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Choose the best nurse practitioner pathway for your goals

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The next chapter of your nursing career starts today. If you’re hoping to pursue nurse practitioner (NP) certification but you have questions or are unsure of what to do next, the resources on this page can help you navigate the process.

Learn about the different NP specializations available, scope of work, and roles and career settings for NPs. Discover your next step toward achieving your goals in nursing.

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Explore our nurse practitioner specializations

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Ready to begin your NP journey or pursue a new specialization? Choose Bradley and choose from 16 pathways toward NP certification across 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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Each specialization features four pathways toward completion: MSN, MSN (BSN entry), DNP, or post-master's certificate. That means whether you’re an RN pursuing your next role or an experienced NP looking to expand your practice, we have options to help you advance in nursing.

Choose the degree and specialization that fit your goals.

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*RN to MSN tracks include 9 undergraduate hours from RN completion courses.
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Compare advanced practice nursing degrees

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Your next step in nursing is a big one. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your goals. Explore the resources below to learn more about the NP landscape, including what specializations you might pursue, what degree level is right for you, and what to expect while preparing for your career as an NP.
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  • Online Nurse Practitioner Programs.
    See all the advanced NP pathways Bradley offers. Get more information about our MSN, DNP, and post-master's certificate options across specializations and decide which one is best for your goals in nursing.
  • DNP vs. NP: What’s the Difference?
    Are you hoping to pursue NP certification or earn your terminal nursing degree? This blog is designed to help you learn what each pathway can offer, so you can choose the credential that best fits your goals.
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Why study nursing online at Bradley?

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Ready to set yourself apart from others in the nursing field? Choose Bradley, and choose a university dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, scholarship, and service. We have a history of helping to educate nursing leaders who excel in clinical and nonclinical settings across the country.

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 NP experience.
  • Choose the pathway that works best for you. Whether you’re an RN exploring your next step, an NP looking to expand your practice, or an experienced nurse pursuing a terminal degree, we have program options that fit your goals.
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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 the 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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