Step-By-Step Career Path
High School
Focus on science and math (biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and statistics)
​
Mantain a high GPA (3.0+)
​
Healthcare exposure (volunteering)
College
Earn a bachelor degree in science of nursing (4 years)
​
Pass the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse
​
Gain registered nurse experience (most programs require 1-2 years of clinical experience)
Post-Grad
Enroll in a graduate nursing program (earn a master of science in nursing degree or a doctor of nursing practice)
​
Select a specialty (family, pediatrics, psychiatric-menatl health, or adult-gerontogoly)
​
Complete supervised clinical hours (500-800+ hours required)
​
Pass the national board certification (exams from boards like ANCC or AANP)
On-The-Job
Obtain state license (apply for APRN lisence to practice and perscribe medications)
​
Continue your education (complete required credits and practice hours to maintain your liscense and certification)
​
Practice fully (diagnose, treat, and perscribe to your patients)