This blog post discusses 5 NEXT STEPS to consider when deciding to start your academic journey to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).  The need for APRNs is on the rise as healthcare advances, populations age, and the healthcare shortages continue.   APRN benefits include higher pay, increased autonomy, and advancing your professional education. There are many different types of APRNs and include: nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives.  These advanced nursing roles come with different types of educational requirements, work schedules, and pay scales. It is recommended to review all aspects of your potential new career prior to searching for specific programs that fit your lifestyle and professional preferences.

1. Program track selection. Once you have decided what type of advanced practice nurse that you would like to become, then searching for a program would be next. At this time most schools are transitioning to include doctorate programs.  Deciding on whether you would like to continue in an MSN vs. DNP program would be a next step.  Most nurse anesthetists’ programs are doctorate level, but other APRN categories have MSN and/or DNP options. What level of education will be required for desired jobs or nursing positions in your future as your nursing career advances? Other considerations include venue of education.  Is the program online or is attendance at brick-and-mortar school a requirement? Is there travel required to visit the campus for skill assessment or DNP defense? What are the clinical hour requirements and are preceptors/clinical sites provided by the school for your chosen education track?
2. Financing considerations for your studies is another step during program track selection as this can influence your educational path. Will you be taking out student loans or self-paying for your new education? Does your current employer offer tuition reimbursement and if so, what are the stipulations? Are you interested in applying for scholarships or considering work programs associated with the completion of your degree?  Considering your budget and cost of living needs during the program is vital.
3. Program track progression and time line. Will you be attending full time (6 credit hours) a semester or part-time? Does your potential program allow for time off or breaks between classes?  How long do you have to complete the program once starting it? What program would be the best fit for your lifestyle and current work schedule?
4. Evaluating program entry requirements and prerequisites. Some APRN programs require entry level tests like GRE or MCAT exams.  This is good to consider as they require additional upfront cost to sit for examination and time devoted to preparation.  Some programs also require different GPA requirements and admission documentation including essays and professional references.  Knowing what each school requires can expedite your admission process and guide your APRN program selection.
5. Understanding program processes and work flow.  What kind of work will be required of you during the week/ semester?  Most schools that are online have many papers and discussion posts weekly that account for attendance and overall work completion.  This is good to review with potential program academic advisors on what to expect as a new student when school begins to set yourself up for success.

Knowing these details prior to program selection can help avoid pitfalls when applying for APRN programs and set you up for success as a student.  Stay tuned for more APRN advice and considerations regarding the next steps in the world of academia for APRNs.