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How to Become an Advanced Practice Nurse: Requirements, Licensure, and Education

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The nursing field is booming, and today’s registered and advanced practice nurses have more opportunity than ever to make an impact on patients’ lives. If you’re ready to advance in your nursing career, start here. Explore the resources below to learn about nursing education pathways, curriculum, areas of study, and licensure requirements to advance in this critical field.

Bradley University is here to help you achieve your goals, whether you’re pursuing career advancement, autonomy in your practice, higher pay, or further specialization.

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Compare pathways toward becoming a nurse or advancing in your nursing career

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Your future in nursing starts with earning the right education today. Choose Bradley and select from MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificate options designed to help nurses advance in their careers, specialize their practice, and expand their nursing abilities. Select one of four in-demand specializations:
  • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (AGACNP)
  • Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP)
  • Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
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Browse the degree and certificate options below to find the one that fits your background and your nursing goals.
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*RN to MSN tracks include 9 undergraduate hours from RN completion courses.
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Explore how to become a nurse: Requirements, education, career pathways, and more

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You’re here because you’re ready to start a nursing career or pursue growth opportunities. But how do you become a nurse? What does it take to advance in nursing? Explore resources that can help you choose the nursing education path that fits your goals and understand what to expect as you continue moving forward.
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  • Online Nurse Practitioner Programs
    Bradley University can help you achieve your goals in becoming an advanced practice nurse, enhancing your practice, and entering leadership pathways. Check out all the advanced NP pathways and nursing degrees available to you, including MSNs, DNPs, and post-master's certificates.
  • Nursing Program Outcomes
    Your dream career in nursing starts with the right education. Explore learning pathways and see what types of outcomes you can expect as you enter or advance in the nursing field.
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Why study nursing online at Bradley?

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Ready to set yourself apart and prepare to move forward in your nursing career? Choose Bradley and choose a university dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, and service. We can help you find your next and discover advanced practice and leadership opportunities.

Here’s what you can expect from your Bradley University education:

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  • Learn from passionate, experienced faculty. Our programs are innovative, immersive, and collaborative. Study with expert faculty and benefit from their wealth of real-world nursing and NP experience.
  • Choose the pathway that works best for you. Whether you’re an RN exploring your next step or an NP looking to expand your practice, we have advanced nursing degree and certificate options that can lead to exciting and rewarding career development.
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  • Graduate with confidence from an accredited institution. Our nursing programs are accredited by the CCNE, and Bradley University holds regional accreditation from the HLC, so we meet a high standard of quality.*
  • Prepare for real-world practice. Benefit from personalized support, 100% online coursework, and hands-on experience throughout your MSN, DNP, or post-master's certificate program. Complete clinicals locally and choose preceptors that fit your expectations.
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CCNE-accredited education
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Expert support from advisors and faculty
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Online flexibility and convenience
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Coursework designed for certification prep
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* The master’s degree program in Nursing, Post-Graduate APRN Certificate program, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Bradley University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.
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