanded scope of practice.
If you’re interested in taking your career to the next level, learn how to become an APRN, including earning an advanced nursing degree, and what the roles entail.
What Does an APRN Do?
APRNs provide care in various settings and within numerous specialties. As advanced nursing practitioners, those working as APRNs offer specialized care in fields such as mental health, pediatrics, women’s health, and emergency medicine. Additionally, APRNs play a vital role in primary and preventive care, emphasizing the importance of wellness, health promotion, and disease prevention to their patients.
The primary difference between APRNs and registered nurses (RNs) is their autonomy. APRNs may work independently or alongside doctors, often overseeing other nurses. They can assess patient health, diagnose medical conditions, order lab tests, develop treatment plans, and even prescribe medication, depending on the regulations of the state where they practice.
APRNs often specialize after additional training and education, allowing them to provide an advanced level of care to specific patient demographics or in certain care contexts.
Below are some common roles APRNs specialize in.
Certified Nurse Midwife
Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) specialize in providing primary, gynecological, and reproductive health care, with a particular focus on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. They’re qualified to deliver babies, provide prenatal and postnatal care, and offer family planning services.
They earned a median annual salary of $128,790 as of May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners (NPs) work closely with patients to provide comprehensive health care services, performing many of the same functions as a physician. They can diagnose and treat various health conditions, order diagnostic tests, prescribe medication, and offer patient education. NPs often serve as primary care providers but can also specialize in fields such as pediatrics, mental health, family medicine, and oncology.
They earned a median annual salary of $129,210 as of May 2024, according to the BLS.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) specialize in providing anesthesia care to patients undergoing surgical procedures. They work closely with surgical teams to ensure that anesthesia is administered safely and to monitor patient progress during a procedure. They may also provide pain management and emergency services as needed.
They earned a median annual salary of $223,210 as of May 2024, according to the BLS.
Overall Salary and Job Outlook Information
When grouped under the APRN umbrella, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and NPs earned a median annual salary of $132,050 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. The highest 10% of earners made more than $217,000, and those working in state, local, and private hospitals tended to earn more than those working in private practices, physicians’ offices, and educational services.
The BLS projects that employment among these APRN specialties will grow 35% between 2024 and 2034. This significant growth is expected to result from increased demand for health care despite the ongoing physician shortage. As APRNs in many states perform the same services as physicians, they’ll be needed to care for the large population of older adults and those experiencing chronic diseases or ailments, who tend to have an increased need for health care.
Benefits of Becoming an APRN
Becoming an APRN entails enhanced responsibility, as well as the opportunity to specialize. APRNs gain knowledge and expertise in their chosen field by obtaining advanced degrees and pursuing specialized training. This can lead to various career opportunities, such as leadership roles, research or teaching positions, or shaping health care policies.
Their advanced training can also lead to greater autonomy. Many APRNs are licensed to practice independently, but this varies depending on the state where they practice. Roughly half of all states give NPs full practice authority, meaning they can independently provide many of the same services as physicians. In other states, their practice authority is reduced or restricted, which limits the services they can provide without oversight from another provider, typically a physician.
APRNs can also positively impact patient outcomes and bridge health care gaps caused by the physician shortage. With their advanced knowledge and skills, APRNs can provide comprehensive and accessible care to patients, especially in primary care settings. According to the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), more than 70% of NPs provide primary care, completing more than 1 billion patient visits each year.
How to Become an APRN
If you want to become an APRN, you should know the role’s educational requirements. Qualifying to practice as an APRN generally requires an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). While some advanced programs will consider applicants who have an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or similar credential, many require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Prospective NPs often earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The program teaches essential advanced nursing theory, providing students opportunities to engage with research and put their coursework into practice. You also learn statistical methods and data analysis, along with related management systems, to make informed clinical decisions.
Pursue an Advanced Nursing Career
APRNs can close critical gaps in care created by provider shortages across the nation. Aspiring APRNs can hone the clinical expertise and leadership skills the role demands through advanced education and certification.
If you want to become an APRN and advance your career, consider a graduate degree, such as The University of Tulsa’s online Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), DNP program, or the online MSN program. Both programs offer fully online coursework and flexibility, preparing professionals for fulfilling careers in nurse leadership.
Explore these programs and learn how TU can help you enhance your impact as a nurse leader.
Recommended Readings
How an MSN Can Improve Nurse Retention
Visualizing the Chain of Command in Nursing
Your Guide to Nursing Leadership Certifications
Sources:
AAMC, New AAMC Report Shows Continuing Projected Physician Shortage
American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board, Qualification of Candidates
American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Practitioners in Primary Care
American Association of Nurse Practitioners, State Practice Environment
American Nurses Association, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Indeed, “What Roles Can an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Pursue?”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives, and Nurse Practitioners
